FACT FILE - Cloudfront.net
Transcription
FACT FILE - Cloudfront.net
P. 1 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP WELCOME TO IRELAND’S ISLANDS There’s no feeling quite like standing on an Irish island. Gazing out into the Atlantic blueness, sensing the salt on your tongue and the sea breeze on your cheeks, a visit to these outposts is an enlivening experience, a brisk detox from the stresses of modern-day living. Wild, rugged and beautiful, Ireland’s islands have captured the imagination for thousands of years. Prehistoric settlers, early Christian monks, Vikings, pirates, farmers and fishermen have all put down roots here, building communities whose ruins stick like bones from the landscape. Though remote, these islands are more accessible than you may think. Some can be driven onto via bridge or tidal causeway; many others are within a 20 minute ferry crossing. You can still imagine holy men setting up sanctuary, or Peig Sayers pulling her shawl against a storm, but today’s islands are alive with teeming regattas, lively céilís, buzzing pubs, burgeoning foodie scenes and year-round activities. They are at once mysterious, and open to all on Google Maps. Though remote, these islands are more accessible than you may think. P. 1 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP The result is a unique visitor experience. You can wander through deserted villages, explore ancient monastic sites and spot passing whales and wintering birds - happy in the knowledge that creature comforts are never far away. Many of the inhabited islands now have Wi-Fi, for example, and thriving festivals celebrate everything from Father Ted to Achill yawls. You can take a fine arts degree on Sherkin, or tuck into lobster with chervil garlic butter on Inis Meáin. Today, in fact, the islands are defined by differences more than similarities. They are alive with dialects, with unique traditions and wildlife. There are bird islands, adventure islands and open-air museums. There are islands for divers, artists and pilgrims. You can learn the Irish language on a Gaeltacht island, try your hand at painting or basket-making - or kick back and do nothing at all. Isolation has helped to preserve these rich repositories; modern transport and technology have opened them up to all ages. Ireland’s islands are living proof that the best things in life are free. And when it comes to staying over, eating out or taking a course or activity, their value-for-money is exceptional. You can wander through deserted villages, explore ancient monastic sites and spot passing whales and wintering birds. There’s an island for everyone. Find yours, and you’ll find a place both apart and connected; a stronghold of old traditions and new ideas; a sanctuary within striking distance of the mainland. At times, it’s as though ‘Man of Aran’ was filmed only yesterday. At others, breaking from the boat to check your email, or taking a yoga class, you’re right at the heart of the 21st century. Disclaimer Every care has been taken to ensure accuracy in the compilation of this brochure. Fáilte Ireland cannot, however, accept responsibility for errors or omissions, but where such are brought to our attention, future publications will be amended accordingly. Some sporting activities may by their nature be hazardous and involve risk. It is recommended in such cases to take out personal accident insurance. While most operators would have public liability insurance, it is desirable to check with the establishment or operator concerned as to the level of cover carried. Fáilte Ireland would like to acknowledge permission given by some islands to use their images, particularly Sherkin, Inishbofin, Rathlin, Inishbiggle, Long, Whiddy and the Donegal Islands. © Fáilte Ireland. Published by Fáilte Ireland. P. 2 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP GETTING TO THE ISLANDS Rugged and enchanting, Ireland’s islands captivate everyone who visits. But these remote communities are surprisingly easy to get to, with plenty of access points up and down the mainland. Some, like Achill and Valentia, are connected to the mainland by a bridge; others can be accessed by small boat, ferry or even by air. And you don’t have to complete your island adventure in a single day – a few nights on one of the many inhabited islands can make for an unforgettable holiday. You could even try island-hopping to get a flavour of more than one magical offshore island. •Most ferry ports are serviced by coaches and buses from Ireland’s main towns and cities, so check timetables for the date you want to travel on websites such as www.IrishRail.ie, www.BusEireann.ie or www.AerArann.com. •To find out exactly how to get to your chosen island from towns and cities around Ireland, go to the ‘Getting There’ section at the end of each island description. •It is always advisable to check sailing times before travelling and to book journeys in advance where possible. Sailings are weather dependent, often subject to demand. •A list of accommodation and activity providers is provided at the back of this brochure. • P. 3 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT For more information, see www.discoverireland.ie/islands CONTENTS MAP TIPS FOR YOUR TRIP •Prepare for your visit. Some Irish islands are easy to reach and home to hundreds of people, with all the shops and services that entails; others are remote, with fewer facilities. This guide gives a general sense of what to expect, but licensed boat operators and providers on the islands are the best source of information and advice. Generally, if travelling to an island with little or no services you should bring your own food, water and necessary supplies, and prepare for every weather eventuality (i.e. bring layered clothing and sensible shoes). •Pick your time. Some of the islands are very busy in high season (July and August in particular), so the fringes are often the best time to visit (May and September, for example). Other islands are just as accessible all year-round. See the listing at the back of the brochure for details of tourism providers on the islands. Always take the greatest possible care when exploring the islands and their waters. •Prepare your payments. Few Irish islands have ATM or other banking facilities, and some accommodation providers do not accept credit cards. It is always advisable to check payment methods in advance, particularly if you are staying overnight. •Leave no trace. Please leave the islands as you find them, taking nothing but photographs and leaving nothing but footprints. Respect monuments, habitats, dwellings, stone walls, plants and wildlife, and dispose of any litter in bins or take it away with you. Minimise the effects of fire, respect farm animals, and always camp on durable ground. See www.leavenotraceireland.org. •Remember the landowners! Ireland’s islands offer some of the best walking trails you’ll come across. Many run through private land, so please respect the owner’s generosity. •Be safe; take care! The islands represent a very special visitor experience, but are fully exposed to the elements. Island terrain is mostly rugged and the surrounding seas can sometimes be wild. Always take the greatest possible care when exploring the islands and their waters. P. 4 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP USE THIS MAP AS YOUR