FACT FILE - Cloudfront.net

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www.discoverireland.ie/islands
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WELCOME
TO IRELAND’S
ISLANDS
There’s no feeling quite like standing on an Irish island. Gazing out into the Atlantic
blueness, sensing the salt on your tongue and the sea breeze on your cheeks, a visit
to these outposts is an enlivening experience, a brisk detox from the stresses of
modern-day living.
Wild, rugged and beautiful, Ireland’s islands have captured the imagination for
thousands of years. Prehistoric settlers, early Christian monks, Vikings, pirates,
farmers and fishermen have all put down roots here, building communities whose
ruins stick like bones from the landscape.
Though remote, these islands are more accessible than you may think. Some can be
driven onto via bridge or tidal causeway; many others are within a 20 minute ferry
crossing. You can still imagine holy men setting up sanctuary, or Peig Sayers pulling
her shawl against a storm, but today’s islands are alive with teeming regattas, lively
céilís, buzzing pubs, burgeoning foodie scenes and year-round activities. They are at
once mysterious, and open to all on Google Maps.
Though remote,
these islands are
more accessible
than you may think.
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The result is a unique visitor experience. You can wander through deserted villages,
explore ancient monastic sites and spot passing whales and wintering birds - happy
in the knowledge that creature comforts are never far away. Many of the inhabited
islands now have Wi-Fi, for example, and thriving festivals celebrate everything from
Father Ted to Achill yawls. You can take a fine arts degree on Sherkin, or tuck into
lobster with chervil garlic butter on Inis Meáin.
Today, in fact, the islands are defined by differences more than similarities. They
are alive with dialects, with unique traditions and wildlife. There are bird islands,
adventure islands and open-air museums. There are islands for divers, artists and
pilgrims. You can learn the Irish language on a Gaeltacht island, try your hand at
painting or basket-making - or kick back and do nothing at all. Isolation has helped
to preserve these rich repositories; modern transport and technology have opened
them up to all ages. Ireland’s islands are living proof that the best things in life are
free. And when it comes to staying over, eating out or taking a course or activity,
their value-for-money is exceptional.
You can wander
through deserted
villages, explore
ancient monastic
sites and spot
passing whales and
wintering birds.
There’s an island for everyone. Find yours, and you’ll find a place both apart and
connected; a stronghold of old traditions and new ideas; a sanctuary within striking
distance of the mainland. At times, it’s as though ‘Man of Aran’ was filmed only
yesterday. At others, breaking from the boat to check your email, or taking a yoga
class, you’re right at the heart of the 21st century.
Disclaimer
Every care has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this brochure. Fáilte Ireland cannot,
however, accept responsibility for errors or omissions, but where such are brought to our attention, future
publications will be amended accordingly. Some sporting activities may by their nature be hazardous
and involve risk. It is recommended in such cases to take out personal accident insurance. While most
operators would have public liability insurance, it is desirable to check with the establishment or operator
concerned as to the level of cover carried. Fáilte Ireland would like to acknowledge permission given by
some islands to use their images, particularly Sherkin, Inishbofin, Rathlin, Inishbiggle, Long, Whiddy and
the Donegal Islands. © Fáilte Ireland. Published by Fáilte Ireland.
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GETTING TO
THE ISLANDS
Rugged and enchanting, Ireland’s islands captivate everyone who visits. But
these remote communities are surprisingly easy to get to, with plenty of
access points up and down the mainland.
Some, like Achill and Valentia, are connected to the mainland by a bridge;
others can be accessed by small boat, ferry or even by air. And you don’t
have to complete your island adventure in a single day – a few nights on
one of the many inhabited islands can make for an unforgettable holiday.
You could even try island-hopping to get a flavour of more than one
magical offshore island.
•Most ferry ports are serviced by coaches and buses from Ireland’s main towns and cities, so check timetables for the date you want to
travel on websites such as www.IrishRail.ie, www.BusEireann.ie or www.AerArann.com.
•To find out exactly how to get to your chosen island from towns and
cities around Ireland, go to the ‘Getting There’ section at the end of
each island description.
•It is always advisable to check sailing times before travelling and
to book journeys in advance where possible. Sailings are weather
dependent, often subject to demand.
•A list of accommodation and activity providers is provided at the back
of this brochure.
•
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For more information, see www.discoverireland.ie/islands
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TIPS FOR YOUR TRIP
•Prepare for your visit. Some Irish islands are easy to reach and home to
hundreds of people, with all the shops and services that entails; others are
remote, with fewer facilities. This guide gives a general sense of what to
expect, but licensed boat operators and providers on the islands are the best
source of information and advice. Generally, if travelling to an island with
little or no services you should bring your own food, water and necessary
supplies, and prepare for every weather eventuality (i.e. bring layered clothing
and sensible shoes).
•Pick your time. Some of the islands are very busy in high season (July and
August in particular), so the fringes are often the best time to visit (May and
September, for example). Other islands are just as accessible all year-round.
See the listing at the back of the brochure for details of tourism providers on
the islands.
Always take the
greatest possible
care when
exploring the
islands and their
waters.
•Prepare your payments. Few Irish islands have ATM or other banking facilities,
and some accommodation providers do not accept credit cards. It is always
advisable to check payment methods in advance, particularly if you are
staying overnight.
•Leave no trace. Please leave the islands as you find them, taking nothing but
photographs and leaving nothing but footprints. Respect monuments, habitats,
dwellings, stone walls, plants and wildlife, and dispose of any litter in bins or
take it away with you. Minimise the effects of fire, respect farm animals, and
always camp on durable ground. See www.leavenotraceireland.org.
•Remember the landowners! Ireland’s islands offer some of the best walking
trails you’ll come across. Many run through private land, so please respect
the owner’s generosity.
•Be safe; take care! The islands represent a very special visitor experience, but
are fully exposed to the elements. Island terrain is mostly rugged and the
surrounding seas can sometimes be wild. Always take the greatest possible
care when exploring the islands and their waters.
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USE THIS MAP
AS YOUR GUIDE TO IRELAND’S ISLANDS
Simply check the name and
reference number of the island
on the map below against the
contents list opposite on page 6.
Then go to the page indicated for
a full profile of the island.
RATHLIN
TORY
INISHBOFIN
GOLA
2
4
6
INISHFREE 5
ARRANMORE
14
INISHBIGGLE
7
ACHILL
8
CLARE
INISHTURK
INISHBOFIN
1
9
10
INISHMORE 11
ARAN ISLANDS
INISHMAAN 12
INISHEER
13
BLASKETS
24
VALENTIA
19
GARINISH 23
SKELLIGS
WHIDDY 21
25
HEIR
17
DURSEY 22
15
BERE
18
LONG
20
SHERKIN
16
CAPE CLEAR
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ISLAND ROY
3
26
CONTENTS
Welcome to Ireland’s Islands Getting to the Islands
Tips for your Trip
01
03
04
ISLAND Map Ref PAGE
NORTH WEST (Donegal)
Getting to the Islands in the North West
Islands where you can stay overnight
(1) Árainn Mhór (Arranmore), Co. Donegal (2) Toraigh (Tory), Co. Donegal (3) Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy), Co. Donegal 07
09
11
13
Islands for Daytrips
(4) Inis Bó Finne (Inishbofin), Co. Donegal (5) Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree), Co. Donegal (6) Gabhla (Gola), Co. Donegal 14
15
16
WEST (Mayo and Galway)
Getting to the Islands in the West
(7) Acaill (Achill), Co. Mayo (8) Clare, Co. Mayo (9) Inishturk, Co. Mayo
(10) Inishbofin, Co. Galway
(11) Árainn (Inishmore), Aran Islands, Co. Galway (12) Inis Meáin (Inishmaan), Aran Islands, , Co. Galway (13) Inis Oírr (Inisheer), Aran Islands, Co. Galway Islands for Daytrips
(14) Inis Bigil (Inishbiggle), Co. Mayo Overnight stay
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DAY TRIP
TICKET
17
19
21
23
25
27
29
31
ISLAND Map Ref SOUTH WEST (Cork and Kerry)
Getting to the Islands in the South West
(15) Bere, Co. Cork (16) Oileán Chléire (Cape Clear), Co. Cork (17) Heir, Co. Cork (18) Sherkin, Co. Cork (19) Valentia, Co. Kerry 35
37
39
41
43
45
(20) Long, Co. Cork (21) Whiddy, Co. Cork (22) Dursey, Co. Cork (23) Garinish, Co. Cork (24) Na Blascaodaí (Blaskets), Co. Kerry (25) Na Scealga (Skelligs), Co. Kerry 47
48
49
50
51
52
NORTHERN IRELAND
(26) Rathlin, Co. Antrim 53
LIST OF TOURISM PROVIDERS 55
DISCOVER IRELAND CENTRES
75
33
Day trip
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Getting to the islands
Northwest
M
Fanad H
2. Tory Island
3. Island Roy
4. Inishbofin PORTSALON
DUNFANAGHY
MEENLARAGH
Bloody Foreland
6. Gola Island
N56
MILFORD
BUNBEG
GWEEDORE N56
5. Inishfree
N
1. Arranmore
BURTONPORT
DUNGLOE LETTERKENNY
DONEGAL
NORTH WEST (Donegal)
Getting to the Islands in the North West
(1) Árainn Mhór (Arranmore), Co. Donegal (2) Toraigh (Tory), Co. Donegal (3) Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy), Co. Donegal 07
09
11
13
GLEANN CHOLM CILLE
(GLENCOLUMBKILLE)
B
64
GLENTIES
N15
BALLYBOFEY
ARDARA
64
480
N56
491
STRANO
MALINMORE
(4) Inis Bó Finne (Inishbofin), Co. Donegal (5) Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree), Co. Donegal (6) Gabhla (Gola), Co. Donegal 14
15
16
DONEGAL
KILCAR
KILLYBEGS
Bloody Foreland
64
480
BALLYSHANNON
The Swilly Bus Service Tel: 353 74 9361340
64
Rail Network
BELLEEK
Bus Éireann Local Bus Service - Year Round
Bus Éireann Expressway Coach - Year Round
480
E
For more information on bus and rail services, visit www.irishrail.ie
and www.buseireann.ie
FE
SLIGO
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NORTH WEST
Malin Hd.
Hd.
MALIN
ALLYLIFFEN
CULDAFF
GREENCASTLE
CARNDONAGH
MOVILLE
PORTSTEWART
BUNCRANA
Flung about the jagged coasts of Donegal and Sligo, Ireland’s northwestern islands once sheltered some of Europe’s remotest communities.
Technology has changed all that, bringing outposts like Tory and Gola
within easy reach of the mainland, but the Irish language still thrives,
the wildlife continues to wow and the hospitality is timeless. Today
you’ll encounter as many artists and adrenaline junkies as cliffs and
ancient ruins - on islands that have become stepping stones between
now and then.
RATHMULLEN
N13
DERRY
64
DERRY
LIFFORD
ORLAR
TYRONE
ENNISKILLEN
ERMANAGH
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FACT FILE
LOCATION: 3km west of Ailt an
Chorráin (Burtonport) Co. Donegal. By
road, Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport),
ferry terminal is roughly 65km (1hr
25mins) from Donegal town and 70km
(1hr 20mins) from Letterkenny.
ÁRAINN MHÓR
1
(Arranmore)
Oileán na gCeithre Séasúr
SIZE: 5km x 3km. Árainn Mhór
(Arranmore) can be visited as a
daytrip, but rewards a longer stay.
POPULATION: 500+. A Gaeltacht island.
FACILITIES: Hotel, B&B, self-catering,
children’s playground, post office, pitch
& putt, craft shop (summer), restaurant,
pubs, picnic facilities. Please see listing
of tourism providers at end of brochure.
GETTING THERE: Ferries sail from
Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport) to
Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) year-round.
Sailings take from 5 to 15 minutes.
Contact Arranmore Ferry Service (353
74 9520532, www.arranmoreferry.
com) or Arranmore Charters (353 87
3171810, www.arranmorecharters.com).
GETTING AROUND: Visitors can
walk, hire bikes or take a taxi on
Árainn Mhór (Arranmore).
FIND OUT MORE: Island Co-op (353
74 9520533; www.oileanarainnmhoir.
com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands
DID YOU KNOW? A cove near the
Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) lighthouse
is named after Wayne Dickinson, who
made a 142-day solo crossing of the
Atlantic in the early 1980s. At the time,
his 8’ 9” vessel - God’s Tear - was the
smallest ever to have made the crossing.
An island for all seasons
Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) is an island for all seasons. With a
population of 500 swelling to 1,500 or so in the peak season,
this is a lively place to visit at any time, but especially in the
summer months. A quick ferry ride from Burtonport whisks
visitors from modern life to island magic.
Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) is home to six traditional Irish pubs, each boasting the kind of
atmosphere and charm fast disappearing into the ether elsewhere. But this Irish-speaking
oasis easily absorbs its population to give the feel of a windswept and rugged place. Careering
cliffs, sandy beaches and the Cave of Slaughter - where a group of islanders was massacred by
Cromwellian soldiers - are all highlights.
Overnight stay
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Gaeltacht Island
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For many visitors, walking is the best way to access the untamed landscape. Árainn
Mhór’s (Arranmore’s) looped walk forms part of Slí Dhún na nGall (the Donegal
Way), and sites of interest range from promontory forts to the rocky summit at
Cnoc an Iolair, with its dazzling views of the Atlantic, sea cliffs and the mountains of
the mainland – you may even see a snowy owl or a white-tailed sea eagle.
Top 3 Activities
• Walking
• Angling & diving trips
• Birdwatching
Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) is an island that’s easy to get to, but utterly unique. It is
the only place on earth where rainbow trout breed naturally. It is an island where
you can sleep in a light keeper’s dwelling, or the honeymoon hotel of author Liam
O’Flaherty. And the mainland is still all of 15 minutes away.
8, 9,
12, 13
LIGHTHOUSE
4
np
or
t
2, 3
10
5
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AN LEADHB GHARBH
ATHPHORT
Ail
ta
nC
ho
rrá
in
-
Bu
rto
Mass Rock
16
14, 15
6
11
7
i
Cave of Slaughter
For detailed info on islands listings see page 55
Dining/Pub
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Accommodation
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Activities
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FACT FILE
LOCATION: 12km off Bloody
Foreland, Co. Donegal. By road,
the ferry ports of An Bun Beag
(Bunbeg) and Machaire Rabhartaigh
(Magheroarty) are roughly 51km (1hr)
and 57km (1 hr) from Letterkenny.
OILEÁN THORAIGH
(Tory Island)
Inspioráid agus áilleacht chreagach
SIZE: 4km x 1km. Toraigh (Tory) can
be visited in a daytrip, but a longer
stay gets the best out of the island.
POPULATION: 140+. Toraigh
(Tory) is a Gaeltacht island.
FACILITIES: Hotel, café, pubs, shops
(groceries, crafts), art gallery, children’s
playground, social club, dive centre,
internet access. Please see listing of
tourism providers at end of brochure.
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Féile Soilse
Thoraí (July), celebrates Toraigh’s (Tory’s)
song, dance, music and storytelling.
GETTING THERE: Sailings from
An Bun Beag (Bunbeg - 1hr 45
mins) and Machaire Rabhartaigh
(Magheroarty - 40 mins).
Turasmara Teo (353 74 953 1340,
www.toryislandferry.com) sails from
Bunbeg and Magheroarty, year-round.
Toraigh na dTonn (353 74 9135920,
www.toryhotel.com) sails from
Magheroarty (April to October).
GETTING AROUND: Toraigh (Tory)
is an easy island to get around, by
walking, bike or minibus hire.
FIND OUT MORE: Island Co-op
Comharchumann Thoraí Teo (353 74
913 5502, www.oileanthorai.com),
Inspiration and rugged beauty
Nine miles off the coast of Donegal, Toraigh (Tory) Islanders
still talk of ‘travelling to Ireland’. In truth, of course, the years
of isolation are over. This gorgeous Gaeltacht island is today
an accessible and affordable holiday destination for those
searching out something different.
And it is different. Toraigh’s (Tory’s) dazzling cliffs and treeless landscape have proven a huge
creative draw, and the island is famous for its school of “primitive” artists. Encouraged by
the late English painter, Derek Hill, who first visited Toraigh (Tory) in the 1960’s to paint its
extraordinary landscapes, their work has been exhibited all over the world.
DID YOU KNOW? Donegal islanders
traditionally vote first in Irish elections,
in case bad weather cuts them off.
Overnight stay
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For such a small island, Toraigh (Tory) is huge on spirit – fiercely preserving its
indigenous music, dance and stories. Shipwrecks, poitín smuggling and stories of violent
storms have all been drawn into its folklore, and many ancient customs are still in place
- including the appointment of the island king, or Rí Thoraí. Perhaps it’s the furious
winters, the tales of monster miracles or the fact that communities here can be traced
back to the Bronze ages, but Toraigh (Tory) Islanders are a passionate bunch.
Stay overnight, and get drawn in yourself. Outdoorsy folk can enjoy diving, angling,
rock-climbing, dolphin watching or hike a stretch of the Donegal Way with only the
seabirds for company. Gentler visits might take in the island’s round tower or the
promontory fort of Dun Bhalóir.
Top 3 Activities
• Traditional music
• Heritage
• Birdwatching
Either way, all roads lead to the local hostelries. Small islands are not usually visited for
their exotic nightlife, but Toraigh (Tory) has several surprises - Club Soisíalta Thoraí, the
island social club, holds lively céilís on summer nights, and traditional sessions regularly
raise the roof at Ostán Thoraigh.
