As an island nation, we know full well the bounty that the sea can bring to us. But we also understand the risks associated with going out to sea, with the constant crash of icy waves reminding us of the fury of the ocean.
The great lighthouses of Ireland stand as a stark reminder that we must respect the majesty of the sea, never taking our security as a certainty, but that we should take the time to honour our seafaring heritage by calling in to some of the working lighthouses still in operation on our coastlines.
The main role of our lighthouses continues to be the promotion of safe passage at sea, but the improvement of technology onboard most ships and vessels means that that function is becoming increasingly obsolete. And yet, these mighty structures stand as a testament to the daring of man to tame the ocean, thrusting above the coastline in some of the most remote and scenic spots in the country.
The lighthouses below can appeal to everyone, with their sense of history and adventure, romanticism and daring. Here are our pick of the top five lighthouses to visit in Ireland:
5. Hook Lighthouse, Hook Head, Hook Peninsula, Co Wexford
The first attempts to build a beacon of light on this peninsula date back as far as 800 years, making Hook Lighthouse the old lighthouse in the world that is still in working order.
The structure there today is a Medieval lighthouse, with an incredible history that finds its origins in the 5th century. Tours, which reveal the technology used to operate the lighthouse today, end with the dramatic and breathtaking 360-degree view from atop the four-storey structure.
[Flickr/Joe Houghton]
4. Fanad Head, Airaheera, Portsalon, Co Donegal
Nestled at the top of Ireland, between Mulroy Bay and Lough Swilly, lies Fanad Head Lighthouse, one of the celebrated stops on the Wild Atlantic Way.
In the heart of the Donegal Gaeltacht, the rugged and wild scenery will bewitch your senses, with the wonders of the Northwest sealife on display. While walking around the area, it’s easy to spot whales, dolphins, and porpoises swimming in the Atlantic. For an extra authentic experience, it’s possible to stay the night in one of the lightkeeper’s houses.
[Flickr/Telping]
3. Wicklow Head, Dunbur Head, Co Wicklow
Overlooking the Irish Sea, this octagonal tower has been guiding ships to safety since 1781. The Irish Landmark Trust has now turned the unique structure into a self-catering holiday home – though bear in mind you’ll have to walk up 109 steps before you can get to the kitchen.
But it’s worth the trek, offering stunning views of the East coast, with plenty of opportunities for a romantic getaway.
[Flickr/PaulODonnell]
2. Clare Island, Clew Bay, Co Mayo
You’ll have to leave your car behind on the Mayo mainland before crossing on the choppy sea to get to see this beautiful lighthouse.
This too has been turned into holiday accommodation, offering a unique and original spot for a relaxing weekend getaway that showcases the unique culture of Ireland’s islands. In the structure’s library, a beautiful example of Georgian design, you’ll sit to supper at a sumptuous six-course meal, while outside the wild Atlantic pounds against the shoreline.
[Flickr/Jean-François Bodart]
1. Valentia Island, Cromwell Point, Valentia Island, Co Kerry
A guiding light looking out into the cold expanse of the Atlantic since the 17th Century, Valentia Island Lighthouse is an imposing structure.
It’s possible to scale to the top of the building and walk out onto the balcony, where the fresh sea air can take your breath away as quick as the view. The tour offers all you’ll need to know on the tough and unforgiving life of the lighthouse keepers who’ve manned the beacon for centuries, living in one of the remotest parts of Ireland, but carrying out their duties with courage and conviction.
[Flickr/philhaber]
To listen to travel writer Manchán Magan tell George Hook about the great lighthouses of Ireland, please play the embedded podcast below:
