Aran Pony and Trap Tours

Discover Inis Mór with Aran Pony & Trap Tours 🐴

Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands, offers a unique and charming way to explore its scenic beauty and rich history: the pony and trap tour. Run by Thomas Faherty, this traditional mode of transportation harks back to the 1940s and continues to enchant visitors with its nostalgic charm and intimate experience of the island’s attractions.

A Family Tradition

Pony and trap tours on Inis Mór have been a family tradition for generations. Thomas Faherty upholds this heritage, guiding visitors around the island with stories and histories passed down through the years. His tours provide not just transportation, but an immersive storytelling experience that brings the island’s past and present to life.

Unique Highlights

Thomas’s tours stand out for their personalised touch. He points out lesser-known spots and hidden gems that many visitors might otherwise miss, such as the fascinating Wormhole, a natural rectangular pool carved into the limestone.

Tour Details

Duration and Route

The typical pony and trap tour lasts between 3 to 4 hours, starting and ending in Kilronan, the island’s main village. The route includes key attractions such as the ancient fort of Dún Aonghasa and the Inishmore seal colony.

Dún Aonghasa

One of the most popular stops is Dún Aonghasa, a 3,000-year-old stone fort perched on the edge of a 300-foot cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can explore this prehistoric marvel, which is protected by three massive dry-stone walls and a “chevaux-de-frise” of jagged limestone rocks. The fort is accessible via a hike from the Visitor Centre over rough terrain, so good walking shoes are recommended. The breathtaking views from the cliff are unmatched, but caution is advised as there are no barriers at the edge.

Inishmore Seal Colony

Another highlight is the Inishmore seal colony, located about a mile from Kilmurvy beach. This spot is perfect for a picnic, with tables available for use. The best time to see the seals is at low tide when they bask on the rocks; during high tide, they are mostly visible only by their heads in the water. Visitors can often spot between 5 to 20 seals at a time during low tide.

Kilronan Village

The tour concludes back in Kilronan, the hub of Inis Mór. Here, visitors can find the island’s only ATM located in the SPAR Supermarket, which also offers a great selection of picnic supplies. Kilronan is an excellent place to shop for souvenirs, with numerous craft shops providing locally made goods.

Practical Information

Availability and Booking

Pony and trap tours operate on a first-come, first-served basis, especially busy during the summer months when many traps are available. Custom horse and carriage tours can also be arranged upon request.

Cost

The cost of a pony and trap tour ranges from €20 to €50 per person, depending on the trap’s size and the tour specifics. Most operators accept only cash, so it’s advisable to come prepared. Traps vary in size, accommodating between 4 to 9 people, making it suitable for both small groups and larger parties.

What to Expect

Contact

Phone: +353 (0) 99 61292 or +353 (0) 852859777
Email: [email protected]