LIGHTHOUSE
AN BAILE THIAR
7
i
3
5
2
1
8, 9
i
4
eg
unb
Islan
Tory
rty
eroa
agh
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Dun Bhalóir
d-M
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Accommodation
AN BAILE TH0IR
Islan
d-B
Tory
6
Dining/Pub
Community Centre
& Playground
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i
Visitor information
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OILEÁN RUAIDH
FACT FILE
LOCATION: Rosguil Peninsula, Co. Donegal.
By road, Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy) is
about 40km (50mins) from Letterkenny.
SIZE: 100 acres. Oileán Ruaidh (Island
Roy) is easily visited in a couple of hours.
POPULATION: 26.
A Gaeltacht island.
3
(Island Roy)
Tearmann síoraí
FACILITIES: Self-catering, guided
walks. Please see listing of tourism
providers at end of brochure.
GETTING THERE: Oileán Ruaidh (Island
Roy) is connected to the mainland
by a causeway accessible at low tide.
Call 353 74 915 5535 for details.
GETTING AROUND: Oileán Ruaidh
(Island Roy) is a small island, and
easily navigable by foot, car or bike.
FIND OUT MORE: Contact Coiste
Forbartha Oileáin Ruaidh (353 74
9155535; wwwdonegalislands.com),
DID YOU KNOW? Oileán Ruaidh’s
English name, ‘Island Roy’, is a phonetic
rendering decided upon in haste by
surveyors in the 19th century... don’t
ask who Roy was, he didn’t exist!
Top 3 Activities
• Walking
• Birdwatching
• Painting
A timeless retreat
You want secluded? Come to Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy), an island
so modest it doesn’t always appear on maps. A tiny, 65-hectare
speck in the fjord-like Mulroy Bay, this is a beautifully rugged retreat,
a place where you can both be introspective and outward-looking,
where you can reflect on life whilst drinking in breathtaking views of Rossapenna’s sand-dunes and the Donegal hills.
Formerly known as Oileán an Bhráighe (‘Island
of the Prisoners’), due to its links with nearby
Doe Castle, Oileán Ruaidh’s modern name (‘Red
Island’) reflects the rusty colour of its winter
vegetation. The island is home to a small and
hospitable Irish-speaking community, and is
connected to the mainland by a tidal causeway –
making it easily accessible by car at low tide.
Make the crossing, and you’ll find wonderful
walking and a wealth of visiting birds. You may
even be inspired into art. “It’s the uniqueness
of the place,” says one of several island artists.
“As you walk the shores of Oileán Ruaidh (Island
Roy), there’s a different view from every corner.”
Loch Moss
1
3
Dining/Pub
Overnight stay
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Gaeltacht Island
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Accommodation
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Activities
FACT FILE
LOCATION: 2 miles off northwest
Donegal. By road, the ferry port of
Machaire Rabhartaigh (Magheroarty) is
roughly 57km (1 hr) from Letterkenny.
SIZE: 2km x 1km. Inis Bó Finne
(Inishbofin) is most often visited as a
daytrip, but activity enthusiasts could
easily spend a few days on the island.
INIS BÓ FINNE
4
(Inishbofin)
Imeallchríoch fiáin, iontach
POPULATION: 35. A Gaeltacht island.
FACILITIES: Please see listing of
tourism providers at end of brochure
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Boat Festival
(July)
GETTING THERE: Ferries sail
seasonally from Machaire
Rabhartaigh (Magheroarty).
Sailings take about 10 minutes.
Contact 353 74 913 5635; 353 87
627 9789, www.donegalislands.com.
GETTING AROUND: Inis Bó Finne
(Inishbofin) is a small island, easily
navigated on foot or by bike.
FIND OUT MORE: Coiste Forbartha
Inis Bó Finne (353 74 913 5635 or
www.donegalislands.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands
DID YOU KNOW? Inis Bó Finne
(Inishbofin) went without electricity
or running water until 2002.
A bird could lose the run of itself on Inis Bó Finne (Inishbofin).
This captivating island, just 300-acres in size, is completely
unspoilt. Barnacle geese fly in to winter from the Arctic. The
endangered corncrake finds sanctuary in grassy lowlands.
Wildflowers and primrose banks are abundant. And what’s
good for birds is good for birdwatchers.
Beach
PIER
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Dining/Pub
DAY TRIP
TICKET
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Day trip
Gaeltacht Island
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Accommodation
Travel
1
roarty
All it takes is a 10-minute ferry ride to have you
ticking off a species list that includes breeding pairs
of Arctic terns, visiting peregrine falcons and choughs
(a pair has even been nesting in the chimney of the
old national school). The ‘Island of the White Cow’
itself is a wild and wonderful outcrop. This is a place
where rock formations like the sea arch at Scoilt
an Droichid play off white sandy beaches. It is a
watersports hotspot, with rock-fishing, windsurfing
and kayaking growing in popularity by the year.
Unlike barnacle geese, few people winter on Inis
Bó Finne. Come summer, however, a happy handful
of families join them to fish for lobster, crab and
Atlantic salmon. Surveying their island from its crest,
with views stretching from Errigal Mountain to
Bloody Foreland, it’s easy to see why they do.
e
To Magh
Top 3 Activities
• Birdwatching
• Walking
• Watersports
A wild and wonderful outcrop
Activities
FACT FILE
LOCATION: Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree)
lies in the bay between An Clochán
Liath (Dungloe) and Ailt an Chorráin
(Burtonport). By road, Ailt an Chorráin
ferry terminal is roughly 65km (1hr
25mins) from Donegal town and 70km
(1hr 20mins) from Letterkenny.
INIS FRAOIGH
5
(Inishfree)
Flúirse cultúir agus spioradáltachta
SIZE: 1.6km x 1.6km. Inis
Fraoigh (Inishfree) is usually
experienced as a daytrip.
POPULATION: 7 (permanent); 30
(seasonal). A Gaeltacht island.
FACILITIES: Summer crafts shop.
Please see listing of tourism
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Inishfree
Cultural Festival (August)
GETTING THERE: Ferry Service on request
from Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport).
Contact Inishfree Charters, Burtonport
pier (353 87 9253534, 353 86 220
9508, www.donegalislands.com)
Spirituality and culture abound
There’s something spiritual in the air at Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree).
Perhaps it comes from the island’s ancient mass rock; perhaps it’s
the memory of a commune of ‘screamers’ who made the island
their home in the late 20th century. Whatever the reason, the
island inspires reflection and meditation.
easily walk, hire bikes or take minibus
tours on Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree).
FIND OUT MORE: Contact: Coiste
Forbartha Inis Fraoigh (353 74 952
2895 or www.donegalislands.com),
DID YOU KNOW? ‘Screamers’ followed
a primal therapy focused on cleansing
angst by bawling one’s lungs out.
Top 3 Activities
•Cultural Courses
•Walking
•Adventure Sports
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Inis Fraoigh’s (Inishfree’s) heather meadows and
rocky coves go back a long way. Controlled by
Niall of the Nine Hostages in early Christian
period, it later became home to the clan of Red
Hugh O’Donnell. A community of Irish-speaking
islanders left in the 1970s, though a number of
them, together with mainlanders keen to live closer
to nature, have lately come back to Inis Fraoigh
(Inishfree).
Spirituality remains at the island’s core, but these
new islanders have brought culture too. Courses
in music, dancing, arts, crafts and poetry are all
available, and an annual cultural festival takes place
in August. The welcome is warm for the walkers,
birdwatchers, anglers and divers who visit them.
Beach
1
Historic Site
3
Day trip
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Gaeltacht Island
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Guided Walks
INISHFREE UPPER
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FACT FILE
LOCATION: 1.6km from the pier at
Machaire Gathlán (Magheragallan), Co.
Donegal. By road, Machaire Gathlán
(Magheragallan), is roughly 54km
(1hr 10 mins) from Letterkenny.
SIZE: 328 hectares (about one
square mile). Gabhla (Gola)
is easily visited in a day.
GABHLA
6
(Gola)
Tírdhreach draíochtach
POPULATION: 5 (permanent); 35
(seasonal). A Gaeltacht island.
FACILITIES: Shop, picnic areas,
walking and rock climbing guides.
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS:
Féile Gabhla (June)
GETTING THERE: Ferries sail daily from
Machaire Gathlán (Magheragallan), April
to September, otherwise by booking.
Contact Seod Ghabhla (Gola Island
Ferry Service). Tel: 353 87 6607003,
www.donegalislands.com
GETTING AROUND: Gabhla
(Gola) is best suited to walking.
FIND OUT MORE: Coiste Forbartha
Ghabhla (353 74 953 2571, 353 87
9531422; www.donegalislands.com),
DID YOU KNOW? 169 people were
living on Gabhla (Gola) at the time
of the 1911 census - two of them
were aboard the Asgard, the boat
that brought arms into Howth in
preparation for the 1916 Rising.
Top 3 Activities
• Art classes
• Rock-climbing
• Birdwatching
P.P.16
16 www.discoverireland.ie/islands
P. 16
Spellbinding scenery
It’s hard to believe rock-climbers didn’t discover Gabhla (Gola)
until the 1990s. Today, granite cliffs on the island’s north-west
coast are home to about 170 listed climbs, with a wide range of
grades taking in cliff-bound inlets, tidal challenges and beautifully
exposed faces. For climbers, Gabhla (Gola) rocks.
The island is more easily explored, of course, in
a few hours of guided trails. About one square
mile in size, Gabhla’s (Gola’s) gently hilly terrain
shelters a ribbon of traditional houses on the
east, and birdwatchers will delight in colonies of
cormorants, guillemots and kittiwakes at the cliffs
of An Mhaoil Mhór. In fact, you’re as likely to see
visitors breaking out art supplies as abseiling ropes
here. Art classes are organised during the summer
months, and painters and photographers will find
no shortage of inspiration in the landscape – from
sea arches to hanging rocks and sandy beaches.
Whether climbing, walking or painting, the
surrounding sea, islands and reefs make it hard to
believe you’re just two miles from the mainland at
Gweedore – it seems a world away.
Cliffs
Day trip
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Beach
Loch Mhachaire na nGall
Historical Site
PIER
Historical Site
Gaeltacht Island
CONTENTS
PIER
4
2
Dining/Pub
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3
1
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lal
Kil
Erris Hd.
aB
West
ay
BELMULLET
N59
BANGOR ERRIS
Blacksod Bay
DUGORT
Achill Hd.
DOOAGH
CASHEL
FOXFOR
BALLYCROY
KEEL
7. Achill Island
441
MAYO
MULRANY
440
440
WESTPORT
419
RENVYLE
17
N59
LEENÁUN
420
LETTERFRACK
419
CLONBUR
BALLYCONNEELY
419
419
419
OUGHTERARD
424
GALWA
CARRAROE
ROSSAVEAL
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419
N59
CARNA
424
SALTHILL
INVERINSPIDDAL
Galway Bay
11. Árainn
423
423
12. Inis Meáin
For more information on bus and rail services, visit
www.irishrail.ie, www.buseireann.ie and www.citylink.ie
HEADFOR
416
ROUNDSTONE
Rail Network
P. 17
CONG
N59 RECESS
CLIFDEN
424
Bus Éireann Local Bus Service - Summer Only
Bus Éireann Expressway Coach - Summer Only
BALLINROB
419
CLEGGAN
33
Citylink
C
LOUISBURGH
10. Inishbofin
N6
450
9. Inishturk
(14) Inis Bigil (Inishbiggle), Co. Mayo CASTLEBA
N5
ROONAGH QUAY
19
21
23
25
27
29
31
SWI
N5
NEWPORT
441
440
8. Clare Island
WEST (Mayo and Galway)
Getting to the Islands in the West
(7) Acaill (Achill), Co. Mayo (8) Clare, Co. Mayo (9) Inishturk, Co. Mayo
(10) Inishbofin, Co. Galway
(11) Árainn (Inishmore), Aran Islands, Co. Galway (12) Inis Meáin (Inishmaan), Aran Islands, , Co. Galway (13) Inis Oírr (Inisheer), Aran Islands, Co. Galway BAL
14. Inishbiggle
440
441
CROSSMOLINA
N59
13. Inis Oírr
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BALLYVA
423
DOOLIN
50
LISDOONV
WEST
LLINA
RD
BOYLE
CHARLESTOWN
INFORD
AR
Ireland’s western islands have hidden pirates, starred on film and
provided inspiration for artists as diverse as J.M. Synge, Paul Henry and
Heinrich Böll. Though their image is rooted in the past, however, it is
their present that sparks the imagination. Easily accessible by boat,
plane, or road (at Achill and Ceantar na nOileán, the island district of
southwest Connemara), the islands of the west are home to farmers’
markets and festivals, summer schools and traditional music – making
memories you’ll cherish long after you leave.
ROSCOMMON
60
KNOCK
CLAREMORRIS
BALLYHAUNIS
CASTLEREA
ROSCOMMON
N17
BE
N83
TUAM
RD
MOUNT BELLEW
N63
N17
AY
GALWAY
BALLINASLOE
ATHENRY
ORANMORE
50
VAUGHAN
KILREEKILL
LOUGHREA
PORTUMNA
VARNA
P. 18
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FACT FILE
LOCATION: Off the coast of
Mayo’s Corraun Peninsula. By road,
Acaill (Achill) is roughly 50km (1hr
10mins) from Westport and 132km
(2hrs 45mins) from Galway.
SIZE: 20km x 19km. Acaill (Achill)
can be enjoyed in a day, but at
least two to three days are required
to see it comprehensively.
ACAILL
7
(Achill Island)
Tiomáin isteach ar an oileán is mó ar
chósta na hÉireann
POPULATION: 3,000+. Partly
a Gaeltacht island.
FACILITIES: Hotels, B&Bs, self-catering,
caravan and camping parks, cafés, craft
shops, restaurants, pubs, shops, petrol
stations, picnic areas. Please see listing
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Achill Walks
Festival (May), Heinrich Böll Memorial
Weekend (May), Achill Seafood
Festival (July), Achill Half-Marathon
(July), Scoil Acla (July-August), Achill
Yawl Festival (July-September).
GETTING THERE: Achill (Acaill)
is easily accessible by road via
the bridge near Polranny.
GETTING AROUND: Visitors to Acaill
(Achill) can walk, drive, cycle or take
a taxi or tour bus on the island.
FIND OUT MORE: Achill Tourism
(353 98 47353; www.achilltourism.
com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands
Drive onto Ireland’s largest island
Five blue-flag beaches would be an impressive tally
anywhere, let alone on a single island. But that’s Acaill
(Achill). From the hilly horseshoe of Keem Bay (said to have
been blessed by St. Patrick during his stay on Croagh Patrick)
to the 4km sweep of Trawmore Strand; from the white
strands at Dooega to the twin beaches at Dugort, welcome
to Ireland’s most beautiful, bracing waters.
DID YOU KNOW? Acaill (Achill) has
been inhabited for some 5,000 years.
The island’s remote grandeur has a history of attracting artists too. Graham Greene was a
regular in the 1940s (his mistress, Catherine Walston, kept a holiday cottage in Dooagh), and
Nobel laureate Heinrich Böll visited in the 1950s, writing about the island in his book, ‘The
Irish Journey’. Acaill (Achill) put the hook in him, and the German novelist returned every
summer thereafter.
Overnight stay
P. 19
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Gaeltacht Island
CONTENTS
MAP
The artists’ legacy continues today, giving Acaill (Achill) an air of the creative
retreat. The island hosts a Heinrich Böll Memorial Weekend and an artists’
residency at his old cottage. Painting and music schools take inspiration
from its beaches and blanket bog, from some of the highest cliffs in Europe,
from heritage sites ranging from megalithic tombs to the deserted villages of
Slievemore and Ailt. Scoil Acla, a summer school promoting traditional music,
arts and culture, is now in its third decade.
But don’t get the impression that Ireland’s largest island is all introspection. A
half-marathon, wind-surfing championships and swimming and walking festivals
run alongside year-round surfing, diving, rock-climbing, angling, sailing and
horse-riding activities here. The island boasts 14 circular walks and three cycling
routes. Acaill (Achill) inspires adrenaline junkies as much as artists.
Top 3 Activities
• Adventure
• Arts
• Beaches
33 - 34
Slievemore Mountain
51
Highest Sea Cliffs
Achill Head
Lake
25 - 32
DUGORT
8
DOOAGH
4, 5
50
38 24 7
KEEL
37 44
9 - 18
40 - 43
45 - 49
Inis Bigil
i
35, 36
19 - 23
Achill Sound
2, 3
39
1
Achill Island
6
Clare Island
Inishturk Island
INIS BIGIL
GOB AN CHOIRE
(Entry Point)
ROONAGH QUAY
Inishbofin Island
Cill Damhnart Castle
Grace O’Malleys
TO CLEGGAN
Dining/Pub
P. 20
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Activities
i
Visitor information
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Blue flag beach
Cycle Paths
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FACT FILE
CLARE ISLAND
8
LOCATION: 5km off the coast of
Louisburgh, Co. Mayo. By road, Roonagh
Quay is 29km (55mins) from Westport
and 101km (2hrs 20mins) from Galway.
SIZE: 8km x 4.8km. Allow a day for
a visit to Clare Island, though at
least an overnight stay is required to
experience all that it has to offer.
POPULATION: 162
FACILITIES: Hotel, guesthouse,
B&Bs, shop, crafts, café, restaurant,
pubs, heritage centre, yoga studio,
Wi-Fi. Please see listing of tourism
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Granuaile
folklore weekend (May), Singles
Weekends (June, September),
Bard Summer School (July),
Clare Island Regatta (July).
