The three Aran Islands lie at the mouth of Galway Bay on Ireland’s west coast, around 250km (150 miles) from Dublin.
Inis Mor is the largest island, a windswept limestone landscape of wave-lashed cliffs, Iron Age forts and meandering ancient stone walls. The main town and ferry port is Kilronan, but the island’s highlight is prehistoric Dun Aengus Fort, overlooking the sea from its cliff-top vantage point. The poignant remains of early monasteries and churches also dot the countryside.
The other Aran Islands are smaller and even more remote. Inis Maan boasts just one thatch-roofed pub along with the remains of churches and forts. Inis Orr, the smallest island, is known for its wildflower meadows and 15th-century tower house.
You’ll hear Irish spoken widely in the Aran Islands, and see the islands’ famous hand-knitted sweaters and scarves. A magnet for hikers and wildlife lovers, the islands offer wild rocky seascapes, traditional B&B hospitality, lively pub sing-alongs and a chance to experience some of that back-to-nature serenity that’s missing from modern-day life.
The most spectacular way to visit the Aran Islands from Dublin is by air, flying from Galway to Inis Mor to tour craggy Dun Aengus Fort, with time to explore the historic city of Galway.
There’s a lot to take in on Ireland’s west coast, so why not slow down the pace on a three-day tour taking in Dun Aengus Fort on Inis Mor, the stunning Cliffs of Moher and the wild landscapes of the Burren.
Latest Replies
Reply by Viator, March 2013
Doing what: 3-Day Cliffs of Moher, Connemara and Aran Islands Rail Tour from Dublin
We had a great trip for three day tour and wish that we had time for the four day tour.The whole thing was Wow! We were given friendly knowledgable tour guides who were ever courteous and brilliant at thier jobs and professions,We were escorted by rail and bus and saw magnificent castles which had been restored to thier original pristine grandeur and estates and of course the amazing Cliffs of Moher which was truly magnificent.On the third day we were taken by plane to the largest of the Aran Islands where we saw the magnificent ancient settlements from the Bronze Age.We love the whole tour and were sad when it came to an end.Please do experience this beautiful tour!
Reply by Viator, October 2012
Doing what: Aran Islands Scenic Flight and Galway Tour from Dublin
Fabulous tour of the beautiful Aran Islands.........long train from Dublin but well worth the trip to see the magnificent sights on this Island.....One of the highlights of my trip to Dublin.....thanks Mike and crew....Karen and Kevin
Reply by Viator, September 2012
Doing what: Aran Islands Scenic Flight and Galway Tour from Dublin
This trip was simply the best - lovely scenery, well planned , and everything or more than we could of wished for. The Aran Islands are worth a vist - even if I am scared of little planes! This was a lovely train journey, a lovely tour in Connamara and flight to Inis Mor.
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