Explore islands of Ireland by DesignTactics

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WELCOME TO IRELAND’S ISLANDS There’s no feeling quite like standing on an Irish island. Gazing out into the Atlantic blueness, sensing the salt on your tongue and the sea breeze on your cheeks, a visit to these outposts is an enlivening experience, a brisk detox from the stresses of modern-day living. Wild, rugged and beautiful, Ireland’s islands have captured the imagination for thousands of years. Prehistoric settlers, early Christian monks, Vikings, pirates, farmers and fishermen have all put down roots here, building communities whose ruins stick like bones from the landscape. Though remote, these islands are more accessible than you may think. Some can be driven onto via bridge or tidal causeway; many others are within a 20 minute ferry crossing. You can still imagine holy men setting up sanctuary, or Peig Sayers pulling her shawl against a storm, but today’s islands are alive with teeming regattas, lively céilís, buzzing pubs, burgeoning foodie scenes and year-round activities. They are at once mysterious, and open to all on Google Maps.

Though remote, these islands are more accessible than you may think.

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The result is a unique visitor experience. You can wander through deserted villages, explore ancient monastic sites and spot passing whales and wintering birds - happy in the knowledge that creature comforts are never far away. Many of the inhabited islands now have Wi-Fi, for example, and thriving festivals celebrate everything from Father Ted to Achill yawls. You can take a fine arts degree on Sherkin, or tuck into lobster with chervil garlic butter on Inis Meáin. Today, in fact, the islands are defined by differences more than similarities. They are alive with dialects, with unique traditions and wildlife. There are bird islands, adventure islands and open-air museums. There are islands for divers, artists and pilgrims. You can learn the Irish language on a Gaeltacht island, try your hand at painting or basket-making - or kick back and do nothing at all. Isolation has helped to preserve these rich repositories; modern transport and technology have opened them up to all ages. Ireland’s islands are living proof that the best things in life are free. And when it comes to staying over, eating out or taking a course or activity, their value-for-money is exceptional.

You can wander through deserted villages, explore ancient monastic sites and spot passing whales and wintering birds.

There’s an island for everyone. Find yours, and you’ll find a place both apart and connected; a stronghold of old traditions and new ideas; a sanctuary within striking distance of the mainland. At times, it’s as though ‘Man of Aran’ was filmed only yesterday. At others, breaking from the boat to check your email, or taking a yoga class, you’re right at the heart of the 21st century. Disclaimer Every care has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this brochure. Fáilte Ireland cannot, however, accept responsibility for errors or omissions, but where such are brought to our attention, future publications will be amended accordingly. Some sporting activities may by their nature be hazardous and involve risk. It is recommended in such cases to take out personal accident insurance. While most operators would have public liability insurance, it is desirable to check with the establishment or operator concerned as to the level of cover carried. Fáilte Ireland would like to acknowledge permission given by some islands to use their images, particularly Sherkin, Inishbofin, Rathlin, Inishbiggle, Long, Whiddy and the Donegal Islands. © Fáilte Ireland. Published by Fáilte Ireland.

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GETTING TO THE ISLANDS Rugged and enchanting, Ireland’s islands captivate everyone who visits. But these remote communities are surprisingly easy to get to, with plenty of access points up and down the mainland. Some, like Achill and Valentia, are connected to the mainland by a bridge; others can be accessed by small boat, ferry or even by air. And you don’t have to complete your island adventure in a single day – a few nights on one of the many inhabited islands can make for an unforgettable holiday. You could even try island-hopping to get a flavour of more than one magical offshore island. • Most ferry ports are serviced by coaches and buses from Ireland’s main towns and cities, so check timetables for the date you want to travel on websites such as www.IrishRail.ie, www.BusEireann.ie or www.AerArann.com. • To find out exactly how to get to your chosen island from towns and cities around Ireland, go to the ‘Getting There’ section at the end of each island description. • It is always advisable to check sailing times before travelling and to book journeys in advance where possible. Sailings are weather dependent, often subject to demand. • A list of accommodation and activity providers is provided at the back of this brochure. •

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TIPS FOR YOUR TRIP • Prepare for your visit. Some Irish islands are easy to reach and home to hundreds of people, with all the shops and services that entails; others are remote, with fewer facilities. This guide gives a general sense of what to expect, but licensed boat operators and providers on the islands are the best source of information and advice. Generally, if travelling to an island with little or no services you should bring your own food, water and necessary supplies, and prepare for every weather eventuality (i.e. bring layered clothing and sensible shoes). • Pick your time. Some of the islands are very busy in high season (July and August in particular), so the fringes are often the best time to visit (May and September, for example). Other islands are just as accessible all year-round. See the listing at the back of the brochure for details of tourism providers on the islands.

Always take the greatest possible care when exploring the islands and their waters.

• Prepare your payments. Few Irish islands have ATM or other banking facilities, and some accommodation providers do not accept credit cards. It is always advisable to check payment methods in advance, particularly if you are staying overnight. • Leave no trace. Please leave the islands as you find them, taking nothing but photographs and leaving nothing but footprints. Respect monuments, habitats, dwellings, stone walls, plants and wildlife, and dispose of any litter in bins or take it away with you. Minimise the effects of fire, respect farm animals, and always camp on durable ground. See www.leavenotraceireland.org. • Remember the landowners! Ireland’s islands offer some of the best walking trails you’ll come across. Many run through private land, so please respect the owner’s generosity. • Be safe; take care! The islands represent a very special visitor experience, but are fully exposed to the elements. Island terrain is mostly rugged and the surrounding seas can sometimes be wild. Always take the greatest possible care when exploring the islands and their waters.

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USE THIS MAP AS YOUR GUIDE TO IRELAND’S ISLANDS Simply check the name and reference number of the island on the map below against the contents list opposite on page 6. Then go to the page indicated for a full profile of the island.

RATHLIN TORY INISHBOFIN GOLA

INISHFREE 5 ARRANMORE

INISHBIGGLE

ACHILL

CLARE INISHTURK INISHBOFIN

INISHMORE 11 ARAN ISLANDS

INISHMAAN 12 INISHEER

BLASKETS 24

VALENTIA

GARINISH 23

SKELLIGS

WHIDDY 21

HEIR

DURSEY 22

BERE

LONG

SHERKIN

16 CAPE CLEAR

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ISLAND ROY

CONTENTS Welcome to Ireland’s Islands Getting to the Islands Tips for your Trip

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NORTH WEST (Donegal) Getting to the Islands in the North West Islands where you can stay overnight (1) Árainn Mhór (Arranmore), Co. Donegal (2) Toraigh (Tory), Co. Donegal (3) Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy), Co. Donegal

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Islands for Daytrips (4) Inis Bó Finne (Inishbofin), Co. Donegal (5) Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree), Co. Donegal (6) Gabhla (Gola), Co. Donegal

14 15 16

WEST (Mayo and Galway) Getting to the Islands in the West Islands where you can stay overnight (7) Acaill (Achill), Co. Mayo (8) Clare, Co. Mayo (9) Inishturk, Co. Mayo (10) Inishbofin, Co. Galway (11) Árainn (Inishmore), Aran Islands, Co. Galway (12) Inis Meáin (Inishmaan), Aran Islands, , Co. Galway (13) Inis Oírr (Inisheer), Aran Islands, Co. Galway Islands for Daytrips (14) Inis Bigil (Inishbiggle), Co. Mayo

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ISLAND Map Ref SOUTH WEST (Cork and Kerry) Getting to the Islands in the South West Islands where you can stay overnight (15) Bere, Co. Cork (16) Oileán Chléire (Cape Clear), Co. Cork (17) Heir, Co. Cork (18) Sherkin, Co. Cork (19) Valentia, Co. Kerry

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Islands for Daytrips (20) Long, Co. Cork (21) Whiddy, Co. Cork (22) Dursey, Co. Cork (23) Garinish, Co. Cork (24) Na Blascaodaí (Blaskets), Co. Kerry (25) Na Scealga (Skelligs), Co. Kerry

47 48 49 50 51 52

NORTHERN IRELAND Islands where you can stay overnight (26) Rathlin, Co. Antrim

LIST OF TOURISM PROVIDERS

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Getting to the islands Northwest

Fanad H 2. Tory Island

3. Island Roy

4. Inishbofin PORTSALON DUNFANAGHY MEENLARAGH

Bloody Foreland 6. Gola Island

N56 MILFORD BUNBEG GWEEDORE N56

5. Inisfree

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DONEGAL NORTH WEST (Donegal) Getting to the Islands in the North West Islands where you can stay overnight (1) Árainn Mhór (Arranmore), Co. Donegal (2) Toraigh (Tory), Co. Donegal (3) Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy), Co. Donegal

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GLEANN CHOLM CILLE (GLENCOLUMBKILLE)

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Islands for Daytrips (4) Inis Bó Finne (Inishbofin), Co. Donegal (5) Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree), Co. Donegal (6) Gabhla (Gola), Co. Donegal

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Bloody Foreland

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The Swilly Bus Service Tel: 353 74 9361340

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Bus Éireann Local Bus Service - Year Round Bus Éireann Expressway Coach - Year Round

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For more information on bus and rail services, visit www.irishrail.ie and www.buseireann.ie

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Malin Hd.

Hd.

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ALLYLIFFEN

CULDAFF GREENCASTLE

CARNDONAGH MOVILLE

PORTSTEWART

BUNCRANA

Flung about the jagged coasts of Donegal and Sligo, Ireland’s northwestern islands once sheltered some of Europe’s remotest communities. Technology has changed all that, bringing outposts like Tory and Gola within easy reach of the mainland, but the Irish language still thrives, the wildlife continues to wow and the hospitality is timeless. Today you’ll encounter as many artists and adrenaline junkies as cliffs and ancient ruins - on islands that have become stepping stones between now and then.

RATHMULLEN

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DERRY LIFFORD

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FACT FILE LOCATION: 3km west of Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport) Co. Donegal. By road, Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport), ferry terminal is roughly 65km (1hr 25mins) from Donegal town and 70km (1hr 20mins) from Letterkenny.

ÁRAINN MHÓR

(Arranmore) Oileán na gCeithre Séasúr

SIZE: 5km x 3km. Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) can be visited as a daytrip, but rewards a longer stay. POPULATION: 500+. A Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Hotel, B&B, self-catering, children’s playground, post office, pitch & putt, craft shop (summer), restaurant, pubs, picnic facilities. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. GETTING THERE: Ferries sail from Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport) to Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) year-round. Sailings take from 5 to 15 minutes. Contact Arranmore Ferry Service (353 74 9520532, www.arranmoreferry. com) or Arranmore Charters (353 87 3171810, www.arranmorecharters.com). GETTING AROUND: Visitors can walk, hire bikes or take a taxi on Árainn Mhór (Arranmore). FIND OUT MORE: Island Co-op (353 74 9520533; www.oileanarainnmhoir. com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? A cove near the Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) lighthouse is named after Wayne Dickinson, who made a 142-day solo crossing of the Atlantic in the early 1980s. At the time, his 8’ 9” vessel - God’s Tear - was the smallest ever to have made the crossing.

An island for all seasons Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) is an island for all seasons. With a population of 500 swelling to 1,500 or so in the peak season, this is a lively place to visit at any time, but especially in the summer months. A quick ferry ride from Burtonport whisks visitors from modern life to island magic.

Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) is home to six traditional Irish pubs, each boasting the kind of atmosphere and charm fast disappearing into the ether elsewhere. But this Irish-speaking oasis easily absorbs its population to give the feel of a windswept and rugged place. Careering cliffs, sandy beaches and the Cave of Slaughter - where a group of islanders was massacred by Cromwellian soldiers - are all highlights.

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For many visitors, walking is the best way to access the untamed landscape. Árainn Mhór’s (Arranmore’s) looped walk forms part of Slí Dhún na nGall (the Donegal Way), and sites of interest range from promontory forts to the rocky summit at Cnoc an Iolair, with its dazzling views of the Atlantic, sea cliffs and the mountains of the mainland – you may even see a snowy owl or a white-tailed sea eagle.

Top 3 Activities • Walking • Angling & diving trips • Birdwatching

Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) is an island that’s easy to get to, but utterly unique. It is the only place on earth where rainbow trout breed naturally. It is an island where you can sleep in a light keeper’s dwelling, or the honeymoon hotel of author Liam O’Flaherty. And the mainland is still all of 15 minutes away.

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FACT FILE LOCATION: 12km off Bloody Foreland, Co. Donegal. By road, the ferry ports of An Bun Beag (Bunbeg) and Machaire Rabhartaigh (Magheroarty) are roughly 51km (1hr) and 57km (1 hr) from Letterkenny.

OILEÁN THORAIGH (Tory Island) Inspioráid agus áilleacht chreagach

SIZE: 4km x 1km. Toraigh (Tory) can be visited in a daytrip, but a longer stay gets the best out of the island. POPULATION: 140+. Toraigh (Tory) is a Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Hotel, café, pubs, shops (groceries, crafts), art gallery, children’s playground, social club, dive centre, internet access. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Féile Soilse Thoraí (July), celebrates Toraigh’s (Tory’s) song, dance, music and storytelling. GETTING THERE: Sailings from An Bun Beag (Bunbeg - 1hr 45 mins) and Machaire Rabhartaigh (Magheroarty - 40 mins). Turasmara Teo (353 74 953 1340, www.toryislandferry.com) sails from Bunbeg and Magheroarty, year-round. Toraigh na dTonn (353 74 9135920, www.toryhotel.com) sails from Magheroarty (April to October). GETTING AROUND: Toraigh (Tory) is an easy island to get around, by walking, bike or minibus hire. FIND OUT MORE: Island Co-op Comharchumann Thoraí Teo (353 74 913 5502, www.oileanthorai.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands

Inspiration and rugged beauty Nine miles off the coast of Donegal, Toraigh (Tory) Islanders still talk of ‘travelling to Ireland’. In truth, of course, the years of isolation are over. This gorgeous Gaeltacht island is today an accessible and affordable holiday destination for those searching out something different.

And it is different. Toraigh’s (Tory’s) dazzling cliffs and treeless landscape have proven a huge creative draw, and the island is famous for its school of “primitive” artists. Encouraged by the late English painter, Derek Hill, who first visited Toraigh (Tory) in the 1960’s to paint its extraordinary landscapes, their work has been exhibited all over the world.

DID YOU KNOW? Donegal islanders traditionally vote first in Irish elections, in case bad weather cuts them off.

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For such a small island, Toraigh (Tory) is huge on spirit – fiercely preserving its indigenous music, dance and stories. Shipwrecks, poitín smuggling and stories of violent storms have all been drawn into its folklore, and many ancient customs are still in place - including the appointment of the island king, or Rí Thoraí. Perhaps it’s the furious winters, the tales of monster miracles or the fact that communities here can be traced back to the Bronze ages, but Toraigh (Tory) Islanders are a passionate bunch. Stay overnight, and get drawn in yourself. Outdoorsy folk can enjoy diving, angling, rock-climbing, dolphin watching or hike a stretch of the Donegal Way with only the seabirds for company. Gentler visits might take in the island’s round tower or the promontory fort of Dun Bhalóir.

Top 3 Activities • Traditional music • Heritage • Birdwatching

Either way, all roads lead to the local hostelries. Small islands are not usually visited for their exotic nightlife, but Toraigh (Tory) has several surprises - Club Soisíalta Thoraí, the island social club, holds lively céilís on summer nights, and traditional sessions regularly raise the roof at Ostán Thoraigh.

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OILEÁN RUAIDH

FACT FILE LOCATION: Rosguil Peninsula, Co. Donegal. By road, Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy) is about 40km (50mins) from Letterkenny. SIZE: 100 acres. Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy) is easily visited in a couple of hours. POPULATION: 26. A Gaeltacht island.

(Island Roy) Tearmann síoraí

FACILITIES: Self-catering, guided walks. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. GETTING THERE: Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy) is connected to the mainland by a causeway accessible at low tide. Call 353 74 915 5535 for details. GETTING AROUND: Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy) is a small island, and easily navigable by foot, car or bike. FIND OUT MORE: Contact Coiste Forbartha Oileáin Ruaidh (353 74 9155535; wwwdonegalislands.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? Oileán Ruaidh’s English name, ‘Island Roy’, is a phonetic rendering decided upon in haste by surveyors in the 19th century... don’t ask who Roy was, he didn’t exist!

