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Ireland West Irish Islands Tour - Self Drive
Oct 10 2011 09:19 AM | Bhushan in Self Drive Tours
Ireland West Irish Islands Tour
+353 (0)91 537700
www.discoverireland.ie/west
A visit to a small Island provides a totally unique holiday experience - one that ignites the senses, offers peace and tranquillity, soul nourishing fresh air, and an insight into Ireland's heritage and culture. Large or small, each island has its own unique character and story. The trip will also take you through the rich and varied countryside of the West of Ireland.
This suggested tour takes in the three Aran Islands, Inis Mor, Inis Meain and Inis Oirr, Inishbofin near Cleggan, Inchagoill Island on Lough Corrib and the land linked Achill Island in Co. Mayo.
Getting to the Aran Islands : Drive from Shannon/Dublin to Galway city and take the R336 west to the lovely little coastal village of Spiddal. This is the gateway to Connemara and where you can stay overnight in preparation for you visit to the Aran Islands in the morning. While in Spiddal it is worthwhile visiting Ceardlann an Spiddal, a working craft centre. The selection of crafts available include pottery, woven garments and tapestries, silk-screen prints, jewellery, and ceramic paintings. Take a left in the centre of Spiddal village and a short walk will bring you to a small pier. From this pier you will get your first view from of the three Aran Islands, set out in Galway Bay.
If your interested in traditional Irish music, Tigh Hughes pub is a good location. Access to the Aran Islands is by way of ferry boat from Ros a'Mhíl (Rosaveal) or a short 6 minute flight from the Aer Arann Airport at Inverin, located just a few minutes past An Spideál. Take the R336 west towards Inverisn or Rosaveal. Then it's decision time! On reaching the airport at Indrebhán or the ferry port at Ros a'Mhíl, one has to decide which Island to visit. The three Aran Islands of Inis Mór, Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr are islands rich in Irish language, culture, heritage and unique in geology and archaeology.
Where the mainland is carved out of granite, the Aran Islands are formed from layers of limestone and shale. These islands have always stood at the edge of civilisation, the last inhabited places before the expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. The islanders have always fiercely preserved their distinct island culture, which they consider different from culture of the mainland. On the islands everything moves just that little bit slower. The islands have panoramic views of Connemara, Clare and sometimes as far south as Kerry, on a clear horizon.
Inis Mor : Inis Mór, as its name suggests is the 'big island' and is the largest and most developed of the three Aran Islands. The island is approximately nine miles long and two miles wide and is a walkers' paradise. The ferry arrives into the pier at Cill Rónan, the largest village on the island. Inis Mór can be discovered on bicycles available for hire on the island, or in a more leisurely pony and trap. For the slightly less energetic there are also guided tours available in minibuses. All options are available from the pier. Visit Ionad Árann in Cill Ronán for an introduction to the islands' culture and history.
The heritage centre offers an insight into the lives, times and traditions of the people of Aran. For quality entertainment, attending the Ragús show is a must. Ragus offers the best of traditional Irish music, song and dance from Connemara and Aran. Presented by outstanding Irish traditional musicians and dancers, the show culminates in an hour long crescendo of the exhilarating sound of hard shoes dancing interwoven with great music and haunting airs from the rich Sean Nós singing tradition. Shows take place daily on the island from Sunday to Friday, June to September. Have lunch in the Aran Fisherman in the village of Cill Ronan. Stay over night in Ostán Arann in the village of Cill Rónan or in Kilmurvey House, a 150 year old country house, located on the other side of the Island.
One should not leave Inis Mór without visiting Dún Aengus, one of the most famous and important prehistoric monuments in Europe. Historically believed to be of great maritime power, this large eleven-acre prehistoric stone cashel was built between 800BC and 400AD. Defended on the landward side by three rings of huge stone battlements, it is also protected by sharp up-ended, limestone rock placed in the ground as a defence against approaching enemies. Set on the edge of a sheer drop of almost 300ft to the sea, it offers a spectacular view over Galway Bay. The Dún Aengus Heritage Centre is situated at Cill Mhuirbhí and is also worth a visit.
