I took advantage of the lovely weather we have been having of late to take a trip out to see the Stags of Broadhaven – one of Mayo’s most iconic and recognisable natural features; the archipelago rising like a prehistoric sea monster’s fins from the waves off the Dún Chaocháin peninsula along Mayo’s Wild Atlantic Way.
The unseasonably mild weather for early November was perfect for driving along the north coast road that winds its way from Ballina to Carrowteige (Ceathrú Thaidhg). The journey takes you through an unspoiled, remote and scenic landscape where you are surrounded by magnificent views of mountain, bog, and clifftop seascapes; the jagged Stags in the distance drawing you towards Mayo’s most north-westerly outpost.
And just as I arrived at the cliff edge on the Children of Lir Loop Walk, overlooking the Stags, sunbeams, breaking through the clouds, lit up the cliff edge in a warm golden glow.
The names of the rocks that comprise the Stags of Broadhaven are from left to right:
- An tOighean (78m)
- Carraig na Faola
- An Teach Donal Ó Cléirigh (97m)
- An Teach Beag (84m)
- An Teach Mór (94m)
Standing alone in front of the Stags is Parson Rock.
MAYO.ME 