Project Description

The Kilcredaun - Rinevella Nature & Heritage Trail would be part of the Loop Head Peninsula Discovery Way and build on and follow the existing West Clare Trails in the area, Kilcredaun Heights and Meadow of the Rabbits, and add information on natural history, wildlife and geology to these two trails. The current trails run on minor roads and tracks and connect the village of Carrigaholt with Kilcredaun and Rinevella.

Information panels or a less intrusive alternative are envisaged and would be erected in key locations along the trails. Panel content would be sourced locally and through engagement with the community and Carrigaholt National School.

Possible locations for information panels:

1.Carrigaholt Castle Pier

• Fishing Heritage

• Shannon Dolphins

2.College Strand

• Oyster Farming

• Moneypoint

3.Kilcredaun Lighthouse

• Lighthouse history

• Coastal heath

4.Kilcredaun Battery Site

• Kilcredaun Battery

• Churches and Holy Well

• Okeanos shipwreck

• Wildflowers

5.The Drowned Forest

• See Rinevella Nature Observation Hide

Project Justification & Objectives

The Kilcredaun - Rinevella Nature & Heritage Trail could be built around already existing attractions and points of interest and would become an important building block of the Loop Head Peninsula Discovery Way. The trail would encourage more visitors to explore the area in more detail and stay longer which would benefit local businesses. The trail would also support the development of the Wild Loop Head nature tourism brand which aims to create new business opportunities on the peninsula.

The sourcing of content from the community and Carrigaholt National School would create more awareness for local nature, wildlife and heritage and strengthen the bond between the community and the school.

Potential Project Stakeholders*

• Loop Head Tourism

• CDA

• Carrigaholt National School

• Residents and landowners along the route

• Carrigaholt, Kilcredaun and Rinevella community

• Irish Lights

*Potential Project Stakeholders means all stakeholders have not necessarily yet been contacted to help co-design the project, but are mentioned here as they would be a desirable project partner. We may have forgotten some - please let us know!