Clew Bay Sightseeing Tours
Clew Bay Sightseeing Tours
Clew Bay Sightseeing Tours
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See Croagh Patrick and the islands in a different way! Discover the Edge of Europe. Our tours are designed to let you experience one of the world’s most beautiful areas by boat and by using ancient and less-traveled trails. We offer guided boat, hiking and cycling tours that will reveal the heritage, geography, and deep history that makes Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick such amazing places.
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Clew Bay Sightseeing Tours
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5.0
11 reviews
Excellent
10
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1
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lcc8886
Philadelphia, PA7 contributions
May 2016 • Couples
Wow, what a fantastic way to experience Croagh Patrick. This was our third time climbing Croagh Patrick and hands down the best as a guided tour! SO fascinating to take the untraveled path and learn about the history, lore, flora and fauna along the way. We selected the "Ben's Cave" tour and were thrilled to not only see his very cool cave but also a whole different side (north) of the mountain and stunning views of the bay. We also had the whole mountain to ourselves--didn't encounter any other hikers! No worries about crowds or unprepared climbers. Michael, the owner, was extremely knowledgeable and funny with just the right blend of hard facts and tales. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to truly experience Croagh Patrick and not simply trudge up to the summit and back down.
Written 15 May 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks so much for your review Laurie. It was a pleasure bringing yourself and Harry up to the cave with its spectacular setting on the mountain. Looking forward to seeing you both back again from the States in September!
Written 2 July 2016
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
coatesnj
Greater Manchester, UK3 contributions
Aug 2016 • Couples
We did the Clew Bay Tidal Islands Walk with Michael and found the whole experience very interesting and informative, it was a very pleasant evening trek taking in historic, geological and geographic features, one of the highlights of our week. Thank you.
Written 21 August 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks so much for your interest and enthusiasm Neville and Julie. It was such a pleasure showing you the historic sites around Croagh Patrick.
Written 22 August 2016
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Brigmaximus
Ireland8 contributions
Jun 2016 • Friends
I have climbed Croagh Patrick on several occasions, and each time gained a fresh perspective on this celebrated peak. However, it was on my guided walk with Michael, when my eyes were truly opened to the history contained atop this mountain. Michael is a veritable 'walking encyclopedia' of both fact and folklore. He shared a seemingly endless store of wisdom, in an enthusiastic and heartfelt manner. There is no doubt that this is a local guide of the most pure form!
Michael's vast knowledge is matched in no small part by his general hill-walking skills. I felt safe and secure in his company, and assured of a safe descent toward our final destination, the local pub where a creamy pint of Guinness had 'Reek Tours' written on it!!
A super operation, and worthy of a visit.
Michael's vast knowledge is matched in no small part by his general hill-walking skills. I felt safe and secure in his company, and assured of a safe descent toward our final destination, the local pub where a creamy pint of Guinness had 'Reek Tours' written on it!!
A super operation, and worthy of a visit.
Written 1 July 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I really appreciate your review Eric. Words of encouragement from such an accomplished local photographer make guided tours of this remarkable mountain all the more fulfilling. There is so much to see and tell.
Written 2 July 2016
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
16egan
Dublin, Ireland11 contributions
Jun 2016 • Solo
It is many years since I experienced the fabulous views of Clew Bay from Croagh Patrick. As an ageing and less than agile enthusiast now I was delighted to take a trip with guide Michael Cusack up part of the mountain. We went as far as was comfortable -far enough for him to give us his wealth of knowledge of the mountain and to view again Clew Bay in all its beauty. I highly recommend this gentle climb with a competent and patient guide! Frances Egan, Dublin.
Written 17 June 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It is so true that even a short walk to the statue at the Reek can reveal the amazing features of Clew Bay and its surroundings. While the most panoramic views may be reserved for the shoulder and summit of Croagh Patrick, there is much to talk about that requires only the listener's interest and imagination.
Written 3 July 2016
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
eilis6454
Ballycastle, Ireland1 contribution
Jun 2016 • Friends
We had a brilliant day on the reek. Michael, our guide, took us up to the cave and summit from the west side. This is a much more interesting route than the path from Murrisk which is usually thronged with people. It felt safer too as there is much less of the loose shale. It really helped to understand so much about the history of this mountain, especially the legends, the hermit and the failed gold mining. The views were stunning and on the way down we stopped in a lush green place by the river for refreshments. Bluebells and primroses were blooming everywhere and the only sound was the lapping of a stream and the distant bleating of sheep.......so relaxing!
Written 6 June 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much Eilis. It was such a pleasure bringing yourself and your son up the 'normal' pilgrim route and later being able to show you the 'road less travelled' as you so eloquently put it! It is a privilege being able to guide someone with such a love of this part of Ireland, its rich history, archaeology, geography, folklore and geology.
