Overview
Collanmore Island (Irish: Collainn Mhór) sits in the heart of Clew Bay, just a few kilometres off the coast of Westport in County Mayo. It is one of the larger islands in the bay and is famed for its sweeping panoramas of Croagh Patrick, the iconic pilgrimage mountain, and the sparkling waters that lap its white, sandy beach. In 2022 the island was home to five permanent residents, but the real draw for visitors is the private Collanmore Island Lodge – an exclusive retreat that can accommodate up to 22 guests.
The island is reached by a short high‑speed rib‑boat transfer from Rosmoney Pier, a service operated by The Adventure Islands team. The journey takes roughly twelve minutes, delivering you onto a tranquil stretch of shoreline where the lodge’s landscaped gardens and sea‑views await.
History
Historically, Collanmore served as a base for Les Glénans, the renowned non‑profit sailing school that taught dinghy, catamaran and sail‑boarding skills to enthusiasts from around the world. The island’s sheltered bays and reliable winds made it an ideal training ground, and the legacy of that sailing heritage still echoes in today’s water‑based programmes.
While the sailing school has moved on, the island’s small permanent community has persisted, maintaining a quiet, lived‑in character that contrasts with the vibrant activity offered to visitors. The transition from a sailing hub to a luxury hideaway reflects a broader trend in Irish island tourism, where heritage and natural beauty are paired with high‑end accommodation.
Getting There
- By road: From Westport, follow the R335 to the turn‑off for Rosmoney Pier (approximately 12 km). Parking is available at the pier free of charge.
- By boat: The Adventure Islands team runs a scheduled high‑speed rib‑boat service from a new state‑of‑the‑art pontoon at Rosmoney Pier to Collanmore Island. Transfers must be booked in advance through the lodge’s website.
- Accessibility: The pier, pontoon and boat are wheelchair‑accessible, and the lodge can accommodate guests with limited mobility on request.
What to See & Do
Adventure Activities
The Adventure Islands company curates a menu of sea‑based pursuits that can be booked as part of a tailored package. Options include:
- Sea kayaking – sturdy, age‑inclusive kayaks are provided, with children over six welcome.
- Stand‑up paddle boarding (SUP) – a 2.5‑hour session that takes you from pier to pier, perfect for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.
- Guided sea‑safari powerboat rides – high‑speed rib‑boat tours that showcase the island’s coastline and the surrounding archipelago.
- Guided walks – a knowledgeable guide leads you around the island’s trails, pointing out hidden coves and offering stories of local folklore.
- Bushcraft and raft building – hands‑on activities that are especially popular with school groups and corporate team‑building events.
- Swimming & snorkeling – clear, sheltered bays provide safe swimming zones and excellent visibility for underwater exploration.
- Water‑skiing and sailing – private charter options are available through local providers for those seeking extra speed on the water.
- Sea‑Water‑Park – the lodge’s own water playground features trampolines, slides and running tracks for a fun family splash.
A typical day might begin with a sunrise kayak, followed by a leisurely walk to the beach where a raft‑building workshop awaits. After lunch, the group could hop on a powerboat for a rapid sea‑safari, ending the afternoon with a soak in the giant outdoor hot tub that overlooks the bay.
Lodge Amenities & Entertainment
Collanmore Island Lodge itself is a self‑contained haven. The property features:
- A fully equipped kitchen for private catering, with the option of a personal chef.
- A private bar and fire‑pit for evening gatherings.
- A 9‑person hot tub, sauna, steam room and seaweed baths that overlook the water.
- Landscaped gardens that lead directly to the island’s white‑sand beach.
- A Sea Water Park with water trampolines, slides and runners for children and adults.
- Indoor games and bespoke entertainment – hosts can arrange murder‑mystery evenings, authentic Chinese banquets, sumo‑wrestling demonstrations, or traditional Irish music sessions.
Family & Group Facilities
The lodge is designed for a range of visitor types:
- Families: Child‑friendly water activities (kayak and SUP from age six), a safe beach area, indoor games and the Sea Water Park.
- Corporate groups: Dedicated meeting space, team‑building programmes such as raft building and bushcraft, and flexible catering options.
- Special occasions: Tailor‑made entertainment, private dining, and exclusive use of the island for weddings, hen‑stags or birthdays.
Scenic Highlights
Beyond the adrenaline‑filled programmes, the island offers moments of pure visual splendor. From the lodge’s terrace you can see Croagh Patrick rising majestically on the horizon, while the surrounding islands of Clew Bay create a patchwork of green and blue that photographers adore. Sunset over the bay, viewed from the fire pit, is frequently described by guests as “unbelievably beautiful”.
Wildlife & Nature
- Seal colony: A short boat ride takes you to the nearby Inis Gort Lighthouse, home to a thriving seal colony that can often be observed from the water.
- Birdwatching: The bay’s islands attract a variety of seabirds, especially during migration periods.
- Island‑hopping: With over 350 islands in Clew Bay, guests can arrange additional excursions to places such as Clare Island, Inishbofin and other hidden gems.
Practical Information
Collanmore Island is accessed exclusively by boat from Rosmoney Pier, located a short drive from Westport (approximately 12 minutes). The Adventure Islands team handles all transfers, using a modern pontoon and providing safety briefings before each activity. Children must be at least six years old to participate in water‑based programmes, and all equipment—including wetsuits, kayaks and paddle boards—is supplied.
The lodge operates on a reservation‑only basis; groups range from intimate family get‑aways to larger corporate events, hen and stag parties, or team‑building retreats. The property can host up to 22 guests at a time, making it ideal for private use of the entire island.
For those interested in the island’s sailing heritage, Les Glénans once ran a school here, and the calm waters still provide excellent conditions for novice sailors. While the lodge does not run its own sailing school, private charter options can be arranged through local providers.
Contact & Booking
All bookings, including activity packages and bespoke entertainment, are coordinated through the lodge’s website: collanmoreislandlodge.com. For direct enquiries you can also email info@theadventureislands.com or call +353 862 518 252.
Useful links
- Collanmore Island Wikipedia
- Collanmore Island Lodge – official site
- Discover Ireland – The Adventure Islands
- The Adventure Islands – official site
Nearby Attractions
While staying on Collanmore Island, consider a day trip to other highlights of Mayo:
- Ballycroy National Park – Ireland’s largest wilderness reserve, offering rugged bogland walks and wildlife spotting. (Ballycroy National Park)
- Achill Island – Known for its dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches and the historic Deserted Village. (Achill Island)
- Clew Bay Islands – A scenic boat tour can include stops at nearby islands such as Clare Island and Inishbofin for additional photo opportunities.
Seasonal Highlights
Information on the best months for water‑sports, wildlife watching and seasonal events is being compiled. Please check the lodge’s website or contact the team for up‑to‑date recommendations.