GETTING THERE: Daily, yearround ferries from Roonagh
pier near Louisburgh, Co. Mayo.
Sailings take 20 minutes.
Contact Clare Island Ferry Co (353
98 23737; 353 86 8515003 www.
clareislandferry.com) and O’Malley
Ferry Services (353 98 25045, 353 86
8870 814; www.omalleyferries.com).
GETTING AROUND: Visitors
can walk, hire bikes or take a bus
tour or taxi on Clare Island.
FIND OUT MORE: Clare Island
development office (353 98 26525,
www.clareisland.info), www.discoverireland.ie/islands
DID YOU KNOW? A famous study
of Clare Island was carried out from
1909-11. Its leader, Dr. R.L. Praeger,
communicated with Charles Darwin
throughout. The study is being
updated by the Royal Irish Academy.
Home of the Pirate Queen
Once upon a time, Clare Island was the home base of Grace
O’Malley. It was from here that Ireland’s 16th century pirate
queen (also known as Granuaile) patrolled the Western
seaboard. It is here that she is reputedly buried - at the old
Cistercian Abbey (“Terra Maris Potens”, reads the motto –
“powerful by land and sea”). And it is from here that her
ruined castle dominates the Atlantic coast.
Where O’Malley got about by ship, today’s visitor is served by a network of looped walks.
Two of these - the Fawnglass and Knockaveena loops - plug into an island heritage that
includes Bronze Age fullacha fiadh (cooking sites) and medieval wall paintings (adorning the
Cistercian Abbey ruins). They bring walkers past natural wonders ranging from pounding surf
to Connemara ponies.
Overnight stay
P. 21
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Continue on to scale the 461-metre peak of Knockmore, and you’ll be rewarded
with a view that encompasses sea cliffs, squawking gannets, a blue-flag beach and
old potato ridges. Croagh Patrick watches from the mainland, and the surrounding
sweep of Clew Bay is spotted with 365 islands - one for each day of the year.
Top 3 Activities
• Walking
• Yoga retreats
• Heritage
Clare Island makes for a great visit at any time of year, but it’s a particularly lively
spot in summer, when traditional music, summer festivals and a buzzing pub scene
come into their own. At its heart though, it is a place of retreat – just ask the local
yoga teacher who gave up a career in IT to build his studio here.
LIGHTHOUSE
Inis Bigil
Achill Island
Clare Island
8
ROONAGH QUAY
Inishturk Island
BALLYTOOHY
Inishbofin Island
7
TO CLEGGAN
Knockmore Mountain
1
2
3, 4
Signal Tower
5
Historic Site
Cistercian Abbey
6
PIER &
BEACH
nd ay
Isla u
re gh Q
Cla ona
Ro
i
9, 10
PORTNAKILLY
Dining/Pub
P. 22
Accommodation
Travel
Activities
i
Visitor information
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FACT FILE
INISHTURK ISLAND
Louisburgh, Co. Mayo. Louisburgh
is about 22km (35mins) by road
from Westport, and 102km
(2hrs) from Galway.
SIZE: 5km x 2.5km. Inishturk can be
enjoyed by daytrip, but a night and an
evening meal in one of its B&Bs, gazing
out on Croagh Patrick and the Atlantic,
may tempt you for a longer stay...
POPULATION: 120+
FACILITIES: B&B, community centre
(open from 1pm daily in summer),
internet access (library). Please see listing
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS:
Traditional Music Weekend (June),
Inishturk Regatta (August)
Roonagh Pier near Louisburgh,
Co. Mayo daily, year-round.
Contact Clare Island Ferry Co (353
98 25212; 353 86 851-5003; www.
clareislandferry.com) or Inishturk
Ferries (353 98 45541; 353 86 202
9670, www.inishturkisland.com)
can explore Inishturk on foot, or
by hiring bikes and boats.
FIND OUT MORE: Inishturk
Development Office (353 98 45778;
www.inishturkisland.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands
DID YOU KNOW? People from
Inishturk have the highest donation
rate to the RNLI in Ireland.
A place of tranquil escape.
If you’re looking to escape from it all, here’s an idea. Hop
onto a ferry, venture 40 minutes off the edge of Europe, and
step onto Inishturk. You’ll notice the difference straight away.
Tranquillity; a gentler pace of life – it’s almost as if the clocks
themselves are moving more slowly.
Inishturk (‘Island of the Wild Boar’) is another world. Situated between Inishbofin and Clare
Island off the Mayo coast, it offers an array of archaeological sites, a paradise for birdwatchers
and a network of ruins culminating in a Napoleonic signal tower standing 700 feet above the
surf. Islanders fish for lobster and crabs. Birds busy themselves about the cliffs. The tranquillity
envelopes you.
Overnight stay
P. 23
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9
The island’s flora is of international importance too. The Spotted Rock Rose, a rare
and endangered plant, is just one of the gems to be found here. Guiding can be
arranged, or visitors can march to their own drum along the looped walks at Lough
Coolaknock and Mountain Common.
Afterwards, take a dip at the sandy beaches of Tranaun or Curran, where the
sheltered coves and clear waters are safe for swimming. For the more intrepid, the
ocean surrounding Inishturk is a happy hunting ground for deep-sea divers and
anglers. On August 15th, you could even join the islanders for their age-old annual
pilgrimage to the carved crosses on nearby Caher Island.
Inishturk has been inhabited for 4,000 years, and the last chief to live at Portdoon,
we’re told, made beer from the island heather. Contemporary visitors can toast his
enterprising spirit during the lively dancing and music sessions in the community
centre at summer weekends.
Top 3 Activities
• Birdwatching
• Walking
• Heritage
Inis Bigil
Achill Island
Clare Island
Inishturk Island
ROONAGH QUAY
Inishbofin Island
Old Watch Tower
TO CLEGGAN
5
1 8 PIER
2
9
r
rk ie
tu gh P
h
s a
Ini oon
R
Curraun Beach
3
Penal Church
4
7
Traunaun Beach
Dining/Pub
P. 24
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Activities
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FACT FILE
INISHBOFIN
Connemara. Cleggan ferry port is roughly
90km (1hr 30mins) from Galway by road,
and approx 67km (1hr) from Westport.
10
SIZE: 5.8km x 3.5km. Inishbofin can
be partially seen on a daytrip, but a
longer stay is highly recommended.
POPULATION: 200+
FACILITIES: Hotels, hostel (with some
camping), self-catering, cafés, pubs,
restaurants, shops, crafts, heritage centre,
picnic areas, community centre (many
are seasonal), minibus. Please see listing
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Inishbofin
Arts Festival (May); Inishbofin halfmarathon (May), Environmental
summer school (July).
GETTING THERE: Ferry crossings operate year-round from Cleggan, Co. Galway. Sailings take 30 minutes.
Contact Inishbofin Island Discovery (353 91 45819/45894; www.inishbofinislanddiscovery.com).
There is a direct bus service from Galway
to Cleggan with Citylink, tel: 1890 28 08
08 or 353 91 564 163, www.citylink.ie
GETTING AROUND: On
foot, bike or by minibus.
FIND OUT MORE: Inishbofin
Community Centre (353 95
45861/45895; www.inishbofin.com),
DID YOU KNOW? An inspiration
not only for artists, several films and
documentaries have been filmed on
Inishbofin, which include, ‘Sailing to an
Island’ (Alan Moloney), ‘Desecration’
(Neville Presho), ‘Inisairc, Bas Oileáin’
(Kieran Concannon) and ‘Sailing
to an Island’ (Kevin Sheldon).
Vibrant, dramatic and ready to explore
Traditional music is integral to many islands but, on
Inishbofin it comes into its own. This, after all, is an island
with its own Céilí band, where several islanders have released
CDs across a range of genres. Visiting musicians and artists
regularly cross over for ‘Bofin Trad’ - the summertime
sessions are very special as music is the heartbeat of
Inishbofin. If you like a tune, you’ll love Inishbofin.
The island itself, of course, has been visited for ages. Many of its monastic sites are associated
with Saint Colman, and ancient chapels and holy wells contain the memories of an early
Christian settlement. Then there is the star-shaped Cromwell’s Barracks, in which Catholic
clergy were once imprisoned. Many more historical sites are also to be found around the
island including a Bronze Age settlement.
Overnight stay
P. 25
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Many succumb to the island’s charm and stunning scenery and stay for longer.
Inishbofin boasts three splendid looped walks, beautiful beaches, clear waters (for
swimming, snorkelling and diving), and a diverse spread of birds, wildlife, flora and
fauna. Artists and photographers find inspiration, fishermen cast off, and a heritage
museum evokes Inishbofin through the ages.
Inishbofin makes for a great sailing base. Boats of all kinds regularly pull into a natural
harbour with access to running water and electricity on the pier, and many stay the
night - taking a shower or catching up on emails in the community centre, before the
first chords of the evening sessions ring out, and the stories and singing begin.
Finally, don’t forget a visit to the mini-farmers’ market that runs on Inishbofin every
Wednesday morning. It’s ideal for stocking up on organic vegetables, free-range eggs,
fresh herbs and homemade treats – all produced on the island itself.
Top 3 Activities
• Traditional music
• Walking
• Watersports
Inis Bigil
Achill Island
Clare Island
Inishturk Island
ROONAGH QUAY
Inishbofin Island
TO CLEGGAN
Rusheen Beach
CLOONAMORE
11
MIDDLEQUARTER
WESTQUARTER
FAWNMORE
12
2
16
1
Community Centre
7
6 13
i
PIER
5
15 3
8
17 10
4 9
KNOCK
Duach Beach
n-
ofi
b
sh
Ini
Cromwell’s Barracks
n
a
gg
Cle
Dining/Pub
P. 26
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Activities
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Visitor information
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FACT FILE
LOCATION: Around 13km off the coast
of Galway and Clare. By road, the ferry
port of Ros a Mhíl (Rossaveal) is roughly
39km (1hr) from Galway, and Doolin
is around 42km (45mins) from Ennis.
SIZE: 14km x 3.8km. Árainn (Inishmore)
can be visited over one day or several.
ÁRAINN
11
(Inishmore)
An t-oileán ‘mór’ de chuid Oileáin Árainn
FACILITIES: Hotel, B&Bs, self-catering,
hostel, cafés, restaurants, pubs, shops,
craft village. Please see listing of
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Friends of Ted
Festival (February), Aistear Ceilteach
(a traditional music and dance show
held in summer), Patrún Inis Mór (the
big island festival held in June)
GETTING THERE: Aer Arann Islands
(353 91 593034; www.aerarannislands.
ie) flies from Connemara airport.
Sailings from Ros a Mhíl (Rossaveal)
are daily, year-round and take about 45
minutes. Contact Island Ferries Teo (353
91 568903; www.aranislandferries.com).
Coach connections leave Galway 90
minutes before sailing.
Ferries also sail from Doolin, Co. Clare.
Sailings take one hour.
Aran Doolin Ferries (353 65 707 4455;
www.doolinferries.com)
Doolin Ferries Ltd (353 65 707 5555;
www.obrienline.com)
Doolin2Aran Ferries (353 65
7075949, 353 87 2453239), www.doolin2aranferries.com
GETTING AROUND: Walk, bike
hire, taxi, pony & cart, tour bus.
FIND OUT MORE: Árainn tourist
office (353 99 61263), www.discoverireland.ie/islands
The “big” Aran Island
There’s one place above all others on Ireland’s west coast, where the
visitor can gaze down on the brilliant blue of the Atlantic Ocean, and
think: “Next parish, Boston!”
That place is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dún Aonghusa on
Árainn (Inishmore). Ranking as one of the most important prehistoric
sites in Europe and bisected by an abrupt, 300-foot drop into the sea
- it’s hard to believe this crescent-shaped citadel was once a ring-fort
built well away from the cliffs.
Dún Aonghusa is testimony to coastal erosion, but also to the inclement winters and wild
isolation in which Aran Islanders live their lives. At its most basic, Árainn (Inishmore) is a
limestone reef, a hump of the Burren in the deep blue sea. But spotted with forts, high crosses
and churches, it’s also an outdoor museum.
DID YOU KNOW? ‘Man of Aran’, Robert
J O’Flaherty’s 1937 documentary,
was filmed on Árainn (Inishmore).
Overnight stay
P. 27
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It’s not all heritage, of course. Árainn (Inishmore) is the biggest of the three Aran
Islands. You can party here. It’s easy to find traditional music sessions. There’s a
wide choice of accommodation. It’s the kind of place where you can check your
Blackberry over local lobster, before learning the art of basket making. In high
season, you may even find a traffic jam of ponies and carts strung along the road
to Cill Mhuirbhigh (Kilmurvey) village.
Top 3 Activities
• Heritage
• Blue-flag beach
• Nightlife
Cill Mhuirbhigh (Kilmurvey) is also where you’ll find the islands blue-flag beach. A
sandy smile cut into the island’s northern coast, strollers and swimmers here are
surrounded by rare plants, birds and water that shifts colour from deep blue to
Caribbean green in the twinkling of an eye. It’s a magical strand.
20 - 24
25, 26
CILL MHUIRBHIGH
17
1-11
15, 16
Dún Aonghasa
31
14
ROSSAVEAL
12
CILL RÓNAIN
i
13
19
17A
18
PIER
TO GALWAY
Árainn
11
28 - 30
Inis Meáin
Inis Oírr
DOOLIN
27
Dining/Pub
P. 28
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FACT FILE
LOCATION: Around 13km off the coast
of Galway and Clare. By road, the ferry
port of Ros a Mhíl (Rossaveal) is roughly
39km (1hr) from Galway, and Doolin is
around 42km (45mins) from Ennis.
SIZE: 4km x 2.5km. Inis Meáin (Inishmaan)
can be visited by day, but a longer stay
of a few days is even more rewarding.
INIS MEÁIN
12
(Inishmaan)
Áilleacht, traidisiún agus cultúr
FACILITIES: Hotel, B&Bs, restaurants,
cafés, traditional pub, shop, craft
shop, internet access, taxi/bus, post
office. Please see listing of tourism
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Comortas
Cead (St. Patrick’s Day – the traditional
game of Cead played nowhere else in
the world), Galway Bay Hooker Regatta,
Currach Regatta (August Bank Holiday)
Sailings from Ros a Mhíl (Rossaveal)
are daily, year-round and take about 45
minutes. Contact Island Ferries Teo (353
91 568903; www.aranislandferries.com).
Coach connections leave Galway 90
minutes before sailing.
Ferries also sail from Doolin, Co. Clare.
Sailings take one hour.
Aran Doolin Ferries (353 65 707 4455;
www.doolinferries.com)
Doolin Ferries Ltd (353 65 707 5555; www.obrienline.com)
7075949, +353 87 2453239, www.doolin2aranferries.com)
GETTING AROUND: Visitors can explore
Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) on foot or by bike.
FIND OUT MORE: www.aranislands.ie/Inis-Meain-Island,
DID YOU KNOW? Different knits in
Aran sweaters symbolise different things.
A single zigzag represents the coastal
cliffs, for example, and a double zigzag
the ups and downs of marriage.
P. 29
Beauty, tradition and culture
Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) literally translates as “the middle
island”, and is the most tranquil of the Aran Islands - truly a
sanctuary from the modern world.
The limestone landscape is beloved of climbers and divers, and the island is home to a
knitting company bringing modern technology to bear on old Aran sweaters, and in the
island’s church, stained glass by Harry Clarke’s Studios.
“Give up Paris,” Yeats once told fellow author, J.M. Synge. “Go to the Aran Islands. Live as if
you were one of the people themselves; express a life that has never found expression.”
Overnight stay
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Gaeltacht Island
CONTENTS
MAP
Top 3 Activities
• Walking
• Heritage
• Irish language and
culture courses
Synge duly obliged in 1898, drawing inspiration from Inis Meáin (Inishmaan)
for classics like The Playboy of the Western World. Travellers today can follow
in his footsteps - visiting Teach Synge (his thatched cottage), Dun Chunchuir,
the spectacular 4000 year old prehistoric stone fort, and sit in Synge’s chair (his
favoured writing spot, a stone seat with spectacular views over the Atlantic). Most of all, they can meet the people and listen to the language that roused his masterpieces.
“In a good play every speech should be as fully flavoured as a nut or apple,” Synge
once said. Perhaps the Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) trail - a 5km ramble over a maze of
roads and pathways – gives the island’s fullest flavours. From sandy beaches and
wild flowers to the spill of stone forming its southern half, it may tempt you to do
like Synge and stay yourself.
PIER
13
ROSSAVEAL
TO GALWAY
Árainn
10 - 12
Inis Meáin
Inis Oírr
Historical Site
DOOLIN
9
6 8
i
Synges Chair
2
1 7
Dun Chunchuir
Synges Cottage
3
4
BAILE AN MHOTHAIR
Community
Centre
14
15
Dun Fearbhaí
5
Beach
Cill Ceananach
Church
Dining/Pub
P. 30
Accommodation
Travel
Activities
i
Visitor information
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FACT FILE
LOCATION: 8km off the coast of Co.
Clare. By road, the ferry port of Ros
a Mhíl (Rossaveal) is roughly 39km
(1hr) from Galway, and Doolin is
roughly 42km (45mins) from Ennis.
SIZE: 3km x 2km. Inis Oírr (Inisheer)
is most often seen by daytrip, but
an overnight or longer stay will
allow you to experience the full
island at a more leisurely pace.