Top 3 Activities • Walking • Birdwatching • Painting

A timeless retreat You want secluded? Come to Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy), an island so modest it doesn’t always appear on maps. A tiny, 65-hectare speck in the fjord-like Mulroy Bay, this is a beautifully rugged retreat, a place where you can both be introspective and outward-looking, where you can reflect on life whilst drinking in breathtaking views of Rossapenna’s sand-dunes and the Donegal hills. Formerly known as Oileán an Bhráighe (‘Island of the Prisoners’), due to its links with nearby Doe Castle, Oileán Ruaidh’s modern name (‘Red Island’) reflects the rusty colour of its winter vegetation. The island is home to a small and hospitable Irish-speaking community, and is connected to the mainland by a tidal causeway – making it easily accessible by car at low tide. Make the crossing, and you’ll find wonderful walking and a wealth of visiting birds. You may even be inspired into art. “It’s the uniqueness of the place,” says one of several island artists. “As you walk the shores of Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy), there’s a different view from every corner.”

Loch Moss

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FACT FILE LOCATION: 2 miles off northwest Donegal. By road, the ferry port of Machaire Rabhartaigh (Magheroarty) is roughly 57km (1 hr) from Letterkenny. SIZE: 2km x 1km. Inis Bó Finne (Inishbofin) is most often visited as a daytrip, but activity enthusiasts could easily spend a few days on the island.

INIS BÓ FINNE

(Inishbofin)

Imeallchríoch fiáin, iontach

POPULATION: 35. A Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Boat Festival (July) GETTING THERE: Ferries sail seasonally from Machaire Rabhartaigh (Magheroarty). Sailings take about 10 minutes. Contact 353 74 913 5635; 353 87 627 9789, www.donegalislands.com. GETTING AROUND: Inis Bó Finne (Inishbofin) is a small island, easily navigated on foot or by bike. FIND OUT MORE: Coiste Forbartha Inis Bó Finne (353 74 913 5635 or www.donegalislands.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? Inis Bó Finne (Inishbofin) went without electricity or running water until 2002.

A bird could lose the run of itself on Inis Bó Finne (Inishbofin). This captivating island, just 300-acres in size, is completely unspoilt. Barnacle geese fly in to winter from the Arctic. The endangered corncrake finds sanctuary in grassy lowlands. Wildflowers and primrose banks are abundant. And what’s good for birds is good for birdwatchers. All it takes is a 10-minute ferry ride to have you ticking off a species list that includes breeding pairs of Arctic terns, visiting peregrine falcons and choughs (a pair has even been nesting in the chimney of the old national school). The ‘Island of the White Cow’ itself is a wild and wonderful outcrop. This is a place where rock formations like the sea arch at Scoilt an Droichid play off white sandy beaches. It is a watersports hotspot, with rock-fishing, windsurfing and kayaking growing in popularity by the year. Unlike barnacle geese, few people winter on Inis Bó Finne. Come summer, however, a happy handful of families join them to fish for lobster, crab and Atlantic salmon. Surveying their island from its crest, with views stretching from Errigal Mountain to Bloody Foreland, it’s easy to see why they do.

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Top 3 Activities • Birdwatching • Walking • Watersports

A wild and wonderful outcrop

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FACT FILE LOCATION: Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree) lies in the bay between An Clochán Liath (Dungloe) and Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport). By road, Ailt an Chorráin ferry terminal is roughly 65km (1hr 25mins) from Donegal town and 70km (1hr 20mins) from Letterkenny.

INIS FRAOIGH

(Inishfree) Flúirse cultúir agus spioradáltachta

SIZE: 1.6km x 1.6km. Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree) is usually experienced as a daytrip. POPULATION: 7 (permanent); 30 (seasonal). A Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Summer crafts shop. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Inishfree Cultural Festival (August) GETTING THERE: Ferry Service on request from Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport). Sailings take about 10 minutes. Contact Inishfree Charters, Burtonport pier (353 87 9253534, 353 86 220 9508, www.donegalislands.com)

Spirituality and culture abound There’s something spiritual in the air at Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree). Perhaps it comes from the island’s ancient mass rock; perhaps it’s the memory of a commune of ‘screamers’ who made the island their home in the late 20th century. Whatever the reason, the island inspires reflection and meditation.

GETTING AROUND: Visitors can easily walk, hire bikes or take minibus tours on Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree). FIND OUT MORE: Contact: Coiste Forbartha Inis Fraoigh (353 74 952 2895 or www.donegalislands.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? ‘Screamers’ followed a primal therapy focused on cleansing angst by bawling one’s lungs out.

Top 3 Activities • Cultural Courses • Walking • Adventure Sports

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Inis Fraoigh’s (Inishfree’s) heather meadows and rocky coves go back a long way. Controlled by Niall of the Nine Hostages in early Christian period, it later became home to the clan of Red Hugh O’Donnell. A community of Irish-speaking islanders left in the 1970s, though a number of them, together with mainlanders keen to live closer to nature, have lately come back to Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree). Spirituality remains at the island’s core, but these new islanders have brought culture too. Courses in music, dancing, arts, crafts and poetry are all available, and an annual cultural festival takes place in August. The welcome is warm for the walkers, birdwatchers, anglers and divers who visit them.

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FACT FILE LOCATION: 1.6km from the pier at Machaire Gathlán (Magheragallan), Co. Donegal. By road, Machaire Gathlán (Magheragallan), is roughly 54km (1hr 10 mins) from Letterkenny. SIZE: 328 hectares (about one square mile). Gabhla (Gola) is easily visited in a day.

GABHLA

(Gola) Tírdhreach draíochtach

POPULATION: 5 (permanent); 35 (seasonal). A Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Shop, picnic areas, walking and rock climbing guides. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Féile Gabhla (June) GETTING THERE: Ferries sail daily from Machaire Gathlán (Magheragallan), April to September, otherwise by booking. Sailings take about 10 minutes. Contact Seod Ghabhla (Gola Island Ferry Service). Tel: 353 87 6607003, www.donegalislands.com GETTING AROUND: Gabhla (Gola) is best suited to walking. FIND OUT MORE: Coiste Forbartha Ghabhla (353 74 953 2571, 353 87 9531422; www.donegalislands.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? 169 people were living on Gabhla (Gola) at the time of the 1911 census - two of them were aboard the Asgard, the boat that brought arms into Howth in preparation for the 1916 Rising.

Top 3 Activities • Art classes • Rock-climbing • Birdwatching P.P.16 www.discoverireland.ie/islands 16 www.discoverireland.ie/islands

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Spellbinding scenery It’s hard to believe rock-climbers didn’t discover Gabhla (Gola) until the 1990s. Today, granite cliffs on the island’s north-west coast are home to about 170 listed climbs, with a wide range of grades taking in cliff-bound inlets, tidal challenges and beautifully exposed faces. For climbers, Gabhla (Gola) rocks.

The island is more easily explored, of course, in a few hours of guided trails. About one square mile in size, Gabhla’s (Gola’s) gently hilly terrain shelters a ribbon of traditional houses on the east, and birdwatchers will delight in colonies of cormorants, guillemots and kittiwakes at the cliffs of An Mhaoil Mhór. In fact, you’re as likely to see visitors breaking out art supplies as abseiling ropes here. Art classes are organised during the summer months, and painters and photographers will find no shortage of inspiration in the landscape – from sea arches to hanging rocks and sandy beaches. Whether climbing, walking or painting, the surrounding sea, islands and reefs make it hard to believe you’re just two miles from the mainland at Gweedore – it seems a world away.

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LEENÁUN

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OUGHTERARD

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Galway Bay

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For more information on bus and rail services, visit www.irishrail.ie, www.buseireann.ie and www.citylink.ie

www.discoverireland.ie/islands

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Bus Éireann Local Bus Service - Year Round Bus Éireann Local Bus Service - Summer Only Bus Éireann Expressway Coach - Year Round Bus Éireann Expressway Coach - Summer Only

BALLINROB

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Islands for Daytrips (14) Inis Bigil (Inishbiggle), Co. Mayo

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Ireland’s western islands have hidden pirates, starred on film and provided inspiration for artists as diverse as J.M. Synge, Paul Henry and Heinrich Böll. Though their image is rooted in the past, however, it is their present that sparks the imagination. Easily accessible by boat, plane, or road (at Achill and Ceantar na nOileán, the island district of southwest Connemara), the islands of the west are home to farmers’ markets and festivals, summer schools and traditional music – making memories you’ll cherish long after you leave.

ROSCOMMON

KNOCK CLAREMORRIS BALLYHAUNIS

CASTLEREA

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FACT FILE LOCATION: Off the coast of Mayo’s Corraun Peninsula. By road, Acaill (Achill) is roughly 50km (1hr 10mins) from Westport and 132km (2hrs 45mins) from Galway. SIZE: 20km x 19km. Acaill (Achill) can be enjoyed in a day, but at least two to three days are required to see it comprehensively.

ACAILL

(Achill Island) Tiomáin isteach ar an oileán is mó ar chósta na hÉireann

POPULATION: 3,000+. Partly a Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Hotels, B&Bs, self-catering, caravan and camping parks, cafés, craft shops, restaurants, pubs, shops, petrol stations, picnic areas. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Achill Walks Festival (May), Heinrich Böll Memorial Weekend (May), Achill Seafood Festival (July), Achill Half-Marathon (July), Scoil Acla (July-August), Achill Yawl Festival (July-September). GETTING THERE: Achill (Acaill) is easily accessible by road via the bridge near Polranny. GETTING AROUND: Visitors to Acaill (Achill) can walk, drive, cycle or take a taxi or tour bus on the island. FIND OUT MORE: Achill Tourism (353 98 47353; www.achilltourism. com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands

Drive onto Ireland’s largest island Five blue-flag beaches would be an impressive tally anywhere, let alone on a single island. But that’s Acaill (Achill). From the hilly horseshoe of Keem Bay (said to have been blessed by St. Patrick during his stay on Croagh Patrick) to the 4km sweep of Trawmore Strand; from the white strands at Dooega to the twin beaches at Dugort, welcome to Ireland’s most beautiful, bracing waters.

DID YOU KNOW? Acaill (Achill) has been inhabited for some 5,000 years.

The island’s remote grandeur has a history of attracting artists too. Graham Greene was a regular in the 1940s (his mistress, Catherine Walston, kept a holiday cottage in Dooagh), and Nobel laureate Heinrich Böll visited in the 1950s, writing about the island in his book, ‘The Irish Journey’. Acaill (Achill) put the hook in him, and the German novelist returned every summer thereafter.

Overnight stay

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The artists’ legacy continues today, giving Acaill (Achill) an air of the creative retreat. The island hosts a Heinrich Böll Memorial Weekend and an artists’ residency at his old cottage. Painting and music schools take inspiration from its beaches and blanket bog, from some of the highest cliffs in Europe, from heritage sites ranging from megalithic tombs to the deserted villages of Slievemore and Ailt. Scoil Acla, a summer school promoting traditional music, arts and culture, is now in its third decade. But don’t get the impression that Ireland’s largest island is all introspection. A half-marathon, wind-surfing championships and swimming and walking festivals run alongside year-round surfing, diving, rock-climbing, angling, sailing and horse-riding activities here. The island boasts 14 circular walks and three cycling routes. Acaill (Achill) inspires adrenaline junkies as much as artists.

Top 3 Activities • Adventure • Arts • Beaches

33 - 34 Slievemore Mountain

Highest Sea Cliffs Achill Head

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Cill Damhnart Castle Grace O’Malleys TO CLEGGAN

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FACT FILE

CLARE ISLAND

LOCATION: 5km off the coast of Louisburgh, Co. Mayo. By road, Roonagh Quay is 29km (55mins) from Westport and 101km (2hrs 20mins) from Galway. SIZE: 8km x 4.8km. Allow a day for a visit to Clare Island, though at least an overnight stay is required to experience all that it has to offer. POPULATION: 162 FACILITIES: Hotel, guesthouse, B&Bs, shop, crafts, café, restaurant, pubs, heritage centre, yoga studio, Wi-Fi. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Granuaile folklore weekend (May), Singles Weekends (June, September), Bard Summer School (July), Clare Island Regatta (July). GETTING THERE: Daily, yearround ferries from Roonagh pier near Louisburgh, Co. Mayo. Sailings take 20 minutes. Contact Clare Island Ferry Co (353 98 23737; 353 86 8515003 www. clareislandferry.com) and O’Malley Ferry Services (353 98 25045, 353 86 8870 814; www.omalleyferries.com). GETTING AROUND: Visitors can walk, hire bikes or take a bus tour or taxi on Clare Island. FIND OUT MORE: Clare Island development office (353 98 26525, www.clareisland.info), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? A famous study of Clare Island was carried out from 1909-11. Its leader, Dr. R.L. Praeger, communicated with Charles Darwin throughout. The study is being updated by the Royal Irish Academy.

Home of the Pirate Queen Once upon a time, Clare Island was the home base of Grace O’Malley. It was from here that Ireland’s 16th century pirate queen (also known as Granuaile) patrolled the Western seaboard. It is here that she is reputedly buried - at the old Cistercian Abbey (“Terra Maris Potens”, reads the motto – “powerful by land and sea”). And it is from here that her ruined castle dominates the Atlantic coast. Where O’Malley got about by ship, today’s visitor is served by a network of looped walks. Two of these - the Fawnglass and Knockaveena loops - plug into an island heritage that includes Bronze Age fullacha fiadh (cooking sites) and medieval wall paintings (adorning the Cistercian Abbey ruins). They bring walkers past natural wonders ranging from pounding surf to Connemara ponies.

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Continue on to scale the 461-metre peak of Knockmore, and you’ll be rewarded with a view that encompasses sea cliffs, squawking gannets, a blue-flag beach and old potato ridges. Croagh Patrick watches from the mainland, and the surrounding sweep of Clew Bay is spotted with 365 islands - one for each day of the year.

Top 3 Activities • Walking • Yoga retreats • Heritage

Clare Island makes for a great visit at any time of year, but it’s a particularly lively spot in summer, when traditional music, summer festivals and a buzzing pub scene come into their own. At its heart though, it is a place of retreat – just ask the local yoga teacher who gave up a career in IT to build his studio here.

LIGHTHOUSE

Inis Bigil Achill Island

Clare Island

ROONAGH QUAY

Inishturk Island

BALLYTOOHY

Inishbofin Island

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For detailed info on islands listings see page 60 Dining/Pub

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FACT FILE

INISHTURK ISLAND

LOCATION: 5km off the coast of Louisburgh, Co. Mayo. Louisburgh is about 22km (35mins) by road from Westport, and 102km (2hrs) from Galway. SIZE: 5km x 2.5km. Inishturk can be enjoyed by daytrip, but a night and an evening meal in one of its B&Bs, gazing out on Croagh Patrick and the Atlantic, may tempt you for a longer stay... POPULATION: 120+ FACILITIES: B&B, community centre (open from 1pm daily in summer), internet access (library). Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Traditional Music Weekend (June), Inishturk Regatta (August) GETTING THERE: Ferries sail from Roonagh Pier near Louisburgh, Co. Mayo daily, year-round. Sailings take 40 minutes. Contact Clare Island Ferry Co (353 98 25212; 353 86 851-5003; www. clareislandferry.com) or Inishturk Ferries (353 98 45541; 353 86 202 9670, www.inishturkisland.com) GETTING AROUND: Visitors can explore Inishturk on foot, or by hiring bikes and boats. FIND OUT MORE: Inishturk Development Office (353 98 45778; www.inishturkisland.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? People from Inishturk have the highest donation rate to the RNLI in Ireland.

A place of tranquil escape. If you’re looking to escape from it all, here’s an idea. Hop onto a ferry, venture 40 minutes off the edge of Europe, and step onto Inishturk. You’ll notice the difference straight away. Tranquillity; a gentler pace of life – it’s almost as if the clocks themselves are moving more slowly.

Inishturk (‘Island of the Wild Boar’) is another world. Situated between Inishbofin and Clare Island off the Mayo coast, it offers an array of archaeological sites, a paradise for birdwatchers and a network of ruins culminating in a Napoleonic signal tower standing 700 feet above the surf. Islanders fish for lobster and crabs. Birds busy themselves about the cliffs. The tranquillity envelopes you.

