Inis Mór (Aran Islands)

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Inishmore: the largest Aran Island

Inis Mór, as its name suggests is the “big island”, the largest of the three Aran Islands. Its main village is Kilronan. This is an ancient land set in an endless sea where great labyrinths of limestone sweep upwards to awesome cliffs, with their strange, weathered monuments of stone. Meandering stone walls pattern small patchwork fields, sometimes running down to clean, unpolluted and quiet beaches. Approximately 9 miles (12 kms) long and 2 miles (3 kms) wide Inis Mór is a walker’s holiday paradise. Across the island and over some many miles of craggy, sandy and sometimes stony shoreline there is an abundance of wildlife and over 437 varieties of wild flower. Here is an island of limestone rafts, interlinking trails and breathtaking cliffs, with their panoramic views of Connemara, Clare and sometimes as far south as Kerry, on a clear horizon.

The most convenient way to explore Inis Mór is by bicycle, which can be hired at Kilronan pier. Alternatively why not take a more leisurely option of traditional pony and trap which can take you also over the island. There are also guided tours available, in minibuses, from Kilronan Pier. Visitors can get a superb introduction to the islands’ culture and history at Ionad Árann, the excellent visitor centre.

Inis Mór: 1 day itinerary

*Bus and Ferry departure times can change, confirm with operators directly.

Inishmore Sightseeing Highlights

Kilronan Village

The main hub of activity on the island with pubs and restaurants, this thriving tiny fishing community is home to the port from which boats to and from Inis Mór Island depart. For the 6 mile ride to Dun Aonghasa, the majority of people rent bikes. The village is the ideal location to have a coffee, use the island’s only cash machine, go diving at the Dive Academy overlooking thee beach, go swimming in the clear water, sample Man of Aran Fudge, people watch, and simply unwind in the sunshine. Kilronan village is a fantastic place to get a pint of Guinness on the way back from Dun Aonghasa.

Kilurvey Craft Village

At this lovely cluster of period thatched houses, you can observe local knitters creating handmade traditional Aran jumpers. Among the regional arts and crafts for sale are woolens, Irish linen, carved stonework, and jewelry with Celtic-inspired patterns. In summer, it usually opens every day; if you’re planning a special excursion, check with the tourist information center for opening hours.

The Inis Mor Seal Colony

If the tide is not high, you can observe the island’s seal population bathing if you ride your bike down the coastal road east of Kilmurvey Beach. Plan your journey for a clear day to observe the majestic creatures lounging on the rocks, often in groups of 15-20. Bring your binoculars for a totally unique perspective and keep an eye out for wild swans in the neighboring lake.

Teampall Chiaráin & The Standing Stones

Teampall Chiaráin is located in the village of Mainistir and was built in the early 12th century. According to legend, St. Ciarán of Clonmacnoise founded it after studying under St. Enda here before setting up his foundation at Clonmacnoise by sailing up the Shannon. Near the church, some slabs with crosses on them can be found. The most remarkable one is located right outside the cathedral to the east. It has a hole in it and is beautifully carved, suggesting that it may have served as a sundial. Islanders customarily thread a scarf or handkerchief through the hole which is thought to promote fertility and good fortune. Located 1.5 kilometers to the northwest of Kilronan.

Dún Aonghasa

Positioned on the 300ft cliff side to the south of Inismór, this semi-circular stone fort of Dún Aonghasa offers dramatic views of the Island, the Atlantic and on a clear day the coast of county Kerry, 100km to the south. Visitors come here from all over the world to discover its rich history stretching back to 1500 BC. On the outskirts of Kilmurvey Craft Village, the Dun Aonghasa Visitor Center offers a variety of information about Dun Aonghasa, the Cliffs, and The Aran Islands in general.

Kilmurvey (Cill Mhuirbhigh) blue flag beach

A magnificent white sandy beach with a blue flag designation, Kilmurvey Beach is about 20mins cycle from Kilronan following a scenic coastal road taking in the unique island landscape of stone walls and small fields that stretch for miles and pass by the Seal Colony on the way. Due to the lack of strong currents, swimming is safe for both young and old at Kilmurvey Beach. On a sunny day, the contrast between the white sand and the azure ocean is stunning. There are numerous excellent picnic areas, along with local cafes and crafts shops to explore in Kilmurvey village and access to Dún Aonghasa and The Worm Hole nearby.

