Carrigaholt

Carrigaholt, (translation: ‘Rock of the Fleet’) is a picturesque fishing village on the southern side of Loop Head, about 10 kilometres southwest of Kilkee.

Set within an important ecological environment, the village lies at the mouth of the Moyarta river, which flows into the Mouth of the Shannon about 15 kilometres from the westernmost extremity of the peninsula.

Carrigaholt is centred between two harbours, and although both are used, only the one to the south of the village (known as the ‘new’ pier) is fully operational on a commercial basis. The pier serves local fishing boats, delivering their catch to the local processing company, sea angling tours, and award-winning dolphin watching tours at the Mouth of the Shannon, home of the largest group of resident Bottlenose Dolphins in Europe.

The village has an attractive centre, with distinctive streetscapes and quaint local character, and several pubs and restaurants. The harbour, the church (built 1882-1883) and, most important, the ruins of Carrigaholt Castle (see History & Heritage) are the most distinctive local landmarks.

From Carrigaolt you can hire an E-Bike and tour the peninsula at your own pace.

Carrigaholt also boasts a safe, sandy beach for swimming and water sports.