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The island’s flora is of international importance too. The Spotted Rock Rose, a rare and endangered plant, is just one of the gems to be found here. Guiding can be arranged, or visitors can march to their own drum along the looped walks at Lough Coolaknock and Mountain Common. Afterwards, take a dip at the sandy beaches of Tranaun or Curran, where the sheltered coves and clear waters are safe for swimming. For the more intrepid, the ocean surrounding Inishturk is a happy hunting ground for deep-sea divers and anglers. On August 15th, you could even join the islanders for their age-old annual pilgrimage to the carved crosses on nearby Caher Island. Inishturk has been inhabited for 4,000 years, and the last chief to live at Portdoon, we’re told, made beer from the island heather. Contemporary visitors can toast his enterprising spirit during the lively dancing and music sessions in the community centre at summer weekends.

Top 3 Activities • Birdwatching • Walking • Heritage

Inis Bigil Achill Island

Clare Island

Inishturk Island

ROONAGH QUAY

Inishbofin Island

Old Watch Tower

TO CLEGGAN

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r rk ie tu gh P h s a Ini oon R

Curraun Beach

Penal Church

4 7

Traunaun Beach

For detailed info on islands listings see page 61 Dining/Pub

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FACT FILE

INISHBOFIN

LOCATION: 9km off the coast of Connemara. Cleggan ferry port is roughly 90km (1hr 30mins) from Galway by road, and approx 67km (1hr) from Westport.

SIZE: 5.8km x 3.5km. Inishbofin can be partially seen on a daytrip, but a longer stay is highly recommended. POPULATION: 200+ FACILITIES: Hotels, hostel (with some camping), self-catering, cafés, pubs, restaurants, shops, crafts, heritage centre, picnic areas, community centre (many are seasonal), minibus. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Inishbofin Arts Festival (May); Inishbofin halfmarathon (May), Environmental summer school (July). GETTING THERE: Ferry crossings operate year-round from Cleggan, Co. Galway. Sailings take 30 minutes. Contact Inishbofin Island Discovery (353 91 45819/45894; www.inishbofinislanddiscovery.com). There is a direct bus service from Galway to Cleggan with Citylink, tel: 1890 28 08 08 or 353 91 564 163, www.citylink.ie GETTING AROUND: On foot, bike or by minibus. FIND OUT MORE: Inishbofin Community Centre (353 95 45861/45895; www.inishbofin.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? An inspiration not only for artists, several films and documentaries have been filmed on Inishbofin, which include, ‘Sailing to an Island’ (Alan Moloney), ‘Desecration’ (Neville Presho), ‘Inisairc, Bas Oileáin’ (Kieran Concannon) and ‘Sailing to an Island’ (Kevin Sheldon).

Vibrant, dramatic and ready to explore Traditional music is integral to many islands but, on Inishbofin it comes into its own. This, after all, is an island with its own Céilí band, where several islanders have released CDs across a range of genres. Visiting musicians and artists regularly cross over for ‘Bofin Trad’ - the summertime sessions are very special as music is the heartbeat of Inishbofin. If you like a tune, you’ll love Inishbofin. The island itself, of course, has been visited for ages. Many of its monastic sites are associated with Saint Colman, and ancient chapels and holy wells contain the memories of an early Christian settlement. Then there is the star-shaped Cromwell’s Barracks, in which Catholic clergy were once imprisoned. Many more historical sites are also to be found around the island including a Bronze Age settlement.

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Many succumb to the island’s charm and stunning scenery and stay for longer. Inishbofin boasts three splendid looped walks, beautiful beaches, clear waters (for swimming, snorkelling and diving), and a diverse spread of birds, wildlife, flora and fauna. Artists and photographers find inspiration, fishermen cast off, and a heritage museum evokes Inishbofin through the ages. Inishbofin makes for a great sailing base. Boats of all kinds regularly pull into a natural harbour with access to running water and electricity on the pier, and many stay the night - taking a shower or catching up on emails in the community centre, before the first chords of the evening sessions ring out, and the stories and singing begin. Finally, don’t forget a visit to the mini-farmers’ market that runs on Inishbofin every Wednesday morning. It’s ideal for stocking up on organic vegetables, free-range eggs, fresh herbs and homemade treats – all produced on the island itself.

Top 3 Activities • Traditional music • Walking • Watersports

Inis Bigil Achill Island

Clare Island

Inishturk Island

ROONAGH QUAY

Inishbofin Island

TO CLEGGAN

Rusheen Beach

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FACT FILE LOCATION: Around 13km off the coast of Galway and Clare. By road, the ferry port of Ros a Mhíl (Rossaveal) is roughly 39km (1hr) from Galway, and Doolin is around 42km (45mins) from Ennis. SIZE: 14km x 3.8km. Árainn (Inishmore) can be visited over one day or several.

ÁRAINN

(Inishmore) An t-oileán ‘mór’ de chuid Oileáin Árainn

POPULATION: 800+. A Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Hotel, B&Bs, self-catering, hostel, cafés, restaurants, pubs, shops, craft village. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Friends of Ted Festival (February), Aistear Ceilteach (a traditional music and dance show held in summer), Patrún Inis Mór (the big island festival held in June) GETTING THERE: Aer Arann Islands (353 91 593034; www.aerarannislands. ie) flies from Connemara airport. Sailings from Ros a Mhíl (Rossaveal) are daily, year-round and take about 45 minutes. Contact Island Ferries Teo (353 91 568903; www.aranislandferries.com). Coach connections leave Galway 90 minutes before sailing. Ferries also sail from Doolin, Co. Clare. Sailings take one hour. Aran Doolin Ferries (353 65 707 4455; www.doolinferries.com) Doolin Ferries Ltd (353 65 707 5555; www.obrienline.com) Doolin2Aran Ferries (353 65 7075949, 353 87 2453239), www.doolin2aranferries.com GETTING AROUND: Walk, bike hire, taxi, pony & cart, tour bus. FIND OUT MORE: Árainn tourist office (353 99 61263), www.discoverireland.ie/islands

The “big” Aran Island There’s one place above all others on Ireland’s west coast, where the visitor can gaze down on the brilliant blue of the Atlantic Ocean, and think: “Next parish, Boston!” That place is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dún Aonghusa on Árainn (Inishmore). Ranking as one of the most important prehistoric sites in Europe and bisected by an abrupt, 300-foot drop into the sea - it’s hard to believe this crescent-shaped citadel was once a ring-fort built well away from the cliffs. Dún Aonghusa is testimony to coastal erosion, but also to the inclement winters and wild isolation in which Aran Islanders live their lives. At its most basic, Árainn (Inishmore) is a limestone reef, a hump of the Burren in the deep blue sea. But spotted with forts, high crosses and churches, it’s also an outdoor museum.

DID YOU KNOW? ‘Man of Aran’, Robert J O’Flaherty’s 1937 documentary, was filmed on Árainn (Inishmore). Overnight stay

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Gaeltacht Island

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It’s not all heritage, of course. Árainn (Inishmore) is the biggest of the three Aran Islands. You can party here. It’s easy to find traditional music sessions. There’s a wide choice of accommodation. It’s the kind of place where you can check your Blackberry over local lobster, before learning the art of basket making. In high season, you may even find a traffic jam of ponies and carts strung along the road to Cill Mhuirbhigh (Kilmurvey) village.

Top 3 Activities • Heritage • Blue-flag beach • Nightlife

Cill Mhuirbhigh (Kilmurvey) is also where you’ll find the islands blue-flag beach. A sandy smile cut into the island’s northern coast, strollers and swimmers here are surrounded by rare plants, birds and water that shifts colour from deep blue to Caribbean green in the twinkling of an eye. It’s a magical strand.

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CILL RÓNAIN

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Inis Meáin Inis Oírr

DOOLIN

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www.discoverireland.ie/islands

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FACT FILE LOCATION: Around 13km off the coast of Galway and Clare. By road, the ferry port of Ros a Mhíl (Rossaveal) is roughly 39km (1hr) from Galway, and Doolin is around 42km (45mins) from Ennis. SIZE: 4km x 2.5km. Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) can be visited by day, but a longer stay of a few days is even more rewarding.

INIS MEÁIN

(Inishmaan) Áilleacht, traidisiún agus cultúr

POPULATION: 150+. A Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Hotel, B&Bs, restaurants, cafés, traditional pub, shop, craft shop, internet access, taxi/bus, post office. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Comortas Cead (St. Patrick’s Day – the traditional game of Cead played nowhere else in the world), Galway Bay Hooker Regatta, Currach Regatta (August Bank Holiday) GETTING THERE: Aer Arann Islands (353 91 593034; www.aerarannislands. ie) flies from Connemara airport. Sailings from Ros a Mhíl (Rossaveal) are daily, year-round and take about 45 minutes. Contact Island Ferries Teo (353 91 568903; www.aranislandferries.com). Coach connections leave Galway 90 minutes before sailing. Ferries also sail from Doolin, Co. Clare. Sailings take one hour. Aran Doolin Ferries (353 65 707 4455; www.doolinferries.com) Doolin Ferries Ltd (353 65 707 5555; www.obrienline.com) Doolin2Aran Ferries (353 65 7075949, +353 87 2453239, www.doolin2aranferries.com) GETTING AROUND: Visitors can explore Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) on foot or by bike. FIND OUT MORE: www.aranislands.ie/Inis-Meain-Island, www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? Different knits in Aran sweaters symbolise different things. A single zigzag represents the coastal cliffs, for example, and a double zigzag the ups and downs of marriage.

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Beauty, tradition and culture Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) literally translates as “the middle island”, and is the most tranquil of the Aran Islands - truly a sanctuary from the modern world.

The limestone landscape is beloved of climbers and divers, and the island is home to a knitting company bringing modern technology to bear on old Aran sweaters, and in the island’s church, stained glass by Harry Clarke’s Studios. “Give up Paris,” Yeats once told fellow author, J.M. Synge. “Go to the Aran Islands. Live as if you were one of the people themselves; express a life that has never found expression.”

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Synge duly obliged in 1898, drawing inspiration from Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) for classics like The Playboy of the Western World. Travellers today can follow in his footsteps - visiting Teach Synge (his thatched cottage), Dun Chunchuir, the spectacular 4000 year old prehistoric stone fort, and sit in Synge’s chair (his favoured writing spot, a stone seat with spectacular views over the Atlantic). Most of all, they can meet the people and listen to the language that roused his masterpieces. “In a good play every speech should be as fully flavoured as a nut or apple,” Synge once said. Perhaps the Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) trail - a 5km ramble over a maze of roads and pathways – gives the island’s fullest flavours. From sandy beaches and wild flowers to the spill of stone forming its southern half, it may tempt you to do like Synge and stay yourself.

Top 3 Activities • Walking • Heritage • Irish language and culture courses

PIER 13

ROSSAVEAL

TO GALWAY Árainn

10 - 12

Inis Meáin Inis Oírr

Historical Site

DOOLIN

6 8

i Synges Chair

2 1 7

Dun Chunchuir Synges Cottage

BAILE AN MHOTHAIR

Community Centre

Dun Fearbhaí

Beach

Cill Ceananach Church

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FACT FILE LOCATION: 8km off the coast of Co. Clare. By road, the ferry port of Ros a Mhíl (Rossaveal) is roughly 39km (1hr) from Galway, and Doolin is roughly 42km (45mins) from Ennis. SIZE: 3km x 2km. Inis Oírr (Inisheer) is most often seen by daytrip, but an overnight or longer stay will allow you to experience the full island at a more leisurely pace.

INIS OÍRR

(Inisheer) Tobar an ealaíontóra

POPULATION: 260+. A Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Hotel, B&Bs, hostel, cafés, restaurants, pubs, arts centre, shops, internet access. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Friends of Ted (February), Inis Oírr Currach Races (August) GETTING THERE: Aer Arann Islands (353 91 593034; www.aerarannislands. ie) flies from Connemara airport. Sailings from Ros a Mhíl are daily, year-round and take about 45 minutes. Contact Island Ferries Teo (353 91 568903; www.aranislandferries. com). Coach connections leave Galway 90 minutes before sailing. Ferries also sail from Doolin, Co. Clare. Sailings take one hour. Aran Doolin Ferries (353 65 707 4455; www.doolinferries.com)

The artist’s palette You’ll recognise it when you pass the rusty-red shipwreck on Inis Oírr’s (Inisheer’s) eastern shore. This is the one – the real-life Craggy Island that features so famously in the opening credits of the renowned television series Father Ted.

Doolin Ferries Ltd (353 65 707 5555; www.obrienline.com) Doolin2Aran Ferries (353 65 7075949, 353 87 2453239), www.doolin2aranferries.com GETTING AROUND: Walk, bike hire, pony & trap, hackney service FIND OUT MORE: Inis Oírr Tourist Office (www.inisoirr-island.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands

Inis Oírr (Inisheer) has more strings to its bow than Channel 4’s beloved sitcom, of course. The smallest of the Aran Islands is arguably the most beautiful; its karstic limestone and monks’ huts seem more like a moonscape than a landscape. As with the Burren, however, this porous stone hides a surprising fertility – at certain times of the year exploding with Mediterranean, Arctic and Alpine flowers.

DID YOU KNOW? Traditional currach races are held offshore in August. Overnight stay

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Gaeltacht Island

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Top 3 Activities • Tracing Father Ted • Arts & crafts • Walking

The island’s size, too, means it can be seen entirely on foot. A 12km (3.5 hour) walking trail takes in treasures ranging from Cnoc Raithní, a Bronze Age burial mound, to the ruins of an 11th-century church associated with Saint Gobnait once the only woman allowed on these islands. Inis Oírr (Inisheer) is home to the only arts centre in the Gaeltacht - Áras Éanna. In truth, this is much more than an arts hub – it is a community centre, crafts and heritage centre all in one. There’s also a tub-thumping Bodhrán Summer School held in June, and ongoing courses in macrobiotic cooking. Added to all of this are golden beaches, walking trails, the chance to catch mackerel on the rod, and the splendid views of the mainland and Connemara. You may even return for the Father Ted Festival in early February, with its ‘lovely girl’ competitions and buckaroo speed-dating. Go on. Go on, go on, go on... 19

ROSSAVEAL

PIER

11 TO GALWAY

3 9

Árainn

BAILE THIAR

Inis Meáin Inis Oírr

DOOLIN

16 - 18 10

16 - 19

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Historical Site

20 5

Plassy Wreck

LIGHTHOUSE

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FACT FILE LOCATION: 90 metres from Achill, Co. Mayo. By road, Ballycroy is roughly 45km (50mins) from Westport, and 60km (1hr) from Ballina. SIZE: 2km x 2km. Allow at least a couple of hours for a visit to Inis Bigil.

INIS BIGIL

(Inishbiggle) Tradisiún buan

POPULATION: 35 FACILITIES: Picnic spots, church. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Inis Bigil Festival (August) GETTING THERE: Daily, yearround sailings from Doran’s Point, Ballycroy. Sailings take 15 minutes. Contact Leneghan Ferries (353 98 45513). GETTING AROUND: Visitors can explore Inis Bigil on foot or by minibus (13-seater) FIND OUT MORE: Achill Tourism (353 98 47353; www.achilltourism. com). www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? An Táilliúir Gorm, a TG4 documentary, tells the story of Inis Bigil through its last remaining inhabitants, including writer and poet Pádraig Daeid - ‘the blue tailor’.

Top 3 Activities • Walking • Shoreangling • Birdwatching

Timeless tradition Inis Bigil is a time capsule. The diminutive island may lie just 90 metres from Achill, but the Bullsmouth Passage separating the two (stand near it on a windy day, locals say, and the howling of the wind is like the roar of a bull) draws a line between different worlds.

Inis Bigil (Inishbiggle) is unspoilt, the kind of place where walkers float in and out of traditions. Its tiny population speaks both Irish and English, and their livelihoods are tied to the farming and fishing traditions of a bygone age (one day, they hope to link their island by cable car to the mainland).

1 Inis Bigil Achill Island

Clare Island

Day-trippers to this stronghold of traditional life will lap up old-world customs, panoramic views of west Mayo, inspiring wildlife and unrecorded stories. They may also hit on the odd surprise: Inis Bigil (Inishbiggle) is one of the few Irish islands to host a community that is both Protestant and Irish speaking.

Inishturk Island

ROONAGH QUAY

Inishbofin Island

TO CLEGGAN

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Gaeltacht Island

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Aran Island aerial view of Inishmore

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Getting to the islands South West

Loop Hd.

stu E n o

Sha

LIS Kerry Hd N69

Tralee Bay

Brandon Point 273

Clogher Hd.

276

Islands for Daytrips (20) Long, Co. Cork (21) Whiddy, Co. Cork (22) Dursey, Co. Cork (23) Garinish, Co. Cork (24) Na Blascaodaí (Blaskets), Co. Kerry (25) Na Scealga (Skelligs), Co. Kerry

281

275

AN DAINGEAN (DINGLE)

279 280

D 37 39 41 43 45

47 48 49 50 51 52

279 280

19. Valentia Island

Bray Hd.

