TAKE a look at this “enchanting” hidden island with stunning beaches, horse-racing and camping - the perfect spot for a staycation. Omey Island is located on Sky Road Loop near Claddaghduff, Connemara in Galway . The mysterious tidal island’s beaches are revealed when the tide goes out.
Soak up the rays on one of the island's spacious beaches or take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Explore the beauty of the island by beach horseback riding with The Point Pony Trekking Centre. The island is a “mecca” for snorkelling, angling, crabbing, scuba diving, kite surfing and boating, according to Galway Tourism.
Horseracing fans will love The Omey Races, dubbed The Other Galway Races, which takes place annually. Some 6,000 punters gathered for a fantastic day of sun, sand, sea, and horse racing last year. The island also hosts its very own triathlon/duathlon called The Omey Dash.
It starts on Omey Strand with a 0.75-kilometer swim, followed by a 24-kilometer cycling race, and finishes with a 5-kilometer run. Omey island is uninhabited except for a few seasonal residents.
Visitors took to TripAdvisor to rate their experience on Omey Island. One visitor said: “The best peninsula in the Clifden area, in my opinion. "All seasons in one day so it was good to have a cosy cottage as a base.
“Omey Island, Aughus lake loop and Cleggan walks were different every time. Family and kids visiting were easily entertained.” Another said: “Remote Island.
We enjoyed walking around at our leisure. So much beauty and so much fun to walk when the tide is out. "Parking is limited so get there early.
” One person shared: “Beautiful island with gorgeous views all around. Walk across the beach and check out this area. "Watch out for all the rabbit holes.
” While another added: “Once on Omey just enjoy the land that time forgot. It's enchanting. Stunning scenery and wonderful peace and quiet.
“There is one road snaking away to your left even you arrive on the beach, follow it and it leads past a curious lake in the centre of the island to a beautiful headland where people wild camp and there are lovely beaches there. “If you instead go right as you arrive you can follow the coast around to more stunning beaches. “Don't forget the tides though or you're spending the night.
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