INIS OÍRR
13
(Inisheer)
Tobar an ealaíontóra
FACILITIES: Hotel, B&Bs, hostel, cafés,
restaurants, pubs, arts centre, shops,
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Friends of Ted (February), Inis Oírr Currach Races (August)
Sailings from Ros a Mhíl are daily,
year-round and take about 45 minutes.
Contact Island Ferries Teo (353 91
568903; www.aranislandferries.
com). Coach connections leave
Galway 90 minutes before sailing.
Ferries also sail from Doolin, Co.
Clare. Sailings take one hour.
Aran Doolin Ferries (353 65 707
4455; www.doolinferries.com)
The artist’s palette
You’ll recognise it when you pass the rusty-red shipwreck
on Inis Oírr’s (Inisheer’s) eastern shore. This is the one –
the real-life Craggy Island that features so famously in the
opening credits of the renowned television series Father Ted.
Doolin Ferries Ltd (353 65 707
5555; www.obrienline.com)
7075949, 353 87 2453239), www.doolin2aranferries.com
GETTING AROUND: Walk, bike hire,
pony & trap, hackney service
FIND OUT MORE: Inis Oírr Tourist
Office (www.inisoirr-island.com),
Inis Oírr (Inisheer) has more strings to its bow than Channel 4’s beloved sitcom, of course. The
smallest of the Aran Islands is arguably the most beautiful; its karstic limestone and monks’
huts seem more like a moonscape than a landscape. As with the Burren, however, this porous
stone hides a surprising fertility – at certain times of the year exploding with Mediterranean,
Arctic and Alpine flowers.
DID YOU KNOW? Traditional currach
races are held offshore in August.
Overnight stay
P. 31
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Gaeltacht Island
CONTENTS
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Top 3 Activities
• Tracing Father Ted
• Arts & crafts
• Walking
The island’s size, too, means it can be seen entirely on foot. A 12km (3.5 hour)
walking trail takes in treasures ranging from Cnoc Raithní, a Bronze Age burial
mound, to the ruins of an 11th-century church associated with Saint Gobnait once the only woman allowed on these islands.
Inis Oírr (Inisheer) is home to the only arts centre in the Gaeltacht - Áras Éanna.
In truth, this is much more than an arts hub – it is a community centre, crafts and
heritage centre all in one. There’s also a tub-thumping Bodhrán Summer School
held in June, and ongoing courses in macrobiotic cooking.
Added to all of this are golden beaches, walking trails, the chance to catch mackerel
on the rod, and the splendid views of the mainland and Connemara. You may even
return for the Father Ted Festival in early February, with its ‘lovely girl’ competitions
and buckaroo speed-dating. Go on. Go on, go on, go on...
19
ROSSAVEAL
PIER
11
TO GALWAY
3 9
Árainn
BAILE THIAR
Inis Meáin
Inis Oírr
14
DOOLIN
8
13
15
16 - 18
10
16 - 19
6
i
4
12
Historical Site
7
20
5
Plassy Wreck
LIGHTHOUSE
Dining/Pub
P. 32
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Travel
Activities
i
Visitor information
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FACT FILE
LOCATION: 90 metres from Achill,
Co. Mayo. By road, Ballycroy is roughly
45km (50mins) from Westport,
and 60km (1hr) from Ballina.
SIZE: 2km x 2km. Allow at least a
couple of hours for a visit to Inis Bigil.
INIS BIGIL
14
(Inishbiggle)
Tradisiún buan
POPULATION: 35
FACILITIES: Picnic spots, church.
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Inis Bigil
Festival (August)
GETTING THERE: Daily, yearround sailings from Doran’s Point,
Ballycroy. Sailings take 15 minutes.
Contact Leneghan Ferries (353 98 45513).
can explore Inis Bigil on foot
or by minibus (13-seater)
FIND OUT MORE: Achill Tourism
(353 98 47353; www.achilltourism.
com). www.discoverireland.ie/islands
DID YOU KNOW? An Táilliúir Gorm,
a TG4 documentary, tells the story of
Inis Bigil through its last remaining
inhabitants, including writer and poet
Pádraig Daeid - ‘the blue tailor’.
Top 3 Activities
•Walking
•Shoreangling
•Birdwatching
Timeless tradition
Inis Bigil is a time capsule. The diminutive island may lie just
90 metres from Achill, but the Bullsmouth Passage separating
the two (stand near it on a windy day, locals say, and the
howling of the wind is like the roar of a bull) draws a line
between different worlds.
Inis Bigil (Inishbiggle) is unspoilt, the kind
of place where walkers float in and out of
traditions. Its tiny population speaks both
Irish and English, and their livelihoods are
tied to the farming and fishing traditions of a
bygone age (one day, they hope to link their
island by cable car to the mainland).
1
Inis Bigil
Achill Island
Clare Island
Day-trippers to this stronghold of traditional
life will lap up old-world customs, panoramic
views of west Mayo, inspiring wildlife and
unrecorded stories. They may also hit on the
odd surprise: Inis Bigil (Inishbiggle) is one of
the few Irish islands to host a community
that is both Protestant and Irish speaking.
Inishturk Island
ROONAGH QUAY
Inishbofin Island
TO CLEGGAN
DAY TRIP
TICKET
P. 33
Day trip
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Gaeltacht Island
CONTENTS
Dining/Pub
MAP
Accommodation
Travel
Activities
Aran Island aerial view of Inishmore
P. 34
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South West
ar
Loop Hd.
stu
E
n
o
nn
Sha
LIS
Kerry Hd
N69
Tralee
Bay
Brandon Point
273
Clogher Hd.
276
(20) Long, Co. Cork (21) Whiddy, Co. Cork (22) Dursey, Co. Cork (23) Garinish, Co. Cork (24) Na Blascaodaí (Blaskets), Co. Kerry (25) Na Scealga (Skelligs), Co. Kerry 281
275
AN DAINGEAN
(DINGLE)
279
280
D
37
39
41
43
45
47
48
49
50
51
52
279
280
19. Valentia Island
Bray Hd.
279
280
252
N71
270
236
21. Whiddy Island
CASTLETOWN BERE
15. Bere Island
try
Ban
Bay
Bay
s
u
man
n
DuGOLEEN
20. Long Island
16. Cape Clear
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G
23. Garinish Island
Rail Network
P. 35
25
ver
RiARDGROOM
e
r
ma
Mizen Hd.
2
KE
282
Cods Hd.
For more information on bus and rail services, visit www.irishrail.ie
and www.buseireann.ie
280
N70
Ken
Bus Éireann Local Bus Service - Summer Only
Bus Éireann Expressway Coach - Summer Only
280
SNEEM
WATERVILLE
22. Dursey Island
KERRY
GLENBEIGH
CAHIRCIVEEN
25. Skelligs
N70
KILLORGLIN
Bay
ingle
35
279
273
281
24. Blasket Islands
SOUTH WEST (Cork and Kerry)
Getting to the Islands in the South West
(15) Bere, Co. Cork (16) Oileán Chléire (Cape Clear), Co. Cork (17) Heir, Co. Cork (18) Sherkin, Co. Cork (19) Valentia, Co. Kerry TRALE
25
SCHULL
237
23
ry
LIMERICK
N69
SOUTH WEST
LIMERICK
STOWEL
N21
One could spend a lifetime exploring Ireland’s south-western islands.
Hidden in harbours, stashed off strands, there’s an island here to suit
every taste - from the great, spiritual splinters of the Skelligs to tiny Inis
Beg and the vibrant storytelling of Oileán Chléire. The islands of Cork
and Kerry are alive with literary spirits like Peig Sayers; with the sensory
delights of contemporary cookery schools. They offer a magical island
garden, ancient dinosaur tracks, even visual arts degrees. The trouble lies
in deciding what to leave out.
NEWCASTLE WEST
ABBEYFEALE
N21
EE
MITCHELSTOWN
CASTLEISLAND
BUTTEVANT
N20
KANTURK
MALLOW
N72
KILLARNEY
MILLSTREET
40
50
MACROOM
N22
230
230 255
50
236
BANTRY
237
Cork H
a
252
rbour
KINSALE
252
CLONAKILTY
237
N71
N71
MIDLETON
COBH
40
233 230
INCHIGEELAGH
BANDON
52
YOUGHAL
CORK
GLENGARRIFF
37
N20
40
ENMARE
52
Dungarvan
CORK
N22
270
WATERFORD
FERMOY
ROSSCARBERY
252
17. Heir Island
SKIBBEREEN
251
Galley Hd.
BALTIMORE
18. Sherkin Island
P. 36
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FACT FILE
BERE ISLAND
LOCATION: Bantry Bay, Co.
Cork. By road, the ferry port at
Castletownbere is roughly 48km
(1hr 40 mins) from Kenmare and
51km (1hr 20mins) from Bantry.
15
SIZE: 11km x 5km. Bere Island can be
enjoyed in a short visit, but a longer stay
makes for a much more rewarding visit.
POPULATION: 200+
FACILITIES: B&Bs, self-catering, pubs,
café, restaurants, craft shops, boat hire,
heritage centre. Please see listing of
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Country
and Western Weekend (May), Golf
Classic (June), Regatta (August),
Heritage Week (August).
year-round from Castletownbere.
Bere Island Ferries (353 27 75009; 353
86 2423140; www.bereislandferries.com)
depart from Castletownbere, 2kms away
on the Beara Peninsula.
Murphy’s Ferry Service (353 27 75014;
353 87 238 6095; www.murphysferry.
com) departs from Pontoon, 3 miles on
the Glengariff side of Castletownbere.
can explore Bere Island on foot,
by bus, or by hiring a bike.
FIND OUT MORE: Bere Island
Projects Group (353 27 75099;
www.bereisland.net) or Bere Island
Heritage & Information Service (353
27 75956; [email protected]),
DID YOU KNOW? Bere Island
boasts a local theatre troupe. It has
also been voted Ireland’s Tidiest
Island three times in a row!
Nature, culture and heritage
Bere Island’s place in history is assured. Its Martello towers
date from the Napoleonic wars. Several American ships based
here during World War II met their fate at Pearl Harbour.
After the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921, the island became one
of three Irish ports retained by the UK.
Why has it so often been at the centre of events? The answer is the island’s strategic position
at the mouth of Europe’s deepest harbour. Berehaven and Lawrence Cove offer unrivalled
shelter for boats of all sizes, something settlers have recognised since the Bronze Age – as the
Druid’s Altar wedge tomb, St. Michael’s Holy Well and a scattering of standing stones and ring
forts testify.
Overnight stay
P. 37
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But it is its military might for which Bere is best known. In addition to the Martello
towers, the island is home to a signal tower and, Lonehort, a military fortification
dating from 1899 and housing two six-inch guns, an infantry trench, engine house
and various underground structures.
The result is unique, almost like an open-air museum. A looped walk (guides
available) takes in the best of the sites, with wonderful mainland views of the
Slieve Miskish and Caha Mountain ranges of the Beara Peninsula, and the marina is
perfectly suited to visiting sailors.
Top 3 Activities
• Military history
• Walking
• Marine life
That said, the deep waters of Bantry Bay are not solely taken advantage of by
man. Killer whales, basking shark and bottle-nosed dolphins are all regular visitors,
making Bere Island one of the primary bases in the southwest for diving, sea safari,
deep-sea fishing and watersports.
n
ntoo
To Po
ere
wnb
eto
astl
To C
PIER 8
PIER 5a 5
BALLYNAKILLA
8a 14
17 12
2
7
6
i
Lonehort
(military fortification)
Martello Tower
4
10
RERRIN
3
13
9 15
11
16
18
Martello Tower
LIGHTHOUSE
Dining/Pub
P. 38
Accommodation
Travel
Activities
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Visitor information
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FACT FILE
LOCATION: 14.5km off Baltimore,
West Cork. By road, Baltimore is roughly
42km (50mins). By road, Baltimore
is roughly 12 km from Skibbereen,
42km (50mins) by road from Bantry,
and 98km (1hr 45mins) from Cork.
OILEÁN CHLÉIRE
(Cape Clear)
16
Oileán na scéalaithe
SIZE: 4.8km x 1.6km. Oileán Chléire (Cape
Clear) can be enjoyed by daytrip, but a
longer visit is required to see the entire
island, or to fully enjoy its many festivals!
POPULATION: 120. A Gaeltacht island.
FACILITIES: B&Bs, self-catering, hostel,
yurt village/campsite, observatory,
shops (groceries, crafts), restaurants,
pubs, heritage centre, goat farm, guided
walks, tourist information office, library,
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Walking/
Talking Weekend (May), O’Driscoll
Clan gathering (June), Regatta (Aug),
International Storytelling festival
(Sept); Birdwatching festival (Oct).
GETTING THERE: Ferries sail daily from
Baltimore. Sailings take about 45 min.
Year round: Cape Clear Ferry (Naomh
Ciarán 2) – year round (353 28 39153, 353
87 2824008; www.capeclearferry.com)
Cailín Óir Ferries – AprilOct (353 28 41923; 353 86
3465110; www.cailinoir.com
The Karycraft (353 28 28278; 353 86 237
9302, www.capeclearferries.com) leaves
from Schull Pier from June to Sept.
explore the island on foot, by bus
tour, boat hire or on board Paddy’s
Wagon (the island’s cheerful and
colourful tractor-drawn wagon).
FIND OUT MORE: Island Co-op,
Comharchumann Chléire Teo (353
28 39119; www.oilean-chleire.ie),
The storytellers’ island
Oileán Chléire (Cape Clear) has an enviable location –
right on the cusp of the continental shelf. The entrance to
Roaringwater Bay is one of the leading dolphin and whale
sighting locations in Europe and, if the weather’s on your
side, a visitor might also catch sight of leatherback turtle,
sunfish and shark.
The island is also home to Ireland’s only manned bird observatory, which has been
maintaining a daily species log since 1959. Located a mere two-minute walk from the ferry
beach, the observatory is manned by a resident warden (March to November), and even offers
birdwatchers hostel-style accommodation. May and October are high season.
DID YOU KNOW? Oileán Chléire
(Cape Clear) is Ireland’s southernmost
inhabited Gaeltacht island.
Overnight stay
P. 39
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Gaeltacht Island
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Top 3 Activities
• Birdwatching
• Walking
• Irish language
courses
In summertime, Oilean Chléire (Cape Clear) is festive. Scores of Irish language
students energise the island; day-trippers stroll to the lake or the Old Lighthouse;
yachts ply in and out of the harbours. A storytelling festival brings alive the oral
traditions of yore and outdoor enthusiasts pitch up with kayaks, fishing rods,
hiking boots and binoculars. Beneath the seas, scuba divers prowl old wrecks and
precipitous reefs.
The island is firmly on the radar of walkers too, many of whom - after a stroll on
the pebble beaches or gorse-strewn headlands - will pop into one of the island’s
lively pubs. The Cape Clear community speaks both Irish and English, and knows
how to spring a music session, light a cosy fire or spark a friendly chat - visitors are
always welcome at their social soirees.
Cap
e-
Cape
Bal
tim
ore
–
Schull
16
PIER
21 - 24
NORTH HARBOUR 8
i
5
3
12
17, 18,
19, 20
26 11
i
9
13
15
7
2
6
Loch Loral
14
1
LIGHTHOUSE
TO SCHULL
Heir Island
SOUTH HARBOUR
25
BALTIMORE
Sherkin Island
Cape Clear
Dining/Pub
P. 40
Accommodation
Travel
Activities
i
Visitor information
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FACT FILE
HEIR ISLAND
LOCATION: Roaringwater Bay, Co.
Cork. Cunnamore, where ferries depart
for Heir Island, is roughly 98km (1hr
50 mins) from Cork by road. Baltimore
is about the same distance.
17
SIZE: 2.5km x 1.5km. Heir Island
can be enjoyed in a short visit of a
few hours, but the cookery courses
require a slightly longer stay.
POPULATION: 25.
FACILITIES: B&Bs, self-catering,
restaurant, art gallery, sailing school,
cookery school, shop. Please see listing
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Heir
Island Regatta (August)
GETTING THERE: Heir Island is a five
minute ferry ride from Cunnamore, on
the Skibbereen to Ballydehob Road,
or a 20 minute trip from Baltimore.
Sailings are daily, year-round services.
The Miss Josephine (353 86 888 7799,
www.heirislandferries.com) departs
from Baltimore and Cunnamore Pier.
The MV Thresher (353 86 8092447,
www.heirislandsailingschool.com)
departs from Cunnamore Pier.
GETTING AROUND: It’s best to walk
around Heir Island, though bikes can be
hired and brought along from Baltimore.
FIND OUT MORE: www.discoverireland.ie/islands
DID YOU KNOW? At the centre of
Heir Island lies an extensive marsh
with a vibrant reed bed – it is home
to some 200 varieties of wildflower.
Gourmet food; gorgeous landscape.
An island off the western edge of Europe is the last place
you’d expect to find gourmet food (never mind learn
how to cook it). But that’s one of the things that makes
Heir/Hare Island famous.
Using local duck and lamb, together with shrimp, crab and seasonal wild salmon caught by
island fishermen, the island’s cookery school is a real hidden gem. Food lovers come from far
and wide to hone their culinary skills over the course of a weekend and guests dine together
in the evening.
