Spanish Point is a small village on the west coast of Ireland. Located in County Clare, it is a popular holiday destination during the summer. A large number of homes in the area are used only during the summer months, for this reason the village has a much smaller population during the winter months. The area is one of the best in Ireland for surfing and other water based activities.
Many different tourist types will be attracted to this quaint little village, it’s especially great for families and adventurous types. On a sunny day you’ll struggle to imagine that there could possibly be anywhere on earth more beautiful than Spanish Point. It’s definitely a must visit destination for anyone looking to get away from the hustles and bustles of daily life.
History
The area is packed with history, which only adds to its charm. The name Spanish Point comes from the wrecking of some ships of the Spanish Armada off the Irish Coast. Following the wreckage a number of the Spaniards, who lost their lives, were buried in the village. Tourists who hire a boat from the nearly fishing town of Quilty can visit one of the shipwrecks off Mutton Island. We can also recommend the Dover to Calais Ferry route once you decide to head for foreign shores again.
At over 110 years old, Spanish Point Golf Club houses one of the oldest golf courses in Ireland. Opened in 1896, this largely unremarkable and little-known course is situated mid way between two other famous and highly ranked courses, Lahinch and Doonbeg. What makes Spanish Point golf course special is its scenic location, overlooking the beach with stunning view over the Atlantic.
The course itself is built among rugged dunes and hilly terrain. This combined with the unpredictable Atlantic weather makes the course a difficult one for even the most confident golfers; it demands a high level of accuracy from players. But, even for less confident players it is an enjoyable experience given the location alone. The amenities of the club might be simple, but they are more than sufficient.
The members and staff are all extremely friendly and welcoming. It is a 9-hole, par-34 course, which gives players a glimpse into how golf was originally played along the Irish coast. It was originally a par-27 course but has been remodelled over the years. You might come for one round, but be sure to let enough time for a second; Spanish Point can be hard to leave, especially on a sunny day. Unlike the nearby well-known courses, such as Lahinch, Spanish Point is a course for everyone and very reasonably priced.
Car Rental
If you require a cheap car hire deal then take a look at some of the quotes on offer with various firms. On a recent trip to Switzerland I used this car hire Geneva Airport French side company and was very happy. Their sister company provide cars throughout Ireland as well as in popular sunshine locations etc
Traditional Music
The west of Ireland is generally known for its upkeep of Irish traditions, and County Clare is no different. Miltown Malbay, just 5 minutes away from Spanish Point, is the heart of traditional Irish music. Thousands of visitors flock to the town in July every year for the Willie Clancy Summer School; a great experience for anyone passionate about traditional Irish music. The Armada Hotel in Spanish Point also frequently holds traditional Irish music sessions where visitors are treated with traditional Irish music and dance.
The West Coast of Ireland is a hub of activity for dolphin watchers. A lone ambassador dolphin is known to roam the coast near Spanish Point. Tourists can also get a boat from the nearby towns of Kilrush, Marina, and Carrigaholt to the Shannon Estuary, which is host to a large family of bottleneck dolphins.
Water Sports
The beach at Spanish Point is well known for its water sports, especially surfing. During the summer months, a surf school operates on the beach and tourists can hire out surfing equipment. During the summer months there is also supervised swimming off the coast. The beach at Spanish Point, and other beaches nearby, are extremely family friendly and patrolled by lifeguards. The nearby town of Lahinch also offers a sea life aquarium and an indoor swimming pool.
Angling
For the seasoned angler, Spanish Point is paradise. The rivers and lakes in the area are well known for their abundance of trout and salmon. Rock fishing is also popular in the area.
Walking & Cycling
Spanish Point is perfect for adventurous types, as well as fans of the great outdoors. There are an abundance of small, quiet roads in the village and surrounding countryside, which are perfect for walking and cycling.
Sightseeing
The famous Cliffs of Moher are located a short distance north, facing the Atlantic. Visitors will be stunned by the breath-taking views. It isn’t difficult to see why the area continues to be one of the top tourist attractions in Ireland. Visitors can walk along the cliff top and visit the visitor centre, which overs a great insight into how the cliffs were formed, great for lovers of geography.
Another of Ireland’s top tourist attractions, The Burren, is nearby. The Burren, a 500 square kilometre area of limestone, could surely be described as one of the wonders on the world. The limestone landscape is almost lunar-like. The landscape can be explored on foot via the old Burren roads, known as green roads. It is packed with archaeological places of interest and is perfect for walks, both long and short. Just don’t forget to bring some sensible footwear.
The nearby town of Ennis is also loved by tourists for its picturesque streets and bright shop fronts. The town is also home to the well-preserved cloister ruin of Ennis Friary, the Glor Irish Music centre and the Clare Museum, all of which are worth a visit.
If you need a car then get searching now. We just came back from a holiday in Portugal and used a car hire Faro Airport site so were well prepared. The same company offer car rental in Ireland too.