GUIDE TO IRELAND’S ISLANDS Simply check the name and reference number of the island on the map below against the contents list opposite on page 6. Then go to the page indicated for a full profile of the island. RATHLIN TORY INISHBOFIN GOLA 2 4 6 INISHFREE 5 ARRANMORE 14 INISHBIGGLE 7 ACHILL 8 CLARE INISHTURK INISHBOFIN 1 9 10 INISHMORE 11 ARAN ISLANDS INISHMAAN 12 INISHEER 13 BLASKETS 24 VALENTIA 19 GARINISH 23 SKELLIGS WHIDDY 21 25 HEIR 17 DURSEY 22 15 BERE 18 LONG 20 SHERKIN 16 CAPE CLEAR P. 5 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP ISLAND ROY 3 26 CONTENTS Welcome to Ireland’s Islands Getting to the Islands Tips for your Trip 01 03 04 ISLAND Map Ref PAGE NORTH WEST (Donegal) Getting to the Islands in the North West Islands where you can stay overnight (1) Árainn Mhór (Arranmore), Co. Donegal (2) Toraigh (Tory), Co. Donegal (3) Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy), Co. Donegal 07 09 11 13 Islands for Daytrips (4) Inis Bó Finne (Inishbofin), Co. Donegal (5) Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree), Co. Donegal (6) Gabhla (Gola), Co. Donegal 14 15 16 WEST (Mayo and Galway) Getting to the Islands in the West Islands where you can stay overnight (7) Acaill (Achill), Co. Mayo (8) Clare, Co. Mayo (9) Inishturk, Co. Mayo (10) Inishbofin, Co. Galway (11) Árainn (Inishmore), Aran Islands, Co. Galway (12) Inis Meáin (Inishmaan), Aran Islands, , Co. Galway (13) Inis Oírr (Inisheer), Aran Islands, Co. Galway Islands for Daytrips (14) Inis Bigil (Inishbiggle), Co. Mayo Overnight stay P. 6 www.discoverireland.ie/islands DAY TRIP TICKET 17 19 21 23 25 27 29 31 ISLAND Map Ref SOUTH WEST (Cork and Kerry) Getting to the Islands in the South West Islands where you can stay overnight (15) Bere, Co. Cork (16) Oileán Chléire (Cape Clear), Co. Cork (17) Heir, Co. Cork (18) Sherkin, Co. Cork (19) Valentia, Co. Kerry 35 37 39 41 43 45 Islands for Daytrips (20) Long, Co. Cork (21) Whiddy, Co. Cork (22) Dursey, Co. Cork (23) Garinish, Co. Cork (24) Na Blascaodaí (Blaskets), Co. Kerry (25) Na Scealga (Skelligs), Co. Kerry 47 48 49 50 51 52 NORTHERN IRELAND Islands where you can stay overnight (26) Rathlin, Co. Antrim 53 LIST OF TOURISM PROVIDERS 55 DISCOVER IRELAND CENTRES 75 33 Day trip PRINT PAGE CONTENTS MAP Getting to the islands Northwest M Fanad H 2. Tory Island 3. Island Roy 4. Inishbofin PORTSALON DUNFANAGHY MEENLARAGH Bloody Foreland 6. Gola Island N56 MILFORD BUNBEG GWEEDORE N56 5. Inishfree N 1. Arranmore BURTONPORT DUNGLOE LETTERKENNY DONEGAL NORTH WEST (Donegal) Getting to the Islands in the North West Islands where you can stay overnight (1) Árainn Mhór (Arranmore), Co. Donegal (2) Toraigh (Tory), Co. Donegal (3) Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy), Co. Donegal 07 09 11 13 GLEANN CHOLM CILLE (GLENCOLUMBKILLE) B 64 GLENTIES N15 BALLYBOFEY ARDARA 64 480 N56 491 STRANO MALINMORE Islands for Daytrips (4) Inis Bó Finne (Inishbofin), Co. Donegal (5) Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree), Co. Donegal (6) Gabhla (Gola), Co. Donegal 14 15 16 DONEGAL KILCAR KILLYBEGS Bloody Foreland 64 480 BALLYSHANNON The Swilly Bus Service Tel: 353 74 9361340 64 Rail Network BELLEEK Bus Éireann Local Bus Service - Year Round Bus Éireann Expressway Coach - Year Round 480 E For more information on bus and rail services, visit www.irishrail.ie and www.buseireann.ie FE SLIGO P. 7 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP NORTH WEST Malin Hd. Hd. MALIN ALLYLIFFEN CULDAFF GREENCASTLE CARNDONAGH MOVILLE PORTSTEWART BUNCRANA Flung about the jagged coasts of Donegal and Sligo, Ireland’s northwestern islands once sheltered some of Europe’s remotest communities. Technology has changed all that, bringing outposts like Tory and Gola within easy reach of the mainland, but the Irish language still thrives, the wildlife continues to wow and the hospitality is timeless. Today you’ll encounter as many artists and adrenaline junkies as cliffs and ancient ruins - on islands that have become stepping stones between now and then. RATHMULLEN N13 DERRY 64 DERRY LIFFORD ORLAR TYRONE ENNISKILLEN ERMANAGH P. 8 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE LOCATION: 3km west of Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport) Co. Donegal. By road, Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport), ferry terminal is roughly 65km (1hr 25mins) from Donegal town and 70km (1hr 20mins) from Letterkenny. ÁRAINN MHÓR 1 (Arranmore) Oileán na gCeithre Séasúr SIZE: 5km x 3km. Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) can be visited as a daytrip, but rewards a longer stay. POPULATION: 500+. A Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Hotel, B&B, self-catering, children’s playground, post office, pitch & putt, craft shop (summer), restaurant, pubs, picnic facilities. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. GETTING THERE: Ferries sail from Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport) to Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) year-round. Sailings take from 5 to 15 minutes. Contact Arranmore Ferry Service (353 74 9520532, www.arranmoreferry. com) or Arranmore Charters (353 87 3171810, www.arranmorecharters.com). GETTING AROUND: Visitors can walk, hire bikes or take a taxi on Árainn Mhór (Arranmore). FIND OUT MORE: Island Co-op (353 74 9520533; www.oileanarainnmhoir. com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? A cove near the Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) lighthouse is named after Wayne Dickinson, who made a 142-day solo crossing of the Atlantic in the early 1980s. At the time, his 8’ 9” vessel - God’s Tear - was the smallest ever to have made the crossing. An island for all seasons Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) is an island for all seasons. With a population of 500 swelling to 1,500 or so in the peak season, this is a lively place to visit at any time, but especially in the summer months. A quick ferry ride from Burtonport whisks visitors from modern life to island magic. Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) is home to six traditional Irish pubs, each boasting the kind of atmosphere and charm fast disappearing into the ether elsewhere. But this Irish-speaking oasis easily absorbs its population to give the feel of a windswept and rugged place. Careering cliffs, sandy beaches and the Cave of Slaughter - where a group of islanders was massacred by Cromwellian soldiers - are all highlights. Overnight stay P. 9 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT Gaeltacht Island CONTENTS MAP For many visitors, walking is the best way to access the untamed landscape. Árainn Mhór’s (Arranmore’s) looped walk forms part of Slí Dhún na nGall (the Donegal Way), and sites of interest range from promontory forts to the rocky summit at Cnoc an Iolair, with its dazzling views of the Atlantic, sea cliffs and the mountains of the mainland – you may even see a snowy owl or a white-tailed sea eagle. Top 3 Activities • Walking • Angling & diving trips • Birdwatching Árainn Mhór (Arranmore) is an island that’s easy to get to, but utterly unique. It is the only place on earth where rainbow trout breed naturally. It is an island where you can sleep in a light keeper’s dwelling, or the honeymoon hotel of author Liam O’Flaherty. And the mainland is still all of 15 minutes away. 8, 9, 12, 13 LIGHTHOUSE 4 np or t 2, 3 10 5 PIER AN LEADHB GHARBH ATHPHORT Ail ta nC ho rrá in - Bu rto Mass Rock 16 14, 15 6 11 7 i Cave of Slaughter For detailed info on islands listings see page 55 Dining/Pub P. 10 Accommodation Travel Activities www.discoverireland.ie/islands i Visitor information PRINT CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE LOCATION: 12km off Bloody Foreland, Co. Donegal. By road, the ferry ports of An Bun Beag (Bunbeg) and Machaire Rabhartaigh (Magheroarty) are roughly 51km (1hr) and 57km (1 hr) from Letterkenny. OILEÁN THORAIGH (Tory Island) Inspioráid agus áilleacht chreagach SIZE: 4km x 1km. Toraigh (Tory) can be visited in a daytrip, but a longer stay gets the best out of the island. POPULATION: 140+. Toraigh (Tory) is a Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Hotel, café, pubs, shops (groceries, crafts), art gallery, children’s playground, social club, dive centre, internet access. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Féile Soilse Thoraí (July), celebrates Toraigh’s (Tory’s) song, dance, music and storytelling. GETTING THERE: Sailings from An Bun Beag (Bunbeg - 1hr 45 mins) and Machaire Rabhartaigh (Magheroarty - 40 mins). Turasmara Teo (353 74 953 1340, www.toryislandferry.com) sails from Bunbeg and Magheroarty, year-round. Toraigh na dTonn (353 74 9135920, www.toryhotel.com) sails from Magheroarty (April to October). GETTING AROUND: Toraigh (Tory) is an easy island to get around, by walking, bike or minibus hire. FIND OUT MORE: Island Co-op Comharchumann Thoraí Teo (353 74 913 5502, www.oileanthorai.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands Inspiration and rugged beauty Nine miles off the coast of Donegal, Toraigh (Tory) Islanders still talk of ‘travelling to Ireland’. In truth, of course, the years of isolation are over. This gorgeous Gaeltacht island is today an accessible and affordable holiday destination for those searching out something different. And it is different. Toraigh’s (Tory’s) dazzling cliffs and treeless landscape have proven a huge creative draw, and the island is famous for its school of “primitive” artists. Encouraged by the late English painter, Derek Hill, who first visited Toraigh (Tory) in the 1960’s to paint its extraordinary landscapes, their work has been exhibited all over the world. DID YOU KNOW? Donegal islanders traditionally vote first in Irish elections, in case bad weather cuts them off. Overnight stay P. 11 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT Gaeltacht Island CONTENTS MAP 2 For such a small island, Toraigh (Tory) is huge on spirit – fiercely preserving its indigenous music, dance and stories. Shipwrecks, poitín smuggling and stories of violent storms have all been drawn into its folklore, and many ancient customs are still in place - including the appointment of the island king, or Rí Thoraí. Perhaps it’s the furious winters, the tales of monster miracles or the fact that communities here can be traced back to the Bronze ages, but Toraigh (Tory) Islanders are a passionate bunch. Stay overnight, and get drawn in yourself. Outdoorsy folk can enjoy diving, angling, rock-climbing, dolphin watching or hike a stretch of the Donegal Way with only the seabirds for company. Gentler visits might take in the island’s round tower or the promontory fort of Dun Bhalóir. Top 3 Activities • Traditional music • Heritage • Birdwatching Either way, all roads lead to the local hostelries. Small islands are not usually visited for their exotic nightlife, but Toraigh (Tory) has several surprises - Club Soisíalta Thoraí, the island social club, holds lively céilís on summer nights, and traditional sessions regularly raise the roof at Ostán Thoraigh. LIGHTHOUSE AN BAILE THIAR 7 i 3 5 2 1 8, 9 i 4 eg unb Islan Tory rty eroa agh Travel Activities www.discoverireland.ie/islands Dun Bhalóir d-M P. 12 Accommodation AN BAILE TH0IR Islan d-B Tory 6 For detailed info on islands listings see page 56 Dining/Pub Community Centre & Playground PIER i Visitor information PRINT CONTENTS MAP OILEÁN RUAIDH FACT FILE LOCATION: Rosguil Peninsula, Co. Donegal. By road, Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy) is about 40km (50mins) from Letterkenny. SIZE: 100 acres. Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy) is easily visited in a couple of hours. POPULATION: 26. A Gaeltacht island. 3 (Island Roy) Tearmann síoraí FACILITIES: Self-catering, guided walks. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. GETTING THERE: Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy) is connected to the mainland by a causeway accessible at low tide. Call 353 74 915 5535 for details. GETTING AROUND: Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy) is a small island, and easily navigable by foot, car or bike. FIND OUT MORE: Contact Coiste Forbartha Oileáin Ruaidh (353 74 9155535; wwwdonegalislands.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? Oileán Ruaidh’s English name, ‘Island Roy’, is a phonetic rendering decided upon in haste by surveyors in the 19th century... don’t ask who Roy was, he didn’t exist! Top 3 Activities • Walking • Birdwatching • Painting A timeless retreat You want secluded? Come to Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy), an island so modest it doesn’t always appear on maps. A tiny, 65-hectare speck in the fjord-like Mulroy Bay, this is a beautifully rugged retreat, a place where you can both be introspective and outward-looking, where you can reflect on life whilst drinking in breathtaking views of Rossapenna’s sand-dunes and the Donegal hills. Formerly known as Oileán an Bhráighe (‘Island of the Prisoners’), due to its links with nearby Doe Castle, Oileán Ruaidh’s modern name (‘Red Island’) reflects the rusty colour of its winter vegetation. The island is home to a small and hospitable Irish-speaking community, and is connected to the mainland by a tidal causeway – making it easily accessible by car at low tide. Make the crossing, and you’ll find wonderful walking and a wealth of visiting birds. You may even be inspired into art. “It’s the uniqueness of the place,” says one of several island artists. “As you walk the shores of Oileán Ruaidh (Island Roy), there’s a different view from every corner.” Loch Moss 1 3 For detailed info on islands listings see page 57 Dining/Pub Overnight stay P. 13 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT Gaeltacht Island CONTENTS MAP 2 Accommodation Travel Activities FACT FILE LOCATION: 2 miles off northwest Donegal. By road, the ferry port of Machaire Rabhartaigh (Magheroarty) is roughly 57km (1 hr) from Letterkenny. SIZE: 2km x 1km. Inis Bó Finne (Inishbofin) is most often visited as a daytrip, but activity enthusiasts could easily spend a few days on the island. INIS BÓ FINNE 4 (Inishbofin) Imeallchríoch fiáin, iontach POPULATION: 35. A Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Boat Festival (July) GETTING THERE: Ferries sail seasonally from Machaire Rabhartaigh (Magheroarty). Sailings take about 10 minutes. Contact 353 74 913 5635; 353 87 627 9789, www.donegalislands.com. GETTING AROUND: Inis Bó Finne (Inishbofin) is a small island, easily navigated on foot or by bike. FIND OUT MORE: Coiste Forbartha Inis Bó Finne (353 74 913 5635 or www.donegalislands.