Clare Ecolodge, nestled in the picturesque village of Feakle within County Clare’s East Clare region, offers guests an authentic Irish countryside experience steeped in heritage and sustainability.
This unique family-run accommodation, housed in a historically significant building that has been in the Loughnane family for nearly 200 years, provides the perfect blend of traditional charm and modern eco-friendly practices.
Located on the foothills of the Slieve Aughty mountain range and minutes from Lough Derg, the ecolodge serves as an ideal base for exploring Ireland’s stunning landscapes while maintaining a commitment to renewable energy and environmental conservation.
Their story
Clare Ecolodge was founded by the Loughnane family as a continuation of their 200-year legacy in East Clare, transforming their historically significant farmhouse into a sustainable retreat in 2018. It serves as a sanctuary where guests can escape modern life and reconnect with Ireland’s natural beauty and traditional culture.
Through innovative renewable energy systems producing 80% of their power on-site, the family overcame sustainability challenges while preserving the building’s heritage. The retreat now offers a unique combination of authentic Irish hospitality, eco-conscious living, and immersive cultural experiences in County Clare’s unspoiled countryside. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- They renovated the historic building sustainably in 2018, adding solar panels and a heat pump that now cover over 60% of its energy needs. In 2022, a battery unit and low-impact heating brought it to 80% off-grid, cutting 2.5 tonnes of CO₂.
- The construction preserves the integrity of the original farmhouse while incorporating double-glazed windows, energy-efficient lighting, and rainwater harvesting systems.
- The eco-lodge aims for 95-100% sustainability, showcasing how historic buildings can be transformed into environmentally responsible accommodations without compromising their architectural heritage.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The eco-lodge generates over 60% of its electricity and hot water sustainably on-site using 30 solar photovoltaic panels installed in 2018, combined with an air-to-water heat pump system and a 10kW Sonnen battery unit.
- Currently producing 20-60 kilowatt hours daily, they estimate being at least 80% off-grid while avoiding 2.5 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
- The system efficiently handles peak summer demands for showers and laundry, with surplus energy fed back to the grid.
Pioneer in waste management
- Food waste is systematically composted and used as natural fertilizer for their gardens and land.
- They recycle all plastic, glass, and tin materials, and reduce packaging waste by sourcing locally, buying in bulk, and growing their own produce.
- The lodge uses only 24 wheelie bins annually and continues working to decrease waste generation each year.
- They compost manure and repurpose it as garden fertilizer, creating a circular waste system.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- They use only eco-friendly cleaning products and avoid pesticides or fertilizers in their gardens.
- Food is locally sourced, often from their own organic gardens, and rainwater harvesting supplements their water supply.
- They’ve recently installed a Zappi EV car charging facility to support green transportation options for guests.
Actively protects nature and community
- The ecolodge protects designated Special Protection Areas for threatened hen harriers while maintaining native woodlands.
- Guests become part of the local fabric, supporting traditional Irish music scenes, local craftspeople, and rural businesses.
- The Loughnane family’s 200-year heritage ensures authentic community connections, with visitors encouraged to explore hidden gems and engage with residents in village pubs.
Most Popular Activities Near Clare Ecolodge
- Traditional Irish music sessions in village pubs Wednesday through Sunday.
- Walking the East Clare Way and Slieve Aughty mountain trails.
- Cycling quiet country roads with secure bike storage facilities.
- Fishing on over 35 nearby lakes including Lough Derg and Lough Graney.
- Exploring National Heritage sites and ancient Celtic monuments.
- Birdwatching for over 100 species including White-tailed Eagles.
- Watersports including sailing, kayaking and windsurfing on Lough Derg.
- Horse riding treks through immediate countryside with local providers.
- Team building activities at nearby Derg Isle adventure center.
- Golf at East Clare Golf Club just three miles away.
- Nature walks through native woodlands and traditional skills workshops.
- Wellness retreats including yoga classes in dedicated practice spaces.
HOW TO GET THERE – read our guide on Ireland airports
Best Time To Visit Clare Ecolodge
- The best time to visit Clare Ecolodge is from late spring to early autumn, particularly between May and September, when the weather is perfect for exploring the East Clare countryside.
- During these months, visitors can fully enjoy hiking the East Clare Way, cycling quiet country roads, and discovering the 35 lakes within 15 minutes of Feakle.
- The warmer weather enhances experiences like visiting nearby Lough Derg and Lough Graney, and exploring the Slieve Aughty mountains. It’s also ideal for outdoor activities such as watersports, fishing, and horseback riding.
- Summer also brings vibrant traditional Irish music sessions to the village pubs from Wednesday to Sunday. These lively gatherings create an authentic cultural atmosphere that perfectly complements the ecolodge’s sustainable rural Ireland experience.