Written 3 July 2016
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Harro_13
Dublin, Ireland6 contributions
Jun 2016 • Friends
Michael was an excellent guide who was also very easy company. We learnt so much about Clew Bay islands and many interesting facts about Croagh Patrick. We did the tour at our pace via the less walked Lecanvey route and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Michael was very generous and gave us both a signed copy of his new book based on croagh patrick and the clew bay islands. Well worth it and will definitely do another tour with Michael.
Written 1 July 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much Laura. I really enjoyed taking yourself and Catherine up the 'quiet' side of the mountain. It was special being on the summit when the clouds cleared!
Written 2 July 2016
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
SLComstock
Chicago, IL2 contributions
May 2017 • Family
Sherpa, expert trail guide, storyteller, hiker-cyclist-athlete, writer, Clew Bay roots/family historian, AND genuine "good folk"? My family and I were genuinely fortunate to have had the opportunity to discover Michael Cusack for our Croagh Patrick goal. We specificlly returned to Ireland to reach the peak, and under Michael's generous, expert good care we made it.
But more than just "making it to the top", every moment was an experience. Michael's deep connection and local wisdom, his athleticism, and love of the habitats of Clew Bay and mountains, make him an ideal guide. His hospitality and gentle warmth, humor and good natured humility make him rare as a *person*. Truly a treasure.
As we approached out hike date, he communicated well, preparing us for the day. He picked us up at our AirBnB, drove us to the start of the traditional Pilgrim's route at the foot, and we began our trek. He was well prepared: snacks, hydration, poles, and even coffee. Pacing was personalized and safe. I know he could fly up, but he never once made me feel inadaquate or unable. As someone facing health issues, making this trip and getting to the top of Croagh Patrick with prayers for my grandma who recently passed were core goals. Making it up safely under his expert care and kindness gave me and my family memories for a lifetime. He is now a part of our family story.
His book, "Croagh Patrick and the Islands of Clew Bay: A Guide to the Edge of Europe" (2016) is excellent: a detailed natural and local history. At the end of our tour he generously gave us a signed copy! I was humbled and delighted.
We can not praise him enough!
But more than just "making it to the top", every moment was an experience. Michael's deep connection and local wisdom, his athleticism, and love of the habitats of Clew Bay and mountains, make him an ideal guide. His hospitality and gentle warmth, humor and good natured humility make him rare as a *person*. Truly a treasure.
As we approached out hike date, he communicated well, preparing us for the day. He picked us up at our AirBnB, drove us to the start of the traditional Pilgrim's route at the foot, and we began our trek. He was well prepared: snacks, hydration, poles, and even coffee. Pacing was personalized and safe. I know he could fly up, but he never once made me feel inadaquate or unable. As someone facing health issues, making this trip and getting to the top of Croagh Patrick with prayers for my grandma who recently passed were core goals. Making it up safely under his expert care and kindness gave me and my family memories for a lifetime. He is now a part of our family story.
His book, "Croagh Patrick and the Islands of Clew Bay: A Guide to the Edge of Europe" (2016) is excellent: a detailed natural and local history. At the end of our tour he generously gave us a signed copy! I was humbled and delighted.
We can not praise him enough!
Written 29 May 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks so much Sharon. It was such a pleasure to explore the Reek with yourself, David and Adam.
Written 31 May 2017
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mgcboy
Ireland8 contributions
Sept 2016 • Couples
I had climbed Croagh Patrick, or The Reek as it is fondly known, a few times in the past but never with an expert and always the same route up and down. I had also never hiked up Mayo's highest peak, Mweelrea, even though I had often passed it while driving through the breadth-taking glaciated valley that is Doolough Pass.
I booked to attempt these two peaks in the one day with Michael Cusack of Reek Tours online. He kindly advised me beforehand via email what I needed for the hike and my friend and I met him at 9am Saturday morning at the Reek carpark in Murrisk.
We took the normal 'Pilgrims Path' to the summit of Croagh Patrick and Michael filled us in along the way on the history of the peak, stopping along the way to point out interesting features and sights to see on and around the Reek. It really added another dimension to our hike and made it all far more interesting and enjoyable. The time flew. From the top he then took us down a different route, to Lecanvey, and one I'd never knew about and that was another great experience, with other features to see and talk about.
After lunch in nearby Louisburgh we set off for Mweelrea. Luckily the weather was ok as this mountain can be dangerous, conditions can change there very quickly. This was a different proposition to the well-worn Reek paths. Here Michael guided us safely and calmly up the often steep inclines and across the soggy-boggy landscape. Here too he explained to us all about the mountain and the surrounding terrain. It was a tough hike in parts but Michael was patient with us and great company so we got through it and up. After taking in the views and asking Michael a load of questions we headed down, this was tough too as it was slippy underfoot. Michael navigated the safest way down all the while talking to us and informing us.
