description Clew Bay Overview
Clew Bay is a large, sheltered natural bay on the western coast of County Mayo, Ireland, opening into the Atlantic Ocean. The bay is densely populated by drumlins, small glacial islands, and is famously overlooked by Croagh Patrick, an important Catholic pilgrimage mountain. Clare Island sits at the entrance to the bay, protecting the inner waters and sheltering the town of Westport located on its eastern shore.
help Clew Bay FAQ
How many islands are in Clew Bay?
Clew Bay is famously dotted with numerous drumlin islands, with local legend claiming there is one for every day of the year—365 in total. These small glacial islands were formed during the last Ice Age and give the bay its distinctive appearance.
What mountain overlooks Clew Bay?
Croagh Patrick, an important Catholic pilgrimage mountain, overlooks Clew Bay from its southern shore. The mountain rises to approximately 762 meters and attracts thousands of pilgrims annually, many of whom climb it barefoot on the last Sunday of July.
What is Clare Island's connection to Clew Bay?
Clare Island is the largest island in Clew Bay and historically served as the stronghold of the 16th-century pirate queen Grace O'Malley (Gráinne Mhaol). The island sits near the entrance to the bay and is accessible by ferry from Roonagh Pier near Louisburgh.
What town is closest to Clew Bay?
The town of Westport sits near the eastern end of Clew Bay in County Mayo and serves as a common base for visitors exploring the area. The bay opens directly into the Atlantic Ocean along Ireland's western coast.
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