Inis Meain : Inis Meáin translates as the middle island, and lies to the south east of Inis Mór. This island is just three miles long and two miles wide and is claimed to be the quietest of the three islands. It's most striking features is the myriad of stone walls, small fields and maze of 'boithríns', or little paths. Take a walk on pathways along rocky the hillsides full of wild flowers or head to the northern part of the Island, with its' quiet sandy beaches. The island also has a spectacular oval fort, Dún Chonchúir, and numerous examples of early settlements. A walk or cycle around the island will bring you to the church of Mary Immaculate.
This church was built in 1934 and has magnificent radiant stained-glass window, created in the famed Harry Clarke Studios. Next to the church is the Teach Synge (Synge's House), a thatched cottage where the famous writer John Millington Synge once stayed. An overnight stay in An Dún B&B is recommended. Situated in an elevated location in the centre of the island, the B&B also has a small restaurant and sauna, steam shower and an Indian head massage are available on request.
Inis Oirr : Inis Oírr - the eastern island, is the smallest of the three Aran Islands. Inis Oírr's, with its barren and rugged landscape, is regarded as being the most beautiful of the Aran Islands. A walk, cycle or tour to the north of the island will bring you to a beautiful golden sandy beach, which is dominated by a 14th century castle built by the O'Brien's. Stop for lunch at the Fisherman's cottage, which serves organic and island produced food as well as locally caught fresh fish (located close to the pier). The island also has a Culture and Craft Centre which includes traditional island crafts, woodcraft, landscape paintings and pottery.
Getting to Inishbofin : Depart from the Aran Islands and drive from Ros a'Mhíl, taking the R336 North to Maam Cross. From Maam Cross take the N59 through Connemara, passing through Recess ( An Srath Salach) and by some stunning scenery dotted with lakes and some of the Twelve Bens on to Clifden. Take the first right turn in Clifden by the Courthouse and travel to Cleggan, the little fishing village and port for Inishbofin . The ferries to Inisbofin are passenger-only ferries so leave your car in one of the designated parking areas. A good place to drop into is Oliver's Pub for light refreshment or lunch. Tickets can be purchased beforehand. The sea journey takes 30 minutes to Inishbofin, keep a look out as the trip is often accompanied by a school of playful dolphins.
Inishbofin : Inisbofin is an island steeped in history and culture. The name means 'Island of the White Cow' and the folk tale of its origin makes much of a magic mist that hid the island from view. Its natural safe harbour was an important asset to the pirates that plundered the coastline and Inisbofin appears on maps of Connacht as early as the fourteenth century, when the O'Malleys seized the island from the O'Flahertys. The ruined castle that stands guard at the harbour entrance was originally a fort built by a Spanish pirate Don Bosco, an ally of the O'Malleys, and was later used by the legendary woman pirate Grace O'Malley.
It was later to be used by Cromwell's army during the penal times in Ireland. Inishbofin is English-speaking and people make their living mostly by farming, fishing and tourism. It is 8 kms long and 5 kms wide. The island has an abundance of flora and fauna and is one of the last remaining strongholds of the corn crake, whose call reverberates through the hay meadows on summer nights. The local shop or community centre conveniently situated at the pier can supply you with a map to seek out the many walks and places of interest on the island. A few steps from the pier you immediately feel a sense of enveloping peacefulness and enjoy the haven of tranquillity that is the island's special virtue.
There are several hotels, a hostel, B&B's, self catering, a coffee and craft shop to accommodate you for lunch or an over night stay. Inisbofin has a rich heritage in Traditional Irish music and can often be heard in the bars of a night. Step back in time with a visit to the local heritage museum showing life in by- gone days on the island. The island has many safe sandy beaches for swimming and offers spectacular diving and angling opportunities.