Overnight stay
P. 41
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Top 3 Activities
•Cooking
•Sailing
•Walking
Cu
nn
am
or
e-
He
Naturally, it’s not all about cooking. There is a well-regarded art gallery here, an
established sailing school, and several sandy beaches are safe for swimming. Indeed, there is any number of ways to work up an appetite – be it angling, island-hopping, bird-watching, diving or cycling. And surrounded by the panorama of Roaringwater Bay, you have all the ingredients for a return visit too.
ir
Heir Island is the ideal base for this sustainable enterprise. One of Carbery’s
Hundred Isles, it is an unspoilt oasis, the kind of place where caves and creeks are
best explored by sea-kayak. Island cottages date back to the 1920s, with houses
built since then modelled on the same design, giving a genuine feel of a retreat, a
sanctuary, a place to book some much-needed time out.
4
PIER
3
re
imo
eir
-H
t
Bal
7
8
6
5
Beach
2
1
TO SCHULL
Heir Island
BALTIMORE
Sherkin Island
Cape Clear
Dining/Pub
P. 42
Accommodation
Travel
Activities
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FACT FILE
SHERKIN ISLAND
LOCATION: Roaringwater Bay, Co. Cork.
The ferry port of Baltimore is roughly
42km (50mins) by road from Bantry,
and 98km (1hr 45mins) from Cork.
18
SIZE: 4.8km x 2.4km. Sherkin
can be visited in a day, but you
won’t be disappointed with an
overnight stay - many visitors have
even made their homes here!
POPULATION: 100+
FACILITIES: Hotel, B&Bs, self-catering,
restaurants, art gallery, coffee /
craft shop, pubs, community centre,
marina, library. Please see listing of
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Sherkin family
regatta (July), Celtic Music Festival (May)
daily from Baltimore, year-round.
Contact Sherkin Ferry (353 28
20218; 353 87 244 7828, www.
sherkinisland.eu/ferry).
GETTING AROUND: Sherkin richly
rewards walkers; taxis (summer) and
buses (year-round) are also to hand.
FIND OUT MORE: www.sherkinisland.
ie, www.discoverireland.ie/islands
DID YOU KNOW? There’s a modern
day trend on Sherkin – where
people get married in the island’s
little church, and crack open the
champagne on the boat back!
A melting pot of culture, life and art
Sherkin’s location scores well on several fronts. It’s got all the
seclusion of an island hideaway, yet lies just 10 minutes from
Baltimore by ferry. It attracts a milder climate (when frost hits
the lawns of Baltimore, you can find green grass out here), yet
boasts stunning Atlantic scenery. Little surprise, then, that so
many non-islanders have made Sherkin their home.
The summer months, in particular, see crowds from far and wide flocking to the island - with
the result that the ancestral hub of the O’Driscoll clan (their ivy-clad castle lies just above the
pier) is today a melting pot of culture, life and art. Sherkin even offers a Visual Arts Degree
Programme, and work by the island’s many artists and designers is sold at the Island Crafts
Centre in Baltimore.
Overnight stay
P. 43
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Certainly, artists have much to inspire them - from the islands dotting Roaringwater
Bay to the ruins of Sherkin’s 15th century Franciscan Abbey; from passing porpoises
to playful otters, rare birds and spectacular beaches and coves, the island is almost a
work of art in itself.
Top 3 Activities
•Arts
•Adventure
•Sailing
Visitors will find a warm and hospitable welcome year-round, but it is in July and
August that Sherkin really comes into its own. Traditional music and the riotous
colour of an annual regatta - a big splash in the island’s social calendar - are
highlights of a time when walkers, swimmers, sailors and island-hoppers join the
swelling ranks of islanders themselves, and everyone soaks up the atmosphere.
THE DOCK
Tramore
10 3
12, 13,
14
Castle
Marina
7
Abbey Strand
PIER
8
5 2
4
Silver Strand
9
11
Cow Strand
To Baltimore
Abbey
KILMOON
1
Trabawn
TO SCHULL
Heir Island
6
BALTIMORE
BALTIMORE
Sherkin Island
SLIEVEMORE
Cape Clear
Dining/Pub
P. 44
Accommodation
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FACT FILE
VALENTIA ISLAND
LOCATION: Off the Iveragh Peninsula,
Co. Kerry. Valentia is roughly 70km
(1hr 20mins) by road from Killarney,
and 9km (15 mins) from Cahirciveen.
19
SIZE: 11km x 3km. By driving, most
of Valentia is easily done in a day, but
a longer stay is recommended for an
in-depth experience – particularly
if you plan to visit the Skelligs.
POPULATION: 600
FACILITIES: B&Bs, self-catering, hostel,
shops, restaurants, pubs, heritage
centre. Please see listing of tourism
GETTING THERE: Valentia is linked to
the mainland by bridge at Portmagee.
Valentia Island Ferries also leaves Renard
Point, two miles from Cahirciveen
(353 66 947 6141,email: rforan@
indigo.ie) daily, April – October.
GETTING AROUND: Valentia
can be seen on foot, bike, by
car or on bus or boat tours.
FIND OUT MORE: www.discoverireland.ie/islands
DID YOU KNOW? Tetrapod footprints
in north Valentia date from c.350 million
years ago, when a primitive vertebrate
passed along a muddy shoreline,
leaving prints as if in wet concrete.
The island of the Oak Forest
A superbly accessible island, Valentia is joined to the
mainland by bridge at Portmagee, near Cahirciveen. Though
joined to the mainland, however, it is far from an extension
to it – Valentia, a haven to seafarers marked on the earliest
maps of Europe, has one of the strongest identities of all
Irish islands.
Originally known as ‘Oileán Dairbhre’ (Island of the Oaks), Valentia boasts both dramatic
cliffs and lush vegetation (coaxed along by the mild Gulf Stream). It offers an Anglo-Irish feel
in the stately buildings and cultured restaurants of Knightstown, but tempers that with an
unadulterated wildness, a tattered coast, mouth-watering views of the Skelligs and a myriad
of adventure sports.
Overnight stay
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Valentia is synonymous with communication. It was here, in 1858, that the first
terminal for the Atlantic Telegraph was stationed. It is known the world over for
its slate – which has been used in the Paris Opera House, Westminster Abbey and
as railway sleepers in the San Salvador Railway.
Top 3 Activities
• Skellig Experience
• Heritage
• Adventure
There’s also lots to do. The Skellig Experience interprets the monastery, seabirds,
lighthouses and underwater life of those islands 13km offshore. Glanleam Estate,
built in 1775 as a linen mill, boasts 50-acres of sub-tropical gardens that thrive in
the relatively balmy climate. Diving, cycling, and rock-climbing are just some of
the activities based out of the local adventure centre.
Perhaps the island’s heritage centre says it best. Like Valentia itself, it describes
itself as “not so much a museum as a meeting place of Today and Yesterday, of
You and Us.”
13, 15, 19,
20, 22, 23,
MARINA 34, 35
Valentia Lighthouse
28
KNIGHTSTOWN
16
18 33
17
Fogher Cliffs
Geokaun Mountain
10
2, 3, 5,
6, 12
26
14 32
7
8 11
29
9
CHAPELTOWN 24 - 27,
30, 31
Coarha More
4
1
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21
PORTMAGEE
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FACT FILE
LONG ISLAND
LOCATION: Roaringwater Bay, Co.
Cork. The ferry pier at Schull is roughly
108km (1hr 50mins) by road from Cork,
and 25km (30 mins) from Bantry.
20
SIZE: 4.8km x 0.8km. Long Island
is easily visited in a day.
POPULATION: 10
FACILITIES: Cafe/restaurant,
internet access.
from Colla Pier daily, year-round.
Sailings take about ten minutes.
Contact MV Nordic (353 86 888 7799;
www.heirislandferries.com).
Long Island can also be accessed
by small boat in calm weather.
GETTING AROUND:Walking is the
best way to explore Long Island.
FIND OUT MORE: www.
discoverireland.ie/islands
DID YOU KNOW? Roaringwater Bay
is disconcertingly named. In fact,
the sheer volume of islands here act
together to guarantee sheltered water
in almost all weather conditions.
Top 3 Activities
•Walking
•Birdwatching
•Swimming
A near-shore getaway
Just ten minutes by boat from the West Cork shore, Long Island is
the perfect tonic after the buzz of cosmopolitan Schull. Pleasant
walks, shingle beaches and abundant wildlife combine with
beautiful south-western scenery here to create a real offshore
treat. Inis Fada, as it is known in Irish, gets its name from its
dimensions. This is a low-lying island stretching almost 5km in
length, but barely a kilometre wide.
A surfaced road makes some headway into
the interior, with a rough, unkempt route
extending to the Beacon lighthouse and an
old copper mine in the east and to the cliffs
at the west. Both seem to draw the visitor
further away from modern life.
Ruined houses, stores and sheds dating
from the early 1900s add to the isolation,
and a maze of closely-knit fields, gradually
being reclaimed by opportunistic fauna and
flora, completes the impression. Walkers,
bird-watchers and boaters will be in their
element here – whiling away an afternoon
whilst keeping an eye out for otter, seals,
dolphin, whales and even the occasional
basking shark.
DAY TRIP
TICKET
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WESTERN PIER
PIER FROM COLLA
TO SCHULL
Beacon
Day trip
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FACT FILE
WHIDDY ISLAND
LOCATION: Bantry Bay Harbour, Co. Cork. Bantry ferry port is roughly
85km (1hr 30mins) by road from Cork,
and 45km (1hr) from Kenmare, Co. Kerry.
21
SIZE: 4.8km x 1.6km. Whiddy can
be easily explored a in a day.
POPULATION: 29
FACILITIES: Bar, restaurant.
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Whiddy Island
Regatta (August)
from Bantry, daily, year-round.
Sailings take 10-15 minutes.
Contact Whiddy Island Ferries (353 86
862 6734, www.whiddyislandferry.com).
GETTING AROUND: Visitors to
Whiddy can hire bikes, take boat
trips, or explore the island by foot.
FIND OUT MORE: Email: [email protected]
DID YOU KNOW? Whiddy Island’s
drinking fountain, known as the ‘Cup and
Saucer’, was made by American naval
officers during the First World War.
Top 3 Activities
•Walking
•Fishing
•Birdwatching
Wildlife retreat; wild history
Resting between peninsulas in Bantry Bay, Whiddy Island enjoys a superb
strategic position in one of the world’s finest deep water harbours. The
result is a lively and vibrant naval history. During World War I, seaplanes
from a US navy base on Whiddy patrolled Fastnet Rock. More recently,
the island serves as a Gulf Oil terminal for berthing supertankers. It
was here, in 1979, that the French tanker Betelgeuse exploded in what
remains the biggest maritime disaster in Irish history.
Of course, there’s more to Whiddy than modern industry
and warfare. At the Kilmore lakes, an early ecclesiastical
enclosure features a holy well, church and graveyard
dating from the 6th century. In the early 1500’s the great
chieftain, Donal Cam O’Sullivan Bere, built Reenananig
Castle on the island, which was bombarded during the
Cromwellian Wars, and finally collapsed in a 1920 storm,
however three magnificent forts have survived. The result
is a fascinating prospect - an island where walkers can
absorb a landscape heaving as much with history as it
is with red and purple fuchsia in the summer months;
a hideaway where bird-watchers can break out the
binoculars; an escape where everyone can grab a wellearned drink at the welcoming island pub. Whether you’re
walking, boating or simply relaxing here, you’ll find an
island of hidden depths.
Castle
Fort
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FACT FILE
DURSEY ISLAND
LOCATION: 219m off the Beara
Peninsula. By road, Dursey
Island is roughly 64km (1hr 50
mins) from Kenmare and 73km
(1hr 55mins) from Bantry.
22
SIZE: 6.6km x 1.5k. Most visitors
spend a couple of hours on Dursey.
POPULATION: 6
FACILITIES: Bring all essentials,
including a packed lunch, as there
are no facilities on the island.
GETTING THERE: Ireland’s only
cable car departs daily, year-round,
from Ballaghboy - at the tip of the
Beara Peninsula, Co. Cork. The trip
takes ten minutes. Contact 353 27
73017, www.windypointhouse.com
GETTING AROUND: Dursey
is a walker’s delight.
FIND OUT MORE: Beara Tourism and
development association (353 27 70054,
www.bearatourism.com/bwdursey.
html), www.discoverireland.ie/islands
Connect with Ireland’s only cable car
Fancy beating the rat race for a little while? Dursey Island is the place
to do it. Lying across a narrow sound off the tip of the Beara Peninsula,
this is the dictionary definition of escape – no business, no traffic, no
hassle. Just you, rugged nature and the awe-inspiring Atlantic Ocean.
DID YOU KNOW? Sunset on Dursey
Island featured in a worldwide
televised broadcast of the final
hours of the last millennium.
Top 3 Activities
•Cable Car
•Walking
•Birdwatching
There is one sign of civilisation, of course –
Dursey’s unique and charismatic cable car.
Hitched to the mainland above dolphin-strewn
Dursey sound, this is Ireland’s only cable car,
running 250 metres above the sea. With a
capacity of carrying just six people at a time, the
cable is a lifeline for the handful of inhabitants
living in three small villages on the island.
Stepping onto the island, visitors can continue on
foot along a stretch of the Beara Way. Highlights
on Dursey include the ruins of O’Sullivan Beara’s
castle, a 200-year-old signal tower with views
stretching to the Skelligs and Mizen Head, and
several standing stones. The indented coastline,
open bog and wild winds leave you in no doubt –
you’re far from the madding crowd.
BALLAGHBOY
CABLE CAR
1
Dining/Pub
DAY TRIP
TICKET
P. 49
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FACT FILE
GARINISH
LOCATION: Glengarriff Harbour in
Bantry Bay. By road, Glengariff is
roughly 91km (1hr 40 mins) from Cork
and 17km (20 mins) from Bantry.
23
SIZE: 15 hectares. Garinish is a
short visit of a couple of hours.
POPULATION: 0
FACILITIES: Coffee shop and toilets.
GETTING THERE: Ferries depart
Glengariff daily from March to
October. Sailings take 15 minutes.
Contact Glengarriff and Garinish Boat
Services (353 27 63116; www.harbourqueenferry.com)
or the Blue Pool Ferry ( 353 27
63333; www.bluepoolferry.com).
Temple
Martello Tower
Garinish was bequeathed to the Irish people
in 1953, and is today managed by the Office
of Public Works. It remains a magical island
garden, a sanctuary beloved of horticulturalists
and casual visitors alike – not to mention the
seals that regularly pitch up on its southern
shore rocks.
Walled Garden
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Top 3 Activities
• Garden trails
• Birdwatching
• Marine life
How is it so? Over 100 years ago then-owner
Anna Bryce joined forces with the Edwardian
garden designer Harold Peto. Noticing that the
Gulf Stream and the island’s sheltered position
blessed it with an almost subtropical climate,
they began cultivating ornamental plants from
all over the world.
-G
DID YOU KNOW? Ilnacullin
means the ‘island of holly’.
rif
f
FIND OUT MORE: Heritage Ireland
(+353 27 63040; heritageireland.
ie), www.discoverireland.ie./islands
Garinish Island, or Ilnacullin, is a tiny island with a big reputation.
Stashed away in Glengarriff harbour, it is home to a series of gardens
showcasing an incredible richness of plant form and colour. Changing
with the seasons, it is flush with with rhododendrons and azaleas
in May and June, climbing plants and herbaceous perennials in
midsummer, and awash with autumnal hues, particularly on the
magnificent heather bank, in the months of September and October.
ga
GETTING AROUND: Garinish is
best explored on foot. There are a
range of self-guided short walks.
A magical island garden
Gl
en
Garinish Island is open from March
to October, and there is an island
admission charge separate to
that charged by ferry boats.
Dining/Pub
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FACT FILE
LOCATION: Off Slea Head, Co. Kerry.
The ferry port of Dún Chaoin (Dunquin)
is 15km (30 mins) from An Daingean
(Dingle) and roughly 81km (1hr
40mins) from Killarney by road.
SIZE: 6km x 1km approx (Great Blasket).
A visit to Na Blascaodaí (the Blaskets)
will take at least a couple of hours.
NA BLASCAODAÍ
24
(Blasket Islands)
Corraitheach agus millteanach
POPULATION: 0
FACILITIES: None, though
camping is permitted.
seasonally from Dún Chaoin.
Blasket Islands Ferry (353 66 9154864,
353 87 231 6131; www.blasketislands.
ie) sails each hour from Dún Chaoin
(Dunquin), weather permitting, from April
to October.
Blasket Island Ferries + Eco Tours (353
66 915 6422, www.blasketislands.
com) also leaves Dún Chaoin
(Dunquin) every hour from 10.30am
between April and September.
GETTING AROUND: Na Blascaodaí
(the Blaskets) can be explored on foot.
FIND OUT MORE: The Blascaod
Centre, Dún Chaoin (353 66 915
6444, www.heritageireland.ie),
DID YOU KNOW? Former Irish Taoiseach
(Prime Minister) Charles Haughey bought
Inishvickillane in 1974 for £25,000. He
built a holiday home on the island, and
introduced to it a herd of red deer.
Top 3 Activities
• Walking
• Birdwatching
• Heritage
Poignant and awe-inspiring
Na Blascaodaí (The Blaskets) have an awesome literary heritage.
Perched on the edge of Europe, these small islands are responsible for
works like An tOileánach (The Islandman) by Tomás Ó Criomhtháin,
Peig by Peig Sayers, and Fiche Blian ag Fás (Twenty Years A-Growing) by
Muiris Ó Suilleabháin. The Blaskets comprise six islands - Great Blasket,
Beginish, Inishabro, Inishvickillane, Inishtooskert and Tearaght Island.
