The Aran Islands are made up of three islands–Inishmore, Inishmann and Inisheer and all three are Gaeltacht areas, where the natives speak Irish. With amazing beaches, spectacular views and interesting walking trails, the Aran Islands make a great getaway destination.
The largest of the Islands is Inishmore and here you will find Dun Aonghasa–a semi circular stone fort overlooking the Atlantic. Nearby is the Worm Hole, a natural rectangular shaped pool and it’s about 15 minutes walk from Dun Aonghasa.
Inishmaan offers rocky solitude and impressive forts. The famous author JM Synge spent five summers here. His most famous works are ‘Riders to the Sea’ (1904) and his master drama ‘The Playboy of the Western World’ (1907). The house where Synge stayed has been restored and is open in the summer months as a Synge museum, celebrating his life and work.
Inisheer is the smallest of the islands and most similar to the Burren region with its karst landscape. The cargo vessel Plassey was shipwrecked off Inis Oírr in 1960, and has since been thrown above high tide mark at Carraig na Finise on the island by strong Atlantic waves. A group of local Islanders, rescued the entire crew from the stricken vessel using a breeches buoy.
The best way to see the islands is on foot or by bicycle. Bike hire is available on the islands. The pace of life is slow and a profound sense of peace accompanies you through the narrow winding roads and grassy lanes to pristine beaches and craggy shores.
Access to the Islands is by ferry from Rossaveal or Doolin, and by air from Inverin in Connemara.