Discovering Ireland's Islands
The Emerald Isle, better known as Irlande, boasts a coastline dotted with countless islands. Magnificent and wild, each one radiates its own unique atmosphere.
The Emerald Isle, better known as Irlande, boasts a coastline dotted with countless islands. Magnificent and wild, each one radiates its own unique atmosphere. Are you torn between the 3 Aran Islands or wondering how to reach Skellig Michael? Curious about which Irish island to visit to walk in the footsteps of Star Wars? Discover our tips for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Celtic lands and the country's most stunning archipelagos.
Discovering the Aran Islands
Situated at the entrance to Galway Bay, the Aran Islands form a wild archipelago. Known for their legends, they are considered Ireland's most mysterious islands.
Inisheer Island (Inis Oírr)
Covering less than 3 square kilometers, Inisheer is a small paradise on earth. Beyond being relatively untouched by tourism, it preserves wild white-sand beaches and a rich historical heritage:
O'Brien's Castle: a journey through time that also allows you to admire the valley.
Cnoc Raithní: this is the oldest prehistoric monastic site on the Aran Islands (some relics have been dated to 1500 BC)
The Plassey Wreck: stranded on the island in the early 1960s while sailing through Galway Bay, the Plassey Wreck has remained unmoved since its sinking!
Inishmore Island (Inis Mór)
Inishmore is the largest of the Aran Islands. A true open-air museum, it boasts over 50 monuments. Its must-sees?
Dun Aengus Fort: this curiosity, made up of a triple semicircular enclosure, offers breathtaking views from the cliff face.
Worm's Hole Pool: carved into the heart of the rock, this natural cavity is also a major venue for extreme sports competitions.
Inishmaan Island (Inis Meáin)
Located at the center of the archipelago, Inishmaan is a maze of winding roads. With exceptional wild flora, Inis Meáin is THE destination to recharge, far from the chaos of modern life. To unwind? Explore:
Dún Conor Fort: the island's main historical monument, this site impresses with its spectacular beauty.
Commanding views over the Cliffs of Moher.
To reach the islands, several ferry companies operate crossings from Rossaveal Port in Connemara (approximately 35 minutes).
Exploring the Skellig Islands (including the Irish Star Wars island)
According to legend, the earliest reference to the Skellig Islands dates back to the year 600! A major historical refuge for Catholics, the archipelago preserves exceptional religious heritage. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, it ranks among Europe's finest medieval monastic sites.
Skellig Michael Island
Also known as Great Skellig, this island (only accessible by boat) offers a sense of discovery, as though no modern traveler had ever set foot on these lands before you. Uncover its ancestral heritage, including:
The Skellig Michael Staircase: winding through the rock, it offers breathtaking ocean views and Little Skellig. While not dangerous, ascending requires good physical fitness—it has 618 steps! Star Wars fans will recognize landscapes from Star Wars Episode VIII.
Ballinskelligs Abbey: the Ballinskelligs priory was built in the 12th century, after numerous Viking attacks. Despite the passage of time, vestiges dating from the 15th century still stand in the heart of these wild lands!
Before Skellig Michael hosted Star Wars, devoted monks had transformed this islet into a sacred refuge. Since filming of the Force Awakens episode in 2014, maritime companies have offered transfers between the village of Portmagee and Great Skellig. It's advisable to book your journey several days in advance.
Little Skellig Island
Due to its isolation, it's impossible to land on this island. A haven for gannets, Little Skellig is draped in white when thousands of birds huddle together along its cliffs!
Discovering Ireland's Islands: the Emerald's Coastal Jewels
Ireland's coast is home to (very) many islands. Among the must-sees of the "Green Erin":
Rathlin Island: in addition to hosting thousands of birds, Rathlin Island is also nicknamed "the seal island." Tip? Keep your eyes open—you'll spot them on the rocks.
Tory Island: located in the northwestern part of the Wild Atlantic Way, the island is steeped in history and mythology. Its standout feature? Its Big Key cliff, named for the jagged shape of its rocks.
Achill Island: recognized as Ireland's largest island, it's also renowned for its desolate moorland and Neolithic remains!
Dursey Island: though very small, it's Ireland's most unusual island thanks to its access... by cable car! Within its roughly 10 km²? Whales, dolphins, and a sense of freedom facing the ocean.
Frequently asked questions
Several ferry companies operate services between Rossaveal Port in Connemara and the Aran Islands. The crossing takes approximately 35 minutes. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season (July-August).
Skellig Michael Island (or Great Skellig) was used for filming Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015) and The Last Jedi (2017). The landscapes of the stone staircase and medieval monastery are recognizable.
No, landing on Little Skellig is impossible due to its isolation and the protection of its gannet colony, one of Europe's largest. However, it's possible to sail around it from Portmagee.
Achill Island is recognized as Ireland's largest island. It's connected to the mainland by a bridge and is renowned for its desolate moorland, wild beaches, and Neolithic remains.
Inishmaan Island (Inis Meáin) is ideal for recharging away from mass tourism. With exceptional wild flora and winding roads, it offers an authentic experience in the heart of Celtic lands.
Dursey Island is often cited as the most unusual: it's accessible only by cable car, Ireland's sole one. From its roughly 10 km², it's possible to spot whales and dolphins in the Atlantic Ocean.
