Things to do on Inis Mór - Inishmore
The rocky, windswept Aran Islands are famous for their desolate beauty and lunar landscapes. Step on to one of these islands and you’ll feel like you’re much further removed than the ferry ride suggests. (40-minutes from Rossaveel Ferry Terminal, Connemara and 90-minutes from Galway City).
When it comes to planning your time on the island, you'll need at least 3 to 4 hours to explore Inis Mór, with many visitors choosing to stay overnight.
Despite being the biggest (with a population of 800), Inis Mór is only 14km long, and retains a pleasantly diminutive feel for visitors. Take a look at our Inishmore Map and see the..
Top things to do on Inis Mór - Inishmore:
Get lost in the history of Dún Aonghasa
Pedal to Paradise
Take a Minibus Tour
Hit the Beach
Have a Bite to Eat
Shop for an Aran Sweater
Nature Watch
See the Wormhole (Poll na bPéist)
Enjoy island time...
Get Lost in the History of Dún Aonghasa
The ancient stone fort of Dún Aonghasa clings precariously to a cliff-edge, and it’s the largest prehistoric stone fort on the island. The best way to get there is by biking through the stone-walled boreen of the island, a little adventure in itself. It’s a 1km walk from the visitor centre and just before you get to the top the path, it gets a little rough, so younger children need to take extra care. The cliff’s edge doesn’t have a protective barrier so hold onto little hands as you soak in the breath-taking views. The fort contains evidence of human habitation that dates back to 1500 BC, with three terraced walls surrounding an inner platform. Excavations carried out in the 1990s indicated that people had been living at the hill top from c.1500 BC with the first walls and dwelling houses being erected c. 1100 BC! The Visitor Centre is currently free to enter.
Pedal to Paradise
Bike riding around the island is an attraction in itself, with Aran Bike Hire offering a range of bikes, including child bikes, tag-alongs, and buggies so there’s endless options for families. There are three roads that you can take from Kilronan. From Kilmurvey beach you can take the north side road which runs by the ocean and gives you stunning views of the mainland as you pedal your way back to the main village. You’ll hop off your bike plenty of times on your trip, to explore the sites and attractions: one of our favourites is Teampall Chiaráin, a small 12th century church; check out the beautifully carved boundary cross with a circular hole at the top on the eastern side, once possibly used as a sundial and symbol of fertility and good luck. Kids will love the wildlife – donkeys, rabbits, otters, and ponies call this island home.
Take a Minibus Tour
You'll see the minibuses lined up as soon as you step off the pier. A minibus tour is a wonderful way to hear stories and learn about the fascinating island histories with a local driver. Most tours last for approximately 2.5-hours, and include a stop-off at the stunning fort Dún Aonghasa.
Hit the Beach
There’s no shortage of shimmering turquoise waters on Inis Mór. Pack a picnic basket and head down to Kilmurvey Beach, 7km from the main village, Kilronan. It’s suitable for old and young swimmers as there is no strong current. Take a dive for a refreshing swim – or just dip your toe if the weather’s too chilly – either way, you can’t help but be awestruck at the serene stretch of sea and sand. Take a gentle family stroll and enjoy the tang of sea air, build sandcastles, or go shell-hunting before tucking into your sandwiches at one of the nearby picnic spots.
Have a Bite to Eat
A trip to Inis Mór wouldn't be complete without experiencing the lively outdoor pub atmosphere on the island. The Bar and Joe Watty's are ideal spots for families looking to recharge on tasty, traditional fare, after a busy day on the island. Dig into a delicious plate of seafood or an Irish stew and recall the events of the day. Children can enjoy a number of options from the kids menu. Tigh Joe Mac is famous for it's toasties and pints of Guinness if you're looking for a quick bite.
Shop for an Aran Sweater
Browse the woolly wares of the Aran Island Sweater Shops on the island and where the craft first began! Traditionally worn out of necessity to combat the cold and tough conditions of the sea, Aran sweaters kept fishermen warm as they worked and are known for their style and warmth many years after their creation.
Nature Watch
About a mile past Kilmurvey Beach, you’ll find Inis Mór seal colony, home to the grey seal. While hundreds of these aquatic mammals call the island their home, you may spot up to 25 at a time here. For best results seal watching on Inis Mór, stake out the colony at low tide. You’re sure to see them slippery, slick mammals sunning themselves on the rocks. The viewpoint is kitted out with convenient picnic benches too. Look out for seals on the approach to the island. From the ferry, you can see the uninhabited Straw Island, another favourite hangout for the grey seals. Large flocks of birds and waders are common on the island. Seabirds, gannets, lapwings, curlews, and plubbers are among the regular avifauna visitors. Inis Mór is a nature lovers paradise!
See the Wormhole (Poll na bPéist)
Enjoy Island Time
Visitors are treated to a stunning unspoiled landscape rarely seen on the mainland and a slow pace of life that's natural to the island. Breathe the fresh sea air and slow down... you're on island time!
Prepare for a warm welcome on board our ferries. Those looking for an unforgettable day out will find it on the islands.
Ferry Rates for Families
Call to enquire about our family rates on 091 568 903 or email info@aranislandferries.com
Staying Overnight?
As the saying goes.. 'one day is never enough'; there are some excellent overnight accommodation options with Aran Camping and Glamping, Kilronan Hostel, BnB's and the Aran Islands Hotel on Inis Mór.