Overview
Collanmore Island (Irish: Collainn Mhór) sits in the heart of Clew Bay, just a few kilometres off the Mayo coast. It is one of the larger islands in the archipelago and is best known for its sweeping panoramas of Croagh Patrick and the sheltered waters that lap its white, sandy beach. The 2022 census recorded five permanent residents, but the island’s main draw for visitors is the private Collanmore Island Lodge. This exclusive retreat accommodates up to 22 guests and operates on a reservation-only basis, offering a quiet alternative to the busier coastal towns of the region.
Access is managed through a dedicated boat service that brings visitors directly to the island’s shoreline. Once ashore, guests can choose between structured water sports, guided island walks, or simply unwinding in the lodge’s wellness facilities while watching the tides shift across the bay.
History & Sailing Heritage
Collanmore’s modern identity was shaped by Les Glénans, the non-profit sailing school that operated on the island for many years. The bay’s naturally sheltered coves and consistent wind patterns made it an ideal training ground for dinghy sailing, catamarans, and sailboarding. The school attracted enthusiasts from across Europe, and the island’s infrastructure was built to support high volumes of learners and instructors.
When the sailing school relocated, the island transitioned into a private retreat. The small permanent community that remains keeps the island’s everyday character intact, while the lodge repurposes the existing facilities for luxury accommodation and guided outdoor programmes. The sailing legacy still influences the current activity menu, with a strong emphasis on hands-on watercraft and coastal navigation.
Getting There & Island Access
The island is not connected by road and can only be reached by boat. All transfers are coordinated by The Adventure Islands team, which operates a high-speed rib-boat service from Rosmoney Pier.
- By road: From Westport, follow the R335 to the turn-off for Rosmoney Pier (approximately 12 km). Free parking is available at the pier.
- By boat: Transfers take roughly twelve minutes. The service departs from a modern pontoon and includes a safety briefing before departure.
- Accessibility: The pier, pontoon, and rib-boat are wheelchair-accessible. The lodge can accommodate guests with limited mobility on request, with advance notice.
Because the boat service is tied to the lodge’s booking schedule, transfers must be arranged in advance through the official website. Independent day-trippers without a lodge reservation are not accommodated on the standard transfer rota.
Water Sports & Guided Adventures
The island’s programme is built around the natural conditions of Clew Bay. All equipment is supplied, and activities are led by experienced guides who tailor sessions to group ability.
- Sea kayaking: Sturdy, age-inclusive kayaks are provided. Children over six can participate with adult supervision.
- Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP): A 2.5-hour session covers basic balance, stroke technique, and navigation between sheltered points. Suitable for beginners.
- Guided sea-safari powerboat rides: High-speed tours that showcase the island’s coastline, nearby islets, and tidal channels.
- Guided walks: Trail routes cover the island’s interior and coastal edges. Guides share local folklore, geology, and the history of the sailing school era.
- Bushcraft and raft building: Practical, hands-on sessions focused on natural materials and traditional building techniques. Popular with school groups and corporate teams.
- Swimming & snorkelling: Designated safe zones in the sheltered bays offer clear water and good visibility.
- Private charters: Water-skiing and private sailing sessions can be arranged through local providers for groups seeking additional equipment or specialised instruction.
A typical itinerary might start with a morning kayak or SUP session, followed by a guided walk and a midday break. Afternoon options include a powerboat safari or a raft-building workshop, depending on weather and group preference.
Lodge Facilities & Wellness
Collanmore Island Lodge is designed for private hire, meaning the entire property and its surrounding grounds are available to your group. The accommodation blends practical amenities with coastal wellness features.
- Dining & entertainment: A fully equipped kitchen supports private catering, with personal chef options available. A private bar and outdoor fire-pit provide evening gathering spaces.
- Wellness: A nine-person hot tub, sauna, steam room, and seaweed baths overlook the water. The facilities are designed for post-activity recovery and relaxation.
- Sea Water Park: A dedicated water playground features trampolines, slides, and running tracks. It is suitable for children and adults alike.
- Bespoke events: Hosts can arrange themed entertainment, including traditional Irish music sessions, murder-mystery evenings, or private dining experiences. The space is frequently booked for weddings, corporate retreats, and milestone celebrations.
Practical Information & Booking
Collanmore Island operates on a reservation-only model. Groups range from small family gatherings to larger corporate teams, with a maximum capacity of 22 guests. The lodge handles all activity scheduling, catering coordination, and boat transfers through a single booking portal.
Children must be at least six years old to take part in water-based programmes. Wetsuits, kayaks, paddle boards, and life jackets are included in all activity packages. Weather-dependent activities are rescheduled where possible, but guests should pack waterproof layers and non-slip footwear regardless of the forecast.
Contact & Booking All reservations, activity packages, and bespoke entertainment requests are managed through the lodge website: collanmoreislandlodge.com. For direct enquiries, email info@theadventureislands.com or call +353 862 518 252.
Exploring the Wider Mayo Coast
While the island is designed as a self-contained destination, its location in Clew Bay makes it a useful base for exploring the surrounding region. The bay contains over 350 islands, many of which are accessible via local boat tours. Closer to the mainland, visitors can arrange day trips to Achill Island for its dramatic cliffs and long sandy beaches, or head inland to Ballycroy National Park to walk through Ireland’s largest wilderness reserve. For those planning a broader trip around County Mayo, the island’s private boat service can sometimes be coordinated with mainland transfers, though this requires advance discussion with the lodge team.
Booking well ahead is recommended, particularly for summer weekends and school holiday periods, as the lodge’s exclusive-use model limits availability. Checking the local tide tables before your transfer is also advisable, as low water can affect the depth around Rosmoney Pier and alter the approach route to the island.