Explore the islands of Ireland
It’s time to get off the beaten track to Ireland’s islands! On every island, you’ll find something unique to marvel at...
Discover more at: https://www.ireland.com
Catch a ferry, cable car or even kayak to any of these island gems, and discover local traditions, and a more relaxed way of life on traffic-free roads. Some islands are teeming with wildlife, while others are home to ancient wonders and steeped in myth and legend. But all of them have a story to tell…
Fast facts about some of Ireland’s islands:
Rathlin Island: Home to an upside down lighthouse and the legend of an exiled Scottish king, Rathlin island can be found just off the County Antrim coastline. You can visit the island via a ferry that travels to the island up to 8 times a day.
Aran Islands: Located just offshore from County Galway along the Wild Atlantic Way, you’ll find the Aran Islands; Inis Oírr, Inis Meáin, and Inis Mór. You’ll find a wealth of Irish culture and heritage that is distinct to these islands. The wild landscapes have drawn many poets, writers, artists and dreamers to its shores.
Skellig Michael: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Skellig Michael and its sister island, Little Skellig have a wild coastline that County Kerry is famous for. The otherworldly landscape of Skellig Michael also proved to be the perfect destination for a galaxy far, far away. Settled by monks in the 6th century, trips to the island are limited to a small number of landings, but you can take trips around the island or visit the Skellig Experience in Kerry on Valentia Island to find out more about it.
Dursey Island: The most westerly of all of Cork’s inhabited islands, visitors to Dursey Island can travel on Ireland’s only cable car to reach the island. Carrying tourists, islanders and supplies over the 275 yard distance, you may even spot dolphins swimming in the water below!
Lough Erne’s islands: With over 150 islands floating in the waters of Lough Erne, it’s hard to decide which one to visit first. Take the ferry to Devenish island, a tranquil island that was once inhabited by monks. The monastic site was burned in the 12th century but the ruins remain. Or, explore Boa Island where two mysterious statues can be found.
Achill Island: The largest of the Irish isles, Achill Island is attached to Ireland by the Michael Davitt Bridge. It hosts several notable historic sites, including the Achill Mission, a deserted village containing 80 ruined houses at the base of Slievemore, and Carrickkildavnet Castle, a 15th century tower house associated with Pirate Queen, Grace O’Malley, the famed seafaring leader.
For more information, visit: https://www.ireland.com/articles/tripideas/irelands-islands/
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