279 280

252

N71 270

236

21. Whiddy Island

CASTLETOWN BERE 15. Bere Island

try Ban

Bay

Bay s u man

n DuGOLEEN

20. Long Island 16. Cape Clear

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23. Garinish Island

Rail Network

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ver RiARDGROOM e r ma

Mizen Hd.

282

Cods Hd.

For more information on bus and rail services, visit www.irishrail.ie and www.buseireann.ie

280

N70

Ken

Bus Éireann Local Bus Service - Year Round Bus Éireann Local Bus Service - Summer Only Bus Éireann Expressway Coach - Year Round Bus Éireann Expressway Coach - Summer Only

280

SNEEM

WATERVILLE

22. Dursey Island

KERRY

GLENBEIGH

CAHIRCIVEEN

25. Skelligs

N70

KILLORGLIN

Bay ingle

279

273

281

24. Blasket Islands

SOUTH WEST (Cork and Kerry) Getting to the Islands in the South West Islands where you can stay overnight (15) Bere, Co. Cork (16) Oileán Chléire (Cape Clear), Co. Cork (17) Heir, Co. Cork (18) Sherkin, Co. Cork (19) Valentia, Co. Kerry

TRALE

SCHULL

237

LIMERICK

N69

SOUTH WEST LIMERICK

STOWEL

N21

One could spend a lifetime exploring Ireland’s south-western islands. Hidden in harbours, stashed off strands, there’s an island here to suit every taste - from the great, spiritual splinters of the Skelligs to tiny Inis Beg and the vibrant storytelling of Oileán Chléire. The islands of Cork and Kerry are alive with literary spirits like Peig Sayers; with the sensory delights of contemporary cookery schools. They offer a magical island garden, ancient dinosaur tracks, even visual arts degrees. The trouble lies in deciding what to leave out.

NEWCASTLE WEST

ABBEYFEALE N21

MITCHELSTOWN CASTLEISLAND

BUTTEVANT N20

KANTURK

MALLOW

N72

KILLARNEY

MILLSTREET 40

MACROOM N22

230 230 255

236

BANTRY

237

Cork H a

252

rbour

KINSALE

252

CLONAKILTY

237

N71

MIDLETON

COBH

40 233 230

INCHIGEELAGH

BANDON

YOUGHAL

CORK

GLENGARRIFF

N20

ENMARE

Dungarvan

CORK

N22

270

WATERFORD

FERMOY

ROSSCARBERY

252

17. Heir Island

SKIBBEREEN

251

Galley Hd.

BALTIMORE 18. Sherkin Island

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FACT FILE

BERE ISLAND

LOCATION: Bantry Bay, Co. Cork. By road, the ferry port at Castletownbere is roughly 48km (1hr 40 mins) from Kenmare and 51km (1hr 20mins) from Bantry.

SIZE: 11km x 5km. Bere Island can be enjoyed in a short visit, but a longer stay makes for a much more rewarding visit. POPULATION: 200+ FACILITIES: B&Bs, self-catering, pubs, café, restaurants, craft shops, boat hire, heritage centre. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Country and Western Weekend (May), Golf Classic (June), Regatta (August), Heritage Week (August). GETTING THERE: Ferries sail year-round from Castletownbere. Sailings take 10 minutes. Bere Island Ferries (353 27 75009; 353 86 2423140; www.bereislandferries.com) depart from Castletownbere, 2kms away on the Beara Peninsula. Murphy’s Ferry Service (353 27 75014; 353 87 238 6095; www.murphysferry. com) departs from Pontoon, 3 miles on the Glengariff side of Castletownbere. GETTING AROUND: Visitors can explore Bere Island on foot, by bus, or by hiring a bike. FIND OUT MORE: Bere Island Projects Group (353 27 75099; www.bereisland.net) or Bere Island Heritage & Information Service (353 27 75956; biheritage@gmail.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? Bere Island boasts a local theatre troupe. It has also been voted Ireland’s Tidiest Island three times in a row!

Nature, culture and heritage Bere Island’s place in history is assured. Its Martello towers date from the Napoleonic wars. Several American ships based here during World War II met their fate at Pearl Harbour. After the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921, the island became one of three Irish ports retained by the UK.

Why has it so often been at the centre of events? The answer is the island’s strategic position at the mouth of Europe’s deepest harbour. Berehaven and Lawrence Cove offer unrivalled shelter for boats of all sizes, something settlers have recognised since the Bronze Age – as the Druid’s Altar wedge tomb, St. Michael’s Holy Well and a scattering of standing stones and ring forts testify.

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But it is its military might for which Bere is best known. In addition to the Martello towers, the island is home to a signal tower and, Lonehort, a military fortification dating from 1899 and housing two six-inch guns, an infantry trench, engine house and various underground structures. The result is unique, almost like an open-air museum. A looped walk (guides available) takes in the best of the sites, with wonderful mainland views of the Slieve Miskish and Caha Mountain ranges of the Beara Peninsula, and the marina is perfectly suited to visiting sailors.

Top 3 Activities • Military history • Walking • Marine life

That said, the deep waters of Bantry Bay are not solely taken advantage of by man. Killer whales, basking shark and bottle-nosed dolphins are all regular visitors, making Bere Island one of the primary bases in the southwest for diving, sea safari, deep-sea fishing and watersports.

ere

n ntoo To Po

wnb eto astl To C

PIER 8

PIER 5a 5

BALLYNAKILLA

8a 14 17 12

7 6

Lonehort (military fortification)

Martello Tower

4 10

RERRIN 3

13 9 15

Martello Tower

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FACT FILE LOCATION: 14.5km off Baltimore, West Cork. By road, Baltimore is roughly 42km (50mins). By road, Baltimore is roughly 12 km from Skibbereen, 42km (50mins) by road from Bantry, and 98km (1hr 45mins) from Cork.

OILEÁN CHLÉIRE (Cape Clear)

Oileán na scéalaithe

SIZE: 4.8km x 1.6km. Oileán Chléire (Cape Clear) can be enjoyed by daytrip, but a longer visit is required to see the entire island, or to fully enjoy its many festivals! POPULATION: 120. A Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: B&Bs, self-catering, hostel, yurt village/campsite, observatory, shops (groceries, crafts), restaurants, pubs, heritage centre, goat farm, guided walks, tourist information office, library, internet access. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Walking/ Talking Weekend (May), O’Driscoll Clan gathering (June), Regatta (Aug), International Storytelling festival (Sept); Birdwatching festival (Oct). GETTING THERE: Ferries sail daily from Baltimore. Sailings take about 45 min. Year round: Cape Clear Ferry (Naomh Ciarán 2) – year round (353 28 39153, 353 87 2824008; www.capeclearferry.com) Cailín Óir Ferries – AprilOct (353 28 41923; 353 86 3465110; www.cailinoir.com The Karycraft (353 28 28278; 353 86 237 9302, www.capeclearferries.com) leaves from Schull Pier from June to Sept. GETTING AROUND: Visitors can explore the island on foot, by bus tour, boat hire or on board Paddy’s Wagon (the island’s cheerful and colourful tractor-drawn wagon). FIND OUT MORE: Island Co-op, Comharchumann Chléire Teo (353 28 39119; www.oilean-chleire.ie), www.discoverireland.ie/islands

The storytellers’ island Oileán Chléire (Cape Clear) has an enviable location – right on the cusp of the continental shelf. The entrance to Roaringwater Bay is one of the leading dolphin and whale sighting locations in Europe and, if the weather’s on your side, a visitor might also catch sight of leatherback turtle, sunfish and shark. The island is also home to Ireland’s only manned bird observatory, which has been maintaining a daily species log since 1959. Located a mere two-minute walk from the ferry beach, the observatory is manned by a resident warden (March to November), and even offers birdwatchers hostel-style accommodation. May and October are high season.

DID YOU KNOW? Oileán Chléire (Cape Clear) is Ireland’s southernmost inhabited Gaeltacht island. Overnight stay

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Top 3 Activities • Birdwatching • Walking • Irish language courses

In summertime, Oilean Chléire (Cape Clear) is festive. Scores of Irish language students energise the island; day-trippers stroll to the lake or the Old Lighthouse; yachts ply in and out of the harbours. A storytelling festival brings alive the oral traditions of yore and outdoor enthusiasts pitch up with kayaks, fishing rods, hiking boots and binoculars. Beneath the seas, scuba divers prowl old wrecks and precipitous reefs. The island is firmly on the radar of walkers too, many of whom - after a stroll on the pebble beaches or gorse-strewn headlands - will pop into one of the island’s lively pubs. The Cape Clear community speaks both Irish and English, and knows how to spring a music session, light a cosy fire or spark a friendly chat - visitors are always welcome at their social soirees.

alti

mo re

– Schull

Cap e

Cape

-B

PIER 21 - 24

NORTH HARBOUR 8

5 3 12 17, 18, 19, 20

26 11

2 6

Loch Loral

LIGHTHOUSE

TO SCHULL Heir Island

SOUTH HARBOUR

25 BALTIMORE

Sherkin Island

Cape Clear

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FACT FILE

HEIR ISLAND

LOCATION: Roaringwater Bay, Co. Cork. Cunnamore, where ferries depart for Heir Island, is roughly 98km (1hr 50 mins) from Cork by road. Baltimore is about the same distance.

SIZE: 2.5km x 1.5km. Heir Island can be enjoyed in a short visit of a few hours, but the cookery courses require a slightly longer stay. POPULATION: 25. FACILITIES: B&Bs, self-catering, restaurant, art gallery, sailing school, cookery school, shop. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Heir Island Regatta (August) GETTING THERE: Heir Island is a five minute ferry ride from Cunnamore, on the Skibbereen to Ballydehob Road, or a 20 minute trip from Baltimore. Sailings are daily, year-round services. The Miss Josephine (353 86 888 7799, www.heirislandferries.com) departs from Baltimore and Cunnamore Pier. The MV Thresher (353 86 8092447, www.heirislandsailingschool.com) departs from Cunnamore Pier. GETTING AROUND: It’s best to walk around Heir Island, though bikes can be hired and brought along from Baltimore. FIND OUT MORE: www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? At the centre of Heir Island lies an extensive marsh with a vibrant reed bed – it is home to some 200 varieties of wildflower.

Gourmet food; gorgeous landscape. An island off the western edge of Europe is the last place you’d expect to find gourmet food (never mind learn how to cook it). But that’s one of the things that makes Heir/Hare Island famous.

Using local duck and lamb, together with shrimp, crab and seasonal wild salmon caught by island fishermen, the island’s cookery school is a real hidden gem. Food lovers come from far and wide to hone their culinary skills over the course of a weekend and guests dine together in the evening.

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Top 3 Activities • Cooking • Sailing • Walking

or e-

Naturally, it’s not all about cooking. There is a well-regarded art gallery here, an established sailing school, and several sandy beaches are safe for swimming. Indeed, there is any number of ways to work up an appetite – be it angling, island-hopping, bird-watching, diving or cycling. And surrounded by the panorama of Roaringwater Bay, you have all the ingredients for a return visit too.

Heir Island is the ideal base for this sustainable enterprise. One of Carbery’s Hundred Isles, it is an unspoilt oasis, the kind of place where caves and creeks are best explored by sea-kayak. Island cottages date back to the 1920s, with houses built since then modelled on the same design, giving a genuine feel of a retreat, a sanctuary, a place to book some much-needed time out.

PIER

ore

tim Bal

8 6

Beach

TO SCHULL Heir Island BALTIMORE

Sherkin Island

Cape Clear

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FACT FILE

SHERKIN ISLAND

LOCATION: Roaringwater Bay, Co. Cork. The ferry port of Baltimore is roughly 42km (50mins) by road from Bantry, and 98km (1hr 45mins) from Cork.

SIZE: 4.8km x 2.4km. Sherkin can be visited in a day, but you won’t be disappointed with an overnight stay - many visitors have even made their homes here! POPULATION: 100+ FACILITIES: Hotel, B&Bs, self-catering, restaurants, art gallery, coffee / craft shop, pubs, community centre, marina, library. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Sherkin family regatta (July), Celtic Music Festival (May) GETTING THERE: Ferries sail daily from Baltimore, year-round. Sailings take 10 minutes. Contact Sherkin Ferry (353 28 20218; 353 87 244 7828, www. sherkinisland.eu/ferry). GETTING AROUND: Sherkin richly rewards walkers; taxis (summer) and buses (year-round) are also to hand. FIND OUT MORE: www.sherkinisland. ie, www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? There’s a modern day trend on Sherkin – where people get married in the island’s little church, and crack open the champagne on the boat back!

A melting pot of culture, life and art Sherkin’s location scores well on several fronts. It’s got all the seclusion of an island hideaway, yet lies just 10 minutes from Baltimore by ferry. It attracts a milder climate (when frost hits the lawns of Baltimore, you can find green grass out here), yet boasts stunning Atlantic scenery. Little surprise, then, that so many non-islanders have made Sherkin their home. The summer months, in particular, see crowds from far and wide flocking to the island - with the result that the ancestral hub of the O’Driscoll clan (their ivy-clad castle lies just above the pier) is today a melting pot of culture, life and art. Sherkin even offers a Visual Arts Degree Programme, and work by the island’s many artists and designers is sold at the Island Crafts Centre in Baltimore.

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Certainly, artists have much to inspire them - from the islands dotting Roaringwater Bay to the ruins of Sherkin’s 15th century Franciscan Abbey; from passing porpoises to playful otters, rare birds and spectacular beaches and coves, the island is almost a work of art in itself.

Top 3 Activities • Arts • Adventure • Sailing

Visitors will find a warm and hospitable welcome year-round, but it is in July and August that Sherkin really comes into its own. Traditional music and the riotous colour of an annual regatta - a big splash in the island’s social calendar - are highlights of a time when walkers, swimmers, sailors and island-hoppers join the swelling ranks of islanders themselves, and everyone soaks up the atmosphere.

THE DOCK

Tramore

10 3

12, 13, 14

Castle Marina

Abbey Strand

PIER 8 5 2

Silver Strand

11 Cow Strand

To Baltimore

Abbey

KILMOON

Trabawn TO SCHULL Heir Island

BALTIMORE BALTIMORE Sherkin Island

SLIEVEMORE Cape Clear

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FACT FILE

VALENTIA ISLAND

LOCATION: Off the Iveragh Peninsula, Co. Kerry. Valentia is roughly 70km (1hr 20mins) by road from Killarney, and 9km (15 mins) from Cahirciveen.

SIZE: 11km x 3km. By driving, most of Valentia is easily done in a day, but a longer stay is recommended for an in-depth experience – particularly if you plan to visit the Skelligs. POPULATION: 600 FACILITIES: B&Bs, self-catering, hostel, shops, restaurants, pubs, heritage centre. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. GETTING THERE: Valentia is linked to the mainland by bridge at Portmagee. Valentia Island Ferries also leaves Renard Point, two miles from Cahirciveen (353 66 947 6141,email: rforan@ indigo.ie) daily, April – October. GETTING AROUND: Valentia can be seen on foot, bike, by car or on bus or boat tours. FIND OUT MORE: www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? Tetrapod footprints in north Valentia date from c.350 million years ago, when a primitive vertebrate passed along a muddy shoreline, leaving prints as if in wet concrete.

The island of the Oak Forest A superbly accessible island, Valentia is joined to the mainland by bridge at Portmagee, near Cahirciveen. Though joined to the mainland, however, it is far from an extension to it – Valentia, a haven to seafarers marked on the earliest maps of Europe, has one of the strongest identities of all Irish islands. Originally known as ‘Oileán Dairbhre’ (Island of the Oaks), Valentia boasts both dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation (coaxed along by the mild Gulf Stream). It offers an Anglo-Irish feel in the stately buildings and cultured restaurants of Knightstown, but tempers that with an unadulterated wildness, a tattered coast, mouth-watering views of the Skelligs and a myriad of adventure sports.

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Valentia is synonymous with communication. It was here, in 1858, that the first terminal for the Atlantic Telegraph was stationed. It is known the world over for its slate – which has been used in the Paris Opera House, Westminster Abbey and as railway sleepers in the San Salvador Railway.