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? Inis Bó Finne (Inishbofin) went without electricity or running water until 2002. A bird could lose the run of itself on Inis Bó Finne (Inishbofin). This captivating island, just 300-acres in size, is completely unspoilt. Barnacle geese fly in to winter from the Arctic. The endangered corncrake finds sanctuary in grassy lowlands. Wildflowers and primrose banks are abundant. And what’s good for birds is good for birdwatchers. www.discoverireland.ie/islands Beach PIER 2 For detailed info on islands listings see page 57 Dining/Pub DAY TRIP TICKET P. 14 Beach PRINT Day trip Gaeltacht Island CONTENTS MAP Accommodation Travel 1 roarty All it takes is a 10-minute ferry ride to have you ticking off a species list that includes breeding pairs of Arctic terns, visiting peregrine falcons and choughs (a pair has even been nesting in the chimney of the old national school). The ‘Island of the White Cow’ itself is a wild and wonderful outcrop. This is a place where rock formations like the sea arch at Scoilt an Droichid play off white sandy beaches. It is a watersports hotspot, with rock-fishing, windsurfing and kayaking growing in popularity by the year. Unlike barnacle geese, few people winter on Inis Bó Finne. Come summer, however, a happy handful of families join them to fish for lobster, crab and Atlantic salmon. Surveying their island from its crest, with views stretching from Errigal Mountain to Bloody Foreland, it’s easy to see why they do. e To Magh Top 3 Activities • Birdwatching • Walking • Watersports A wild and wonderful outcrop Activities FACT FILE LOCATION: Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree) lies in the bay between An Clochán Liath (Dungloe) and Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport). By road, Ailt an Chorráin ferry terminal is roughly 65km (1hr 25mins) from Donegal town and 70km (1hr 20mins) from Letterkenny. INIS FRAOIGH 5 (Inishfree) Flúirse cultúir agus spioradáltachta SIZE: 1.6km x 1.6km. Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree) is usually experienced as a daytrip. POPULATION: 7 (permanent); 30 (seasonal). A Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Summer crafts shop. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Inishfree Cultural Festival (August) GETTING THERE: Ferry Service on request from Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport). Sailings take about 10 minutes. Contact Inishfree Charters, Burtonport pier (353 87 9253534, 353 86 220 9508, www.donegalislands.com) Spirituality and culture abound There’s something spiritual in the air at Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree). Perhaps it comes from the island’s ancient mass rock; perhaps it’s the memory of a commune of ‘screamers’ who made the island their home in the late 20th century. Whatever the reason, the island inspires reflection and meditation. GETTING AROUND: Visitors can easily walk, hire bikes or take minibus tours on Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree). FIND OUT MORE: Contact: Coiste Forbartha Inis Fraoigh (353 74 952 2895 or www.donegalislands.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? ‘Screamers’ followed a primal therapy focused on cleansing angst by bawling one’s lungs out. Top 3 Activities •Cultural Courses •Walking •Adventure Sports PIER Inis Fraoigh’s (Inishfree’s) heather meadows and rocky coves go back a long way. Controlled by Niall of the Nine Hostages in early Christian period, it later became home to the clan of Red Hugh O’Donnell. A community of Irish-speaking islanders left in the 1970s, though a number of them, together with mainlanders keen to live closer to nature, have lately come back to Inis Fraoigh (Inishfree). Spirituality remains at the island’s core, but these new islanders have brought culture too. Courses in music, dancing, arts, crafts and poetry are all available, and an annual cultural festival takes place in August. The welcome is warm for the walkers, birdwatchers, anglers and divers who visit them. www.discoverireland.ie/islands Beach 1 Historic Site 3 Day trip PRINT For detailed info on islands listings see page 57 Gaeltacht Island CONTENTS Guided Walks INISHFREE UPPER Dining/Pub DAY TRIP TICKET P. 15 2 MAP Accommodation Travel Activities FACT FILE LOCATION: 1.6km from the pier at Machaire Gathlán (Magheragallan), Co. Donegal. By road, Machaire Gathlán (Magheragallan), is roughly 54km (1hr 10 mins) from Letterkenny. SIZE: 328 hectares (about one square mile). Gabhla (Gola) is easily visited in a day. GABHLA 6 (Gola) Tírdhreach draíochtach POPULATION: 5 (permanent); 35 (seasonal). A Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Shop, picnic areas, walking and rock climbing guides. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Féile Gabhla (June) GETTING THERE: Ferries sail daily from Machaire Gathlán (Magheragallan), April to September, otherwise by booking. Sailings take about 10 minutes. Contact Seod Ghabhla (Gola Island Ferry Service). Tel: 353 87 6607003, www.donegalislands.com GETTING AROUND: Gabhla (Gola) is best suited to walking. FIND OUT MORE: Coiste Forbartha Ghabhla (353 74 953 2571, 353 87 9531422; www.donegalislands.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? 169 people were living on Gabhla (Gola) at the time of the 1911 census - two of them were aboard the Asgard, the boat that brought arms into Howth in preparation for the 1916 Rising. Top 3 Activities • Art classes • Rock-climbing • Birdwatching P.P.16 www.discoverireland.ie/islands 16 www.discoverireland.ie/islands P. 16 www.discoverireland.ie/islands Spellbinding scenery It’s hard to believe rock-climbers didn’t discover Gabhla (Gola) until the 1990s. Today, granite cliffs on the island’s north-west coast are home to about 170 listed climbs, with a wide range of grades taking in cliff-bound inlets, tidal challenges and beautifully exposed faces. For climbers, Gabhla (Gola) rocks. The island is more easily explored, of course, in a few hours of guided trails. About one square mile in size, Gabhla’s (Gola’s) gently hilly terrain shelters a ribbon of traditional houses on the east, and birdwatchers will delight in colonies of cormorants, guillemots and kittiwakes at the cliffs of An Mhaoil Mhór. In fact, you’re as likely to see visitors breaking out art supplies as abseiling ropes here. Art classes are organised during the summer months, and painters and photographers will find no shortage of inspiration in the landscape – from sea arches to hanging rocks and sandy beaches. Whether climbing, walking or painting, the surrounding sea, islands and reefs make it hard to believe you’re just two miles from the mainland at Gweedore – it seems a world away. Cliffs Day trip PRINT Beach Loch Mhachaire na nGall Historical Site PIER Historical Site For detailed info on islands listings see page 57 Gaeltacht Island CONTENTS PIER 4 2 Dining/Pub DAY TRIP TICKET Gola - Magheragallan 3 1 MAP Accommodation Travel Activities lal Kil Erris Hd. aB Getting to the islands West ay BELMULLET N59 BANGOR ERRIS Blacksod Bay DUGORT Achill Hd. DOOAGH CASHEL FOXFOR BALLYCROY KEEL 7. Achill Island 441 MAYO MULRANY 440 440 WESTPORT 419 RENVYLE 17 N59 LEENÁUN 420 LETTERFRACK 419 CLONBUR BALLYCONNEELY 419 419 419 OUGHTERARD 424 GALWA CARRAROE ROSSAVEAL PRINT 419 N59 CARNA 424 SALTHILL INVERINSPIDDAL Galway Bay 11. Árainn 423 423 12. Inis Meáin For more information on bus and rail services, visit www.irishrail.ie, www.buseireann.ie and