Discovering the Aran Islands for the first time is to savour what it must have been like living in Ireland many decades, and in parts centuries, ago. The Aran Islands are a small set of 3 islands set 8 km off the west coast of Ireland. Heading west from the islands there is nothing but Atlantic ocean all the way to the American east coast and it is this exposure to the Atlantic that has formed the Aran Islands, making it rugged, isolated and an unspoilt scenic location for day-trippers and visitors wishing to find something tranquil and relaxing on Ireland’s west coast.
The scenery is the big draw with the islands formed on a tough limestone base of grey/blue craggy rock. Many traditional Irish cottages dot the landscape of these islands on their sheltered side (being sheltered from the Atlantic breeze) and the characteristic stone walls that are centuries old will give you picture opportunities down every winding little lane. Indeed, the real fun of the islands is to wander around their many narrow lanes to discover the old monastic settlements.
There are three islands: Inishmor, Inishmaan and Inisheer. Visitors can take the short ferry (30 – 60 minute journey) from either Galway or Doolin (with the Doolin ferry trip being the shorter one). Alternatively, Aer Arann do a flight from Minna airport (40km west of Galway) if you don’t fancy the ferry ride.
Inishmor is the largest and most tourist-oriented of the 3 islands with plenty of accommodation options on offer along with shops where you can buy authentic Aran woolen sweaters. This is the biggest of the islands at about 14km long so if you are only over for the day then rent one of the bicycles (available from the harbour) and take an enjoyable spin through the lanes. None of the islands are mountainous so most should be able to ramble/cycle around them without too much strain. Inishmor also has some of the most impressive stone forts with Dun Aengus outside the village of Kilronan being one of the must see sites to the islands. It is a wonderful archaeological site sitting atop a sheer cliff which really has to be seen to be believed. Just be careful of the pathways and don’t go off the main track as there are no guard rails. The islands lesser visited forts at Dun Eochla and Dun Duchathair are just as enjoyable.
On Inishmaan island you can expect more tranquillity than Inishmor but it is no less scenic and worth the visit. Fans of the author JMSynge will know that he stayed on this island writing over several years and seeing the cottage he lived in and ‘Synges Chair’ on the west of island is worth the trek to see where the writer spent his time reflecting and, most probably, enjoying the spectacular views.
Inisheer is the smallest of the islands and unfortunately the lesser visited of the three due to the lack of archaeological ruins or forts and the lack of traditional houses. That said, it still has wonderful rugged scenery and views and the avid walker will enjoy strolling through the tranquil rock walled lanes of this island.
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