Top 3 Activities • Skellig Experience • Heritage • Adventure

There’s also lots to do. The Skellig Experience interprets the monastery, seabirds, lighthouses and underwater life of those islands 13km offshore. Glanleam Estate, built in 1775 as a linen mill, boasts 50-acres of sub-tropical gardens that thrive in the relatively balmy climate. Diving, cycling, and rock-climbing are just some of the activities based out of the local adventure centre. Perhaps the island’s heritage centre says it best. Like Valentia itself, it describes itself as “not so much a museum as a meeting place of Today and Yesterday, of You and Us.” 13, 15, 19, 20, 22, 23, MARINA 34, 35

Valentia Lighthouse

KNIGHTSTOWN

18 33

17 Fogher Cliffs Geokaun Mountain

10 2, 3, 5, 6, 12

14 32

8 11 29

CHAPELTOWN 24 - 27, 30, 31

Coarha More 4

PORTMAGEE For detailed info on islands listings see page 71 Dining/Pub

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LONG ISLAND

LOCATION: Roaringwater Bay, Co. Cork. The ferry pier at Schull is roughly 108km (1hr 50mins) by road from Cork, and 25km (30 mins) from Bantry.

SIZE: 4.8km x 0.8km. Long Island is easily visited in a day. POPULATION: 10 FACILITIES: Cafe/restaurant, internet access. GETTING THERE: Ferries sail from Colla Pier daily, year-round. Sailings take about ten minutes. Contact MV Nordic (353 86 888 7799; www.heirislandferries.com). Long Island can also be accessed by small boat in calm weather. GETTING AROUND:Walking is the best way to explore Long Island. FIND OUT MORE: www. discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? Roaringwater Bay is disconcertingly named. In fact, the sheer volume of islands here act together to guarantee sheltered water in almost all weather conditions.

Top 3 Activities • Walking • Birdwatching • Swimming

A near-shore getaway Just ten minutes by boat from the West Cork shore, Long Island is the perfect tonic after the buzz of cosmopolitan Schull. Pleasant walks, shingle beaches and abundant wildlife combine with beautiful south-western scenery here to create a real offshore treat. Inis Fada, as it is known in Irish, gets its name from its dimensions. This is a low-lying island stretching almost 5km in length, but barely a kilometre wide. A surfaced road makes some headway into the interior, with a rough, unkempt route extending to the Beacon lighthouse and an old copper mine in the east and to the cliffs at the west. Both seem to draw the visitor further away from modern life. Ruined houses, stores and sheds dating from the early 1900s add to the isolation, and a maze of closely-knit fields, gradually being reclaimed by opportunistic fauna and flora, completes the impression. Walkers, bird-watchers and boaters will be in their element here – whiling away an afternoon whilst keeping an eye out for otter, seals, dolphin, whales and even the occasional basking shark.

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WESTERN PIER

PIER FROM COLLA TO SCHULL Beacon

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FACT FILE

WHIDDY ISLAND

LOCATION: Bantry Bay Harbour, Co. Cork. Bantry ferry port is roughly 85km (1hr 30mins) by road from Cork, and 45km (1hr) from Kenmare, Co. Kerry.

SIZE: 4.8km x 1.6km. Whiddy can be easily explored a in a day. POPULATION: 29 FACILITIES: Bar, restaurant. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Whiddy Island Regatta (August) GETTING THERE: Ferries sail from Bantry, daily, year-round. Sailings take 10-15 minutes. Contact Whiddy Island Ferries (353 86 862 6734, www.whiddyislandferry.com). GETTING AROUND: Visitors to Whiddy can hire bikes, take boat trips, or explore the island by foot. FIND OUT MORE: Email: whiddy.island@yahoo.com www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? Whiddy Island’s drinking fountain, known as the ‘Cup and Saucer’, was made by American naval officers during the First World War.

Top 3 Activities • Walking • Fishing • Birdwatching

Wildlife retreat; wild history Resting between peninsulas in Bantry Bay, Whiddy Island enjoys a superb strategic position in one of the world’s finest deep water harbours. The result is a lively and vibrant naval history. During World War I, seaplanes from a US navy base on Whiddy patrolled Fastnet Rock. More recently, the island serves as a Gulf Oil terminal for berthing supertankers. It was here, in 1979, that the French tanker Betelgeuse exploded in what remains the biggest maritime disaster in Irish history. Of course, there’s more to Whiddy than modern industry and warfare. At the Kilmore lakes, an early ecclesiastical enclosure features a holy well, church and graveyard dating from the 6th century. In the early 1500’s the great chieftain, Donal Cam O’Sullivan Bere, built Reenananig Castle on the island, which was bombarded during the Cromwellian Wars, and finally collapsed in a 1920 storm, however three magnificent forts have survived. The result is a fascinating prospect - an island where walkers can absorb a landscape heaving as much with history as it is with red and purple fuchsia in the summer months; a hideaway where bird-watchers can break out the binoculars; an escape where everyone can grab a wellearned drink at the welcoming island pub. Whether you’re walking, boating or simply relaxing here, you’ll find an island of hidden depths.

Castle Fort

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PIER

To B a

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FACT FILE

DURSEY ISLAND

LOCATION: 219m off the Beara Peninsula. By road, Dursey Island is roughly 64km (1hr 50 mins) from Kenmare and 73km (1hr 55mins) from Bantry.

SIZE: 6.6km x 1.5k. Most visitors spend a couple of hours on Dursey. POPULATION: 6 FACILITIES: Bring all essentials, including a packed lunch, as there are no facilities on the island. GETTING THERE: Ireland’s only cable car departs daily, year-round, from Ballaghboy - at the tip of the Beara Peninsula, Co. Cork. The trip takes ten minutes. Contact 353 27 73017, www.windypointhouse.com GETTING AROUND: Dursey is a walker’s delight. FIND OUT MORE: Beara Tourism and development association (353 27 70054, www.bearatourism.com/bwdursey. html), www.discoverireland.ie/islands

Connect with Ireland’s only cable car Fancy beating the rat race for a little while? Dursey Island is the place to do it. Lying across a narrow sound off the tip of the Beara Peninsula, this is the dictionary definition of escape – no business, no traffic, no hassle. Just you, rugged nature and the awe-inspiring Atlantic Ocean.

DID YOU KNOW? Sunset on Dursey Island featured in a worldwide televised broadcast of the final hours of the last millennium.

Top 3 Activities • Cable Car • Walking • Birdwatching

There is one sign of civilisation, of course – Dursey’s unique and charismatic cable car. Hitched to the mainland above dolphin-strewn Dursey sound, this is Ireland’s only cable car, running 250 metres above the sea. With a capacity of carrying just six people at a time, the cable is a lifeline for the handful of inhabitants living in three small villages on the island. Stepping onto the island, visitors can continue on foot along a stretch of the Beara Way. Highlights on Dursey include the ruins of O’Sullivan Beara’s castle, a 200-year-old signal tower with views stretching to the Skelligs and Mizen Head, and several standing stones. The indented coastline, open bog and wild winds leave you in no doubt – you’re far from the madding crowd.

BALLAGHBOY CABLE CAR

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FACT FILE

GARINISH

LOCATION: Glengarriff Harbour in Bantry Bay. By road, Glengariff is roughly 91km (1hr 40 mins) from Cork and 17km (20 mins) from Bantry.

SIZE: 15 hectares. Garinish is a short visit of a couple of hours. POPULATION: 0 FACILITIES: Coffee shop and toilets. GETTING THERE: Ferries depart Glengariff daily from March to October. Sailings take 15 minutes. Contact Glengarriff and Garinish Boat Services (353 27 63116; www.harbourqueenferry.com) or the Blue Pool Ferry ( 353 27 63333; www.bluepoolferry.com).

Temple Martello Tower

Garinish was bequeathed to the Irish people in 1953, and is today managed by the Office of Public Works. It remains a magical island garden, a sanctuary beloved of horticulturalists and casual visitors alike – not to mention the seals that regularly pitch up on its southern shore rocks.

Walled Garden

1, 2

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rin ish

Top 3 Activities • Garden trails • Birdwatching • Marine life

How is it so? Over 100 years ago then-owner Anna Bryce joined forces with the Edwardian garden designer Harold Peto. Noticing that the Gulf Stream and the island’s sheltered position blessed it with an almost subtropical climate, they began cultivating ornamental plants from all over the world.

DID YOU KNOW? Ilnacullin means the ‘island of holly’.

rif f-

FIND OUT MORE: Heritage Ireland (+353 27 63040; heritageireland. ie), www.discoverireland.ie./islands

Garinish Island, or Ilnacullin, is a tiny island with a big reputation. Stashed away in Glengarriff harbour, it is home to a series of gardens showcasing an incredible richness of plant form and colour. Changing with the seasons, it is flush with with rhododendrons and azaleas in May and June, climbing plants and herbaceous perennials in midsummer, and awash with autumnal hues, particularly on the magnificent heather bank, in the months of September and October.

GETTING AROUND: Garinish is best explored on foot. There are a range of self-guided short walks.

A magical island garden

Gl en

Garinish Island is open from March to October, and there is an island admission charge separate to that charged by ferry boats.

For detailed info on islands listings see page 73 Dining/Pub DAY TRIP TICKET

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FACT FILE LOCATION: Off Slea Head, Co. Kerry. The ferry port of Dún Chaoin (Dunquin) is 15km (30 mins) from An Daingean (Dingle) and roughly 81km (1hr 40mins) from Killarney by road. SIZE: 6km x 1km approx (Great Blasket). A visit to Na Blascaodaí (the Blaskets) will take at least a couple of hours.

NA BLASCAODAÍ

(Blasket Islands) Corraitheach agus millteanach

POPULATION: 0 FACILITIES: None, though camping is permitted. GETTING THERE: Ferries sail seasonally from Dún Chaoin. Sailings take about 20 minutes. Blasket Islands Ferry (353 66 9154864, 353 87 231 6131; www.blasketislands. ie) sails each hour from Dún Chaoin (Dunquin), weather permitting, from April to October. Blasket Island Ferries + Eco Tours (353 66 915 6422, www.blasketislands. com) also leaves Dún Chaoin (Dunquin) every hour from 10.30am between April and September. GETTING AROUND: Na Blascaodaí (the Blaskets) can be explored on foot. FIND OUT MORE: The Blascaod Centre, Dún Chaoin (353 66 915 6444, www.heritageireland.ie), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? Former Irish Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Charles Haughey bought Inishvickillane in 1974 for £25,000. He built a holiday home on the island, and introduced to it a herd of red deer.

Top 3 Activities • Walking • Birdwatching • Heritage

Poignant and awe-inspiring Na Blascaodaí (The Blaskets) have an awesome literary heritage. Perched on the edge of Europe, these small islands are responsible for works like An tOileánach (The Islandman) by Tomás Ó Criomhtháin, Peig by Peig Sayers, and Fiche Blian ag Fás (Twenty Years A-Growing) by Muiris Ó Suilleabháin. The Blaskets comprise six islands - Great Blasket, Beginish, Inishabro, Inishvickillane, Inishtooskert and Tearaght Island.

From the middle ages, island life was a constant hardship here, involving thrashing storms, hazardous fishing, regular isolation and a three-mile crossing to the mainland. Though the last of the islanders left Great Blasket in 1953, however, their spirit remains. Na Blascaodaí (The Blaskets) today are about solitude, a place where walkers can wander through deserted villages, past rousing seas and wild beaches, utterly removed from modernity. Gazing over the wild Atlantic and this scattered archipelago at once poignant and glistening – it feels like the ends of the earth. As Ó Criomhtháin writes at the close of An tOileánach, “the likes of us will never be again”.

DAY TRIP TICKET

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Day trip

Inishtooskert Beginish

Great Blasket Island Tearaght Island

Inishabro Inishvickillane

Gaeltacht Island

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FACT FILE LOCATION: 13km off the Iveragh Peninsula, Co. Kerry. The harbour town of Portmagee is roughly 70km (1hr 20mins) by road from Killarney, and 9km (15 mins) from Cahirciveen. SIZE: Around 44 acres (Skellig Michael). The main Skellig is accessed by boat, and trips generally take about half a day (leaving at 10am and returning at 3pm).

NA SCEALGA

(The Skelligs) An t-imeallchríoch spioradálta

POPULATION: 0 FACILITIES: None GETTING THERE: Several boat operators depart mid-morning for Na Scealga (the Skelligs)from Portmagee, Valentia Island, Ballinskelligs and Derrynane and return mid-afternoon. A two hour cruise around Na Scealga (The Skelligs) departs approx 2.30pm from The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre. All sailings are weather-permitting. Further information is available from The Skellig Experience (353 66 947-6306; www.skelligexperience.com) GETTING AROUND: Walking is the only option on Sceilg Mhicil (Skellig Michael), and a degree of fitness is required for the steps. FIND OUT MORE: The Skellig Experience (353 66 947-6306; www. skelligexperience.com) is open yearround. www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? “Stormy”, a Skellig storm petrel, lived long enough to earn inclusion in the Guinness Book of Records. She undertook an annual return journey of 20,000km for 26 years.

Top 3 Activities • Birdwatching • Heritage • Boat trips

The spiritual outpost Sceilg Mhicil (Skellig Michael) is Ireland’s Machu Picchu. A staggering shard of rock punching out of the Atlantic, what drew early Christian monks to row out here? What compelled them to build a monastery on the edge of what was then the known world? Nature designed the Skelligs to be inaccessible – but that only seems to have motivated these frontiersmen of the Christian faith.

Today, Sceilg Mhicil (Skellig Michael) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a 1,000 year-old stone stairwell leading to the small cluster of huts, oratories, chapel and stone crosses clinging to its cliffs. Two lighthouses (the second was finally made automatic in 1987) tell of another self-sacrificing island lifestyle. But Sceilg Mhicil (Skellig Michael)is not alone. Alongside it are two other rocky outcrops – the seabird sanctuaries of Little Skellig, home to more than 30,000 pairs of gannets, and Puffin Island (puffins are best seen in late spring). Taken together, they offer one of the most dramatic vistas Ireland has to offer.

DAY TRIP TICKET

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Kerry Coastline

Puffin Island

Little Skellig

Skellig Michael

Gaeltacht Island

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FACT FILE

RATHLIN ISLAND

LOCATION: 12 km off Ballycastle, Co. Antrim. By road, the ferry port at Ballycastle is roughly 90km (1hr 20mins) from Belfast and 80km (1hr 30mins) from Derry.

SIZE: 6km x 1.5km. Rathlin can be visited in a daytrip, but a longer stay is very worthwhile (only visitors staying six nights or more may take their car on the ferry). POPULATION: 95 FACILITIES: Guesthouse, B&Bs, hostel, shops (groceries, crafts), restaurant, pub, visitor centre. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Rathlin Festival Week (July). GETTING THERE: Ferries sail from Ballycastle, year-round. Sailings take 20 or 45 minutes, depending on the boat. Contact Rathlin Island Ferry (44 (0)28 2076 9299; rathlinballycastleferry. com). Online advance booking is advisable to avoid disappointment. Those visitors who are staying for six or more nights need to apply for a permit which is available from Moyle District Council. Blue badge holders are able to go over and back on the same day. GETTING AROUND: With its walking trails, bike-hire and bus tour, Rathlin is an easy island to get around. FIND OUT MORE: Ballycastle Tourist Office (44 (0)28 2076 2024; Email: tourism@moyle-council.org, www.moyle-council.org/tourism) Northern Ireland Tourist Board (44 (0)28 9023 1221; discovernorthernireland.com) DID YOU KNOW? In 1987, Richard Branson crashed his hot-air balloon, the ‘Virgin Atlantic Flyer’ into the sea off Rathlin, after his crossAtlantic flight from Maine.

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Treasure trove of now and then Boomerang-shaped Rathlin Island has quite a distinction – not only is it Northern Ireland’s sole inhabited offshore island; it is also Ireland’s most northerly inhabited island, full-stop.

It’s remote then – a fact that served Vikings well when they staged the first of their Irish raids here in AD795; a fact reinforced by brilliant basalt cliffs, tens of thousands of seabirds (their drone has been likened to the inside of a beehive) and Rathlin’s time-worn fort, castle and smuggler’s house. On a good day, you can even see the Mull of Kintyre on the extreme west coast of Scotland.

Overnight stay

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For all its romantic isolation, however, Rathlin is ultra-accessible. Ferries from Ballycastle take as little as 20 minutes, and the quick whizz across the Sea of Moyle transports visitors to a place where spirited céilís, summer festivals (look out for ‘Chicks on the Rocks’ at the bird sanctuary) and regular doses of music, song and dance – as only the Rathlin islanders can provide them – are commonplace. Elsewhere, divers stalk silent shipwrecks. Walkers and cyclists chart quiet roads. History is in the air, like the smell of fresh heather. Rathlin has been a smugglers’ haven, a Neolithic axe factory and, on July 6th 1898, Marconi transmitted the first commercial radio signals from the island’s East Lighthouse.

