Owey Island Kayaking Camp

We have had so much interest in our Donegal Islands Camp and Kayak that we have gone and organised a second one 😊 This time staying on Owey itself, from Friday 30th August to Monday 2nd September.

Owey Island (Irish: Uaigh, meaning ‘Cave’) is situated in the Atlantic Ocean near Kincasslagh on the Donegal coast.  It was last inhabited full time in the late 70's and the place lay almost dormant for over 25 years. A way of life was nearly lost and buried as the years passed and more of the thatched roofs fell in with each passing winter.  In the early 2000s a few determined souls saw the value of the peace and beauty of the place and began fixing up the old ruins.  Two of the families with long links to the island, the McGinleys and Cowans were part of this vanguard that wanted to resurrect a way of life that has sadly disappeared from most of Ireland.

Now with around 20 houses fixed up and in use, the island has been transformed from an abandoned village to a seasonal living community.  The whitewashed houses of the village line the banks of the small river that runs from a clifftop lake, providing water for the houses.  200m beneath this clifftop lake there is an underground lake called the Pool of Tranquility, as no daylight or breeze touches it – a lake beneath a lake!  There is still no electricity or running water on the island, but that is the way this small community want to keep it.

Accommodation: We will be staying at the Owey Island Cottage Hostel, the last house to be lived in on the island and the home of Niall McGinley’s grandmother. The house retains its original features and furniture, including three open fires, a settle bed with a curtain beside the fire, and old stills for making poteen in the rafters. The main room has an open fire, table and chairs, kitchen sink, and gas stove. There are two bedrooms off the main room—one with two large single beds and the other with three beds, one of which is a double. The rest of our group will be camping on the grass behind the house. The facilities are basic, with a compost toilet in the outhouse, reflecting the way islanders lived for generations.

Kayaking Adventure: One of Owey’s many features is the sea caves that give the island its name. On Saturday or Sunday, depending on weather conditions, we will embark on a three-hour kayaking adventure guided by Gareth from Selkie Sailing. With 27 caves to discover and abundant marine life, you’ll have the option to swim inside these natural wonders. No kayaking experience is necessary; all equipment, including wetsuits, will be provided. Our stable sit-on-top kayaks will ensure a safe and thrilling experience. A group of us did this kayaking trip in 2022 and were awestruck by the stunning scenery and caves. It truly is an incredible experience.

So, as you explore Owey’s sea caves and feel the whispers of history, remember the generations who shaped this remarkable place.

Cost

Camping: £230.00/£210.00 concession

Beds inside: £280pp. One 2-bedded room and one 3-bedded room

Settle bed beside the fire: £230 (please be aware this bed is in the main room so not suitable for those that like to go to bed early)

Discounts

10% and 15% discounts are available for Seedling and Sapling Supporters respectively. Please see website www.wildwomenofthewoodsni.com to join as a Supporter (monthly subscription fee applies).  Discounts are automatically applied with promocode at checkout.

Included:

• 3 nights accommodation on Owey, either inside the house or camping outside (bring your own tent).

• Return boat trip to the island.

• 3-hour kayaking trip to Owey sea caves, with guide and all equipment.

• All food for meals, vegetarian/vegan can be accommodated.

Not Included:

• Transport to/from the boat departure point on Cruit Island. Car sharing is encouraged.

• Snacks and drinks

• Tent (if your purchase a camping ticket) and bedding