Getting to Inchagoill Island : If you have time, consider the option of visiting another island - an inland island this time! Head back to Maam cross and take a left for An Mam (Maam). This drive will take you through the centre of Connemara which is picture post card beautiful. At An Mam take the R345 to Cong village. Cong is situated on the Galway/Mayo County border. This small quaint village was the location for the filming of the famous film The Quiet Man. Take the Corrib Cruises boat from Ashford Castle in Cong. Lough Corrib is the largest lake in the Republic of Ireland. It is said that there are 365 islands on Lough Corrib, one island for each day of the year!
Inchagoill Island : The most famous and most visited of all the Islands is Inis an Ghaill (Inchagoill) Island. This island is home to a number of ancient monastic ruins, some dating back to the 5th Century. Corrib Cruises will take you on a cruise of Lough Corrib where you can see spectacular views of the Connemara mountains and bog land. The boat trip will take you to Inis an Ghaill where you will also get an guided tour of the 5th and 12th Century ruins on the island. The island is uninhabited, so after a short walk return to the boat and then back Cong, where it is recommended you stay overnight.
Getting to Achill Island : The following morning drive to Achill Island in Mayo. Take the R345 and the N84 from Cong north to Castlebar, on to Newport (R311), take the N59 to Mulranny and the R319 to Achill Island.
Achill Island : Achill is Ireland's largest offshore island and is linked by bridge to the mainland at Achill Sound. The island has some of the highest and most spectacular sheer cliff faces in Europe, and is dotted with small villages and magnificent sandy blue flag beaches. Sea angling, diving, golf and other outdoor activities are available on the island. Guide books of local walks are available locally. The Atlantic Drive, which begins at Achill Sound, just after the bridge, follows a 20km looped route around the south coast of the island. Stop off and have lunch or dinner in Calvey's award winning restaurant in Keel, which serve a wide range of locally produced and organic product. There is also wide range accommodation available on the island, you won't be stuck for choice (www.achilltourism.com). The following morning return to Galway/Shannon/Dublin.
+353 (0)91 537700
www.discoverireland.ie/west
A visit to a small Island provides a totally unique holiday experience - one that ignites the senses, offers peace and tranquillity, soul nourishing fresh air, and an insight into Ireland's heritage and culture. Large or small, each island has its own unique character and story. The trip will also take you through the rich and varied countryside of the West of Ireland.
This suggested tour takes in the three Aran Islands, Inis Mor, Inis Meain and Inis Oirr, Inishbofin near Cleggan, Inchagoill Island on Lough Corrib and the land linked Achill Island in Co. Mayo.
Getting to the Aran Islands : Drive from Shannon/Dublin to Galway city and take the R336 west to the lovely little coastal village of Spiddal. This is the gateway to Connemara and where you can stay overnight in preparation for you visit to the Aran Islands in the morning. While in Spiddal it is worthwhile visiting Ceardlann an Spiddal, a working craft centre. The selection of crafts available include pottery, woven garments and tapestries, silk-screen prints, jewellery, and ceramic paintings. Take a left in the centre of Spiddal village and a short walk will bring you to a small pier. From this pier you will get your first view from of the three Aran Islands, set out in Galway Bay.
If your interested in traditional Irish music, Tigh Hughes pub is a good location. Access to the Aran Islands is by way of ferry boat from Ros a'Mhíl (Rosaveal) or a short 6 minute flight from the Aer Arann Airport at Inverin, located just a few minutes past An Spideál. Take the R336 west towards Inverisn or Rosaveal. Then it's decision time! On reaching the airport at Indrebhán or the ferry port at Ros a'Mhíl, one has to decide which Island to visit. The three Aran Islands of Inis Mór, Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr are islands rich in Irish language, culture, heritage and unique in geology and archaeology.