www.citylink.ie www.discoverireland.ie/islands HEADFOR 416 ROUNDSTONE Rail Network P. 17 CONG N59 RECESS CLIFDEN 424 Bus Éireann Local Bus Service - Year Round Bus Éireann Local Bus Service - Summer Only Bus Éireann Expressway Coach - Year Round Bus Éireann Expressway Coach - Summer Only BALLINROB 419 CLEGGAN 33 Citylink C LOUISBURGH 10. Inishbofin N6 450 9. Inishturk Islands for Daytrips (14) Inis Bigil (Inishbiggle), Co. Mayo CASTLEBA N5 ROONAGH QUAY 19 21 23 25 27 29 31 SWI N5 NEWPORT 441 440 8. Clare Island WEST (Mayo and Galway) Getting to the Islands in the West Islands where you can stay overnight (7) Acaill (Achill), Co. Mayo (8) Clare, Co. Mayo (9) Inishturk, Co. Mayo (10) Inishbofin, Co. Galway (11) Árainn (Inishmore), Aran Islands, Co. Galway (12) Inis Meáin (Inishmaan), Aran Islands, , Co. Galway (13) Inis Oírr (Inisheer), Aran Islands, Co. Galway BAL 14. Inishbiggle 440 441 CROSSMOLINA N59 13. Inis Oírr CONTENTS MAP BALLYVA 423 DOOLIN 50 LISDOONV WEST LLINA RD BOYLE CHARLESTOWN INFORD AR Ireland’s western islands have hidden pirates, starred on film and provided inspiration for artists as diverse as J.M. Synge, Paul Henry and Heinrich Böll. Though their image is rooted in the past, however, it is their present that sparks the imagination. Easily accessible by boat, plane, or road (at Achill and Ceantar na nOileán, the island district of southwest Connemara), the islands of the west are home to farmers’ markets and festivals, summer schools and traditional music – making memories you’ll cherish long after you leave. ROSCOMMON 60 KNOCK CLAREMORRIS BALLYHAUNIS CASTLEREA ROSCOMMON N17 BE N83 TUAM RD MOUNT BELLEW N63 N17 AY GALWAY BALLINASLOE ATHENRY ORANMORE 50 VAUGHAN KILREEKILL LOUGHREA PORTUMNA VARNA P. 18 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE LOCATION: Off the coast of Mayo’s Corraun Peninsula. By road, Acaill (Achill) is roughly 50km (1hr 10mins) from Westport and 132km (2hrs 45mins) from Galway. SIZE: 20km x 19km. Acaill (Achill) can be enjoyed in a day, but at least two to three days are required to see it comprehensively. ACAILL 7 (Achill Island) Tiomáin isteach ar an oileán is mó ar chósta na hÉireann POPULATION: 3,000+. Partly a Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Hotels, B&Bs, self-catering, caravan and camping parks, cafés, craft shops, restaurants, pubs, shops, petrol stations, picnic areas. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Achill Walks Festival (May), Heinrich Böll Memorial Weekend (May), Achill Seafood Festival (July), Achill Half-Marathon (July), Scoil Acla (July-August), Achill Yawl Festival (July-September). GETTING THERE: Achill (Acaill) is easily accessible by road via the bridge near Polranny. GETTING AROUND: Visitors to Acaill (Achill) can walk, drive, cycle or take a taxi or tour bus on the island. FIND OUT MORE: Achill Tourism (353 98 47353; www.achilltourism. com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands Drive onto Ireland’s largest island Five blue-flag beaches would be an impressive tally anywhere, let alone on a single island. But that’s Acaill (Achill). From the hilly horseshoe of Keem Bay (said to have been blessed by St. Patrick during his stay on Croagh Patrick) to the 4km sweep of Trawmore Strand; from the white strands at Dooega to the twin beaches at Dugort, welcome to Ireland’s most beautiful, bracing waters. DID YOU KNOW? Acaill (Achill) has been inhabited for some 5,000 years. The island’s remote grandeur has a history of attracting artists too. Graham Greene was a regular in the 1940s (his mistress, Catherine Walston, kept a holiday cottage in Dooagh), and Nobel laureate Heinrich Böll visited in the 1950s, writing about the island in his book, ‘The Irish Journey’. Acaill (Achill) put the hook in him, and the German novelist returned every summer thereafter. Overnight stay P. 19 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT Gaeltacht Island CONTENTS MAP The artists’ legacy continues today, giving Acaill (Achill) an air of the creative retreat. The island hosts a Heinrich Böll Memorial Weekend and an artists’ residency at his old cottage. Painting and music schools take inspiration from its beaches and blanket bog, from some of the highest cliffs in Europe, from heritage sites ranging from megalithic tombs to the deserted villages of Slievemore and Ailt. Scoil Acla, a summer school promoting traditional music, arts and culture, is now in its third decade. But don’t get the impression that Ireland’s largest island is all introspection. A half-marathon, wind-surfing championships and swimming and walking festivals run alongside year-round surfing, diving, rock-climbing, angling, sailing and horse-riding activities here. The island boasts 14 circular walks and three cycling routes. Acaill (Achill) inspires adrenaline junkies as much as artists. Top 3 Activities • Adventure • Arts • Beaches 33 - 34 Slievemore Mountain 51 Highest Sea Cliffs Achill Head Lake 25 - 32 DUGORT 8 DOOAGH 4, 5 50 38 24 7 KEEL 37 44 9 - 18 40 - 43 45 - 49 Inis Bigil i 35, 36 19 - 23 Achill Sound 2, 3 39 1 Achill Island 6 Clare Island Inishturk Island INIS BIGIL GOB AN CHOIRE (Entry Point) ROONAGH QUAY Inishbofin Island Cill Damhnart Castle Grace O’Malleys TO CLEGGAN For detailed info on islands listings see page 58 Dining/Pub P. 20 Accommodation Travel Activities www.discoverireland.ie/islands i Visitor information PRINT Blue flag beach Cycle Paths CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE CLARE ISLAND 8 LOCATION: 5km off the coast of Louisburgh, Co. Mayo. By road, Roonagh Quay is 29km (55mins) from Westport and 101km (2hrs 20mins) from Galway. SIZE: 8km x 4.8km. Allow a day for a visit to Clare Island, though at least an overnight stay is required to experience all that it has to offer. POPULATION: 162 FACILITIES: Hotel, guesthouse, B&Bs, shop, crafts, café, restaurant, pubs, heritage centre, yoga studio, Wi-Fi. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Granuaile folklore weekend (May), Singles Weekends (June, September), Bard Summer School (July), Clare Island Regatta (July). GETTING THERE: Daily, yearround ferries from Roonagh pier near Louisburgh, Co. Mayo. Sailings take 20 minutes. Contact Clare Island Ferry Co (353 98 23737; 353 86 8515003 www. clareislandferry.com) and O’Malley Ferry Services (353 98 25045, 353 86 8870 814; www.omalleyferries.com). GETTING AROUND: Visitors can walk, hire bikes or take a bus tour or taxi on Clare Island. FIND OUT MORE: Clare Island development office (353 98 26525, www.clareisland.info), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? A famous study of Clare Island was carried out from 1909-11. Its leader, Dr. R.L. Praeger, communicated with Charles Darwin throughout. The study is being updated by the Royal Irish Academy. Home of the Pirate Queen Once upon a time, Clare Island was the home base of Grace O’Malley. It was from here that Ireland’s 16th century pirate queen (also known as Granuaile) patrolled the Western seaboard. It is here that she is reputedly buried - at the old Cistercian Abbey (“Terra Maris Potens”, reads the motto – “powerful by land and sea”). And it is from here that her ruined castle dominates the Atlantic coast. Where O’Malley got about by ship, today’s visitor is served by a network of looped walks. Two of these - the Fawnglass and Knockaveena loops - plug into an island heritage that