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The Aran Islands are a group of three islands on the west coast of Ireland. These islands consist of Inis Mór (Big Island), Inis Meáin (Middle Island), and Inis Oírr (East Island). These Aran Islands are important elements of Celtic culture due to their geological formation, historical monuments, and their linguistic and cultural heritage. Inis Mór is the largest and most popular island to visit, but both Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr are also beautiful and fascinating islands.
Visiting these stark, beautiful isles is like stepping back in time. Pony and trap make their way around the narrow roads lined with miles and miles of stone walls. Each of these islands has an abundance of fascinating historical monuments. Irish is the main spoken language in this Gaeltacht area of Ireland, and this really provides a unique experience. Take the time to try learning some basic Irish phrases so that you can interact with the locals in their own language.
Thanks to the isolation and traditional way of living, the environment of these islands has not been affected by the heavy use of herbicides, pesticides, deep plough tractors, and loss of hedgerows. Consequently, the Aran Islands are home to over 400 wildflower species such as the Dense-Flowered Orchid, Irish and Mossy Saxifrages, Purple Milk Vetch, Bird’s Foot Trefoil, and Mountain Pansy. The islands are also home to a variety of birds including gannets, plovers and herons. If you’re lucky you may even see a Peregrine Falcon which breeds on the cliffs of Inis Meáin.
There are few people living on the Aran Islands, and very little traffic. Consequently, you will find peace and tranquillity on these isles, especially after the tourists depart on the afternoon ferry. If you’re looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, then stay overnight. Spend the evening at the local pub, meet the locals and enjoy some Irish music and great craic.
Are you a fan of Ireland’s beloved comedy sitcom Father Ted? Inis Mór is considered to be the real ‘Craggy Island’, although the aerial shot at the beginning of the show is actually of Inis Oírr. Every year a Friends of Ted Festival, or ‘Tedfest’, hold a fan convention on Inis Mór for fans to celebrate their love of Father Ted. For more information about Tedfest go to tedfest.org.
- In the summer months the islands get busy, so book in advance to guarantee your tours, ferry, and accommodation.
- Take cash – there are no cash machines on the smaller islands and limited ability to pay with card.
- I’ve added some links to some walks available on each of the Islands, but if you want a more detailed guide, then I recommend The Burren and The Aran Islands – A Walking Guide. It gives detailed information about the environment, plants, animals and history.
- If you want to learn more about the Aran Islands history, check out Tim Robinson’s Stones Of Aran which provides a wealth of information about the island’s folklore, wildlife, names, habitations, and natural and human histories.
- Visit the local pubs and enjoy the traditional Irish musicians playing.
