With its beautiful karst landscape and abundance of old stone fortresses, Inishmore is one of Ireland’s most captivating destinations. It’s the largest of the Aran Islands in Galway Bay and is accessed by ferry or light aircraft from Connemara on Ireland’s western coast. Unusual slabs of limestone karst dominate the island, giving rise to dwarf shrubs and charming expanses of the wild hinterland. With small cottages dotted across the island, Inishmore has become a favourite place for hikers and rock climbers to be immersed in the silence of nature.
Enthralling stone fortresses are dotted across the island, mostly dating to 3000 years ago. Dun Aonghasa is the largest, perched on a cliff that plunges 100 metres into the Atlantic Ocean. Dun Duchathair and Dun Eochla are less popular and equally impressive, with an intricate jigsaw of stones protecting monastic and ceremonial sites. A number of untouched sheltered beaches can be found in the east of the island, while the lighthouse on the edge of a cliff is surrounded by barren rocks and tumultuous waves. On tour, the main focus is to visit two of the forts. On foot or a bike, the island offers a wonderful adventure playground.
This remote island isn’t only explored on foot. Narrow paved roads cut through the heart of the landscape, joining up with a coastal road that clings to the cliffs. Both these can be seen on a horse-drawn cart of minibus tour. Leave the roads behind, and the landscape is all about rugged rocks and undulating hills. Hiking trails are not marked, but it’s hard to get lost on an island that’s this small. There are multiple daily ferries from Connemara to Rossaveal, the largest settlement on the island. Transfers from Galway city can be included in the ferry ticket. A quicker way is to fly from Minna Airport by light aircraft.
It’s worth noting the Gaelic names of any attractions as most of the signs on Inishmore are in the local language, not in English.