Lighthouse For Sale in Co. Mayo

Clare Island Lighthouse is an exceptional property perched on the craggy cliffs of Clare Island, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean that offers both residential and guesthouse opportunities for those looking to take advantage of this unique location. This fully restored lighthouse enjoys some of the most scenic views Ireland has to offer. It has views to the homeland of “The Banshees Of Inisherin” (winner of the 80th “Golden Globe” 2023).

Special Features
– Restored lighthouse situated at the northern end of Clare Island, offering exceptional views over the Atlantic Ocean, Clew Bay, Achill Island and beyond.
– Property offers a superb commercial opportunity as a small events location, wedding venue, therapeutic centre subject to FPP.
– Latitude/Longitude 53° 49’ N, 9° 59’ 00” W.
– Located in a private part of the island that offers seclusion and security on approx. 0.95 Ha (2.25 Acres) of grounds, including a private helipad.
– Approx. 5km from the Pier and O’Malley’s Food Store and Post Office.
– Ferry time between Clare Island and the mainland (Roonagh Pier) approx. 20 minutes.
– Approx. 30 minutes from Roonagh Pier to Westport and approx. 90 minutes to Knock Airport.

Clare Island
Clare Island has one of the most varied geologies in all of Europe. The geological structure is characterized by an east-to-west ridge that rises to a height of 1520 feet at Knockmore, gives the island considerable significance. On its seaward side the ridge creates steep cliffs that serve as an essential breeding ground for seabirds. A number of unusual arctic and alpine species can be found on the ridge’s landward side’s steep, heathery slope.

Clare Island has a long history of habitation dating back to before 3500 B.C. The rich archaeological history is evident in its Iron Age huts and field systems, 10 promontory forts, 45 ‘fulachta fiadh’ (or cooking mounds), its megalithic ‘court cairn’ and many holy wells. 12th century Saint Bridget’s Abbey (rebuilt around 1460) has medieval wall and ceiling paintings, nationally recognized as among the most important examples in Ireland, have been lovingly restored. It is also believed that the famous pirate Queen Grace O Malley (1530-1603), a key figure in the heritage of Clare Island, was baptised, married and buried there. The landscape is criss-crossed by the remains of tillage ridges or ‘lazy beds’ from pre-famine times when the population reached its peak at 1,700 in 1841. Potato blight and subsequent famine reduced the population by over a half. The island population is now around 160 but the number tends to increase during the summer months.

The community centre has a bar and restaurant. Its multi-functional sports hall can accommodate up to 250 people and can be transformed into the perfect venue for any event. There is a health centre for any medical needs. In 2022 a new pilot project was launched to transform Clare Island into a beacon of virtual health hub. There is also a provision for helicopter landing on the island which is particularly important for SAR helicopters in case of an emergency.

Clare Island Lighthouse
Clare Island Lighthouse is a distinctive nautical landmark perched on the top of the craggy cliffs at the northern end of Clare Island. It dates back to 1806, when it was built by the Marquis of Sligo and was one of the thirteen Irish lighthouses taken over by the Ballast Board in 1810. In 1816 the original lighthouse was destroyed by a fire caused by the snuffing’s of a candle wick. The new second tower was erected in 1818. Throughout the years the Inspecting Committee made several attempts to decommission Clare Island Lighthouse. In 1958 it became a relieving station and just 5 years later it became unwatched. The lighthouse was decommissioned on the 29th September 1965 at 07:45am when its light was extinguished after 159 years of unbroken service.

Standing tall watching over Achill, Westport and beyond, Clare Island Lighthouse was once a safe haven for sailors and now this majestic property offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to live in one of the most spectacularly scenic locations in Ireland. It was lovingly restored and transformed into luxury accommodation overlooking the magnificent Atlantic Ocean. It comprises of a collection of buildings including two towers, a number of small cottages and converted outbuildings.

Surrounded by stone whitewashed walls with sheer and dramatic vertical drops to the ocean and reached through tall historic wrought iron gates. Clare Island Lighthouse sits on approx. 0.95 Ha (2.35 Acres) of grounds. There is a helipad within the walled gardens which allows the lighthouse easy access from the mainland by both sea and air.

A bright and light filled porch entrance welcomes you into the main house, which in turn leads to the main reception rooms. The lighthouse has varnished solid wood flooring and traditional cast iron open fireplaces where you can warm yourself on wet and stormy nights. The conservatory is a suntrap paradise with panoramic sea views. The kitchen has a homely atmosphere and a large picture window captivating the breath-taking ocean views. A long corridor leads you to the lantern tower. The three storey structure has a cut stone spiral staircase with wrought iron hand rails taking you to the lantern dome. From inside and the outside balcony you will find 360 degree views of the stunning seascape and distant vistas of County Mayo. There are 3 ensuite bedrooms in the main house. The Achill View bedroom is located at the top of the curved oak staircase and is the original principle lighthouse keeper’s residence. As the name implies, the room commands sensational views across the sea to Achill Island, where “THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN” was filmed.

Across the stone cobbled yard is the original Tower House with a sitting/dining room on the ground floor featuring charming original flagstone floors. Up a winding cast iron staircase is a comfortable circular bedroom, boasting more exceptional views.

Nestled at the western corner of the grounds is the Cliff Corner cottage with high timber ceilings and flagstone floors. A private door leads to an outdoor garden surrounded by walls. It is a perfect spot to enjoy the sunset or crashing waves at the bottom of the 120 meters cliffs.

The Sauna Suite is the largest guestroom. It has splendid views across the sea to Croagh Patrick. This suite benefits from its own private flagstone patio.

Further accommodation includes the Banshee cottage to the east of the grounds consisting of a living room and ensuite bedroom. There are two small cosy ensuite units called “The Snugs” to the northwest corner of the grounds.

Premises and Rooms
Total area: 510 sq.m (5,489 sq. ft)
Main lighthouse building: 353 sq.m (3,799 sq.ft)
Porch, hallway, 2 kitchens, sitting room, dining room, conservatory, guest toilet, main tower.
Guest accommodation units (ensuites):
Achill View – 35 sq.m (377 sq.ft),
Willian Landers – 27 sq.m (290 sq.ft)
Jackie O’Grady 17 sq.m (182.70 sq. ft).

Secondary Buildings
Guest accommodation units (ensuites):
Tower House – 61 sq.m (656 sq.ft)
Sauna Suite – 36 sq.m (387 sq.ft)
Banshee Cottage – 28 sq.m (301 sq.ft)
Cliff Corner – 20 sq.m (215 sq.ft)
2 Snugs – (each 6sq.m (64 sq.ft)

Utilty Buildings
Water filtration room, laundry house, 12kW emergency generator house, wine cellar house, oil storage and boiler room.