includes Bronze Age fullacha fiadh (cooking sites) and medieval wall paintings (adorning the Cistercian Abbey ruins). They bring walkers past natural wonders ranging from pounding surf to Connemara ponies. Overnight stay P. 21 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP Continue on to scale the 461-metre peak of Knockmore, and you’ll be rewarded with a view that encompasses sea cliffs, squawking gannets, a blue-flag beach and old potato ridges. Croagh Patrick watches from the mainland, and the surrounding sweep of Clew Bay is spotted with 365 islands - one for each day of the year. Top 3 Activities • Walking • Yoga retreats • Heritage Clare Island makes for a great visit at any time of year, but it’s a particularly lively spot in summer, when traditional music, summer festivals and a buzzing pub scene come into their own. At its heart though, it is a place of retreat – just ask the local yoga teacher who gave up a career in IT to build his studio here. LIGHTHOUSE Inis Bigil Achill Island Clare Island 8 ROONAGH QUAY Inishturk Island BALLYTOOHY Inishbofin Island 7 TO CLEGGAN Knockmore Mountain 1 2 3, 4 Signal Tower 5 Historic Site Cistercian Abbey 6 PIER & BEACH nd ay Isla u re gh Q Cla ona Ro i 9, 10 PORTNAKILLY For detailed info on islands listings see page 60 Dining/Pub P. 22 Accommodation Travel Activities www.discoverireland.ie/islands i Visitor information PRINT CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE INISHTURK ISLAND LOCATION: 5km off the coast of Louisburgh, Co. Mayo. Louisburgh is about 22km (35mins) by road from Westport, and 102km (2hrs) from Galway. SIZE: 5km x 2.5km. Inishturk can be enjoyed by daytrip, but a night and an evening meal in one of its B&Bs, gazing out on Croagh Patrick and the Atlantic, may tempt you for a longer stay... POPULATION: 120+ FACILITIES: B&B, community centre (open from 1pm daily in summer), internet access (library). Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Traditional Music Weekend (June), Inishturk Regatta (August) GETTING THERE: Ferries sail from Roonagh Pier near Louisburgh, Co. Mayo daily, year-round. Sailings take 40 minutes. Contact Clare Island Ferry Co (353 98 25212; 353 86 851-5003; www. clareislandferry.com) or Inishturk Ferries (353 98 45541; 353 86 202 9670, www.inishturkisland.com) GETTING AROUND: Visitors can explore Inishturk on foot, or by hiring bikes and boats. FIND OUT MORE: Inishturk Development Office (353 98 45778; www.inishturkisland.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? People from Inishturk have the highest donation rate to the RNLI in Ireland. A place of tranquil escape. If you’re looking to escape from it all, here’s an idea. Hop onto a ferry, venture 40 minutes off the edge of Europe, and step onto Inishturk. You’ll notice the difference straight away. Tranquillity; a gentler pace of life – it’s almost as if the clocks themselves are moving more slowly. Inishturk (‘Island of the Wild Boar’) is another world. Situated between Inishbofin and Clare Island off the Mayo coast, it offers an array of archaeological sites, a paradise for birdwatchers and a network of ruins culminating in a Napoleonic signal tower standing 700 feet above the surf. Islanders fish for lobster and crabs. Birds busy themselves about the cliffs. The tranquillity envelopes you. Overnight stay P. 23 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP 9 The island’s flora is of international importance too. The Spotted Rock Rose, a rare and endangered plant, is just one of the gems to be found here. Guiding can be arranged, or visitors can march to their own drum along the looped walks at Lough Coolaknock and Mountain Common. Afterwards, take a dip at the sandy beaches of Tranaun or Curran, where the sheltered coves and clear waters are safe for swimming. For the more intrepid, the ocean surrounding Inishturk is a happy hunting ground for deep-sea divers and anglers. On August 15th, you could even join the islanders for their age-old annual pilgrimage to the carved crosses on nearby Caher Island. Inishturk has been inhabited for 4,000 years, and the last chief to live at Portdoon, we’re told, made beer from the island heather. Contemporary visitors can toast his enterprising spirit during the lively dancing and music sessions in the community centre at summer weekends. Top 3 Activities • Birdwatching • Walking • Heritage Inis Bigil Achill Island Clare Island Inishturk Island ROONAGH QUAY Inishbofin Island Old Watch Tower TO CLEGGAN 5 1 8 PIER 2 9 r rk ie tu gh P h s a Ini oon R Curraun Beach 3 Penal Church 4 7 Traunaun Beach For detailed info on islands listings see page 61 Dining/Pub P. 24 Accommodation Travel Activities www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE INISHBOFIN LOCATION: 9km off the coast of Connemara. Cleggan ferry port is roughly 90km (1hr 30mins) from Galway by road, and approx 67km (1hr) from Westport. 10 SIZE: 5.8km x 3.5km. Inishbofin can be partially seen on a daytrip, but a longer stay is highly recommended. POPULATION: 200+ FACILITIES: Hotels, hostel (with some camping), self-catering, cafés, pubs, restaurants, shops, crafts, heritage centre, picnic areas, community centre (many are seasonal), minibus. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Inishbofin Arts Festival (May); Inishbofin halfmarathon (May), Environmental summer school (July). GETTING THERE: Ferry crossings operate year-round from Cleggan, Co. Galway. Sailings take 30 minutes. Contact Inishbofin Island Discovery (353 91 45819/45894; www.inishbofinislanddiscovery.com). There is a direct bus service from Galway to Cleggan with Citylink, tel: 1890 28 08 08 or 353 91 564 163, www.citylink.ie GETTING AROUND: On foot, bike or by minibus. FIND OUT MORE: Inishbofin Community Centre (353 95 45861/45895; www.inishbofin.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? An inspiration not only for artists, several films and documentaries have been filmed on Inishbofin, which include, ‘Sailing to an Island’ (Alan Moloney), ‘Desecration’ (Neville Presho), ‘Inisairc, Bas Oileáin’ (Kieran Concannon) and ‘Sailing to an Island’ (Kevin Sheldon). Vibrant, dramatic and ready to explore Traditional music is integral to many islands but, on Inishbofin it comes into its own. This, after all, is an island with its own Céilí band, where several islanders have released CDs across a range of genres. Visiting musicians and artists regularly cross over for ‘Bofin Trad’ - the summertime sessions are very special as music is the heartbeat of Inishbofin. If you like a tune, you’ll love Inishbofin. The island itself, of course, has been visited for ages. Many of its monastic sites are associated with Saint Colman, and ancient chapels and holy wells contain the memories of an early Christian settlement. Then there is the star-shaped Cromwell’s Barracks, in which Catholic clergy were once imprisoned. Many more historical sites are also to be found around the island including a Bronze Age settlement. Overnight stay P. 25 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP Many succumb to the island’s charm and stunning scenery and stay for longer. Inishbofin boasts three splendid looped walks, beautiful beaches, clear waters (for swimming, snorkelling and diving), and a diverse spread of birds, wildlife, flora and fauna. Artists and photographers find inspiration, fishermen cast off, and a heritage