The Aran Islands are 3 rocky isles guarding the mouth of Galway Bay, in western Ireland. They’re known for their ancient sites. The largest island, Inishmore, is home to the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa, perched on top of a high cliff. Nearby is the Worm Hole, a rectangular natural pool. The medieval ruins of the Seven Churches are in the northwest. Clochán na Carraige is a stone structure with a beehive roof. ― Google
Total islands: 3
Population: 1,347 (2022)
Area: 46 km²
Coordinates: 53°05′50″N 9°37′57″W / 53.0971°N 9.6326°W
Highest elevation: 120 m (390 ft)
Highest point: Inishmore Lighthouse
Languages: Irish; English
May to September: Ideal weather, ferry schedules are most frequent, and everything is open.
June and September: Best for fewer crowds but still good conditions.
Avoid winter months (Nov–Feb): Many businesses close, and weather/ferries can be unpredictable.
From Rossaveal (Co. Galway) – 40-minute ferry to Inis Mór (most popular island); also serves Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr.
From Doolin (Co. Clare) – Seasonal ferries to all 3 islands; shortest route to Inis Oírr.
Aer Arann Islands flies from Connemara Regional Airport (near Galway) – ~8-minute flight to Inis Mór.
Home to Dún Aonghasa, a dramatic prehistoric cliffside fort.
Breathtaking cliff walks, seal colony, Kilmurvey Beach, and Na Seacht dTeampaill (Seven Churches).
Best for first-time visitors.
Least touristy; best for solitude, hiking, and language immersion.
Visit Synge’s Chair and the stone cottages of playwright John Millington Synge’s time.
Shipwreck of the MV Plassey, O’Brien’s Castle, lighthouse walks, and a fun beach.
Great views of the Cliffs of Moher on a clear day.
Cycle the islands – Rent a bike to explore scenic routes and historic ruins.
Visit Dún Aonghasa – Walk or bike to this cliffside prehistoric stone fort.
Explore ancient churches – Especially on Inis Mór and Inis Meáin.
Swim at Kilmurvey Beach – Blue Flag beach with white sand and turquoise water.
Horse and cart tours – A traditional and relaxing way to explore.
Snorkeling/diving – Inis Mór has some diving operators with amazing Atlantic views underwater.
Kayaking, hiking, or stargazing – Especially rewarding on quiet Inis Meáin.
Inis Mór:
Aran Islands Hotel – Beautiful views and traditional charm.
Kilmurvey House – Near Dún Aonghasa, highly rated B&B.
Seacrest B&B – Cozy, family-run, great breakfasts.
Inis Oírr:
Tigh Ruairí – Friendly family hotel.
Brú Radharc na Mara – Hostel with great views.
Inis Meáin:
Inis Meáin Restaurant & Suites – Exclusive, modern design with gourmet dining.
An Dun B&B – Quaint and peaceful.
Joe Watty’s Bar (Inis Mór) – Pub with live music, seafood, and Irish classics.
Teach Nan Phaidi (Inis Mór) – Charming cottage café with homemade cakes and quiches.
Tigh Ned (Inis Oírr) – Well-known for seafood and views.
Inis Meáin Restaurant – Gourmet, reservation-only experience featuring island-grown ingredients.
The islands are part of the Gaeltacht — Irish is the daily spoken language.
Rich in prehistoric ruins, Celtic spirituality, and oral traditions.
Islanders still practice fishing, farming, and crafts like Aran sweater knitting.
Visitors often describe the islands as "a step back in time" — with stone walls, narrow lanes, and deep-rooted traditions.