From the middle ages, island life was a
constant hardship here, involving thrashing
storms, hazardous fishing, regular isolation and
a three-mile crossing to the mainland. Though
the last of the islanders left Great Blasket in
1953, however, their spirit remains.
Na Blascaodaí (The Blaskets) today are about
solitude, a place where walkers can wander
through deserted villages, past rousing seas
and wild beaches, utterly removed from
modernity. Gazing over the wild Atlantic and
this scattered archipelago at once poignant and
glistening – it feels like the ends of the earth.
As Ó Criomhtháin writes at the close of An
tOileánach, “the likes of us will never be again”.
DAY TRIP
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P. 51
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Inishtooskert
Beginish
Great Blasket Island
Tearaght Island
Inishabro
Inishvickillane
Gaeltacht Island
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FACT FILE
LOCATION: 13km off the Iveragh
Peninsula, Co. Kerry. The harbour town
of Portmagee is roughly 70km (1hr
20mins) by road from Killarney, and
9km (15 mins) from Cahirciveen.
SIZE: Around 44 acres (Skellig Michael).
The main Skellig is accessed by boat,
and trips generally take about half a day
(leaving at 10am and returning at 3pm).
NA SCEALGA
25
(The Skelligs)
An t-imeallchríoch spioradálta
POPULATION: 0
FACILITIES: None
GETTING THERE: Several boat operators
depart mid-morning for Na Scealga
(the Skelligs)from Portmagee, Valentia
Island, Ballinskelligs and Derrynane
and return mid-afternoon. A two
hour cruise around Na Scealga (The
Skelligs) departs approx 2.30pm from
The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre.
All sailings are weather-permitting.
Further information is available from The
Skellig Experience (353 66 947-6306;
www.skelligexperience.com)
GETTING AROUND: Walking is
the only option on Sceilg Mhicil
(Skellig Michael), and a degree of
fitness is required for the steps.
FIND OUT MORE: The Skellig
Experience (353 66 947-6306; www.
skelligexperience.com) is open yearround. www.discoverireland.ie/islands
DID YOU KNOW? “Stormy”, a Skellig
storm petrel, lived long enough to
earn inclusion in the Guinness Book of
Records. She undertook an annual return
journey of 20,000km for 26 years.
Top 3 Activities
• Birdwatching
• Heritage
• Boat trips
The spiritual outpost
Sceilg Mhicil (Skellig Michael) is Ireland’s Machu Picchu. A staggering
shard of rock punching out of the Atlantic, what drew early Christian
monks to row out here? What compelled them to build a monastery
on the edge of what was then the known world? Nature designed the
Skelligs to be inaccessible – but that only seems to have motivated
these frontiersmen of the Christian faith.
Today, Sceilg Mhicil (Skellig Michael) is
a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a
1,000 year-old stone stairwell leading
to the small cluster of huts, oratories,
chapel and stone crosses clinging to its
cliffs. Two lighthouses (the second was
finally made automatic in 1987) tell of
another self-sacrificing island lifestyle. But
Sceilg Mhicil (Skellig Michael)is not alone.
Alongside it are two other rocky outcrops
– the seabird sanctuaries of Little Skellig,
home to more than 30,000 pairs of
gannets, and Puffin Island (puffins are
best seen in late spring). Taken together,
they offer one of the most dramatic vistas
Ireland has to offer.
DAY TRIP
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Day trip
Kerry Coastline
Puffin Island
Little Skellig
Skellig Michael
Gaeltacht Island
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FACT FILE
RATHLIN ISLAND
LOCATION: 12 km off Ballycastle,
Co. Antrim. By road, the ferry port
at Ballycastle is roughly 90km
(1hr 20mins) from Belfast and
80km (1hr 30mins) from Derry.
26
SIZE: 6km x 1.5km. Rathlin can be
visited in a daytrip, but a longer
stay is very worthwhile (only
visitors staying six nights or more
may take their car on the ferry).
POPULATION: 95
FACILITIES: Guesthouse, B&Bs, hostel,
shops (groceries, crafts), restaurant,
pub, visitor centre. Please see listing of
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Rathlin
Festival Week (July).
Ballycastle, year-round. Sailings take 20
or 45 minutes, depending on the boat.
Contact Rathlin Island Ferry (44 (0)28
2076 9299; rathlinballycastleferry.
com). Online advance booking is
advisable to avoid disappointment.
Those visitors who are staying for six or
more nights need to apply for a permit
which is available from Moyle District
Council. Blue badge holders are able to
go over and back on the same day.
GETTING AROUND: With its walking
trails, bike-hire and bus tour, Rathlin
is an easy island to get around.
FIND OUT MORE: Ballycastle
Tourist Office (44 (0)28 2076 2024;
Email: [email protected],
www.moyle-council.org/tourism)
Northern Ireland Tourist Board (44 (0)28
9023 1221; discovernorthernireland.com)
DID YOU KNOW? In 1987, Richard
Branson crashed his hot-air balloon,
the ‘Virgin Atlantic Flyer’ into the
sea off Rathlin, after his crossAtlantic flight from Maine.
P. 53
P. 53
Treasure trove of now and then
Boomerang-shaped Rathlin Island has quite a distinction
– not only is it Northern Ireland’s sole inhabited offshore
island; it is also Ireland’s most northerly inhabited island,
full-stop.
It’s remote then – a fact that served Vikings well when they staged the first of their Irish raids
here in AD795; a fact reinforced by brilliant basalt cliffs, tens of thousands of seabirds (their
drone has been likened to the inside of a beehive) and Rathlin’s time-worn fort, castle and
smuggler’s house. On a good day, you can even see the Mull of Kintyre on the extreme west
coast of Scotland.
Overnight stay
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For all its romantic isolation, however, Rathlin is ultra-accessible. Ferries from
Ballycastle take as little as 20 minutes, and the quick whizz across the Sea of Moyle
transports visitors to a place where spirited céilís, summer festivals (look out for
‘Chicks on the Rocks’ at the bird sanctuary) and regular doses of music, song and
dance – as only the Rathlin islanders can provide them – are commonplace.
Elsewhere, divers stalk silent shipwrecks. Walkers and cyclists chart quiet roads.
History is in the air, like the smell of fresh heather. Rathlin has been a smugglers’
haven, a Neolithic axe factory and, on July 6th 1898, Marconi transmitted the first
commercial radio signals from the island’s East Lighthouse.
Top 3 Activities
• Birdwatching
• Walking
• Wreck-diving
The most famous local lore puts Robert the Bruce in a cave on Rathlin after his
defeat by the English in 1306. According to legend, the dispirited warrior watched a
spider persevere with trying to set a web. Eventually it succeeded, inspiring Bruce to
return home and regain the Scottish throne.
Old Coastguard Hut
East Lighthouse
West Lighthouse
Seabird Viewpoint
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2 6
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4
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NORTH WEST ISLANDS
ÁRAINN MHÓR (ARRANMORE) (MAP REF 1) PAGE 09
Map
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Cultural & Tourism
Centre
Visitor
information
Fál an Ghabhann, Arranmore,
Co. Donegal
00353-74-9520533
comharchumann@
oileanarainnmhoir.com
www.oileanarainnmhoir.com
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Accommodation
6
Baile Saoire Arranmore Holiday
Village
Self catering
Cloughcor, Arranmore, Co. Donegal
00353-74-9520533
comharchumann@
3
Claire's B&B
B&B
An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore,
Co. Donegal
00353-74-9520042
[email protected] [email protected] 2
Glen Hotel
Hotel
Co. Donegal
00353-74-9520505
[email protected] www.theglenhotel.weebly.com
4
Lightkeeper Cottages
Self catering
- lighthouse
accomm.
Arranmore, Co. Donegal
00353-74-9125635
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Activities
10
Arranmore Bike Hire
Bike hire
Co. Donegal
00353-74-9520500
16
Arranmore Charters
Boat and
angling
trips
Co. Donegal
00353-87-3171810
[email protected]
www.arranmorecharters.com/
tours
7
Arranmore Pitch & Putt
Pitch and
putt
Fál an Ghabhann, Arranmore,
Co. Donegal
00353-74-9520533
comharchumann@
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
[email protected]
www.arranmoreferry.com
[email protected] www.theglenhotel.weebly.com
Dining/Pub
8
Bonners Ferryboat
Restaurant
Restaurant
Co. Donegal
00353-74-9520532
9
Early's Bar & Lounge
Bar
Co. Donegal
00353-74-9520515
11
Neily's Bar
Bar
Ballintra, Arranmore, Co. Donegal
00353-74-9520509
5
Glen Bar
Bar
Co. Donegal
00353-74-9520505
13
Smugglers Niteclub
& Bar
Bar/
Niteclub
Co. Donegal
00353-74-9520512
12
Teach Phil Ban
Bar
Co. Donegal
00353-74-9547795
P. 55
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Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Travel
14
Cara na nOilean
Ferry
Service
Ailt an Chorráin/Burtonport,
Co. Donegal
00353-74-9520532
[email protected]
www.arranmoreferry.com
15
Arranmore Ferry
Service/Arranmore
Charters
Ferry
Service
Co. Donegal
00353-87-3171810
[email protected]
www.arranmorecharters.com
TORAIGH (TORY) (MAP REF 2) PAGE 11
Map
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Comharchumann
Oileán Thoraí
Visitor
information
Tory Island, Co. Donegal
00353-74-9135502
[email protected]
www.oileanthorai.com
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Accommodation
1
Ostan Thoraigh (Ostan
Tory)
Hotel
00353-74-9135920 [email protected] www.toryhotel.com
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
[email protected]
www.toryhotel.com
Activities
2
Dive Tory
Dive centre
00353-74-9135920
4
Gailearai Dixon Art
Gallery
Art gallery
00353-91-35011
5
Tory Bicyle Hire
Bicycle hire
00353-74-965614
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
www.oileanthorai.com
Email
Web
Email
Web
Dining/Pub
3
Caife an Chreagain
Cafe
00353-74-9135856
7
Club Soisialta Thorai
Pub
00353-86-8763754
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Travel
6
Mc Geehans
Minibus hire
00353-86-4008233
8
Turasmara Teo
Ferry service
00353-74-9531340
[email protected]
www.toryislandferry.com
9
Toraigh na dTonn
Ferry service
00353-74-9135920
[email protected] www.toryhotel.com
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OILEÁN RUAIDH (ISLAND ROY) (MAP REF 3) PAGE 13
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Accommodation
3
Doherty Holiday
Homes
Self catering
Oileán Ruaidh, Co. Donegal
00353-74-9155535
[email protected]
www.dohertyholidayhomes.com
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Activities
1
Coiste Forbartha Oileán
Ruaidh
Guided
walks
Oileán Ruaidh, Co. Donegal
00353-74-9155535
[email protected]
2
Coiste Forbartha Oileán
Ruaidh
Art classes/
workshops
Oileán Ruaidh, co. Donegal
00353-74-9155535
[email protected]
INIS BÓ FINNE (INISHBOFIN) (MAP REF 4) PAGE 14
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Activities
1
Coiste Forbartha Inis
Bó Finne
Angling,
windsurfing,
kayaking
Inis Bó Finne, Co. Donegal
00353-74-9135635
[email protected]
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Ferry service
Inis Bó Finne, Co. Donegal
00353-74-9135635
[email protected]
Travel
2
Carmel Olivia
INIS FRAOIGH (INISHFREE) (MAP REF 5) PAGE 15
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Activities
1
Culturlann Inis Fraoigh
Courses in
irish music,
dance,
poetry
Inis Fraoigh, Co. Donegal
00353-74-9522893
[email protected]
3
Guided Walks
Walking
Inis Fraoigh, Co. Donegal
00353-74-952
2895
[email protected]
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Ferry service
Burtonport Pier, Co. Donegal
00353-87-9253534
[email protected]
Tel
Email
Web
Travel
2
Inishfree Charters
GABHLA (GOLA) (MAP REF 6) PAGE 16
Map
Name
Type
Address
Activities
P. 57
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CONTENTS
MAP
3
Coiste Forbartha
Ghabhla
Guided
walks
Coiste Forbartha Ghabhla, Gola, Co.
Donegal
1
Mountaineering Council
of Ireland
Guided rock
climbing
Gola Island, Co. Donegal
2
Seod na nOilean
Art classes/
workshops
An Chrannóg, Na Doirí Beaga, Co.
Donegal
Map
Name
Type
Ferry service
00353-74-9531743
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.climbing.ie
00353-74-9532571
[email protected]
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Gola Island, Co. Donegal
00353-87-6607003
[email protected]
Travel
4
Gola Island Ferry
Service (Seod Gabhla)
WEST ISLANDS
ACAILL (ACHILL) (MAP REF 7) PAGE 19
Map
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Achill Tourism
Visitor
information
Cashel, Achill, Co. Mayo
00353-98-47353 [email protected]
www.achilltourism.com
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Accommodation
9
Achill Cliff House Hotel
Hotel
Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo
00353-98-43400
[email protected]
www.achillcliff.com
1
Achill Cottages
Self catering
Glendarrary, Achill, Co. Mayo
00353-98-45200
[email protected]
www.achillcottages.com
10
Achill Head Hotel
Hotel
00353-98-43108
[email protected]
www.achillheadhotel.ie
19
Achill Island Hotel
Hotel
Achill Sound, Achill, Co. Mayo
00353-98-45138
reservations@achillislandhotel.
com
www.achillislandhotel.com
11
Achill Isle House
B&B
Newtown, Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo
00353-98-43355
[email protected]
www.achillislehouse.com
8
Achill Lodge
B&B
Hillside, Bunacurry, Achill, Co. Mayo
00353-98-47878
[email protected]
www.achilllodge.ie
2
Achill Sound Holiday
Homes
Self catering
Barr na Farraig, Achill, Co. Mayo
00353-1 2018400
reservations@
tridentholidayhomes.ie
www.tridentholidayhomes.ie
4
Corrymore - No. 5, 6, 7
Self catering
Dooagh, Achill, Co. Mayo
00353-98 28752
[email protected]
5
Dugort
Self catering
Dooagh, Achill, Co. Mayo
00353-1-8453745
[email protected]
25
Glenvale Cottage Number 1
Self catering
The Valley Crossroads, Dugort, Achill,
Co. Mayo
00353-94-9024116
[email protected]
26
Glenvale Cottage Number 2
Self catering
The Valley Crossroads, Dugort, Achill,
Co. Mayo
00353-87-6647467
[email protected]
27
Grays Guesthouse
Self catering
Dugort, Achill Co. Mayo
00353-98-43244
20
Hy Breasal
B&B
St Fionans Road, Achill Sound, Achill,
Co. Mayo
00353-98-45114
P. 58
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CONTENTS
[email protected]
MAP
www.holidayhomesdirect.
ie/12074/ 12
Keel Holiday Cottages
Self catering
00353-94-9032054
[email protected]
www.mayoholidays.com
13
Keel Sandybanks
Caravan & Camping
Caravaning
& camping
00353-98-43211
[email protected]
www.achillcamping.com
28
Lavelle's Golden Strand
Caravan & Camping
Caravaning
& camping
Dugort, Achill, Co. Mayo
00353-98-47232
14
No.1 The Links
Self catering
Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo
00353-98-43158
[email protected]
21
Ostán Ghob a'Choire/
Achill Sound Hotel
Hotel
00353-98-45245
[email protected]
15
16 Purteen
Self catering
00353-96-22843
[email protected]
16
Realt na Mara
Self catering
Sandybanks, Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo
00353-98-43458
[email protected]
22
Scanlons Rose Cottage
B&B
00353-98-45167
scanlonsrosecottage@hotmail.
com
6
Seaside House
Self catering
Dooega, Achill Island, Co. Mayo
00353-98-45116
7
Seaview
Self catering
Crumpaun, Achill, Co. Mayo
00353-87-2518958
[email protected]
29
Slievemore Houses
Self catering
00353-61-335799
[email protected]
30
Slievemore Holiday
Village
Self catering
Dugort, Achill Island, Co. Mayo
00353-87-8232604
[email protected]
31
Slievemore Holiday
Village
Self catering
00353-1-2803040
[email protected]
32
Strand Hotel
Hotel
00353-98-43241
[email protected]
www.strandhotel.ie
3
The Gallery Apartment,
Danlann Yawl Art
Gallery
Self catering
Owenduff, Tonragee, Achill
00353-98-36137
[email protected]
www.achillpainting.com
17
The Links
Self catering
00353-1-4961034
[email protected]
18
The Sandybanks
Self catering
00353-51-380964
[email protected]
www.thesandybanks.com
24
West Coast House
B&B
School Road, Dooagh, Achill, Co. Mayo
00353-98-43317
[email protected]
www.achillcliff.com/
westcoasthouse.htm
23
Woodview House
B&B
Springvale, Achill Sound, Achill, Co.