Top 3 Activities • Birdwatching • Walking • Wreck-diving

The most famous local lore puts Robert the Bruce in a cave on Rathlin after his defeat by the English in 1306. According to legend, the dispirited warrior watched a spider persevere with trying to set a web. Eventually it succeeded, inspiring Bruce to return home and regain the Scottish throne. Old Coastguard Hut

East Lighthouse West Lighthouse Seabird Viewpoint

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Rue Lighthouse

For detailed info on islands listings see page 74 Dining/Pub

Activities

www.discoverireland.ie/islands

Visitor information

Waymarked Trails

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NORTH WEST ISLANDS ÁRAINN MHÓR (ARRANMORE) (MAP REF 1) PAGE 09 Map

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Cultural & Tourism Centre

Visitor information

Fál an Ghabhann, Arranmore, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9520533

comharchumann@ oileanarainnmhoir.com

www.oileanarainnmhoir.com

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Accommodation 6

Baile Saoire Arranmore Holiday Village

Self catering

Cloughcor, Arranmore, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9520533

comharchumann@ oileanarainnmhoir.com

www.oileanarainnmhoir.com

Claire's B&B

B&B

An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9520042

clairelouise22@yahoo.com

www.claires@arainmhor.com

Glen Hotel

Hotel

An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9520505

annemarietheglen@gmail.com

www.theglenhotel.weebly.com

Lightkeeper Cottages

Self catering - lighthouse accomm.

Arranmore, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9125635

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Activities 10

Arranmore Bike Hire

Bike hire

An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9520500

Arranmore Charters

Boat and angling trips

An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal

00353-87-3171810

louise@arranmorecharters.com

www.arranmorecharters.com/ tours

Arranmore Pitch & Putt

Pitch and putt

Fál an Ghabhann, Arranmore, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9520533

comharchumann@ oileanarainnmhoir.com

www.oileanarainnmhoir.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

arranmoreferry@gmail.com

www.arranmoreferry.com

annemarietheglen@gmail.com

www.theglenhotel.weebly.com

Dining/Pub 8

Bonners Ferryboat Restaurant

Restaurant

An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9520532

Early's Bar & Lounge

Bar

An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9520515

Neily's Bar

Bar

Ballintra, Arranmore, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9520509

Glen Bar

Bar

An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9520505

Smugglers Niteclub & Bar

Bar/ Niteclub

An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9520512

Teach Phil Ban

Bar

An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9547795

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Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Travel 14

Cara na nOilean

Ferry Service

Ailt an Chorráin/Burtonport, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9520532

arranmoreferry@gmail.com

www.arranmoreferry.com

Arranmore Ferry Service/Arranmore Charters

Ferry Service

An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal

00353-87-3171810

louise@arranmorecharters.com

www.arranmorecharters.com

TORAIGH (TORY) (MAP REF 2) PAGE 11 Map

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Comharchumann Oileán Thoraí

Visitor information

Tory Island, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9135502

ccthorai@eircom.net

www.oileanthorai.com

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Accommodation 1

Ostan Thoraigh (Ostan Tory)

Hotel

Tory Island, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9135920 ostantory@eircom.net

www.toryhotel.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

divetory@eircom.net

www.toryhotel.com

Activities 2

Dive Tory

Dive centre

Tory Island, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9135920

Gailearai Dixon Art Gallery

Art gallery

Tory Island, Co. Donegal

00353-91-35011

Tory Bicyle Hire

Bicycle hire

Tory Island, Co. Donegal

00353-74-965614

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

www.oileanthorai.com

Web

Dining/Pub 3

Caife an Chreagain

Cafe

Tory Island, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9135856

Club Soisialta Thorai

Pub

Tory Island, Co. Donegal

00353-86-8763754

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Travel 6

Mc Geehans

Minibus hire

Tory Island, Co. Donegal

00353-86-4008233

Turasmara Teo

Ferry service

Tory Island, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9531340

eolas@toryislandferry.com

www.toryislandferry.com

Toraigh na dTonn

Ferry service

Tory Island, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9135920

ostantory@eircom.net

www.toryhotel.com

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OILEÁN RUAIDH (ISLAND ROY) (MAP REF 3) PAGE 13 Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Accommodation 3

Doherty Holiday Homes

Self catering

Oileán Ruaidh, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9155535

marydomnick@eircom.net

www.dohertyholidayhomes.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Activities 1

Coiste Forbartha Oileán Ruaidh

Guided walks

Oileán Ruaidh, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9155535

ancaire@eircom.net

www.donegalislands.com

Coiste Forbartha Oileán Ruaidh

Art classes/ workshops

Oileán Ruaidh, co. Donegal

00353-74-9155535

ancaire@eircom.net

www.donegalislands.com

INIS BÓ FINNE (INISHBOFIN) (MAP REF 4) PAGE 14 Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Activities 1

Coiste Forbartha Inis Bó Finne

Angling, windsurfing, kayaking

Inis Bó Finne, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9135635

ancaire@eircom.net

www.donegalislands.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Ferry service

Inis Bó Finne, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9135635

ancaire@eircom.net

www.donegalislands.com

Travel 2

Carmel Olivia

INIS FRAOIGH (INISHFREE) (MAP REF 5) PAGE 15 Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Activities 1

Culturlann Inis Fraoigh

Courses in irish music, dance, poetry

Inis Fraoigh, Co. Donegal

00353-74-9522893

ancaire@eircom.net

www.donegalislands.com

Guided Walks

Walking

Inis Fraoigh, Co. Donegal

00353-74-952 2895

ancaire@eircom.net

www.donegalislands.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Ferry service

Burtonport Pier, Co. Donegal

00353-87-9253534

ancaire@eircom.net

www.donegalislands.com

Tel

Web

Travel 2

Inishfree Charters

GABHLA (GOLA) (MAP REF 6) PAGE 16 Map

Name

Type

Address

Activities

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Coiste Forbartha Ghabhla

Guided walks

Coiste Forbartha Ghabhla, Gola, Co. Donegal

Mountaineering Council of Ireland

Guided rock climbing

Gola Island, Co. Donegal

Seod na nOilean

Art classes/ workshops

An Chrannóg, Na Doirí Beaga, Co. Donegal

Map

Name

Type

Ferry service

00353-74-9531743

ancaire@eircom.net

www.donegalislands.com

mci@eircom.net

www.climbing.ie

00353-74-9532571

ancaire@eircom.net

www.donegalislands.com

Address

Tel

Web

Gola Island, Co. Donegal

00353-87-6607003

ancaire@eircom.net

www.donegalislands.com

Travel 4

Gola Island Ferry Service (Seod Gabhla)

WEST ISLANDS ACAILL (ACHILL) (MAP REF 7) PAGE 19 Map

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Achill Tourism

Visitor information

Cashel, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-47353

info@achilltourism.com

www.achilltourism.com

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Accommodation 9

Achill Cliff House Hotel

Hotel

Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-43400

info@achillcliff.com

www.achillcliff.com

Achill Cottages

Self catering

Glendarrary, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-45200

info@achillcottages.com

www.achillcottages.com

Achill Head Hotel

Hotel

Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-43108

achillheadhotel@eircom.net

www.achillheadhotel.ie

Achill Island Hotel

Hotel

Achill Sound, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-45138

reservations@achillislandhotel. com

www.achillislandhotel.com

Achill Isle House

B&B

Newtown, Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-43355

achillisle@eircom.net

www.achillislehouse.com

Achill Lodge

B&B

Hillside, Bunacurry, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-47878

kennethdeery@hotmail.com

www.achilllodge.ie

Achill Sound Holiday Homes

Self catering

Barr na Farraig, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-1 2018400

reservations@ tridentholidayhomes.ie

www.tridentholidayhomes.ie

Corrymore - No. 5, 6, 7

Self catering

Dooagh, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98 28752

lavelle5@eircom.net

Dugort

Self catering

Dooagh, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-1-8453745

timmyo@indigo.ie

Glenvale Cottage Number 1

Self catering

The Valley Crossroads, Dugort, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-94-9024116

paulomalley@paulomalley.net

Glenvale Cottage Number 2

Self catering

The Valley Crossroads, Dugort, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-87-6647467

glenvalecottage@gmail.com

Grays Guesthouse

Self catering

Dugort, Achill Co. Mayo

00353-98-43244

Hy Breasal

B&B

St Fionans Road, Achill Sound, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-45114

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hybreasalmayo@hotmail.com

MAP

www.holidayhomesdirect. ie/12074/

Keel Holiday Cottages

Self catering

Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-94-9032054

post@mayoholidays.com

www.mayoholidays.com

Keel Sandybanks Caravan & Camping

Caravaning & camping

Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-43211

info@achillcamping.com

www.achillcamping.com

Lavelle's Golden Strand Caravan & Camping

Caravaning & camping

Dugort, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-47232

No.1 The Links

Self catering

Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-43158

csmythsc@eircom.net

Ostรกn Ghob a'Choire/ Achill Sound Hotel

Hotel

Achill Sound, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-45245

achillsoundhotel@eircom.net

16 Purteen

Self catering

Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-96-22843

muredachroache@gmail.com

Realt na Mara

Self catering

Sandybanks, Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-43458

martin.m@roadrunner.com

Scanlons Rose Cottage

B&B

Achill Sound, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-45167

scanlonsrosecottage@hotmail. com

Seaside House

Self catering

Dooega, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-45116

Seaview

Self catering

Crumpaun, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-87-2518958

kennysdsl@eircom.net

Slievemore Houses

Self catering

Dugort, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-61-335799

info@westcoastholidays.ie

Slievemore Holiday Village

Self catering

Dugort, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-87-8232604

joemiriammorrin@eircom.net

Slievemore Holiday Village

Self catering

Dugort, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-1-2803040

cjdaly@indigo.ie

Strand Hotel

Hotel

Dugort, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-43241

info@strandhotel.ie

www.strandhotel.ie

The Gallery Apartment, Danlann Yawl Art Gallery

Self catering

Owenduff, Tonragee, Achill

00353-98-36137

gallery@achillpainting.com

www.achillpainting.com

The Links

Self catering

Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-1-4961034

rossamartin@eircom.net

The Sandybanks

Self catering

Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-51-380964

mel@thesandybanks.com

www.thesandybanks.com

West Coast House

B&B

School Road, Dooagh, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-43317

achillwestcoasthouse@eircom.net

www.achillcliff.com/ westcoasthouse.htm

Woodview House

B&B

Springvale, Achill Sound, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-45261

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

www.achillsoundhotel.com

www.lavellesseasidehouse.com

www.westcoastholidays.ie

Activities 33

Achill Adventures

Boat trips

Slievemore, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-85-1311453

mcdowellshotel@eircom.net

www.achilladventures.com

Achill Archaeological Field School

Courses

Dooagh, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-43564

info@achill-fieldschool.com

www.achill-fieldschool.com

Achill Golf Club

Golf

Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-43456

achillgolfclub@eircom.net

www.achillgolfclub.com

Achill Outdoor Education Centre

Adventure

Cashel, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-47253

info@achilloutdoor.com

www.achilloutdoor.com

Achill Sea Angling

Angling

Cashel, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-86-3211560

tmburke@eircom.net

www.angling.irl.com

Blackfield Surf School & Bike Hire

Surfing/ cycling

Closhreid, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-87-2495175

info@blackfield.com

www.blackfield.com

Calvey's Equestrian & Pony Trekking Centre

Equestrian

Slievemore, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-87-9881093

ponytrek@calveysofachill.com

www.calveysofachill.com

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Dánlann Yawl Art Gallery & Coffee Shop

Gallery

Owenduff, Tonragee, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-36137

gallery@achillpainting.com

www.achillpainting.com

McDowells Hotel And Activity Centre

Adventure

Slieve Mor Road, Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-90-6494801

mcdowellshotel@eircom.net

www.achill-leisure.ie

O'Malley's Island Sports Bike Hire

Bike hire

Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-43125

jomalley@eircom.net

WindWise Watersports Events

Adventure

Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-86-4023068

info@windwise.ie

www.windwise.ie

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Dining/Pub 44

Blackfield Coffee & Dessert House

Café

Closhreid, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-87-2495175

info@blackfield.com

www.blackfield.com

Zamba Nightclub

Nightclub

Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo

00353-98-43108

achillheadhotel@eircom.net

www.achillheadhotel.ie

The Beehive Craft & Coffee Shop

Café + craft

Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

0035398-43134

Calvey's Restaurant

Restaurant

Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-098-43158

Chalet Seafood Restaurant

Restaurant

Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-43157

The Cottage Coffee Shop

Café

Crumpaun, Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo.

00353-98-43908

achillfinedining@eircom.net

www.ferndale-achill.com

Gieltys Clew Bay

Restaurant

Dooagh, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-43119

info@gieltys.com

www.gieltys.com

Masterson's Bar

Bar

Dugort, Achill Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-47216

mastersonsgoldenstrand@live.ie

CLARE ISLAND (MAP REF 8) PAGE 21 Map

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Clare Island Development Group

Visitor Information

Clare Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-26525

cliaracdp@eircom.net

www.clare-island.org

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

carlogradyci@eircom.net

Accommodation 1

Bayview Hotel

Hotel

Clare Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-26307

Cois Abhainn B&B

B&B

The Quay, Clare Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-26216

Granuaile B&B

B&B

Capnagower, Clare Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-26250

info@granuailehouse.net

www.granuailehouse.net

O'Gradys Guesthouse

Guesthouse

Clare Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-22991

info@ogradysguesthouse.com

www.ogradysguesthouse.com

Seabreeze

B&B

The Quay, Clare Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-26746

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Activities 8

Ballytoughey Loom

Weaving

Ballytoughey, Clare Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-25800

bethmoran@eircom.net

www.clareisland.info/loom

Clare Island Yoga Retreat Centre

Retreat centre

Clare Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-25412

bookings@yogaretreats.ie

www.yogaretreats.ie

P. 60

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CONTENTS

MAP

Map

John McCabe

Diving

The Quay, Clare Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-26250

Connemara Safari

Walking/ Island hopping (Inishbofin, Inisturk, Clare)

Sky Road, Clifden, Co. Galway

00353-95-21071

bookings@walkingconnemara. com

www.walkingconnemara.com

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Travel 9

Clare Island Ferry

Ferry service

Clare Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-23737

clareislandferry@anu.ie

www.clareislandferry.com

O'Malley Ferry Services

Ferry service

Clare Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-25045

enquiry@omalleyferries.com

www.omalleyferries.com

Web

INISHTURK ISLAND (MAP REF 9) PAGE 23 Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Accommodation 1

Ferryman's Inn

B&B

Inisturk, Co. Mayo

00353-98-45541

helenheanue@vodafone.ie

Ocean View House

B&B

Inisturk, Co. Mayo

00353-98-45520

mheanue@online.ie

www.inishturkisland.com

Teach Abhainn

B&B

Inisturk, Co. Mayo

00353-98-45510

teachabhainn@hotmail.com

www.inishturk.com.ie/ teachabhainn

Tranaun House

B&B

Inisturk, Co. Mayo

00353-98-45641

tranaunhouse@gmail.com

www.inishturkisland.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Ferryman's Inn

Boat trips

Inisturk, Co. Mayo

00353-98-45541

helenheanue@vodafone.ie

Connemara Safari

Walking/ Island hopping (Inishbofin, Inisturk, Clare)

