The beautiful Aran Islands offer guests breathtaking landscapes, mysterious history, and plenty of warm Irish hospitality. These islands, which include Inis Mór, Inis Meáin, and Inis Oírr, are famous for their stone fortifications, breathtaking cliffs, and preserved Gaelic culture.
This guide provides everything you need to know about the islands, from when to visit to must-see attractions and delicious dining options. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us! And if we leave you inspired to see this enchanting part of the world for yourself, book a place on our E-Bike Tour of Inis Oírr.
The Aran Islands are a great place to visit any time of year; it purely depends on what type of traveller you are. If you’re into warmer weather and lots of fun cultural events, then summer is perfect for you. You can enjoy cycling, hiking, checking out the beautiful beaches, and getting involved with events taking place.
But if you prefer quieter times with fewer tourists, then spring or autumn might be more your thing. The weather is still mild, and you can explore the landscapes and historical sites without the hustle and bustle of summer.
In the winter, you can experience the wild beauty of the Atlantic without fear of crowds – you’ll encounter a few other tourists! The weather, though, is guaranteed to be cold and wet.
Inis Oírr (Inisheer), despite being the smallest of the Aran Islands, is brimming with attractions that provide a glimpse into Ireland’s past and its coastal charm.
Located at the highest point on the island, O’Brien’s Castle is a 14th-century fortress offering breathtaking panoramic views of Inis Oírr and the surrounding sea. Built by the O’Brien clan, this medieval ruin is a must-see for history enthusiasts. The short hike up is rewarded with stunning scenery, including the distant Cliffs of Moher on a clear day.
The MV Plassey, a cargo ship, ran aground on the coast of Inis Oírr in 1960. The islanders successfully rescued the entire crew, showcasing the community spirit of the Aran people. Today, the rusting hull of the ship rests on a bed of rocks, creating an eerie, fascinating sight. The shipwreck also featured in the opening credits of the beloved Irish TV show Father Ted.
For anyone interested in archaeology, a visit to Cnoc Raithní is a must. This ancient burial mound dates back to the Bronze Age and is one of the earliest known settlements on the Aran Islands. Although little remains of the structure, it serves as a fascinating reminder of the island’s deep, mysterious roots.
Hidden amongst the sand dunes, Teampall Chaomháin is a partially buried church dedicated to St. Kevin, the island’s patron saint. Thought to have been built in the 10th century, the church is submerged in sand, giving it a somewhat mystical appearance. Every year, islanders clear away the sand, maintaining the site for visitors and pilgrims alike.
Inis Oírr has its own freshwater lake, known as An Loch, located at the centre of the island. Surrounded by meadows and grazing sheep, this serene spot is perfect for a peaceful walk or a quiet picnic.
Situated on the northeastern tip of the island, the Inis Oírr Lighthouse offers a scenic spot to take in the rugged beauty of the coastline. While the lighthouse itself isn’t open to the public, the surrounding area provides some of the best views of Galway Bay and the mainland.
Consider taking a Guided Aran Islands Tour with WeWheel. Our eBike Tour of Inis Oírr will take you to top sights like the Inis Oírr beach, the Fisherman’s Memorial, and the Sunken Church while you enjoy stunning coastal views.
On Inis Meáin, you can step into the past at the Synge Cottage, once home to playwright J.M. Synge, and get a glimpse into island life in the early 20th century.
Inis Mór, the largest island, is home to the famous Dún Aonghasa, a prehistoric fort perched on a 300-foot cliff. Inis Meáin provides a more tranquil experience, with fewer visitors and a preserved Gaelic culture.
On Inis Mór, be sure to visit Dún Dúchathair (the Black Fort) and Teampall Bheanáin (Benan’s Temple), two of the smallest churches in Europe and fantastic examples of early Celtic church construction.
The Aran Islands are an absolute dream for nature lovers! Cycling is the best way to soak in the island’s beauty, with quiet roads and scenic routes leading to all the must-see spots. You can easily rent a bike or join one of WeWheel’s eBike Tours for an amazing experience.
