Loop Head to Lahinch – 24 hours in Clare – a photo essay

There is plenty to see along this rugged and dramatic stretch of coastline. On a splendidly sunny day on the last day of summer you could see all the way to Kerry.

The Loop Head lighthouse is closed for renovations and there are no facilities at the car park there or at the Bridges of Ross, which seems popular for diving enthusiasts.

It was delightful to see a pod of dolphins making their way slowly along the shoreline, a few seals even popped up their curious heads.

Kilkee was thronged but something said the Victorian seaside resort is but a shade of its former self, although still a destination for many families and swimmers. Can’t understand why the public toilets had not even a wash hand basin or soap, nothing, so much for hygiene and of course not even a cold shower for kids to wash the sand off their feet along the beach.

Lots of camping options and possibilities along this stretch, including an interesting looking place perched up on the corner at White Strand between Spanish Point and Lahinch. Will definitely return to give that a go. Anyone ever been there?

Lahinch was buzzing on Sunday evening. The prom was full of walkers and the surf schools were busy in the water, while the last day of the August on Monday the temperature reading on Looney’sgable hit 21 degrees, and there was a run on ice cream cones.

Randaddy’sprovided a good option for an evening bite to eat out on its deck, while we opted for our own ‘hard rock’ café and ‘hot rock‘ steaks before departing on Monday.

Credit where it’s due, the Lahinch prom had plenty of bins which were being regularly emptied and maintained; while dog walkers mostly cleaned up after their mutts. There are two showers installed for bathers and surfers next to the lifeguard hut, a most welcome development. And Lahinch has a great playground which is always a hit with the kids.

Thanks to hosting the Irish Open Golf last year, Lahinch has a modern toilet block which was being diligently inspected and restocked with hand wash and supplies and great to see that it was spotless, with lots of sinks and hot water. A pity that it’s closed up in the evenings while the promenade is still thronged with families.

An interesting side-effect of the Covid scenario is that in the absence of coach tours there is more space for touring campers in the bus bays, in addition to the five designated motorhome spots already in place. It was a full house on Sunday, illustrating the demand that is there for such a facility.

It would be good if Lahinch took the next step and put in place proper Aire type services such as those in Cobh and Bantry and elsewhere.

• L is for Lahinch, I love Lahinch
• On a Clare day you can see the Aran Islands