Staying at a Lighthouse is the stuff of bucket list dreams for many people. The attraction is in the wildness of the location, right at the edge of the world. Listening to the roar of the ocean as you sleep is a tonic for the soul and the history of each site is fascinating.
Here is a list of the best Lighthouses to stay at this year
Blackhead Lightkeepers’ Houses, Co. Antrim
Built in 1902, Blackhead Lightkeepers’ Houses sit on the cliff of Blackhead at the mouth of Belfast Lough. There are three houses on the Lightkeepers’ station at Blackhead. The panoramic views from this property are stunning and fill visitors with pure delight and admiration.
The House’s are a proud example of Ireland’s rich maritime heritage. The Titanic sailed past this guiding light on her ill-fated journey. If you are lucky enough to stay during a storm you will have an opportunity to experience the elements at their wildest. The House oozes character and charm and is an ideal location for a really special break. Blackhead is located beside the Gobbins Cliff Walk the most dramatic cliff walk in Europe. A visit to Blackhead Lightkeeper’s Houses is a treat for the senses!
St. John’s Point, Co. Donegal
St John’s Point Clipper is one of two houses at St John’s Point (Clipper and Schooner). The buildings are steeped in rich coastal heritage. Everything about this place is great – the majestic views, swimming and diving in the sea on your doorstep, and walks around the headland up to the coral beach.
The isolation is glorious. It is the perfect location to get away from the connected world. The houses are an ideal base for a family getaway where you can spend time exploring, finding hidden bays and dramatic mountains. It is a place to truly be on holiday, surrounded by the sea and all its elements.
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There are two Houses at the Lighthouse station- Ketch and Sloop. Each House oozes character and guests can enjoy exploring all of the nooks and crannies and getting back to basics with board games, card games or a good book in this wonderful cosy retreat.
Mentioned in a Van Morrison song, the lighthouse here also has tenuous literary connections – the Irish writer Brendan Behan helped his father to paint it in 1950 (before the yellow bands were added). There are views out to the Isle of Man on one side and the Mourne Mountains to the other.
Galley Head, Co. Cork
There are two houses on the Lighthouse station at Galley Head. This very special place is full of character and the magnificent views are ever-changing. Less than half an hour from Clonakilty, Galley Head Lighthouse is located on a headland on the Atlantic Ocean. The sea views, the isolation and the light punctuating the sky over the sea and land at night are major reasons to stay at Galley Head.
If you are lucky enough to stay here, take the time to soak it all in and you will come away more relaxed than you have ever been.
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The phrase “once in a lifetime” is thrown around a lot but this really is one! You will never get an experience quite like staying in a lighthouse dating back to 1781 with incredible views and a secret seal beach nearby.
Staying at the Wicklow Head Lighthouse is an unforgettable experience, with stunning sea views and a palpable sense of history. It’s a good spot for stargazing and the location will enable you to visit the spectacular sites of Glendalough, Avoca and the Wicklow Mountains. You will experience all sorts of weather, so come prepared!