Mayo
00353-98-45261
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
www.achillsoundhotel.com
www.lavellesseasidehouse.com
www.westcoastholidays.ie
Activities
33
Achill Adventures
Boat trips
Slievemore, Achill Island, Co. Mayo
00353-85-1311453
[email protected]
www.achilladventures.com
38
Achill Archaeological
Field School
Courses
Dooagh, Achill Island, Co. Mayo
00353-98-43564
[email protected]
www.achill-fieldschool.com
40
Achill Golf Club
Golf
00353-98-43456
[email protected]
www.achillgolfclub.com
35
Achill Outdoor
Education Centre
Adventure
00353-98-47253
[email protected]
www.achilloutdoor.com
36
Achill Sea Angling
Angling
00353-86-3211560
[email protected]
www.angling.irl.com
37
Blackfield Surf School
& Bike Hire
Surfing/
cycling
Closhreid, Achill Island, Co. Mayo
00353-87-2495175
[email protected]
www.blackfield.com
34
Calvey's Equestrian &
Pony Trekking Centre
Equestrian
Slievemore, Achill, Co. Mayo
00353-87-9881093
[email protected]
www.calveysofachill.com
P. 59
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CONTENTS
MAP
39
Dánlann Yawl Art
Gallery & Coffee Shop
Gallery
Owenduff, Tonragee, Achill Island,
Co. Mayo
00353-98-36137
[email protected]
www.achillpainting.com
41
McDowells Hotel And
Activity Centre
Adventure
Slieve Mor Road, Keel, Achill Island,
Co. Mayo
00353-90-6494801
[email protected]
www.achill-leisure.ie
42
O'Malley's Island
Sports Bike Hire
Bike hire
00353-98-43125
[email protected]
43
WindWise Watersports
Events
Adventure
00353-86-4023068
[email protected]
www.windwise.ie
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Dining/Pub
44
Blackfield Coffee &
Dessert House
Café
Closhreid, Achill Island, Co. Mayo
00353-87-2495175
[email protected]
www.blackfield.com
46
Zamba Nightclub
Nightclub
00353-98-43108
[email protected]
www.achillheadhotel.ie
47
The Beehive Craft &
Coffee Shop
Café + craft
0035398-43134
48
Calvey's Restaurant
Restaurant
00353-098-43158
49
Chalet Seafood
Restaurant
Restaurant
00353-98-43157
45
The Cottage Coffee
Shop
Café
Crumpaun, Keel, Achill Island, Co.
Mayo.
00353-98-43908
[email protected]
www.ferndale-achill.com
50
Gieltys Clew Bay
Restaurant
Dooagh, Achill Island, Co. Mayo
00353-98-43119
[email protected]
www.gieltys.com
51
Masterson's Bar
Bar
00353-98-47216
[email protected]
CLARE ISLAND (MAP REF 8) PAGE 21
Map
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Clare Island
Development Group
Visitor
Information
Clare Island, Co. Mayo
00353-98-26525
[email protected]
www.clare-island.org
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
[email protected]
Accommodation
1
Bayview Hotel
Hotel
00353-98-26307
6
Cois Abhainn B&B
B&B
The Quay, Clare Island, Co. Mayo
00353-98-26216
4
Granuaile B&B
B&B
Capnagower, Clare Island, Co. Mayo
00353-98-26250
[email protected]
www.granuailehouse.net
3
O'Gradys Guesthouse
Guesthouse
00353-98-22991
[email protected]
www.ogradysguesthouse.com
2
Seabreeze
B&B
00353-98-26746
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Activities
8
Ballytoughey Loom
Weaving
Ballytoughey, Clare Island, Co. Mayo
00353-98-25800
[email protected]
www.clareisland.info/loom
7
Clare Island Yoga
Retreat Centre
Retreat
centre
00353-98-25412
[email protected]
www.yogaretreats.ie
P. 60
PRINT
CONTENTS
MAP
5
Map
John McCabe
Diving
00353-98-26250
Connemara Safari
Walking/
Island
hopping
(Inishbofin,
Inisturk,
Clare)
Sky Road, Clifden, Co. Galway
00353-95-21071
bookings@walkingconnemara.
com
www.walkingconnemara.com
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Travel
9
Clare Island Ferry
Ferry service
00353-98-23737
[email protected]
www.clareislandferry.com
10
O'Malley Ferry Services
Ferry service
00353-98-25045
[email protected]
www.omalleyferries.com
Web
INISHTURK ISLAND (MAP REF 9) PAGE 23
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Accommodation
1
Ferryman's Inn
B&B
Inisturk, Co. Mayo
00353-98-45541
[email protected]
2
Ocean View House
B&B
Inisturk, Co. Mayo
00353-98-45520
[email protected]
www.inishturkisland.com
3
Teach Abhainn
B&B
Inisturk, Co. Mayo
00353-98-45510
[email protected]
www.inishturk.com.ie/
teachabhainn
4
Tranaun House
B&B
Inisturk, Co. Mayo
00353-98-45641
[email protected]
www.inishturkisland.com
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Ferryman's Inn
Boat trips
Inisturk, Co. Mayo
00353-98-45541
[email protected]
Connemara Safari
Walking/
Island
hopping
(Inishbofin,
Inisturk,
Clare)
00353-95-21071
com
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Activities
5
Map
Dining/Pub
7
Inishturk Community
Centre
Pub
Inisturk, Co. Mayo
00353-98-45655
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
[email protected]
www.clareislandferry.com
Travel
8
Clare Island Ferry
Ferry service
00353-98-23737
9
Inishturk Ferries
Ferry service
Inisturk, Co. Mayo
00353-98-45541
P. 61
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CONTENTS
www,inisturkisland.com
MAP
INISHBOFIN ISLAND (MAP REF 10) PAGE 25
Map
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Inishbofin Community
Centre
Visitor
information/
activites
Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway
00353-95-45861
[email protected]
www.inishbofin.com
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Accommodation
1
Dolphin Hotel
Hotel
00353-95-45991
[email protected]
www.dolphinhotel.ie
2
Doonmore Hotel
Hotel
00353-95-45804,
45814
[email protected]
www.doonmorehotel.com
3
Inishbofin Island Hostel
Hostel
00353-95-45855
[email protected]
www.inishbofin-hostel.ie
4
Inishbofin House Hotel
Hotel
00353-95-45809
[email protected]
www.inishbofinhouse.com
5
Middlequarter
Self catering
Knock, Inishbofin, Co. Galway
00353-95-45849
[email protected]
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
[email protected]
www.islandswest.ie
Activities
6
Islands West
Diving/
Island
hopping
00353-87-2227098
7
Bofin Angling
Angling/
Island
hopping
00353-95-45974
8
Inishbofin Cycle Hire
Bike hire
00353-95-45833
9
Inishbofin Heritage
Museum
Museum
Old Pier, Inishbofin, Co. Galway
00353-95–45950
11
Farmers Market
Market
00353-95-45842
Michael Gibbons
Guided
walks
00353-95-21379
Connemara Safari
Walking/
Island
hopping
(Inishbofin,
Inisturk,
Clare)
00353-95-21071
com
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Map
www.bofinangling.com
[email protected]
Dining/Pub
10
Day's Bar
Bar
00353-95-45829
15
Dolphin Hotel
Restaurant
00353-95-45991
16
Doonmore Hotel
Bar/
Restaurant
00353-95-45804,
45814
[email protected]
www.doonmorehotel.com
17
Inishbofin House Hotel
Restaurant
00353-95-45809
[email protected]
www.inishbofinhouse.com
P. 62
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CONTENTS
MAP
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Travel
12
Island Mini Bus Hire
Minibus
service
00353-95-45895,
45861
13
Inishbofin Island
Discovery
Ferry service
00353-91-45819
www.inishbofinislanddiscovery.
com
ÁRAINN (INISHMORE) (MAP REF 11) PAGE 27
Map
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Tourist Information
Office
Visitor
Information
Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway
00353-99 61263
[email protected]
Web
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
www.ancrugan.com
Accommodation
1
An Crúgan
Self catering
00353-99-61150
[email protected]
2
An Réalog
B&B
Mainistir, Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co.
Galway
00353-99-61159
[email protected]
13
Ard Einne
Guesthouse
Inis Mór, Co. Galway
00353-99-61126
[email protected]
www.ardeinne.com
3
Ard Mhuiris
B&B
00353-99-61208
[email protected]
www.ardmhuiris.com
14
Beach View House
B&B
Inis Mór, Co. Galway
00353-99-61141
[email protected]
www.beachviewhousearan.com
4
Claí Bán
B&B
00353-99-61111
[email protected]
5
Creigmount House
B&B
00353-99-61139
[email protected]
6
Kelly House
B&B
00353-99-61259
[email protected]
15
Kilmurvey House
Guesthouse
Kilmurvey, Inis Mór, Co. Galway
00353-99-61218
[email protected]
www.kilmurveyhouse.com
12
Mainister House Hostel
Hostel
Mainistir, Inis Mór, Co. Galway
00353-99-61169
[email protected]
www.mainistirhousearan.com
16
Man of Aran Cottage
B&B
Kilmurvey, Inis Mor, Co. Galway
00353-99-61301
[email protected]
www.manofarancottage.com
7
Ocean View
B&B
00353-99-61347
[email protected]
www.oceanviewaran.com
8
Ostán Arainn
Hotel
Kilronan, Inis Mór, Co. Galway
00353-99-61104
[email protected]
www.aranislandshotel.com
9
Pier House
Guesthouse
00353-99-61417
[email protected]
10
Radharc na Céibhe
Country
home
00353-99-61297
[email protected]
11
Tigh Fitz
Guesthouse
Killeany, Kilronan, Inis Mór, Co. Galway
00353-99-61213
[email protected]
www.tighfitz.com
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
[email protected]
www.tourbusaranislands.com
Activities
17,
17a
Craft Village/shops
Craft
Kilmurvey and Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co.
Galway
18
Luxury Tours of Inis
Mór
Bus hire/
tour
Killeany, Kilronan, Inis Mór, Co. Galway
00353-87-7782775
19
Rother Arainn Teo
Bike hire
Frenchman's Beach, Kilronan, Inis Mor,
Co. Galway
00353-99-61132
P. 63
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CONTENTS
MAP
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Dining/Pub
20
Pier House Restaurant
Restaurant
00353-99-61811
21
Lios Aengus Café,
Kilronan:
Café
00353-99-61030
22
Óstán Arann
Restaurant
00353-99-61104
23
An tSean Cheibh
Restaurant
00353-99-61228
24
Mainistir House Hostel
Restaurant
00353-99-61169
25
An Sunda Caoch Café
Café
Kilmurvey, Inis Mor, Co, Galway
00353-99-61983
26
Tigh Nan Phaidí
Restaurant
Kilmurvey, Inis Mor, Co, Galway
00353-87-7473935
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
www.obrienline.com
www.aranfisherman.com
Travel
27
Aer Arann Islands
Flight
service
Connemara, Co, Galway
00353-91-593034
[email protected]
www.aerarannislands.ie
28
Aran Doolin Ferries
Ferry service
Doolin, Co. Clare
00353-65-7074455
[email protected]
www.doolinferries.com
29
Doolin Ferries Ltd
Ferry service
Doolin, Co. Clare
00353-65-7075555
[email protected]
www.obrienline.com
30
Doolin2Aran Ferries
Ferry service
Doolin, Co. Clare
00353-65-7075949
[email protected]
www.doolin2aranferries.com
31
Island Ferries Teo
Ferry service
Rossaveal, Co. Galway
00353-91-568903
mailto:[email protected]
www.aranislandferries.com
INIS MEÁIN (INISMAAN) (MAP REF 12) PAGE 29
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
[email protected]
www.inismeainaccommodation.
com
www.inismeain.com
Accommodation
1
An Dún
B&B
Inis Meáin, Co. Galway
00353-99 73047
2
Creig Mór
B&B
00353-99-73012
3
Inis Meáin Restaurant
& Suites
Luxury
accomm.
00353-86-8266026
[email protected]
4
Ostán Inis Meáin
Hotel
00353-99-73020
[email protected]
5
Tig Conghaile
B&B
Moore Village, Inis Meain, Co. Galway
00353-99-73085
[email protected]
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Dining/Pub
7
An Dún
Restaurant/
café
00353-99 73047
[email protected]
www.inismeainaccommodation.
com
8
Inis Meáin Restaurant
& Suites
Restaurant
00353-86-8266026
[email protected]
www.inismeain.com
P. 64
PRINT
CONTENTS
MAP
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Travel
9
Aer Arann Islands
Flight
service
00353-91-593034
[email protected]
10
Aran Doolin Ferries
Ferry service
Doolin, Co. Clare
00353-65-7074455
[email protected]
11
Doolin Ferries Ltd
Ferry service
Doolin, Co. Clare
00353-65-7075555
[email protected]
www.obrienline.com
12
Doolin2Aran Ferries
Ferry service
Doolin, Co. Clare
00353-65-7075949
[email protected]
13
Island Ferries Teo
Ferry service
00353-91-568903
INIS OÍRR (INISHEER) (MAP REF 13) PAGE 31
Map
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Comhar Caomhán Teo
Visitor
information
Inis Oírr, Co. Galway
00353-99-75008
[email protected]
www.inisoirr.ie
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Accommodation
3
Fisherman's Cottage
Accomm
00353-99-75073
[email protected]
www.southaran.com
4
Ostán Inis Oírr
Hotel
Lurgan Village, Co. Galway
00353-99-75020
[email protected]
www.ostaninisoirr.ie
7
Radharc an Chláir
B&B
Castle Village, Inis Oírr
00353-99-75019
[email protected]
6
Radharc na Mara
Hostel
Hostel
West Village, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway
00353-99-75024
[email protected]
5
Tigh Uí Chatháin
B&B
Formna, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway
00353-99-75090
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
www.araseanna.ie
Activities
13
An Céard Siopa
Craft shop
An Baile Thiar, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway
00353-99-75021
14
Aras Eanna
Arts centre
00353-99-75150
[email protected]
15
Rothaí Inis Oírr
Bicycle hire
00353-99-75033
[email protected]
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
[email protected]
www.southaran.com
Dining/Pub
9
Fisherman's Cottage
Accomm
& organic
café
00353-99-75073
10
Teach an Tae
Café
Baile an Lurgan, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway
00353-99-75092
11
Tigh Ned
Pub &
dining
00353-99-75004
12
Tigh Ruairí
Pub &
dining
00353-99-75002
P. 65
PRINT
CONTENTS
[email protected] www.strand-house-inisheer-aran.
ie/index.html
MAP
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Travel
8
Síob an Phobail
Transport/
taxi
Cleas Teo, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway
00353-99-75979
[email protected]
20
Aer Arann Islands
Flight
service
00353-91-593034
[email protected]
16
Aran Doolin Ferries
Ferry service
Doolin, Co. Clare
00353-65-7074455
[email protected]
17
Doolin Ferries Ltd
Ferry service
Doolin, Co. Clare
00353-65-7075555
[email protected]
www.obrienline.com
18
Doolin2Aran Ferries
Ferry service
Doolin, Co. Clare
00353-65-7075949
[email protected]
19
Island Ferries Teo
Ferry service
00353-91-568903
Tel
Email
Web
INIS BIGIL (INISHBIGGLE) (MAP REF 14) PAGE 33
Map
Name
Type
Address
Inis Bigil,
Co. Mayo
00353-98-45513
Travel
1
Angling/Ferry service
www.southaran.com
SOUTH WEST ISLANDS
BERE ISLAND (MAP REF 15) PAGE 37
Map
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Bere Island Projects
Group
Visitor
Information
Community Centre, Bere Island,
Co. Cork
00353-2775099
[email protected]
www.bereisland.net
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Accommodation
5
Admiral's House
Self catering
Lawrence Cove, Bere Island, Co. Cork
00353-27-75213
[email protected]
www.visitbereisland.com
4
Ardagh Holiday Village
Self catering
00353-21-275176
[email protected]
www.dreamireland.com
2
Bere Island Holiday
Homes
Self catering
Ardagh, Bere Island, Co. Cork
00353-27-75995
info@bereislandholidayhomes.
com
www.bereislandholidayhomes.
com
3
Laurence Cove Lodge
B&B
00353-27-75988
[email protected]
www.bereislandlodge.com
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Activities
5a
Admiral's House Sailing
School
Sailing
School
00353-27-75213
[email protected]
www.visitbereisland.com
15
Bere Island Bike Hire
Bike hire
00353-27-75988
[email protected]
www.bereislandlodge.com
8a
Bere Island Ferries
Boat hire/
trips
Ferry Lodge, Bere Island Co. Cork
00353-86-2423140
[email protected]
www.bereislandferry.com
P. 66
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CONTENTS
MAP
6
Bere Island Heritage
Centre
Heritage
centre/
visitor
information
Heritage Centre, Bere Island, Co. Cork
00353-27-75956
[email protected]
www.bereisland.net
7
Bere Island Projects
Group
Guided
walks/bus
tours
Community Centre, Bere Island, Co.
Cork
00353-27-75099
[email protected]
www.bereisland.net
14
Bere Island Sea Safari
Boat hire/
trips
West End, Bere Island, Co. Cork
00353-86-8595701
[email protected]
www.bereislandseasafari.com
10
Lawrence Cove Marina
Marina
00353-27-75044
[email protected]
www.lawrencecovemarina.com
16
Murphys Shop
Shop
Bere Island, Co. Cork
00353-27 -75004
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Dining/Pub
13
Cattapilla Café
Restaurant
00353-86-1064363
17
Island Picnics
Outdoor
picnics/
lunches
Ballinakilla, Bere Island, Co. Cork
00353-86-3660518
12
The Lookout
Restaurant
West End, Bere Island, Co. Cork
00353-27-75999
11
The Hotel
Restaurant
Ballinakilla, Bere Island, Co. Cork
00353-27 75018
18
Sullivans Pub
Pub
Bere Island, Co. Cork
0035327- 75192
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
[email protected]
[email protected]
Travel
8
Bere Island Ferries
Boat hire/
trips
Ferry Lodge, Bere Island Co. Cork
00353-86-2423140
[email protected]
www.bereislandferry.com
9
Murphys Ferry
Ferry service
The Anchorage, Lawrence Cove, Bere
Island, Co. Cork
00353-87-23 6095
[email protected]
www.murphysferry.com
OILÉAN CHLÉIRE (CAPE CLEAR) (MAP REF 16) PAGE 39
Map
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Comharchumann
Chléire Teo (Island
Co-op)
Visitor
information
(Jan-May,
Sept-Dec)
Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork
00353-28-39119
[email protected]
www.oilean-chleire.ie
Information & craft
shop
Visitor
information
(May-Sept)
00353-28-39100
[email protected]
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Accommodation
1
Ard na Gaoithe
B&B
The Glen, Cape Clear Island, Co.Cork
00353-28-39160
[email protected]
www.dirl.com/cork/ard-nagaoithe.htm
2
Cape Clear Youth
Hostel
Hostel
The Old Coastguard Station, South
Harbour, Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork
00353-28-41968
[email protected]
www.capeclearhostel.com
P. 67
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CONTENTS
MAP
3
Cluain Mara
B&B
North Harbour, Cape Clear Island,
Co. Cork
00353-28-39153
[email protected]
www.capeclearisland.com
5
O'Driscoll Holiday
Cottage
Self catering
Co. Cork
00353-28-39153
[email protected]
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Activities
25
Baltimore Sea Safari
Boat Hire/
Trips
Church Strand, Baltimore, Co. Cork.
