Aran Islands Overview
The Aran Islands are located approximately 48km (30 miles) out from the mouth of Galway Bay in the Atlantic Ocean. The largest of the three islands is Inishmore (or Inis Mor) which measures just 14km (9 miles) from tip to tip and 4.8km (3 miles) at its widest point. The islands are famous for their prehistoric and Christian monuments including the spectacular Dun Aengus fort that is one of best examples of this type of fort in all of Europe. The fortified inner citadel is protected by huge semicircular ringed defenses and the chevaux-de-frise, a cliff face peppered with sharp shards of rock jutting out intended to impede the advance of an attacking army. Other ancient stone forts worth visiting include Dun Eoghanachta and the crumbling Dun Ducathair. The stunning islands are criss-crossed with thousands of miles of stone walls and visitors flock to the islands to enjoy the cliff-top walks and spectacular coastal scenery. The islands are also home to more than 430 different varieties of wild flowers and plants making them popular with botanists. Inishmore can get quite busy during the summer months but the other islands, Inishmaan (or Inis Meain) and the smallest, Inisheer (Inis Thiar, or Inis Oirr), are less busy and can offer visitors a more authentic experience. But all three islands have held on to their ancient traditions including the use of Gaelic language (although English is also widely spoken).
Contact Addresses
Aran Heritage Center, Cill Ronain, Inis Mor, Arainn, Co na Gaillimhe
Tel: (0)99 61355
Website: www.visitaranislands.com
Transportation
Air: Knock International Airport and Shannon International Airport. Inverin Airport (domestic flights). Water: Ferry: Services from Rossaveal and Doolin on the mainland to Kilronan. Rail: Galway Station. Road: Bus: Public services.
Location
Aran Islands
,
Ireland
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