Explore the History and heritage of the Mullet Peninsula and its offshore Islands.
The Atlantic fosters a unique sense of community among our coastal villages. Cooperation and mutual support are essential for thriving in the challenging maritime environment.
The SOLAS visitor centre is a community cooperative project driven by passion and pride in our history and culture.
Our friendly staff at the SOLAS Visitor Centre hail from the surrounding villages and town lands. Many of them have direct connections to the stories featured in our exhibits, bringing a personal touch and local expertise to your visit.
General Manager SOLAS
Tour Guide
Tourism Officer
Front of House
Chef
Kitchen staff
Kitchen staff
Kitchen staff
The stories of Erris, passed down through generations, offer a rich tapestry of the region’s history, culture, and traditions. From tales of ancient settlements and heroic maritime rescues to the folklore of mythical creatures and local legends, these narratives provide a deep understanding of the area’s unique identity. They reveal the resilience and spirit of the Erris people, shaped by the rugged landscape and the Atlantic Ocean.
By exploring these stories, visitors can gain a profound appreciation for the heritage and character of Erris, enriching their overall experience of this remarkable region.
The Erris region is home to four historic lighthouses, the earliest dating back to 1835. These lighthouses have played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of ships and boats navigating the treacherous Atlantic waters while significantly impacting the local communities through employment and economic development. From guiding vessels and preventing maritime disasters to providing steady jobs and fostering community pride, the lighthouses of Blacksod, Eagle Island, Blackrock, and Ballyglass have been integral to the region.
They have also become cultural symbols, enriching local heritage and traditions. The construction, maintenance, and operation of these lighthouses brought infrastructural improvements, boosted local businesses, and created generational employment opportunities, making them indispensable pillars of Erris’ maritime and social landscape.
