The largest of Ireland's Aran Islands has 7th-century stone fort Dún Aengus perched on 300-foot cliffs. Early Christian ruins and limestone trails dot this Gaelic-speaking isle.
Inishmore is the largest of Ireland's Aran Islands in Galway Bay. The island's limestone landscape includes walking paths along 300-foot cliffs, prehistoric stone forts, and Poll na bPéist - a geometric natural swimming pool. The 820 residents speak Irish as their first language and maintain the centuries-old network of stone walls that divide the rocky terrain.
Getting to Inishmore
You can reach Inishmore by taking a 40-minute ferry from Rossaveal port near Galway or a longer journey from Doolin in County Clare. Ferries operate year-round from Rossaveal, while Doolin services run between April and October. Aer Arann Islands flies daily from Connemara Airport to Inishmore's small airfield, which is useful when seas are rough.
Exploring the Island by Bike
Rent a bike near Kilronan pier to explore the island. You can cycle to most major sites in one day. The main road runs the length of the island, with smaller paths leading to beaches and ruins. Some attractions require you to lock your bike and continue on foot.
Dún Aonghasa Fort
The stone walls of Dún Aonghasa rise 13 feet high and 13 feet thick at the edge of a 300-foot cliff. The walk from the visitor center takes about 20 minutes uphill over rocky ground - wear sturdy shoes. There are no safety barriers at the cliff edge, so stay alert and keep your distance from the drop.
The Wormhole (Poll na bPéist)
Poll na bPéist is a rectangular natural pool cut into the limestone on the island's southern coast. Underground channels connect it to the ocean, filling and emptying the pool with the tides. To find it, walk 20 minutes from the nearest road across limestone pavement, following painted arrows on rocks. The pool has hosted several Red Bull cliff diving competitions.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
The Gulf Stream keeps temperatures mild year-round, but weather changes quickly on Inishmore. Plan your visit during May, June, September, or October for calmer weather and fewer visitors. Summer brings more tourists - book accommodation and ferries in advance. Pack rain gear and layers regardless of when you visit.
Irish Language and Daily Life
The island's 820 residents speak Irish (Gaeilge) as their primary language, though all speak English too. Local pubs host music sessions, especially on summer evenings. Farmers tend small fields bordered by stone walls, while fishing boats come and go from Kilronan harbor.
Historical Sites
The Seven Churches complex includes ruins from the 8th to 11th centuries, with two church buildings and several stone houses still standing. Near these ruins, you'll find Teampall Bheanáin, measuring just 3.7 by 1.8 meters - among the smallest churches ever built in Ireland.
