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Lying at the mouth of the River Shannon, Scattery Island or Inis Cathaigh is one of west Clare’s best kept secrets, with a long and turbulent history since St. Senan founded a monastic settlement there in the 6th century, it is also famous for being the residence of a legendary monster called Cathach (from where the name of the island is derived), who ruled the island until the arrival of St. Senan. The island is located just 2.5 km from Kilrush Creek Marina, so why not take the short 15-20 minute ferry trip with us to explore this hidden treasure. |
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Scattery is steeped in history and folklore, it suffered under the Vikings in the 9th and 10th centuries and was largely destroyed in Tudor Times. The island has also served as a place of safe harbour for the Spanish Armada and as a defence outpost for the English army which can be found on the southern tip of the island where there is a British army gun battery and light house. |
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Ashore on the island you will also find the ruins of six churches; the round tower standing at 120 feet is the second highest in Ireland and is unusual in that its entrance is at ground level. Round towers were normally built as places of refuge with their entrance 10 to 12 feet off the ground, if the monastery was under threat of attack from the Vikings, the monks would retreat to the tower with their valuables, this leads us to believe that the tower on Scattery was built in more peaceful times. During the summer months tour guides are stationed on the island, you can take the tour or stroll around and explore for yourself. So if you want to escape the hustle and bustle, cars and noise, what better way then out on this peaceful island with its breathtaking views over the Shannon, where the only sounds you’ll hear are the birds in the bushes.
For more detailed historical information on Scattery Island click here |
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Dolphin Gateway Committee Member |