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 from Galway suggests. (40-minutes from Rossaveel Ferry Terminal, Connemara and 90-minutes from Galway City).
When it comes to planning your time on the big 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 the Big Island:
- Fun at the Forts
- Cycling - Pedal to Paradise
- Take a Minibus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
- Enjoy Sun, Sand, Swim
- Have a Bite to Eat
- Shop for an Aran Sweater
- Nature - See the Seals
- Wander to the Wormhole (Poll na bPéist)
- Relax! You're on island time...
Fun at the Fort: 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 or on a minibus tour, a little adventure in itself. It’s a 1km walk from the visitor centre. The fort contains evidence of human habitation that dates back to 1500 BC, with three terraced walls surrounding an inner platform.
- Top tip: if you're travelling with children, the cliff’s edge doesn’t have a protective barrier so hold onto little hands as you soak in the breath-taking views.
Pedal to Paradise
A classic Aran Islands scene: you’re travelling by bike with the wind in your hair, coasting past the iconic stone walls and ancient forts of Inis Mór.
Aran Bike Hire
you can hire a range of bikes, including manual, electric, tandem bikes and child bikes so there’s endless options for families. 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.
Take a Minibus Tour
There's no guide like a local and on a tour, you'll hear the myths, fables and stories of the ancient island from someone who lives it. You'll see the minibuses lined up as soon as you step off the ferry. If there is anything that interests you about the history or culture of Inis Mór, ask the driver as they're sure to have an answer! Most tours last for approximately 2.5-hours, and include a stop-off at the fort Dún Aonghasa.
- Top Tip: bring some cash with you as some of the drivers don't accept card as payment. There's an ATM on the island if you forget!
Sun, Sand, Swim
There’s no shortage of shimmering turquoise waters on Inis Mór with soft, golden sandy beaches. 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.
Top Tip: Always bring sunscreen to the beach. If you forget, there's a shop on the island selling all the necessities.
Have a Bite to Eat
A trip to Inis Mór wouldn't be complete without experiencing the lively pub atmosphere and quality cuisine. The Bar and Joe Watty's are ideal spots for those 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.
Top Tip: Most of the pubs and restaurants accept walk-in customers only so there's no need to pre-book.
Shop for an Aran Sweater
Browse the woolly wares of the Aran Island Sweater Shops where the craft first began! Traditionally worn by fishermen out of necessity to combat the cold and tough conditions of the sea, Aran sweaters are known for their style many years after their creation and are the ultimate in sustainable chic. Brought back to the catwalk in 2020, when popstar Taylor Swift was seen rocking the traditional knitted geansai while promoting her new album.
Top Tip: Head to An Tuirne, at the base of the fort Dun Aonghasa and you may see the sweaters being knitted in real-time.
See the Seals
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. 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 fauna visitors. Inis Mór is a nature lovers paradise!
Top Tip: For best results seal watching on Inis Mór, stake out the colony at low tide.
Wander to the Wormhole (Poll na bPéist)
The Wormhole is a rectangular swimming pool naturally formed in the rock on the southern side of the Inis Mór. A little off the road but accessible by foot, the Wormhole was home to Red Bull International Diving events in 2017 when the world’s best cliff divers tackled the plunge from unenviable heights! The Wormhole is a wonderful attraction created by sea erosion over thousands of years, but due to tides and the unpredictable nature of the blowhole, it is not safe to swim there. It takes a pretty epic picture though.
Top Tip: As this is a tidal pool, we do not recommend swimming here at any stage.
Relax.. You're on Island Time
Visitors are treated to a stunning, unspoiled landscape, rarely seen on the mainland, and a slow, peaceful pace of life that is natural to the island. Locals are known for their friendliness so be sure to take the time to engage, especially over a pint in the pub. Nothing starts a sing-song quicker than a curious visitor! Outdoors, with little pollution, no traffic, and panoramic views for miles, the island feels a million miles from home. Breathe the fresh sea air and slow down, you’re on island time now.
Top Tip: Sail from Galway. You can choose to depart from the closest port to the Aran Islands Rossaveel (Ros a' Mhil) or right from Galway City.
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.