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The Doohoma Peninsula is almost an
island, being connected to the mainland of Erris by a narrow isthmus at
Geesala through which runs the only access road. Geesala was the setting
for J.M. Synge's celebrated Playboy of the Western World.
On the southern shore of the peninsula lies the
bright picturesque village or clachan of Doohoma - in Gaelic Du Thuama
or more appropriately Dumhaigh Thuama - the sounding sandy banks - for
one can hear, almost any night, storm or calm, the sound of the Atlantic
breakers crashing on the shore. Apart from the pleasant aspect of Doohoma
itself, with its brightly painted cottages, there is an impressive panorama
of sea, sky and mountain on every side.
To the west about two miles across the bay lies
the Mullet Peninsula and the islands of Iniskea and Duvillaun still steeped
in mysterious mementos of pre-history. To the south
about the same distance is Achill Island with the impressive cliffs of
Achill Head, and the towering stacks of Sliabh Mor, and Minnaun on the
island and Cruachan, with an entrancing view of Croagh Patrick in the
distance, and the Ballycroy Nephin Beg Range, on the mainland to the south
and east.
At the ferry where two famous salmon rivers, the
Owenmore and the Owen Dubh meet the waters of the Bay, about a dozen boats
engage in the net-fishing in the season for wild Atlantic Salmon, and
there is a smoked salmon plant in the village, Eagle Isle Seafoods Ltd.
which exports extensively to Europe and America.
Lobster and crab fishing is also carried on at
Doohoma Head and a number of boats go out line fishing for mackeral, pollack
and other fish of which there is an abundant supply. Boats are also available,
complete with skippers for the fishing or pleasure trips around the bay.
Doohoma has an extensive and beautiful strand which
is never crowded or polluted owing to its distance from large centres
of population. The sea here is free from any strong currents and ideal
for swimming, padding and such sports as surfing and sailing. Adjacent
to the strand is a large sports complex with facilities for Gaelic football,
soccer, open air sports, pitch and putt and picnics. There is also a space
beside the sea for caravans and cars. Doohoma has also stoney beaches
where children can pick shellfish such as winkles, mussels and
limpets in safety. Oyster beds are also being cultivated which should
provide a great attraction for the gourmet.
For those interested in walking, cycling or just
sightseeing there is a ring road some twelve miles long, right round by
the coast of the Doohoma Peninsula which is almost three miles square,
with easy access to coves and shores throughout the whole lenght. The
colours of mountain, sea and sky, so beloved to the artist Paul Henry,
vary from hour to hour and the sunrises and sunsets are breathtaking in
their beauty.
Social life in Doohoma is lively and colourful.
The traditional house dances and music have moved out in keeping with
the spirit of the times, into the two spacious local pubs, (which are
more clubs than pubs) The Sea Rod Inn and Tra Bui where set dancing and
traditional music sessions are held every week both winter and summer
intensifying of course at holiday times for the enjoyment of the visitors.
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