Dún Briste, Downpatrick Head, Co. Mayo

Medium fine art print: 13" x 8.9" Price: €59

Large fine art print: 29.1" x 20" Price: €199

* Third Place, Nature Category, Prix de la Photographie Paris 2010
* Honourable Mention, Fine Art/Landscape Category, Prix de la Photographie Paris 2010
* Diamond Crest from the Irish Professional Photographers Association (IPPA) in 2009

Description:
Dún Briste (Broken Fort) is an impressive sea stack at Downpatrick Head on the North Mayo coast. Standing 50 meters (164 feet) high, it was once part of the mainland, connected by a sea arch. It's not known for sure when the arch collapsed, but it seems likely to have been sometime in the 14th century.

Normally viewed from the adjacent cliffs, the most impressive views of the stack are from sea level. This image was made from the base of the cliffs near the entrance to one of the caves that undercut the headland. It should be noted that this an extremely dangerous spot to get to and should only be attempted while in the company of someone who has been there before, and with good knowledge of the local tides and sea conditions. It is possible to become trapped by the incoming tide and a rogue wave could easily sweep you out to sea.

This swirl in the foreground is a result of the long exposure revealing the flow pattern as the waves ebb off the platform. The pool here is about 8 feet deep, and has been carved out of the flat rock platform by countless years of such action. If it wasn't for the danger of being swept away, it would make an excellent jacuzzi!

All images on this site are the copyright of Peter Cox and may not be re-used without his express written permission. Commercial licensing is available, please get in touch for details.

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