Sky Road, Clifden, Co. Galway

00353-95-21071

bookings@walkingconnemara. com

www.walkingconnemara.com

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Activities 5

Map

Dining/Pub 7

Inishturk Community Centre

Pub

Inisturk, Co. Mayo

00353-98-45655

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

clareislandferry@anu.ie

www.clareislandferry.com

Travel 8

Clare Island Ferry

Ferry service

Clare Island, Co. Mayo

00353-98-23737

Inishturk Ferries

Ferry service

Inisturk, Co. Mayo

00353-98-45541

P. 61

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CONTENTS

www,inisturkisland.com

MAP

INISHBOFIN ISLAND (MAP REF 10) PAGE 25 Map

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Inishbofin Community Centre

Visitor information/ activites

Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway

00353-95-45861

bofindev@eircom.net

www.inishbofin.com

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Accommodation 1

Dolphin Hotel

Hotel

Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway

00353-95-45991

info@dolphinhotel.ie

www.dolphinhotel.ie

Doonmore Hotel

Hotel

Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway

00353-95-45804, 45814

info@doonmorehotel.com

www.doonmorehotel.com

Inishbofin Island Hostel

Hostel

Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway

00353-95-45855

enquiries@inishbofin-hostel.ie

www.inishbofin-hostel.ie

Inishbofin House Hotel

Hotel

Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway

00353-95-45809

info@inishbofinhouse.com

www.inishbofinhouse.com

Middlequarter

Self catering

Knock, Inishbofin, Co. Galway

00353-95-45849

mmschofieldohalloran@yahoo.ie

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

info@islandswest.ie

www.islandswest.ie

Activities 6

Islands West

Diving/ Island hopping

Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway

00353-87-2227098

Bofin Angling

Angling/ Island hopping

Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway

00353-95-45974

Inishbofin Cycle Hire

Bike hire

Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway

00353-95-45833

Inishbofin Heritage Museum

Museum

Old Pier, Inishbofin, Co. Galway

00353-95â&#x20AC;&#x201C;45950

Farmers Market

Market

Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway

00353-95-45842

Michael Gibbons

Guided walks

Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway

00353-95-21379

Connemara Safari

Walking/ Island hopping (Inishbofin, Inisturk, Clare)

Sky Road, Clifden, Co. Galway

00353-95-21071

bookings@walkingconnemara. com

www.walkingconnemara.com

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Map

www.bofinangling.com

marylav@eircom.net

Dining/Pub 10

Day's Bar

Bar

Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway

00353-95-45829

Dolphin Hotel

Restaurant

Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway

00353-95-45991

Doonmore Hotel

Bar/ Restaurant

Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway

00353-95-45804, 45814

info@doonmorehotel.com

www.doonmorehotel.com

Inishbofin House Hotel

Restaurant

Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway

00353-95-45809

info@inishbofinhouse.com

www.inishbofinhouse.com

P. 62

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CONTENTS

MAP

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Travel 12

Island Mini Bus Hire

Minibus service

Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway

00353-95-45895, 45861

Inishbofin Island Discovery

Ferry service

Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway

00353-91-45819

www.inishbofinislanddiscovery. com

ÁRAINN (INISHMORE) (MAP REF 11) PAGE 27 Map

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Tourist Information Office

Visitor Information

Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

00353-99 61263

aran@failteireland.ie

Web

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

www.ancrugan.com

Accommodation 1

An Crúgan

Self catering

Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

00353-99-61150

ancrugan@eircom.net

An Réalog

B&B

Mainistir, Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

00353-99-61159

realog@eircom.net

Ard Einne

Guesthouse

Inis Mór, Co. Galway

00353-99-61126

ardeinne@eircom.net

www.ardeinne.com

Ard Mhuiris

B&B

Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

00353-99-61208

ardmhuiris@eircom.net

www.ardmhuiris.com

Beach View House

B&B

Inis Mór, Co. Galway

00353-99-61141

beachviewhouse@eircom.net

www.beachviewhousearan.com

Claí Bán

B&B

Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

00353-99-61111

claibanhouse@gmail.com

Creigmount House

B&B

Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

00353-99-61139

creigmount@gmail.com

Kelly House

B&B

Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

00353-99-61259

stiofankelly@eircom.net

Kilmurvey House

Guesthouse

Kilmurvey, Inis Mór, Co. Galway

00353-99-61218

kilmurveyhouse@eircom.net

www.kilmurveyhouse.com

Mainister House Hostel

Hostel

Mainistir, Inis Mór, Co. Galway

00353-99-61169

mainistirhouse@eircom.net

www.mainistirhousearan.com

Man of Aran Cottage

B&B

Kilmurvey, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

00353-99-61301

manofaran@eircom.net

www.manofarancottage.com

Ocean View

B&B

Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

00353-99-61347

oceanviewaran@gmail.com

www.oceanviewaran.com

Ostán Arainn

Hotel

Kilronan, Inis Mór, Co. Galway

00353-99-61104

info@aranislandshotel.com

www.aranislandshotel.com

Pier House

Guesthouse

Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

00353-99-61417

pierh@iol.ie

Radharc na Céibhe

Country home

Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

00353-99-61297

noirinuighoill@hotmail.com

Tigh Fitz

Guesthouse

Killeany, Kilronan, Inis Mór, Co. Galway

00353-99-61213

penny@tighfitz.com

www.tighfitz.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

mahonnoel@hotmail.com

www.tourbusaranislands.com

Activities 17, 17a

Craft Village/shops

Craft

Kilmurvey and Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

Luxury Tours of Inis Mór

Bus hire/ tour

Killeany, Kilronan, Inis Mór, Co. Galway

00353-87-7782775

Rother Arainn Teo

Bike hire

Frenchman's Beach, Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

00353-99-61132

P. 63

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CONTENTS

MAP

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Dining/Pub 20

Pier House Restaurant

Restaurant

Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

00353-99-61811

Lios Aengus Café, Kilronan:

Café

Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

00353-99-61030

Óstán Arann

Restaurant

Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

00353-99-61104

An tSean Cheibh

Restaurant

Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

00353-99-61228

Mainistir House Hostel

Restaurant

Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway

00353-99-61169

An Sunda Caoch Café

Café

Kilmurvey, Inis Mor, Co, Galway

00353-99-61983

Tigh Nan Phaidí

Restaurant

Kilmurvey, Inis Mor, Co, Galway

00353-87-7473935

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

www.obrienline.com

www.aranfisherman.com

Travel 27

Aer Arann Islands

Flight service

Connemara, Co, Galway

00353-91-593034

info@aerarannislands.ie

www.aerarannislands.ie

Aran Doolin Ferries

Ferry service

Doolin, Co. Clare

00353-65-7074455

doolinferries@eircom.net

www.doolinferries.com

Doolin Ferries Ltd

Ferry service

Doolin, Co. Clare

00353-65-7075555

info@doolinferry.com

www.obrienline.com

Doolin2Aran Ferries

Ferry service

Doolin, Co. Clare

00353-65-7075949

info@doolin2aranferries.ie

www.doolin2aranferries.com

Island Ferries Teo

Ferry service

Rossaveal, Co. Galway

00353-91-568903

mailto:islandferries@eircom.net

www.aranislandferries.com

INIS MEÁIN (INISMAAN) (MAP REF 12) PAGE 29 Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

anduninismeain@eircom.net

www.inismeainaccommodation. com

www.inismeain.com

Accommodation 1

An Dún

B&B

Inis Meáin, Co. Galway

00353-99 73047

Creig Mór

B&B

Inis Meáin, Co. Galway

00353-99-73012

Inis Meáin Restaurant & Suites

Luxury accomm.

Inis Meáin, Co. Galway

00353-86-8266026

post@inismeain.com

Ostán Inis Meáin

Hotel

Inis Meáin, Co. Galway

00353-99-73020

bernieinismeain@aol.com

Tig Conghaile

B&B

Moore Village, Inis Meain, Co. Galway

00353-99-73085

bbinismeain@eircom.net

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

inis@inismeain.com

www.inismeain.com

Activities 6

Inis Meáin Knitwear Company

Knitwear company

Inis Meáin, Co. Galway

00353-99-73009

Bike Hire Inis Meáin

Bike hire

Inis Meáin, Co. Galway

00353-86 3789734

Turas ar Inis Meáin

Bus hire/ tour

Inis Meáin, Co. Galway

00353-87-2482637

Comharchumann Inis Meáin (Island Co-op)

Visitor Information

Inis Meáin, Co. Galway

00353-99-73010

P. 64

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CONTENTS

ccimeain@indigo.ie

MAP

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Dining/Pub 7

An Dún

Restaurant/ café

Inis Meáin, Co. Galway

00353-99 73047

anduninismeain@eircom.net

www.inismeainaccommodation. com

Inis Meáin Restaurant & Suites

Restaurant

Inis Meáin, Co. Galway

00353-86-8266026

post@inismeain.com

www.inismeain.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Travel 9

Aer Arann Islands

Flight service

Connemara, Co, Galway

00353-91-593034

info@aerarannislands.ie

www.aerarannislands.ie

Aran Doolin Ferries

Ferry service

Doolin, Co. Clare

00353-65-7074455

doolinferries@eircom.net

www.doolinferries.com

Doolin Ferries Ltd

Ferry service

Doolin, Co. Clare

00353-65-7075555

info@doolinferry.com

www.obrienline.com

Doolin2Aran Ferries

Ferry service

Doolin, Co. Clare

00353-65-7075949

info@doolin2aranferries.ie

www.doolin2aranferries.com

Island Ferries Teo

Ferry service

Rossaveal, Co. Galway

00353-91-568903

mailto:islandferries@eircom.net

www.aranislandferries.com

INIS OÍRR (INISHEER) (MAP REF 13) PAGE 31 Map

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Comhar Caomhán Teo

Visitor information

Inis Oírr, Co. Galway

00353-99-75008

ccteo@eircom.net

www.inisoirr.ie

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Accommodation 3

Fisherman's Cottage

Accomm

Inis Oírr, Co. Galway

00353-99-75073

foodwise@eircom.net

www.southaran.com

Ostán Inis Oírr

Hotel

Lurgan Village, Co. Galway

00353-99-75020

ostaninisoirr@gmail.com

www.ostaninisoirr.ie

Radharc an Chláir

B&B

Castle Village, Inis Oírr

00353-99-75019

bridpoil@eircom.net

Radharc na Mara Hostel

Hostel

West Village, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway

00353-99-75024

radharcnamara@hotmail.com

Tigh Uí Chatháin

B&B

Formna, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway

00353-99-75090

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

www.araseanna.ie

Activities 13

An Céard Siopa

Craft shop

An Baile Thiar, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway

00353-99-75021

Aras Eanna

Arts centre

Inis Oírr, Co. Galway

00353-99-75150

araseanna@eircom.net

Rothaí Inis Oírr

Bicycle hire

An Baile Thiar, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway

00353-99-75033

rothaiinisoirr@gmail.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

foodwise@eircom.net

www.southaran.com

Dining/Pub 9

Fisherman's Cottage

Accomm & organic café

Inis Oírr, Co. Galway

00353-99-75073

Teach an Tae

Café

Baile an Lurgan, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway

00353-99-75092

Tigh Ned

Pub & dining

An Baile Thiar, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway

00353-99-75004

P. 65

www.discoverireland.ie/islands

CONTENTS

Paraicoconghaile@gmail.com

MAP

Tigh Ruairí

Pub & dining

Inis Oírr, Co. Galway

00353-99-75002

www.strand-house-inisheer-aran. ie/index.html

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Travel 8

Síob an Phobail

Transport/ taxi

Cleas Teo, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway

00353-99-75979

cleas@utvinternet.com

Aer Arann Islands

Flight service

Connemara, Co, Galway

00353-91-593034

info@aerarannislands.ie

www.aerarannislands.ie

Aran Doolin Ferries

Ferry service

Doolin, Co. Clare

00353-65-7074455

doolinferries@eircom.net

www.doolinferries.com

Doolin Ferries Ltd

Ferry service

Doolin, Co. Clare

00353-65-7075555

info@doolinferry.com

www.obrienline.com

Doolin2Aran Ferries

Ferry service

Doolin, Co. Clare

00353-65-7075949

info@doolin2aranferries.ie

www.doolin2aranferries.com

Island Ferries Teo

Ferry service

Rossaveal, Co. Galway

00353-91-568903

mailto:islandferries@eircom.net

www.aranislandferries.com

Tel

Web

INIS BIGIL (INISHBIGGLE) (MAP REF 14) PAGE 33 Map

Name

Type

Address

Inis Bigil, Co. Mayo

00353-98-45513

Travel 1

Angling/Ferry service

www.southaran.com

SOUTH WEST ISLANDS BERE ISLAND (MAP REF 15) PAGE 37 Map

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Bere Island Projects Group

Visitor Information

Community Centre, Bere Island, Co. Cork

00353-2775099

bereisle@eircom.net

www.bereisland.net

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Accommodation 5

Admiral's House

Self catering

Lawrence Cove, Bere Island, Co. Cork

00353-27-75213

info@visitbereisland.com

www.visitbereisland.com

Ardagh Holiday Village

Self catering

Lawrence Cove, Bere Island, Co. Cork

00353-21-275176

info@dreamireland.com

www.dreamireland.com

Bere Island Holiday Homes

Self catering

Ardagh, Bere Island, Co. Cork

00353-27-75995

info@bereislandholidayhomes. com

www.bereislandholidayhomes. com

Laurence Cove Lodge

B&B

Lawrence Cove, Bere Island, Co. Cork

00353-27-75988

edel@bereislandlodge.com

www.bereislandlodge.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Activities 5a

Admiral's House Sailing School

Sailing School

Lawrence Cove, Bere Island, Co. Cork

00353-27-75213

info@visitbereisland.com

www.visitbereisland.com

Bere Island Bike Hire

Bike hire

Lawrence Cove, Bere Island, Co. Cork

00353-27-75988

edel@bereislandlodge.com

www.bereislandlodge.com

Bere Island Ferries

Boat hire/ trips

Ferry Lodge, Bere Island Co. Cork

00353-86-2423140

biferry@eircom.net

www.bereislandferry.com

P. 66

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CONTENTS

MAP

Bere Island Heritage Centre

Heritage centre/ visitor information

Heritage Centre, Bere Island, Co. Cork

00353-27-75956

biheritage@gmail.com

www.bereisland.net

Bere Island Projects Group

Guided walks/bus tours

Community Centre, Bere Island, Co. Cork

00353-27-75099

bereisle@eircom.net

www.bereisland.net

Bere Island Sea Safari

Boat hire/ trips

West End, Bere Island, Co. Cork

00353-86-8595701

blueoceanmarine@eircom.net

www.bereislandseasafari.com

Lawrence Cove Marina

Marina

Lawrence Cove, Bere Island, Co. Cork

00353-27-75044

lcm@iol.ie

www.lawrencecovemarina.com

Murphys Shop

Shop

Bere Island, Co. Cork

00353-27 -75004

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Dining/Pub 13

Cattapilla Café

Restaurant

Lawrence Cove, Bere Island, Co. Cork

00353-86-1064363

Island Picnics

Outdoor picnics/ lunches

Ballinakilla, Bere Island, Co. Cork

00353-86-3660518

The Lookout

Restaurant

West End, Bere Island, Co. Cork

00353-27-75999

The Hotel

Restaurant

Ballinakilla, Bere Island, Co. Cork

00353-27 75018

Sullivans Pub

Pub

Bere Island, Co. Cork

0035327- 75192

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

sheilawalsh2@gmail.com

hotel18@hotmail.com

Travel 8

Bere Island Ferries

Boat hire/ trips

Ferry Lodge, Bere Island Co. Cork

00353-86-2423140

biferry@eircom.net

www.bereislandferry.com

Murphys Ferry

Ferry service

The Anchorage, Lawrence Cove, Bere Island, Co. Cork

00353-87-23 6095

info@murphysferry.com

www.murphysferry.com

OILÉAN CHLÉIRE (CAPE CLEAR) (MAP REF 16) PAGE 39 Map

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Comharchumann Chléire Teo (Island Co-op)

Visitor information (Jan-May, Sept-Dec)

Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-39119

ccteo@iol.ie

www.oilean-chleire.ie

Information & craft shop

Visitor information (May-Sept)

Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-39100

ccteo@iol.ie

www.oilean-chleire.ie

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Accommodation 1

Ard na Gaoithe

B&B

The Glen, Cape Clear Island, Co.Cork

00353-28-39160

ardnagaoithe@hotmail.com

www.dirl.com/cork/ard-nagaoithe.htm

Cape Clear Youth Hostel

Hostel

The Old Coastguard Station, South Harbour, Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-41968

capeclearhostel@gmail.com

www.capeclearhostel.com

P. 67

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MAP

Cluain Mara

B&B

North Harbour, Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-39153

codriscoll@eircom.net

www.capeclearisland.com

O'Driscoll Holiday Cottage

Self catering

North Harbour, Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-39153

codriscoll@eircom.net

www.capeclearisland.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Activities 25

Baltimore Sea Safari

Boat Hire/ Trips

Church Strand, Baltimore, Co. Cork.

