Loop Head Drive

The Loop Head Lighthouse is nestled between the Shannon Estuary and the wild Atlantic Ocean. As you drive along and embark on the famous Loop Head Drive, you’ll be wowed by the dramatic cliffs, turbulent seascapes and historic sites you’ll encounter.

Loop Head was one of a handful of places that was selected for the filming of Star Wars: The last Jedi. The wild backdrop and the dramatic backdrop became a film set like no other.

Drive to the very tip of the peninsula and you’ll come to the imposing Loop Head Lighthouse. There’s been a lighthouse on this site for well over 300 years but this one dates from 1854 and is open to the public. Take the guided tour and you’ll find yourself on the balcony, 23 metres (75 feet) above the ground, braced against the Atlantic winds as you marvel at the views. On a clear day, you can see the mountains of Connemara to the north and the Blasket Islands to the south.

What makes a location what it is? The local! You won’t want to leave the Loop Head Peninsula before meeting some of the locals. And if you take the Dolphin watch boat trip from Carrigaholt to the mouth of the Shannon, you’ll have the chance to see some of the 160 bottlenose dolphins that live in this area.