Coming all this way from home to the west coast of Ireland I was determined to actually see the coast line. I knew that it would be open crystal clear waters or tropical white sandy beaches but I was pleasantly surprised at the natural beauty at Clew Bay (and I’m not just talking about Claire). The views looking up at Croagh Patrick one way and then out towards the bay where quite magical. We stopped at Bartraw Beach – I wanted to go swimming but it was getting a little late and the water was very cold. Clew Bay is famous for its 365 islands and its unspoiled coastline.