The Worm Hole

The Worm Hole is an unusual rectangular shaped pool at the cliffs south of Dún Aonghasa and is one of the most recognizable sights in Galway’s Aran Islands. Also known as Poll na bPeist (The Serpents Lair) it was brought to international prominence during the Red Bull Diving World Series in 2017 which took advantage of this deep, naturally created rectangular pool for its competition.

Na Seacht dTeampaill (The Seven Churches)

The Seven Churches, also known as Na Seacht Teampaill, was likely the most significant place of pilgrimage on the Aran Islands throughout the Middle Ages. There may have been seven places of worship at Na Seacht Tempaill, or the Seven Churches but today, only Teampall Brecan and Teampall an Phoill churches remain. The Irish church appears to have encouraged its followers to travel on pilgrimages to remote parts of the country beginning around the year 800. The Aran Islands in County Galway would seem to have been one of the more popular locations. Built around 1200, Temple Brecan is surrounded by a group of rectangular homes that are thought to be the only pilgrim hostels from late-medieval Ireland still standing.

Old Lighthouse

At the highest point on Inis Mór, the old lighthouse is one of The Aran Islands’ most notable landmarks. Located next to Dun Eochla, the island’s most important prehistoric monument, the lighthouse is visible from most places on the island. It is ideally situated to get panoramic views of both Connemara and the other Aran Islands. The counties of Kerry, Limerick, Clare, Galway, and Mayo on the mainland all can be seen from the lighthouse on a clear day.

Dún Eochla Fort

Dún Eochla is a late iron age fort which dominates the centre of Inis Mór. Found in the middle of the island south of the village of Eochaill from which it gets its name (Eochaill meaning Yew wood). The fort is circular in shape with two terraced walls. The second enclosing wall frames the main fortress. The 5m high inner wall is exceptionally well built; in AD 1700 a visiting antiquarian recorded its height as 7m.

Dún Dúchathair (The Black Fort & Cliffs)

One of the lesser explored gems of the Aran Islands is Dún Dúchathair (The Black Fort). Some intriguing features are still present despite centuries of degradation. Perched close to the edge of a cliff, the single massive wall of Dún Dúchathair cuts off a promontory facing out into the Atlantic. A low band of chevaux de frise breaks up the approaching ground outside the wall. Inside the fort are the remains of around twenty stone houses, ranging in date from the Early Medieval period to the eighteenth century.

Dun Eoghanacht (iron age fort)

The circular fort of Dún Eoghanachta is one of the best built drystone monuments in the country. The stone buildings date to the medieval and post-medieval periods, but probably replaced earlier dwellings. The name of the fort is linked to the
Eoghanacht, a federation of Munster dynasties whose capital was at Cashel.

Teaghlach Einne (St. Enda’s Household)

Teaghlach Einne is situated in the cemetery of Cill Éinne. Dating from the fifth century AD, the church’s ruins also contain the fragments of an ornamented high cross from the eleventh century. On the site, there are some cross slabs, a piece of a high cross from the late 11th century, and some engraved stones. It is reported that this cemetery, which is still in use today, is where Enda and 120 other saints are interred.

Teampall Bheanáin (St. Benan’s Church)

The small church called Teampall Bheanáin, or “the temple of St. Beanán,” is perched high on a hilltop with a panoramic view of Cuan Chill Éinne (Cill Éinne bay) on Inis Mór. On your way you’ll pass Tobar na mBráthar holy well (‘the well of the friars’) before you reach the church. Although Beanán is reputed to have been a student of St. Patrick in the fifth century, the church bearing his name was actually constructed in the eleventh century adopting methods observed in Teaghlach Éinne nearby. The interior of Teampall Bheanáin is a only 6m x 2m in size

The Inis Mór Puffing Holes

On Inis Mor there are 3 known Puffing Holes, the two largest and most well-known are large circular holes located near the village of Cill Einne. They derive their name from the way water ‘puffs up’ through the caves beneath the cliffs. If the waves are very strong when you visit, the spectacle can be breathtaking!

Clochan Stone Huts (beehive huts)

These huts were made of carefully constructed stones formed into a dome shape and were inhabited by the early monks. There is a clochan still virtually intact in the village of Kilmurvey.