All in all, Michael truly brought the hiking experience to life for us. He showed us things and explained things about that part Mayo that really enriched our experience 100-fold. There is no way we would have enjoyed the experience as much had it not been for Michael, and his great knowledge and splendid company.
We found Michael to be a pleasant, easy-going, and very knowledgeable guide who also takes safety seriously. I am happy to recommend Michael' Reek Tours to anyone. We certainly will be booking him again, next time with bigger group!
I booked to attempt these two peaks in the one day with Michael Cusack of Reek Tours online. He kindly advised me beforehand via email what I needed for the hike and my friend and I met him at 9am Saturday morning at the Reek carpark in Murrisk.
We took the normal 'Pilgrims Path' to the summit of Croagh Patrick and Michael filled us in along the way on the history of the peak, stopping along the way to point out interesting features and sights to see on and around the Reek. It really added another dimension to our hike and made it all far more interesting and enjoyable. The time flew. From the top he then took us down a different route, to Lecanvey, and one I'd never knew about and that was another great experience, with other features to see and talk about.
After lunch in nearby Louisburgh we set off for Mweelrea. Luckily the weather was ok as this mountain can be dangerous, conditions can change there very quickly. This was a different proposition to the well-worn Reek paths. Here Michael guided us safely and calmly up the often steep inclines and across the soggy-boggy landscape. Here too he explained to us all about the mountain and the surrounding terrain. It was a tough hike in parts but Michael was patient with us and great company so we got through it and up. After taking in the views and asking Michael a load of questions we headed down, this was tough too as it was slippy underfoot. Michael navigated the safest way down all the while talking to us and informing us.
All in all, Michael truly brought the hiking experience to life for us. He showed us things and explained things about that part Mayo that really enriched our experience 100-fold. There is no way we would have enjoyed the experience as much had it not been for Michael, and his great knowledge and splendid company.
We found Michael to be a pleasant, easy-going, and very knowledgeable guide who also takes safety seriously. I am happy to recommend Michael' Reek Tours to anyone. We certainly will be booking him again, next time with bigger group!
Written 30 September 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Micheal - thank you so much for your review. It was a pleasure taking on two of the highest peaks in Connaught on the same day! As you saw firsthand, Mweelrea and Croagh Patrick are vastly different mountains, each offering some of the most spectacular views in western Europe. Mweelrea is a mountain that would certainly appeal to an experienced hill walker like yourself, while Croagh Patrick offers greater accessibility to those who may want to venture at least some of the way up a very well worn path. I am glad that the weather cooperated to allow us to experience both these unique opportunities before sunset!
Written 6 October 2016
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
David C
Glasgow, UK3 contributions
Jul 2016 • Solo
It was originally intended to be a marathon three mountain tour but circumstances (and my sore feet!) meant we had to settle for just the two. First it was majestic Mweelrea approached from the Doo Lough side. There was cloud cover above two thousand feet so I was very glad to have a guide with me. I'm pretty sure I would have got lost without him. It could have even posed a risk element as there are many near vertical faces to be avoided on Mweelrea.
Next it was Croagh Patrick which we climbed from the Lecanvey side, visiting @Bobs Cave enroute to the top. Again I was very glad that Michael was with me showing little known parts of the famous reek and fabulous views of Clew Bay.
Next it was Croagh Patrick which we climbed from the Lecanvey side, visiting @Bobs Cave enroute to the top. Again I was very glad that Michael was with me showing little known parts of the famous reek and fabulous views of Clew Bay.
Written 19 July 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for your review David. I am glad you enjoyed the two mountain hike. Mweelrea and Croagh Patrick are both around the same elevation, but there is a world of difference between these two peaks as you point out. Mweelrea is immense and requires careful navigation at all times, while Croagh Patrick poses a different set of challenges to hill walkers, especially around the summit cone, which is why alternative approaches are always useful.
Written 30 July 2016
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Please explain reek tours and is it walking or hill climbing? Also name and contact of operator.
Thank you
Written 13 July 2016
Hi Caroline,
Thank you for your question.
We provide hill walking and cycling tours, but no climbing. The Patrick's Causeway tour is entirely done on bicycles, while the Pilgrim and Cave routes are hill walks.
Best regards,
Michael Cusack
Written 14 July 2016
Please explain reek tours and is it walking or hill climbing? Also name and contact of operator.
Thank you
Written 13 July 2016
Hi Caroline,
Thank you for your question.
We provide hill walking and cycling tours, but no climbing. The Patrick's Causeway tour is entirely done on bicycles, while the Pilgrim and Cave routes are hill walks.
Best regards,
Michael Cusack
Written 14 July 2016
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