00353-28-20753

info@baltimoreseasafari.ie

www.baltimoreseasafari.ie

Cailin Oir Ferries

Themed boat tours & cruises

Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-39159

info@cailinoirr.com

www.cailinoirr.com

Cape Clear Heritage Centre

Heritage centre/ museum

Oileán Chléire, an Sciobairín, Co. Cork

00353-28-39119

ccteo@iol.ie

www.oilean-chleire.ie

Cape Clear Island Adventure Centre

Adventure centre

Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-39198

lasmuigh@eircom.net

www.lasmuigh.ie

Cape Clear Maritime Centre/Ionad Mara Chléire

Heritage centre/ museum

Oileán Chléire, an Sciobairín, Co. Cork

00353-28-41976

Cape Clear Bird Observatory & Hostel

Observatory/ hostel

Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-39181

info@birdwatchireland.ie

www.birdwatchireland.ie

Cléire Goats

Open farm

Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-39126

goat@iol.ie

Coláiste Ciarán

Irish language learning

Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-21-4821116

gaelteo@eircom.net

Coláiste Phobal Chléire

Irish language learning

Oileán Chléire, an Sciobairín, Co. Cork

00353-28-39119

ccteo@iol.ie

MVS Gaisceanán

Boat hire/ trips

Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-39182

comolane@eircom.net

Library

Internet access

North Harbour, Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-39119

ccteo@iol.ie

www.oilean-chleire.ie

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

www.oilean-chleire.ie

Dining/Pub 17

Ciarán Danny Mike's

Bar/ restaurant

Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-39153

codriscoll@eircom.net

www.capeclearisland.com

Cotter's

Bar/ restaurant

North Harbour, Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-39153

codriscoll@eircom.net

www.capeclearisland.com

An Siopa Beag

Grocery shop/café

North Harbour, Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-39099

neil@siopabeag.ie

www.siopabeag.ie

Sean Rua's Restaurant

Restaurant

North Harbour, Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-39099

neil@siopabeag.ie

www.siopabeag.ie

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Vintage tractor tour

Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-39101

Travel 11

P. 68

Paddy Wagon Tours

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CONTENTS

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Bus Tours

Bus Service

Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-39119

capeclearti@eircom.net

www.oilean-chleire.ie

Cailin Oir Ferries

Ferry Service

Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-41923

info@cailinoirr.com

www.cailinoirr.com

Naomh Ciaran 2

Ferry Service

Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-39153

codriscoll@eircom.net.

www.capeclearferry.com

Karycraft

Ferry Service

Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-28278

kieran@capeclearferries.com

www.capeclearferries.com

Tel

Web

HEIR ISLAND (MAP REF 17) PAGE 41 Map

Name

Type

Address

Accommodation 1

MJ Hartes

Self catering

Heir Island, Co. Cork

harteheirisland@gmail.com

Nell's Cottage

Self catering

Heir Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-38483

dianapitcher@o2.ie

Roaringwater Lodge

Accomm (part of sailing school)

Heir Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-38511

info@heirislandsailingschool.com

www.heirislandsailingschool.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Activities 4

Heir Island Sailing School

Sailing School

Heir Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-38511

info@heirislandsailingschool.com

www.heirislandsailingschool.com

Island Cottage

Cookery school and accomm

Heir Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-38102

info@islandcottage.com

www.islandcottage.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Dining/Pub 6

Island Cottage

Restaurant

Heir Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-38102

info@islandcottage.com

www.islandcottage.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Travel 7

Heir Island Ferries

Ferry Service

Heir Island, Co. Cork

00353-86-8887799

www.heirislandferries.com

MV Thresher/Heir island Sailing School

Ferry Service

Heir Island, Co. Cork

00353-86-8092447

www.heirislandsailingschool.com

SHERKIN ISLAND (MAP REF 18) PAGE 43 Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

www.sherkinisland.com

Accommodation 1

Horseshoe Bay House

Self catering

Horseshoe Bay, Sherkin Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-21794

clintonellis@eircom.net

Horseshoe Cottage

B&B

Sherkin Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-20598

joe@gannetsway.com

P. 69

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Islander's Rest

Hotel

Sherkin Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-20116

Windhoek

B&B/ Self catering

Sherkin Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-20275

info@islandersrest.ie

www.islandersrest.ie

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Activities 5

Horseshoe Cottage

Yacht charter

Sherkin Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-20598

joe@gannetsway.com

Packard Gallery

Art gallery

Sherkin Island, Co. Cork

00353-28 20336

kgpackard@eircom.net

Rib Rides

Boat hire/ trips

Sherkin Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-20116

Sherkin Island Guided Walks

Guided walks

Sherkin Island, Co. Cork

00353-87-7715862

karen.mould@gmail.com

Summer Art Courses

Art courses

Sherkin Island, Co. Cork

00353-87-8319929

cora_collins@eircom.net

www.sherkinart.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

00353-28-20379

Web

Dining/Pub 10

Jolly Roger

Restaurant

Sherkin Island, Co. Cork

Tigin

Coffee shop/crafts

Sherkin Island, Co. Cork

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Travel 12

Rural Transport

Bus hire

Sherkin Island, Co. Cork

00353-86-0431956

Sherkin Ferry

Boat trips/ Ferry service

Sherkin Island, Co. Cork

00353-28-20218

Ten Island Tours

Boat tours/ cruises

Sherkin Island, Co. Cork

00353-87-2638470

sherkinferry@gmail.com

www.tenislandtours.com

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Self Catering/ watersports

Baltimore, Co. Cork

00353-28-21745

bookings@inishbeg.com

www.inishbeg.com

www.sherkinisland.eu/ferry

INISH BEG Map

Name

Accommodation Inish Beg Self Catering Holiday Cottages & Homes

P. 70

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MAP

VALENTIA (MAP REF 19) PAGE 45 Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Accommodation 1

Shealane Country House

B&B

Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476354

marylane@eircom.net

www.valentiaskelligs.com

Spring Acre

B&B

Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476141

springacre@eircom.net

www.springacrebb.com

Atlantic Villa

B&B/self catering

Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476839

atlanticvilla@gmail.com

www.anirishexperience.com

Carraig Liath House

Self catering

Bridge Road, Coromore, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476344

francesosullivan766@hotmail. com

www.carraigliath-house.com

Ivy House

Self catering

Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476141

springacre@eircom.net

www.springacrebb.com

Knightstown Holiday Homes

Self catering

Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-1-2018400

reservations@ tridentholidayhomes.ie

www.tridentholidayhomes.ie

Oaklodge

Self catering

Ballyhearney West, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-25-31982

osullivanspyke@eircom.net

Teach Dairbhre

Self catering

Tennies, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-7127921

germosullivan@eircom.net

Tiarna

Self catering

Ballyhearney, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

0044-780-2725364

diarmaid.osullivan@sky.com

Valentia Holiday Homes

Self catering

Farranreagh, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-61-335799

info@westcoastholidays.ie

www.westcoastholidays.ie

Valentia Island Cottages

Self catering

Tennies, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476224

mossieos@eircom.net

www.valentiaislandcottages.com

Watch House Cottages/Valentia Island Holiday Homes

Self catering

Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66 9792208

gledwith@launeproperties.com

www. valentiaislandholidayhomes.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Activities 13

Alan Hall Sculptor

Art gallery

Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-947 6105

Barbara Lively

Art gallery

Coarhabeg, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-87-1349195

Farmers Market

Farming

Low Road, Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-87-6172898

Geokaun Mountain and Fogher Cliffs

Heritage / walking

Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476306

muirisodonoghue@eircom.net

www.geokaun.com

Geokaun Mountain and Fogher Cliffs

Walking

Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476306

muirisodonoghue@eircom.net

www.geokaun.com

Glanleam House and Subrtropical Gardens

Botanical

Glanleam, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476176 â&#x201A;Ź5 entrance

info@glanleam.com

www.glanleam.com

Heather Valley Angling

Sea angling

Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-87-6155072

rquigs@eircom.net

Irish Art Collector

Art gallery

Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-87-2767999

art@irishartcollector.com

www.irishartcollector.com

Skellig Experience Visitor Centre

Visitor Centre

Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476306

skelligcentre@eircom.net

www.skelligexperience.com

Valentia Island Sea Angling

Sea angling

Altazamuth House, Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476300

nealielyne@eircom.net

www. valentiaislandseaangling.com Nealielyne@eircom.net

P. 71

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Valentia Island Sea Sports & Adventure Centre

Adventure centre

Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476204

info@divevalentia.ie

www.divevalentia.ie

Valentia Island Heritage Centre

Museum

School Road, Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476411

ValentiaHeritageCentre@gmail. com

CC Angling

Angling

Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-87-124558

richard@ccangling.com

www.ccangling.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

bostonbarvalentia@eircom.net

Dining/Pub 24

Boston's Bar & Restaurant

Restaurant

Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

353-66-9476140

Farmhouse Icecream

Farming

Kilbeg, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476864

Fuschia Restaurant

Restaurant

Knightstown, Valentia island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476051

Knightstown Coffee Shop

Restaurant

Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-94-76373

The Lighthouse Café

Restaurant

Dohilla, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476304

The Ring Lyne

Bar/ restaurant

Chapeltown, Valentia Island. Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476103

The Royal Valentia

Bar/ restaurant

Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-94-76144

The Sandbar

Restaurant

Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-87-0548618

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

www.valentiaicecream.com

www.royalvalentia.com

Web

Travel 32

Kennedy Bus Hire

Bus/taxi hire

Coarhabeg, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476183

kennedybus@eircom.net

Quigley's Hackney Service

Bus/taxi

Glanleam, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-87-9708200

teachsolas@hotmail.com

WHIDDY ISLAND (MAP REF 21) PAGE 48 Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Dining/Pub 1

Bank House Restaurant

Boat hire/ trips

Whiddy Island, Co. Cork

00353-86-8981927

bookings@inishbeg.com

www.inishbeg.com

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Travel 2

Whiddy Island Ferries

Ferry Service

Whiddy Island, Co. Cork

00353-86-8626734

Island Tripper

Boat tours/ cruises/ ferry service to Cape, Sherkin, Whiddy

Cape Clear, Co. Cork

00353-28-41923

P. 72

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CONTENTS

www.whiddyislandferry.com info@islandtripper.com

MAP

www.islandtripper.com

DURSEY ISLAND (MAP REF 22) PAGE 49 Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Cable Car

Dursey Island, Co. Cork

00353-27-73017

info@windypointhouse.com

www.windypointhouse.com

Travel 1

Dursey Island Cable Car

GARINISH ISLAND (MAP REF 23) PAGE 50 Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Travel 1

Glengariff + Garinish Ferry services

Ferry service

Glengariff, Co. Cork

00353-27-63116

info@harbourqueenferry.com

www.harbourqueenferry.com

Blue Pool Ferry

Ferry Service

Glengariff, Co. Cork

00353-27-63333

info@bluepoolferry.com

www.bluepoolferry.com

BLASKET ISLANDS (MAP REF 24) PAGE 51 Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Blasket Islands Ferry

Ferry Service

Blasket Islands, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9154864

ferryandtours@blasketislands.ie

www.blasketislands.ie

Blasket Island Ferries + Eco Tours

Eco marine adventure tour/ferry service

Blasket Islands, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9156422

Travel www.blasketislands.com

THE SKELLIGS (MAP REF 25) PAGE 52 Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Visitor Centre

Valentia Island, Co. Kerry

00353-66-9476306

skelligcentre@eircom.net

www.skelligexperience.com

Travel Skellig Experience Visitor Centre

P. 73

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CONTENTS

MAP

NORTHERN IRELAND ISLANDS RATHLIN ISLAND (MAP REF 26) PAGE 53 Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Accommodation 1

Coolnagrock Bed & Breakfast

B&B

Ballynoe, Rathlin Island, Ballycastle, Co. Antrim, BT54 6RT

0044-28-20763983

www.n-ireland.co.uk/rathlin

Puffin Cottage

B&B

7 Church Bay, Rathlin Island, Ballycastle, Co. Antrim, BT54 6RT

004428-091811659

reservations@donard.com

www.donard.com

Rathlin Manor House

Manor house

Rathlin Island, Co. Antrim, BT54 6RT

0044-28-20763964

info@rathlinmanorhouse.co.uk

www.rathlinmanorhouse.co.uk

Soerneog View Hostel

Hostel

Ouig, Rathlin Island Co. Antrim, BT54 6RT

0044-28-20763954

john_jennifer@btinternet.com

www.n-irelandholidays.co.uk/ rathlin

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Dining/Pub 6

Bruce's Kitchen

Cafe

The Harbour, Rathlin Island, Ballycastle, Co. Antrim BT54 6RT

0044-28-207 63974

Manor House

Restaurant

Rathlin Island, Co. Antrim, BT54 6RT

0044-28-207 63964

info@rathlinmanorhouse.co.uk

www.rathlinmanorhouse.co.uk

Map

Name

Type

Address

Tel

Web

Ferry Service

Ballycastle Ferry Terminal, 18 Bayview Road, Ballycastle, Co. Antrim, BT54 6BT

0044-28-20769299

info@rathlinballycastleferry.com

www.rathlinballycastleferry.com

Travel 5

P. 74

Rathlin Island Ferries

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FÁILTE IRELAND OFFICES CONTACTS DUBLIN OPERATIONS Fáilte Ireland, Amiens Street, Dublin 1 If dialing from inside the Republic of Ireland Tel: 1890 525 525 or (01) 8847700 Fax: (01) 855 6821 From outside the Republic of Ireland Tel: 00 353 1 8847700 Email: info@failteireland.ie

MULLINGAR Fáilte Ireland, Dublin Road, Mullingar, County Westmeath. Tel: +353 (0) 44 9348761 Fax: +353 (0) 44 9340413 Email: eastandmidlandsinfo@ failteireland.ie SLIGO Fáilte Ireland, Áras Reddan, Temple Street, Sligo. Tel: +353 (0) 71 9161201 Fax: +353 (0) 71 9160360 Email: northwestinfo@failteireland.ie

CORK Fáilte Ireland, Áras Fáilte, Grand Parade, Cork City. Tel: +353 (0) 21 4255100 Fax: +353 (0) 21 4255199 Email: corkkerryinfo@failteireland. GALWAY Fáilte Ireland, Áras Fáilte, Forster Street, Galway City. Tel: +353 (0) 91 537700 Fax: +353 (0) 91 537733 Email: irelandwestinfo@failteireland.ie

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WATERFORD Fáilte Ireland, 41 the Quay, Waterford City. Tel: +353 (0) 51 875823 Fax: +353 (0) 51 876720 Email: SouthEastInfo@failteireland.ie

CONTENTS

BELFAST Fáilte Ireland, 53 Castle Street, Belfast BT1 1GH Tel: (028) 9026 5500 Fax: (028) 9026 5515 If dialing from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland the direct code is: (048) 9026 5500 E-mail: infob@failteireland.ie DERRY Fáilte Ireland, Derry Visitor & Convention Bureau, 44 Foyle Street, Derry, BT48 6AT Tel/Fax: (028) 7136 9501 Email: failteireland@derryvisitor.com

MAP

TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICES For more information on travel to Ireland please contact Tourism Ireland, the overseas marketing body for the island of Ireland, at www.discoverireland.com Cliffs of Moher Tourist Information Office Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre, Cliffs of Moher, Co Clare T. +353 (0)65 7081171 E. tourisminfo@ shannondevelopment.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/shannon Aran Tourist Information Office Cill Ronain (Kilronan), Inis M贸r, Aran Islands, Co Galway T. +353 (0)99 61263 E. irelandwestinfo@failteireland.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/west Clifden Tourist Information Office Galway Road, Clifden, Co Galway T. +353 (0)95 21163 E. irelandwestinfo@failteireland.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/west

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Westport Tourist Information Office James Street, Westport, Co Mayo T. +353 (0)98 25711 E. irelandwestinfo@failteireland.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/west

Donegal Town Tourist Office The Quay, Donegal Town, Donegal T. +353 (0)74 9721148 E. northwestinfo@failteireland.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/ northwest

Dingle Tourist Information Office The Quay, Dingle, Co. Kerry T. +353 (0)66 9151188 E. corkkerryinfo@failteireland.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/ southwest

Cork City Tourist Information Office Grand Parade, Cork City T. +353 (0)21 4255100 E. corkkerryinfo@failteireland.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/ southwest

Killarney Tourist Information Office Beech Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry T. +353 (0)64 6631633 E. corkkerryinfo@failteireland.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/ southwest

CONTENTS

Discover Ireland Centre Aras Failte, Forster Street,Galway City Centre T. +353 (0)91 537700 E. irelandwestinfo@failteireland.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/west

MAP

Fรกilte Ireland, Amiens Street, Dublin 1 Tel: 1890 525 525 / +353 1 884 7700 Fax: +353 1 855 6821 www.failteireland.ie www.discoverireland.ie

P. 77

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CONTENTS

MAP