Man of Aran Cottage

Robert J. Flaherty’s 1934 fictitious documentary Man of Aran, which he directed, was shot in part at the Man of Aran Cottage in Kilmurvey on Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands. Since then, it has used as a bed and breakfast, and has featured in numerous illustrious travel and dining guides.

How to get to Inis Mór (Inishmore)

You can get ferries from Galway city, Rossaveal and Doolin to Inis Mór (Inishmore). Another great option is to fly from Connemara Airport. For details, click here to see how to get to Inis Mór (Inishmore).

Where to stay on Inis Mór

Inis Mór offers a wide range of great accommodation options from hotels, guesthouses, B&B’s and campsites.
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Inis Mór Tours

Places to Eat on Inis Mór 🍽️

Discover the culinary delights of Inis Mór, Galway, where traditional Irish charm meets exquisite dining experiences. After a day exploring the sites, relax in the old world surroundings of Teach Nan Phaidi or in the lively atmosphere of Joe Watty’s Bar while indulging in fresh seafood, hearty stews, and vibrant flavours in an island setting like no other.

Joe Watty’s Bar and Seafood Restaurant

Joe Watty’s Bar and Seafood Restaurant embodies the spirit of a traditional Irish pub. Situated up the hill from the pier in Kilronan, it’s the perfect spot for both locals and visitors to unwind. Savour fresh, local seafood – lobster, mussels, oysters, and more – or indulge in classic Irish fare. Live music fills the air during summer nights, while a crackling fire warms the interior on cooler days. In warmer weather, soak in the atmosphere with a Guinness in the beer garden. Learn a few Irish phrases (“cúpla focal”) and experience genuine Irish hospitality – Joe Watty’s welcomes you with a “Céad Míle Fáilte” (a hundred thousand welcomes)!

Address: Stáisiun Doiteain, Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

Phone: (099) 20892

Menu: https://www.joewattys.ie/menus

Teach Nan Phaidi

Teach Nan Phaidi welcomes diners to a cosy haven of traditional Irish charm. This thatched-roof cottage exudes warmth, offering a menu of local seafood, hearty stews, and homemade bread. Guests can dine amidst stone walls and blooming fuchsia bushes, enjoying the inviting outdoor seating adorned with vibrant flower boxes. Culinary delights include homemade cakes, fair trade coffees, and specialties like creamy potato gratin sourced from the owner’s family goat farm. With self-service convenience and a quaint restroom view, every aspect of Teach Nan Phaidi promises a delightful experience.

Address: Kilmurvey, Inis Mor, Co. Galway, H91 VX31

Phone: (099) 20975

Menu: https://www.facebook.com/p/Teach-Nan-Phaidi-100050441933170/

Bayview Restaurant

Bayview Restaurant on Inis Mór invites you to a dining experience unlike any other. As you take in the breathtaking vistas of Kilronan Bay, prepare to tantalise your taste buds with a diverse menu. Fresh seafood, melt-in-your-mouth steaks, and classic Irish specialties cater to every craving. Chef Byron Godoy infuses his Guatemalan heritage with local Irish flair, resulting in vibrant and flavourful dishes that are a feast for the eyes. Bayview prioritises fresh, locally sourced ingredients – from Inis Mór’s bounty of seafood to Aran Island’s goat cheese – ensuring a burst of flavour in every bite. Weekly dinner specials keep the menu exciting, offering a chance to discover new culinary creations.

Address: Point Rd, Killeany, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

Phone: 086 792 9925

Menu: www.bayviewrestaurantinishmore.com

Seaview Restaurant @ Aran Islands Hotel

Dine with a view at Seaview Restaurant @ Aran Islands Hotel. Enjoy the captivating seascape as you savour fresh, local cuisine. From succulent seafood to organic vegetables, the menu highlights the island’s bounty. Seaview Restaurant’s diverse menu features local daily specials, including seafood, steaks, and vegetarian/vegan options. From 6 pm onwards, captivating music and traditional Irish music sessions enliven the atmosphere (especially during summers). Children’s menus and an accommodating approach to dietary needs ensure a delightful experience for everyone.

Address: Killeany, Aran Islands, Co. Galway, H91 DH27

Phone: +353 99 61104

Menu: https://aranislandshotel.com/

Inis Mór Video

Inis Mór Sightseeing & Trail Map