If hiking is more your thing, you’re in for a treat! Plenty of walking trails wind through fields lined with charming stone walls and along breathtaking cliff edges. Don’t miss the Dún Aonghasa hike on Inis Mór for some truly unforgettable views over the Atlantic.
And for all you water babies out there, get ready for some fun! Enjoy kayaking and snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands, or dive into the depths to explore shipwrecks. You can also hop on a boat trip to uncover hidden coves and caves along the rugged coastline. It’s all here waiting for you to explore!
The Aran Islands are close to some of Ireland’s other impressive natural attractions. A short ferry ride or boat trip will take you to the Cliffs of Moher, which are among Ireland’s most breathtaking coastal features. Additionally, the nearby Burren National Park in County Clare provides the opportunity to explore unique karst landscapes.
The main departure point for visitors heading to the Aran Islands is Rossaveel (Ros a’ Mhíl), a small port in the Connemara region. The ferry from Rossaveel to the islands is a scenic journey across Galway Bay, taking about 40 minutes. Connemara itself, with its rugged coastline, boglands, and mountain ranges, is worth exploring before or after your island visit.
From Connemara National Park to the Twelve Bens mountain range, this region offers endless opportunities for outdoorsy travellers, including hiking, cycling, and kayaking. The charming town of Clifden makes a great base for exploring Connemara, with attractions like Kylemore Abbey, stunning drives along the Sky Road, and traditional music in charming old pubs.
Shopping on Inis Oírr offers visitors a chance to take home a piece of the island’s heritage through plenty of locally crafted products. Cleas Crafts is known for its traditional items, including the iconic ‘Crios’ belts, handcrafted models of Inis Oírr’s famous currachs, willow baskets, St. Bridget’s crosses, and other unique creations made to order.
Man of Aran Homemade Fudge offers over 20 flavours of homemade fudge, including Tiger Butter Fudge, Peppermint Chocolate Chip, and Baileys Fudge. Finally, The Ceardsiopa (Craft Shop) features handmade products, including authentic Aran knitwear and traditional Irish music.
The Aran Islands are renowned for their traditional Aran sweaters, so no trip would be complete without purchasing one of these iconic woollen garments. On Inis Mór, the Aran Sweater Market offers a wide range of products, including hand-knit sweaters, caps, and blankets, all made from locally sourced wool, while on Inis Meáin, you’ll discover a more artisanal selection of textiles and woven goods at the Inis Meáin Knitting Company.
An Aran sweater is a versatile item of clothing, especially suited to cold months. Buy one on your trip, and it’ll be a prized piece of your wardrobe for years to come.
While visiting the Aran Islands, you’ll have the chance to savour authentic Irish cuisine. Fresh seafood and local produce take the spotlight in the dining scene. On Inis Oírr, charming casual eateries like Tigh Ned provide the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration with a comforting bowl of fresh seafood chowder.
On Inis Mór, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy delicious homemade meals in the cosy setting of Teach Nan Phaidi, or head to Tigh Joe Watty’s, a popular pub serving hearty Irish dishes accompanied by live music.
Inis Meáin offers one of Ireland’s most exclusive dining experiences at Inis Meáin Restaurant & Suites. Here, you can indulge in seasonal, locally sourced menus while taking in stunning island views.
You can find various accommodation options on the Aran Islands, ranging from traditional bed and breakfasts to boutique hotels. Inis Oírr boasts charming guesthouses like Tigh Ruairí, which offer cosy rooms and easy access to the beach.
Meanwhile, on Inis Mór, the Aran Islands Hotel offers a comfortable stay with stunning harbour views. Or, for something truly enchanting, stay at Inis Mór‘s Aran Thatch Cottage, built in 1844.
We hope our Aran Islands travel guide has sparked your wanderlust. At WeWheel, we love showing visitors the best of Ireland. Join us for a self-guided E-Bike Tour of Inis Oírr, or check out our other Irish E-Bike Tours. Have questions? Get in touch with us today!