Even the smallest map of Ireland shows two great indentations on the west. One is Shannon Estuary, the other is Galway Bay and the coast between them is that of County Clare.

Read our insider’s guide to West Coast Ireland, as recommended by Telegraph Travel. Find expert advice and great pictures of top hotels, restaurants, bars and things to do.

The fortunes of the West Clare railway were recently buoyed by the return of the restored 117-year old Slieve Callan, which operated on the West Clare rail-line from 1892 to 1952.

Between 1892 and 1952, the Slieve Callan powered the west Clare railway, which had been immortalised in song by Percy French. The railway was shut down by the government in 1961.