Where the mainland is carved out of granite, the Aran Islands are formed from layers of limestone and shale. These islands have always stood at the edge of civilisation, the last inhabited places before the expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. The islanders have always fiercely preserved their distinct island culture, which they consider different from culture of the mainland. On the islands everything moves just that little bit slower. The islands have panoramic views of Connemara, Clare and sometimes as far south as Kerry, on a clear horizon.
Inis Mor : Inis Mór, as its name suggests is the 'big island' and is the largest and most developed of the three Aran Islands. The island is approximately nine miles long and two miles wide and is a walkers' paradise. The ferry arrives into the pier at Cill Rónan, the largest village on the island. Inis Mór can be discovered on bicycles available for hire on the island, or in a more leisurely pony and trap. For the slightly less energetic there are also guided tours available in minibuses. All options are available from the pier. Visit Ionad Árann in Cill Ronán for an introduction to the islands' culture and history.
The heritage centre offers an insight into the lives, times and traditions of the people of Aran. For quality entertainment, attending the Ragús show is a must. Ragus offers the best of traditional Irish music, song and dance from Connemara and Aran. Presented by outstanding Irish traditional musicians and dancers, the show culminates in an hour long crescendo of the exhilarating sound of hard shoes dancing interwoven with great music and haunting airs from the rich Sean Nós singing tradition. Shows take place daily on the island from Sunday to Friday, June to September. Have lunch in the Aran Fisherman in the village of Cill Ronan. Stay over night in Ostán Arann in the village of Cill Rónan or in Kilmurvey House, a 150 year old country house, located on the other side of the Island.
One should not leave Inis Mór without visiting Dún Aengus, one of the most famous and important prehistoric monuments in Europe. Historically believed to be of great maritime power, this large eleven-acre prehistoric stone cashel was built between 800BC and 400AD. Defended on the landward side by three rings of huge stone battlements, it is also protected by sharp up-ended, limestone rock placed in the ground as a defence against approaching enemies. Set on the edge of a sheer drop of almost 300ft to the sea, it offers a spectacular view over Galway Bay. The Dún Aengus Heritage Centre is situated at Cill Mhuirbhí and is also worth a visit.
Inis Meain : Inis Meáin translates as the middle island, and lies to the south east of Inis Mór. This island is just three miles long and two miles wide and is claimed to be the quietest of the three islands. It's most striking features is the myriad of stone walls, small fields and maze of 'boithríns', or little paths. Take a walk on pathways along rocky the hillsides full of wild flowers or head to the northern part of the Island, with its' quiet sandy beaches. The island also has a spectacular oval fort, Dún Chonchúir, and numerous examples of early settlements. A walk or cycle around the island will bring you to the church of Mary Immaculate.
This church was built in 1934 and has magnificent radiant stained-glass window, created in the famed Harry Clarke Studios. Next to the church is the Teach Synge (Synge's House), a thatched cottage where the famous writer John Millington Synge once stayed. An overnight stay in An Dún B&B is recommended. Situated in an elevated location in the centre of the island, the B&B also has a small restaurant and sauna, steam shower and an Indian head massage are available on request.
Inis Oirr : Inis Oírr - the eastern island, is the smallest of the three Aran Islands. Inis Oírr's, with its barren and rugged landscape, is regarded as being the most beautiful of the Aran Islands. A walk, cycle or tour to the north of the island will bring you to a beautiful golden sandy beach, which is dominated by a 14th century castle built by the O'Brien's. Stop for lunch at the Fisherman's cottage, which serves organic and island produced food as well as locally caught fresh fish (located close to the pier). The island also has a Culture and Craft Centre which includes traditional island crafts, woodcraft, landscape paintings and pottery.
