Golam Tower viewed on the approach from Aran , with the magnificant Twelve Bens in the background. The tower was built as a semaphore station in the early 1820’s.
Golam Tower is a wonderful landmark signifying the fact that we have escaped the confines of the inner bay and we are now westbound for open water, through the Inner passage towards Slyne Head and the wild atlantic or northwards to the beautiful setting or Roundstone. It can be seen for miles in all directions – as an “aid to navigation” it is unmistakable, distinct and highly visible. Immediately north of Golam Head is the very narrow entrance to Golam harbour. It can be entered in favourable conditions with a fair wind or under power, but entry is not advisable in a high swell. Careful navigation and chart work is required to avoid the rocks in the entrance. Anchor anywhere inside where it is possible to land by dinghy and go right up to the tower. The shelter is good under all conditions.
Golam Harbour from the NE
A little north of Golam is the broad entrance to Kilkieran Bay with its many islands which extends 14 miles inland. It can be entered in any conditions and gives excellent shelter. The tide runs maximum 2 kn. in the narrows and 1 ½ kn. near the entrance. The ingoing stream commences – 0520 Galway and the outgoing +0105 Galway.
Going southwards around Golam it is best to hold one’s course for at least a mile before turning east to avoid any hazards such as English rock close to the north shore.
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