About Doohoma- Ballina Homes

About Doohoma (Dumhaigh Thuama)

The Doohoma Peninsula is almost an island, 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.