Getting to Inishbofin : Depart from the Aran Islands and drive from Ros a'Mhíl, taking the R336 North to Maam Cross. From Maam Cross take the N59 through Connemara, passing through Recess ( An Srath Salach) and by some stunning scenery dotted with lakes and some of the Twelve Bens on to Clifden. Take the first right turn in Clifden by the Courthouse and travel to Cleggan, the little fishing village and port for Inishbofin . The ferries to Inisbofin are passenger-only ferries so leave your car in one of the designated parking areas. A good place to drop into is Oliver's Pub for light refreshment or lunch. Tickets can be purchased beforehand. The sea journey takes 30 minutes to Inishbofin, keep a look out as the trip is often accompanied by a school of playful dolphins.
Inishbofin : Inisbofin is an island steeped in history and culture. The name means 'Island of the White Cow' and the folk tale of its origin makes much of a magic mist that hid the island from view. Its natural safe harbour was an important asset to the pirates that plundered the coastline and Inisbofin appears on maps of Connacht as early as the fourteenth century, when the O'Malleys seized the island from the O'Flahertys. The ruined castle that stands guard at the harbour entrance was originally a fort built by a Spanish pirate Don Bosco, an ally of the O'Malleys, and was later used by the legendary woman pirate Grace O'Malley.
It was later to be used by Cromwell's army during the penal times in Ireland. Inishbofin is English-speaking and people make their living mostly by farming, fishing and tourism. It is 8 kms long and 5 kms wide. The island has an abundance of flora and fauna and is one of the last remaining strongholds of the corn crake, whose call reverberates through the hay meadows on summer nights. The local shop or community centre conveniently situated at the pier can supply you with a map to seek out the many walks and places of interest on the island. A few steps from the pier you immediately feel a sense of enveloping peacefulness and enjoy the haven of tranquillity that is the island's special virtue.
There are several hotels, a hostel, B&B's, self catering, a coffee and craft shop to accommodate you for lunch or an over night stay. Inisbofin has a rich heritage in Traditional Irish music and can often be heard in the bars of a night. Step back in time with a visit to the local heritage museum showing life in by- gone days on the island. The island has many safe sandy beaches for swimming and offers spectacular diving and angling opportunities.
Getting to Inchagoill Island : If you have time, consider the option of visiting another island - an inland island this time! Head back to Maam cross and take a left for An Mam (Maam). This drive will take you through the centre of Connemara which is picture post card beautiful. At An Mam take the R345 to Cong village. Cong is situated on the Galway/Mayo County border. This small quaint village was the location for the filming of the famous film The Quiet Man. Take the Corrib Cruises boat from Ashford Castle in Cong. Lough Corrib is the largest lake in the Republic of Ireland. It is said that there are 365 islands on Lough Corrib, one island for each day of the year!
Inchagoill Island : The most famous and most visited of all the Islands is Inis an Ghaill (Inchagoill) Island. This island is home to a number of ancient monastic ruins, some dating back to the 5th Century. Corrib Cruises will take you on a cruise of Lough Corrib where you can see spectacular views of the Connemara mountains and bog land. The boat trip will take you to Inis an Ghaill where you will also get an guided tour of the 5th and 12th Century ruins on the island. The island is uninhabited, so after a short walk return to the boat and then back Cong, where it is recommended you stay overnight.
Getting to Achill Island : The following morning drive to Achill Island in Mayo. Take the R345 and the N84 from Cong north to Castlebar, on to Newport (R311), take the N59 to Mulranny and the R319 to Achill Island.
Achill Island : Achill is Ireland's largest offshore island and is linked by bridge to the mainland at Achill Sound. The island has some of the highest and most spectacular sheer cliff faces in Europe, and is dotted with small villages and magnificent sandy blue flag beaches. Sea angling, diving, golf and other outdoor activities are available on the island. Guide books of local walks are available locally. The Atlantic Drive, which begins at Achill Sound, just after the bridge, follows a 20km looped route around the south coast of the island. Stop off and have lunch or dinner in Calvey's award winning restaurant in Keel, which serve a wide range of locally produced and organic product. There is also wide range accommodation available on the island, you won't be stuck for choice (www.achilltourism.com). The following morning return to Galway/Shannon/Dublin.