00353-28-20753
[email protected]
www.baltimoreseasafari.ie
24
Cailin Oir Ferries
Themed
boat tours
& cruises
00353-28-39159
[email protected]
www.cailinoirr.com
8
Cape Clear Heritage
Centre
Heritage
centre/
museum
Oileán Chléire, an Sciobairín, Co. Cork
00353-28-39119
[email protected]
6
Cape Clear Island
Adventure Centre
Adventure
centre
00353-28-39198
[email protected]
www.lasmuigh.ie
7
Cape Clear Maritime
Centre/Ionad Mara
Chléire
Heritage
centre/
museum
00353-28-41976
9
Cape Clear Bird
Observatory & Hostel
Observatory/
hostel
00353-28-39181
[email protected]
www.birdwatchireland.ie
13
Cléire Goats
Open farm
00353-28-39126
[email protected]
14
Coláiste Ciarán
Irish
language
learning
00353-21-4821116
[email protected]
15
Coláiste Phobal Chléire
Irish
language
learning
00353-28-39119
[email protected]
16
MVS Gaisceanán
Boat hire/
trips
00353-28-39182
[email protected]
26
Library
Internet
access
Co. Cork
00353-28-39119
[email protected]
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Dining/Pub
17
Ciarán Danny Mike's
Bar/
restaurant
00353-28-39153
[email protected]
18
Cotter's
Bar/
restaurant
Co. Cork
00353-28-39153
[email protected]
19
An Siopa Beag
Grocery
shop/café
Co. Cork
00353-28-39099
[email protected]
www.siopabeag.ie
20
Sean Rua's Restaurant
Restaurant
Co. Cork
00353-28-39099
[email protected]
www.siopabeag.ie
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Vintage
tractor tour
00353-28-39101
Travel
11
P. 68
Paddy Wagon Tours
PRINT
CONTENTS
MAP
12
Bus Tours
Bus Service
00353-28-39119
[email protected]
21
Cailin Oir Ferries
Ferry
Service
00353-28-41923
[email protected]
www.cailinoirr.com
22
Naomh Ciaran 2
Ferry
Service
00353-28-39153
[email protected].
www.capeclearferry.com
23
Karycraft
Ferry
Service
00353-28-28278
[email protected]
www.capeclearferries.com
Tel
Email
Web
HEIR ISLAND (MAP REF 17) PAGE 41
Map
Name
Type
Address
Accommodation
1
MJ Hartes
Self catering
Heir Island, Co. Cork
[email protected]
2
Nell's Cottage
Self catering
00353-28-38483
[email protected]
3
Roaringwater Lodge
Accomm
(part of
sailing
school)
00353-28-38511
[email protected]
www.heirislandsailingschool.com
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Activities
4
Heir Island Sailing
School
Sailing
School
00353-28-38511
[email protected]
5
Island Cottage
Cookery
school and
accomm
00353-28-38102
[email protected]
www.islandcottage.com
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Dining/Pub
6
Island Cottage
Restaurant
00353-28-38102
[email protected]
www.islandcottage.com
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Travel
7
Heir Island Ferries
Ferry
Service
00353-86-8887799
www.heirislandferries.com
8
MV Thresher/Heir
island Sailing School
Ferry
Service
00353-86-8092447
SHERKIN ISLAND (MAP REF 18) PAGE 43
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
www.sherkinisland.com
Accommodation
1
Horseshoe Bay House
Self catering
Horseshoe Bay, Sherkin Island,
Co. Cork
00353-28-21794
[email protected]
2
Horseshoe Cottage
B&B
Sherkin Island, Co. Cork
00353-28-20598
[email protected]
P. 69
PRINT
CONTENTS
MAP
3
Islander's Rest
Hotel
00353-28-20116
4
Windhoek
B&B/ Self
catering
00353-28-20275
[email protected]
www.islandersrest.ie
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Activities
5
Horseshoe Cottage
Yacht
charter
00353-28-20598
[email protected]
6
Packard Gallery
Art gallery
00353-28 20336
[email protected]
7
Rib Rides
Boat hire/
trips
00353-28-20116
8
Sherkin Island Guided
Walks
Guided
walks
00353-87-7715862
[email protected]
9
Summer Art Courses
Art courses
00353-87-8319929
[email protected]
www.sherkinart.com
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
00353-28-20379
Email
Web
Dining/Pub
10
Jolly Roger
Restaurant
11
Tigin
Coffee
shop/crafts
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Travel
12
Rural Transport
Bus hire
00353-86-0431956
13
Sherkin Ferry
Boat trips/
Ferry service
00353-28-20218
14
Ten Island Tours
Boat tours/
cruises
00353-87-2638470
[email protected]
www.tenislandtours.com
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Self
Catering/
watersports
Baltimore, Co. Cork
00353-28-21745
[email protected]
www.inishbeg.com
www.sherkinisland.eu/ferry
INISH BEG
Map
Name
Accommodation
Inish Beg Self Catering
Holiday Cottages &
Homes
P. 70
PRINT
CONTENTS
MAP
VALENTIA (MAP REF 19) PAGE 45
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Accommodation
1
Shealane Country
House
B&B
Valentia Island, Co. Kerry
00353-66-9476354
[email protected]
www.valentiaskelligs.com
2
Spring Acre
B&B
Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry
00353-66-9476141
[email protected]
www.springacrebb.com
3
Atlantic Villa
B&B/self
catering
00353-66-9476839
[email protected]
www.anirishexperience.com
4
Carraig Liath House
Self catering
Bridge Road, Coromore, Valentia
Island, Co. Kerry
00353-66-9476344
francesosullivan766@hotmail.
com
www.carraigliath-house.com
5
Ivy House
Self catering
00353-66-9476141
[email protected]
www.springacrebb.com
6
Knightstown Holiday
Homes
Self catering
00353-1-2018400
reservations@
tridentholidayhomes.ie
www.tridentholidayhomes.ie
7
Oaklodge
Self catering
Ballyhearney West, Valentia Island,
Co. Kerry
00353-25-31982
[email protected]
8
Teach Dairbhre
Self catering
Tennies, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry
00353-66-7127921
[email protected]
9
Tiarna
Self catering
Ballyhearney, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry
0044-780-2725364
[email protected]
10
Valentia Holiday
Homes
Self catering
Farranreagh, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry
00353-61-335799
[email protected]
www.westcoastholidays.ie
11
Valentia Island
Cottages
Self catering
Tennies, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry
00353-66-9476224
[email protected]
www.valentiaislandcottages.com
12
Watch House
Cottages/Valentia
Island Holiday Homes
Self catering
00353-66 9792208
[email protected]
www.
valentiaislandholidayhomes.com
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Activities
13
Alan Hall Sculptor
Art gallery
00353-66-947
6105
14
Barbara Lively
Art gallery
Coarhabeg, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry
00353-87-1349195
15
Farmers Market
Farming
Low Road, Knightstown, Valentia
Island, Co. Kerry
00353-87-6172898
16
Geokaun Mountain and
Fogher Cliffs
Heritage /
walking
00353-66-9476306
[email protected]
www.geokaun.com
17
Geokaun Mountain and
Fogher Cliffs
Walking
00353-66-9476306
[email protected]
www.geokaun.com
18
Glanleam House and
Subrtropical Gardens
Botanical
Glanleam, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry
00353-66-9476176
€5 entrance
[email protected]
www.glanleam.com
19
Heather Valley Angling
Sea angling
00353-87-6155072
[email protected]
20
Irish Art Collector
Art gallery
00353-87-2767999
[email protected]
www.irishartcollector.com
21
Skellig Experience
Visitor Centre
Visitor
Centre
00353-66-9476306
[email protected]
www.skelligexperience.com
22
Valentia Island Sea
Angling
Sea angling
Altazamuth House, Knightstown,
00353-66-9476300
[email protected]
www.
valentiaislandseaangling.com
[email protected]
P. 71
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CONTENTS
MAP
23
Valentia Island Sea
Sports & Adventure
Centre
Adventure
centre
00353-66-9476204
[email protected]
www.divevalentia.ie
34
Valentia Island Heritage
Centre Museum
School Road, Knightstown, Valentia
Island, Co. Kerry
00353-66-9476411
ValentiaHeritageCentre@gmail.
com
35
CC Angling Angling
00353-87-124558
[email protected]
www.ccangling.com Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
[email protected] Dining/Pub
24
Boston's Bar &
Restaurant
Restaurant
353-66-9476140
25
Farmhouse Icecream
Farming
Kilbeg, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry
00353-66-9476864
26
Fuschia Restaurant
Restaurant
Knightstown, Valentia island, Co. Kerry
00353-66-9476051
27
Knightstown Coffee
Shop
Restaurant
00353-94-76373
28
The Lighthouse Café
Restaurant
Dohilla, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry
00353-66-9476304
29
The Ring Lyne
Bar/
restaurant
Chapeltown, Valentia Island. Co. Kerry
00353-66-9476103
30
The Royal Valentia
Bar/
restaurant
00353-94-76144
31
The Sandbar
Restaurant
00353-87-0548618
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
www.valentiaicecream.com
www.royalvalentia.com
Web
Travel
32
Kennedy Bus Hire
Bus/taxi
hire
Coarhabeg, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry
00353-66-9476183
[email protected]
33
Quigley's Hackney
Service
Bus/taxi
Glanleam, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry
00353-87-9708200
[email protected]
WHIDDY ISLAND (MAP REF 21) PAGE 48
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Dining/Pub
1
Bank House Restaurant
Boat hire/
trips
Whiddy Island, Co. Cork
00353-86-8981927
[email protected]
www.inishbeg.com
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Travel
2
Whiddy Island Ferries
Ferry
Service
Whiddy Island, Co. Cork
00353-86-8626734
3
Island Tripper
Boat tours/
cruises/
ferry service
to Cape,
Sherkin,
Whiddy
Cape Clear, Co. Cork
00353-28-41923
P. 72
PRINT
CONTENTS
www.whiddyislandferry.com
[email protected]
MAP
www.islandtripper.com
DURSEY ISLAND (MAP REF 22) PAGE 49
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Cable Car
Dursey Island, Co. Cork
00353-27-73017
[email protected]
www.windypointhouse.com
Travel
1
Dursey Island Cable Car
GARINISH ISLAND (MAP REF 23) PAGE 50
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Travel
1
Glengariff + Garinish
Ferry services
Ferry service
Glengariff, Co. Cork
00353-27-63116
[email protected]
www.harbourqueenferry.com
2
Blue Pool Ferry
Ferry
Service
Glengariff, Co. Cork
00353-27-63333
[email protected]
www.bluepoolferry.com
BLASKET ISLANDS (MAP REF 24) PAGE 51
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Blasket Islands Ferry
Ferry
Service
Blasket Islands, Co. Kerry
00353-66-9154864
[email protected]
www.blasketislands.ie
Blasket Island Ferries +
Eco Tours
Eco marine
adventure
tour/ferry
service
Blasket Islands, Co. Kerry
00353-66-9156422
Travel
www.blasketislands.com
THE SKELLIGS (MAP REF 25) PAGE 52
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Visitor
Centre
00353-66-9476306
[email protected]
www.skelligexperience.com
Travel
Skellig Experience
Visitor Centre
P. 73
PRINT
CONTENTS
MAP
NORTHERN IRELAND ISLANDS
RATHLIN ISLAND (MAP REF 26) PAGE 53
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Accommodation
1
Coolnagrock Bed &
Breakfast
B&B
Ballynoe, Rathlin Island, Ballycastle,
Co. Antrim, BT54 6RT
0044-28-20763983
www.n-ireland.co.uk/rathlin
2
Puffin Cottage
B&B
7 Church Bay, Rathlin Island,
Ballycastle, Co. Antrim, BT54 6RT
004428-091811659
[email protected]
www.donard.com
3
Rathlin Manor House
Manor
house
Rathlin Island, Co. Antrim, BT54 6RT
0044-28-20763964
[email protected]
www.rathlinmanorhouse.co.uk
4
Soerneog View Hostel
Hostel
Ouig, Rathlin Island
Co. Antrim, BT54 6RT
0044-28-20763954
[email protected]
www.n-irelandholidays.co.uk/
rathlin
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Dining/Pub
6
Bruce's Kitchen
Cafe
The Harbour, Rathlin Island,
Ballycastle, Co. Antrim BT54 6RT
0044-28-207
63974
7
Manor House
Restaurant
Rathlin Island, Co. Antrim, BT54 6RT
0044-28-207
63964
[email protected]
www.rathlinmanorhouse.co.uk
Map
Name
Type
Address
Tel
Email
Web
Ferry
Service
Ballycastle Ferry Terminal,
18 Bayview Road, Ballycastle,
Co. Antrim, BT54 6BT
0044-28-20769299
[email protected]
www.rathlinballycastleferry.com
Travel
5
P. 74
Rathlin Island Ferries
PRINT
CONTENTS
MAP
FÁILTE IRELAND OFFICES CONTACTS
DUBLIN OPERATIONS
Fáilte Ireland, Amiens Street,
Dublin 1
If dialing from inside the Republic of Ireland
Tel: 1890 525 525 or (01) 8847700
Fax: (01) 855 6821
From outside the Republic of Ireland
Tel: 00 353 1 8847700
Email: [email protected]
MULLINGAR
Fáilte Ireland, Dublin Road, Mullingar,
County Westmeath.
Tel: +353 (0) 44 9348761
Fax: +353 (0) 44 9340413
Email: eastandmidlandsinfo@
failteireland.ie
SLIGO
Fáilte Ireland, Áras Reddan,
Temple Street, Sligo.
Tel: +353 (0) 71 9161201
Fax: +353 (0) 71 9160360
CORK
Fáilte Ireland, Áras Fáilte, Grand
Parade, Cork City.
Tel: +353 (0) 21 4255100
Fax: +353 (0) 21 4255199
Email: corkkerryinfo@failteireland.
GALWAY
Fáilte Ireland, Áras Fáilte, Forster Street, Galway City.
Tel: +353 (0) 91 537700
Fax: +353 (0) 91 537733
P. 75
WATERFORD
Fáilte Ireland, 41 the Quay,
Waterford City.
Tel: +353 (0) 51 875823
Fax: +353 (0) 51 876720
PRINT
CONTENTS
BELFAST
Fáilte Ireland, 53 Castle Street,
Belfast BT1 1GH
Tel: (028) 9026 5500
Fax: (028) 9026 5515
If dialing from the Republic of Ireland
to Northern Ireland the direct code
is: (048) 9026 5500
E-mail: [email protected]
DERRY
Fáilte Ireland, Derry Visitor &
Convention Bureau, 44 Foyle Street,
Derry, BT48 6AT
Tel/Fax: (028) 7136 9501
MAP
TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICES
For more information on travel to Ireland please contact Tourism Ireland, the overseas
marketing body for the island of Ireland, at www.discoverireland.com
Cliffs of Moher Tourist
Information Office
Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre, Cliffs
of Moher, Co Clare
T. +353 (0)65 7081171
E. tourisminfo@
shannondevelopment.ie
W. www.discoverireland.ie/shannon
Aran Tourist Information Office
Cill Ronain (Kilronan), Inis Mór,
Aran Islands, Co Galway
T. +353 (0)99 61263
E. [email protected]
W. www.discoverireland.ie/west
Clifden Tourist Information Office
Galway Road, Clifden, Co Galway
T. +353 (0)95 21163
P. 76
Westport Tourist Information
Office
James Street, Westport, Co Mayo
T. +353 (0)98 25711
Donegal Town Tourist Office
The Quay, Donegal Town, Donegal
T. +353 (0)74 9721148
W. www.discoverireland.ie/
northwest
Dingle Tourist Information Office
The Quay, Dingle, Co. Kerry
T. +353 (0)66 9151188
southwest
Cork City Tourist Information
Office
Grand Parade, Cork City
T. +353 (0)21 4255100
southwest
Killarney Tourist Information
Office
Beech Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry
T. +353 (0)64 6631633
southwest
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Discover Ireland Centre
Aras Failte, Forster Street,Galway
City Centre
T. +353 (0)91 537700
MAP
Fáilte Ireland,
Amiens Street, Dublin 1
Tel: 1890 525 525 / +353 1 884 7700
Fax: +353 1 855 6821
www.failteireland.ie
www.discoverireland.ie
P. 77
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