Not to Miss: The Cliffs of Moher and The Aran Islands

The three Aran Islands lie across the waters of Galway Bay on Ireland’s west coast. Sometimes called “the Islands of Saints & Scholars” they are a hallmark of Celtic culture not only for their stunning geological formations but because of their linguistic and cultural heritage.

I fell in love with the Islands on a recent trip to the Cliffs of Moher, another stop on my tour of the Republic of Ireland. Made famous in recent times by appearances movies like Harry Potter and The Half-Blood Prince and The Princess Bride, the Cliffs show up as backgrounds in ads and videos.

Here’s why:

The Cliffs of Moher are entirely vertical and the cliff edge is abrupt. On a clear day, the views are tremendous, with the Aran Islands etched on the waters of Galway Bay. From the cliff edge, you can just hear the booming far below as the waves crash and gnaw at the soft shale and sandstone.

With a due-west exposure, sunset is the best time to visit.

The Lonely Planet

And that’s exactly when I arrived, just as the sun was setting. I’m told visibility is often an issue but on this day, the winds were brisk, the weather perfect and the sun was just setting making for perfect picture taking.

It’s not “Air-an, it’s “Awn”

Pointing this out so you’ll sound like a local, or at least you’ll be understood when you’re buying ferry tickets.

How to get to the Aran Islands

The easiest and least expensive way is by ferry. But Aer Aran Islands provides regular flights to all three Aran Islands from Connemara Airport in Inverin, ( just shy of 6 miles southeast of Rossaveal ferry port). Inis Mor is just 10 minutes by air from the Aer Aran airstrip.

Or you can take ferries from Galway city, Rossaveal and Doolin For more details, click here to see how to get from Galway to the Aran Islands.

The travel time to Inis Mór from Galway City Docks is 90 minutes (seasonal service). From Rossaveal it is 40 minutes, and from Doolin it is 20 minutes (both year round services).

Aran Island Knitwear

Maybe you’ve heard of their famous sweaters?

Authentic Aran Island Knitwear is available online and at retail shops all over Ireland. The sweaters, hats, gloves, leggings ( and on and on…) are famous for their bulky but not itchy wool and are suited for extreme weather conditions. In a word, they’re warm. Toasty warm. But breathable. I bought my long sweater in the midst of blustery Irish January weather and wore it everywhere. The traditional color is the natural color of sheep’s wool, an off-white or cream, but there are many lovely options. Here’s a link if you’re interested.

Accommodations on the island are many and varied, from hotels, guest houses and bed and breakfasts to opportunities for camping and glamping. TripAdvisor has a list with recommendations and reviews.

Inis Mor

Inis Mor is the largest of the three. I suggest renting a bicycle if you’re looking for a little exercise along with lovely views. You can rent one at the ferry dock or have one delivered to wherever you’re staying on the island for about 10 euros a day. If you’d prefer an electric model, it’ll run you about 30 euros daily. Inis Mor has spectacular historical sites like Dun Aonghasa and towering 330 foot cliffs.

Seal watching is a big deal here, on all three islands actually, but Inis Mor is known for their colonies where you’ll find up to 20 or so of the creatures relaxing on the rocks. Please don’t approach them as they can be aggressive if disturbed.

Beaches are gorgeous but it’s the North Atlantic so expect it to be chilly and pay attention to posted warnings if you’re planning a swim. Kilmurvy Beach is highly recommended for views and a walk.

The other big attraction is a place called The Wormhole or The Serpent’s lair…which is actually a naturally formed limestone cave like hole that connects to the ocean. Don’t worry about directions, there are signs everywhere. Don’t miss The Black Fort, situated on a rocky cliff that juts out into the ocean. The Aran Sweater market is here, too.

Inis Orr

Inis Orr is the smallest island with beautiful stone walls, a fort, a castle and a shipwreck.

The third island, Inis Meain lies between the others and is equally charming with thatched cottages, pubs and shops. You’d have a hard time finding a friendlier place in the world than these islands.

Enjoy, make time for some fish and chips and a pint!

“Sláinte chugat.” or “Good Health.”