museum evokes Inishbofin through the ages. Inishbofin makes for a great sailing base. Boats of all kinds regularly pull into a natural harbour with access to running water and electricity on the pier, and many stay the night - taking a shower or catching up on emails in the community centre, before the first chords of the evening sessions ring out, and the stories and singing begin. Finally, don’t forget a visit to the mini-farmers’ market that runs on Inishbofin every Wednesday morning. It’s ideal for stocking up on organic vegetables, free-range eggs, fresh herbs and homemade treats – all produced on the island itself. Top 3 Activities • Traditional music • Walking • Watersports Inis Bigil Achill Island Clare Island Inishturk Island ROONAGH QUAY Inishbofin Island TO CLEGGAN Rusheen Beach CLOONAMORE 11 MIDDLEQUARTER WESTQUARTER FAWNMORE 12 2 16 1 Community Centre 7 6 13 i PIER 5 15 3 8 17 10 4 9 KNOCK Duach Beach n- ofi b sh Ini Cromwell’s Barracks n a gg Cle For detailed info on islands listings see page 62 Dining/Pub P. 26 Accommodation Travel Activities www.discoverireland.ie/islands i Visitor information PRINT CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE LOCATION: Around 13km off the coast of Galway and Clare. By road, the ferry port of Ros a Mhíl (Rossaveal) is roughly 39km (1hr) from Galway, and Doolin is around 42km (45mins) from Ennis. SIZE: 14km x 3.8km. Árainn (Inishmore) can be visited over one day or several. ÁRAINN 11 (Inishmore) An t-oileán ‘mór’ de chuid Oileáin Árainn POPULATION: 800+. A Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Hotel, B&Bs, self-catering, hostel, cafés, restaurants, pubs, shops, craft village. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Friends of Ted Festival (February), Aistear Ceilteach (a traditional music and dance show held in summer), Patrún Inis Mór (the big island festival held in June) GETTING THERE: Aer Arann Islands (353 91 593034; www.aerarannislands. ie) flies from Connemara airport. Sailings from Ros a Mhíl (Rossaveal) are daily, year-round and take about 45 minutes. Contact Island Ferries Teo (353 91 568903; www.aranislandferries.com). Coach connections leave Galway 90 minutes before sailing. Ferries also sail from Doolin, Co. Clare. Sailings take one hour. Aran Doolin Ferries (353 65 707 4455; www.doolinferries.com) Doolin Ferries Ltd (353 65 707 5555; www.obrienline.com) Doolin2Aran Ferries (353 65 7075949, 353 87 2453239), www.doolin2aranferries.com GETTING AROUND: Walk, bike hire, taxi, pony & cart, tour bus. FIND OUT MORE: Árainn tourist office (353 99 61263), www.discoverireland.ie/islands The “big” Aran Island There’s one place above all others on Ireland’s west coast, where the visitor can gaze down on the brilliant blue of the Atlantic Ocean, and think: “Next parish, Boston!” That place is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dún Aonghusa on Árainn (Inishmore). Ranking as one of the most important prehistoric sites in Europe and bisected by an abrupt, 300-foot drop into the sea - it’s hard to believe this crescent-shaped citadel was once a ring-fort built well away from the cliffs. Dún Aonghusa is testimony to coastal erosion, but also to the inclement winters and wild isolation in which Aran Islanders live their lives. At its most basic, Árainn (Inishmore) is a limestone reef, a hump of the Burren in the deep blue sea. But spotted with forts, high crosses and churches, it’s also an outdoor museum. DID YOU KNOW? ‘Man of Aran’, Robert J O’Flaherty’s 1937 documentary, was filmed on Árainn (Inishmore). Overnight stay P. 27 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT Gaeltacht Island CONTENTS MAP It’s not all heritage, of course. Árainn (Inishmore) is the biggest of the three Aran Islands. You can party here. It’s easy to find traditional music sessions. There’s a wide choice of accommodation. It’s the kind of place where you can check your Blackberry over local lobster, before learning the art of basket making. In high season, you may even find a traffic jam of ponies and carts strung along the road to Cill Mhuirbhigh (Kilmurvey) village. Top 3 Activities • Heritage • Blue-flag beach • Nightlife Cill Mhuirbhigh (Kilmurvey) is also where you’ll find the islands blue-flag beach. A sandy smile cut into the island’s northern coast, strollers and swimmers here are surrounded by rare plants, birds and water that shifts colour from deep blue to Caribbean green in the twinkling of an eye. It’s a magical strand. 20 - 24 25, 26 CILL MHUIRBHIGH 17 1-11 15, 16 Dún Aonghasa 31 14 ROSSAVEAL 12 CILL RÓNAIN i 13 19 17A 18 PIER TO GALWAY Árainn 11 28 - 30 Inis Meáin Inis Oírr DOOLIN 27 For detailed info on islands listings see page 63 Dining/Pub P. 28 Accommodation Travel Activities www.discoverireland.ie/islands i Visitor information PRINT CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE LOCATION: Around 13km off the coast of Galway and Clare. By road, the ferry port of Ros a Mhíl (Rossaveal) is roughly 39km (1hr) from Galway, and Doolin is around 42km (45mins) from Ennis. SIZE: 4km x 2.5km. Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) can be visited by day, but a longer stay of a few days is even more rewarding. INIS MEÁIN 12 (Inishmaan) Áilleacht, traidisiún agus cultúr POPULATION: 150+. A Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Hotel, B&Bs, restaurants, cafés, traditional pub, shop, craft shop, internet access, taxi/bus, post office. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Comortas Cead (St. Patrick’s Day – the traditional game of Cead played nowhere else in the world), Galway Bay Hooker Regatta, Currach Regatta (August Bank Holiday) GETTING THERE: Aer Arann Islands (353 91 593034; www.aerarannislands. ie) flies from Connemara airport. Sailings from Ros a Mhíl (Rossaveal) are daily, year-round and take about 45 minutes. Contact Island Ferries Teo (353 91 568903; www.aranislandferries.com). Coach connections leave Galway 90 minutes before sailing. Ferries also sail from Doolin, Co. Clare. Sailings take one hour. Aran Doolin Ferries (353 65 707 4455; www.doolinferries.com) Doolin Ferries Ltd (353 65 707 5555; www.obrienline.com) Doolin2Aran Ferries (353 65 7075949, +353 87 2453239, www.doolin2aranferries.com) GETTING AROUND: Visitors can explore Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) on foot or by bike. FIND OUT MORE: www.aranislands.ie/Inis-Meain-Island, www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? Different knits in Aran sweaters symbolise different things. A single zigzag represents the coastal cliffs, for example, and a double zigzag the ups and downs of marriage. P. 29 www.discoverireland.ie/islands Beauty, tradition and culture Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) literally translates as “the middle island”, and is the most tranquil of the Aran Islands - truly a sanctuary from the modern world. The limestone landscape is beloved of climbers and divers, and the island is home to a knitting company bringing modern technology to bear on old Aran sweaters, and in the island’s church, stained glass by Harry Clarke’s Studios. “Give up Paris,” Yeats once told fellow author, J.M. Synge. “Go to the Aran Islands. Live as if you were one of the people themselves; express a life that has never found expression.” Overnight stay PRINT Gaeltacht Island CONTENTS MAP Top 3 Activities • Walking • Heritage • Irish language and culture courses Synge duly obliged in 1898, drawing inspiration from Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) for classics like The Playboy of the Western World. Travellers today can follow in his footsteps - visiting Teach Synge (his thatched cottage), Dun Chunchuir, the spectacular 4000 year old prehistoric stone fort, and sit in Synge’s chair (his favoured writing spot, a stone seat with spectacular views over the Atlantic). Most of all, they can meet the people and listen to the language that roused his masterpieces. “In a good play every speech should be as fully flavoured as a nut or apple,” Synge once said. Perhaps the Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) trail - a 5km ramble over a maze of roads and pathways – gives the island’s fullest flavours. From sandy beaches and wild flowers to the spill of stone forming its southern half, it may tempt you to do like Synge and stay yourself. PIER 13 ROSSAVEAL TO GALWAY Árainn 10 - 12 Inis Meáin Inis Oírr Historical Site DOOLIN 9 6 8 i Synges Chair 2 1 7 Dun Chunchuir Synges Cottage 3 4 BAILE AN MHOTHAIR Community Centre 14 15 Dun Fearbhaí 5 Beach Cill Ceananach Church For detailed info on islands listings see page 64 Dining/Pub P. 30 Accommodation Travel Activities www.discoverireland.ie/islands i Visitor information PRINT CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE LOCATION: 8km off the coast of Co. Clare. By road, the ferry port of Ros a Mhíl (Rossaveal) is roughly 39km (1hr) from Galway, and Doolin is roughly 42km (45mins) from Ennis. SIZE: 3km x 2km. Inis Oírr (Inisheer) is most often seen by daytrip, but an overnight or longer stay will allow you to experience the full island at a more leisurely pace. INIS OÍRR 13 (Inisheer) Tobar an ealaíontóra POPULATION: 260+. A Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: Hotel, B&Bs, hostel, cafés, restaurants, pubs, arts centre, shops, internet access. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Friends of Ted (February), Inis Oírr Currach Races (August) GETTING THERE: Aer Arann Islands (353 91 593034; www.aerarannislands. ie) flies from Connemara airport. Sailings from Ros a Mhíl are daily, year-round and take about 45 minutes. Contact Island Ferries Teo (353 91 568903; www.aranislandferries. com). Coach connections leave Galway 90 minutes before sailing. Ferries also sail from Doolin, Co. Clare. Sailings take one hour. Aran Doolin Ferries (353 65 707 4455; www.doolinferries.com) The artist’s palette You’ll recognise it when you pass the rusty-red shipwreck on Inis Oírr’s (Inisheer’s) eastern shore. This is the one – the real-life Craggy Island that features so famously in the opening credits of the renowned television series Father Ted. Doolin Ferries Ltd (353 65 707 5555; www.obrienline.com) Doolin2Aran Ferries (353 65 7075949, 353 87 2453239), www.doolin2aranferries.com GETTING AROUND: Walk, bike hire, pony & trap, hackney service FIND OUT MORE: Inis Oírr Tourist Office (www.inisoirr-island.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands Inis Oírr (Inisheer) has more strings to its bow than Channel 4’s beloved sitcom, of course. The smallest of the Aran Islands is arguably the most beautiful; its karstic limestone and monks’ huts seem more like a moonscape than a landscape. As with the Burren, however, this porous stone hides a surprising fertility – at certain times of the year exploding with Mediterranean, Arctic and Alpine flowers. DID YOU KNOW? Traditional currach races are held offshore in August. Overnight stay P. 31 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT Gaeltacht Island CONTENTS MAP Top 3 Activities • Tracing Father Ted • Arts & crafts • Walking The island’s size, too, means it can be seen entirely on foot. A 12km (3.5 hour) walking trail takes in treasures ranging from Cnoc Raithní, a Bronze Age burial mound, to the ruins of an 11th-century church associated with Saint Gobnait once the only woman allowed on these islands. Inis Oírr (Inisheer) is home to the only arts centre in the Gaeltacht - Áras Éanna. In truth, this is much more than an arts hub – it is a community centre, crafts and heritage centre all in one. There’s also a tub-thumping Bodhrán Summer School held in June, and ongoing courses in macrobiotic cooking. Added to all of this are golden beaches, walking trails, the chance to catch mackerel on the rod, and the splendid views of the mainland and Connemara. You may even return for the Father Ted Festival in early February, with its ‘lovely girl’ competitions and buckaroo speed-dating. Go on. Go on, go on, go on... 19 ROSSAVEAL PIER 11 TO GALWAY 3 9 Árainn BAILE THIAR Inis Meáin Inis Oírr 14 DOOLIN 8 13 15 16 - 18 10 16 - 19 6 i 4 12 Historical Site 7 20 5 Plassy Wreck LIGHTHOUSE For detailed info on islands listings see page 65 Dining/Pub P. 32 Accommodation Travel Activities www.discoverireland.ie/islands i Visitor information PRINT CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE LOCATION: 90 metres from Achill, Co. Mayo. By road, Ballycroy is roughly 45km (50mins) from Westport, and 60km (1hr) from Ballina. SIZE: 2km x 2km. Allow at least a couple of hours for a visit to Inis Bigil. INIS BIGIL 14 (Inishbiggle) Tradisiún buan POPULATION: 35 FACILITIES: Picnic spots, church. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Inis Bigil Festival (August) GETTING THERE: Daily, yearround sailings from Doran’s Point, Ballycroy. Sailings take 15 minutes. Contact Leneghan Ferries (353 98 45513). GETTING AROUND: Visitors can explore Inis Bigil on foot or by minibus (13-seater) FIND OUT MORE: Achill Tourism (353 98 47353; www.achilltourism. com). www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? An Táilliúir Gorm, a TG4 documentary, tells the story of Inis Bigil through its last remaining inhabitants, including writer and poet Pádraig Daeid - ‘the blue tailor’. Top 3 Activities •Walking •Shoreangling •Birdwatching Timeless tradition Inis Bigil is a time capsule. The diminutive island may lie just 90 metres from Achill, but the Bullsmouth Passage separating the two (stand near it on a windy day, locals say, and the howling of the wind is like the roar of a bull) draws a line between different worlds. Inis Bigil (Inishbiggle) is unspoilt, the kind of place where walkers float in and out of traditions. Its tiny population speaks both Irish and English, and their livelihoods are tied to the farming and fishing traditions of a bygone age (one day, they hope to link their island by cable car to the mainland). 1 Inis Bigil Achill Island Clare Island Day-trippers to this stronghold of traditional life will lap up old-world customs, panoramic views of west Mayo, inspiring wildlife and unrecorded stories. They may also hit on the odd surprise: Inis Bigil (Inishbiggle) is one of the few Irish islands to host a community that is both Protestant and Irish speaking. Inishturk Island ROONAGH QUAY Inishbofin Island TO CLEGGAN For detailed info on islands listings see page 66 DAY TRIP TICKET P. 33 www.discoverireland.ie/islands Day trip PRINT Gaeltacht Island CONTENTS Dining/Pub MAP Accommodation Travel Activities Aran Island aerial view of Inishmore P. 34 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP Getting to the islands South West ar Loop Hd. stu E n o nn Sha LIS Kerry Hd N69 Tralee Bay Brandon Point 273 Clogher Hd. 276 Islands for Daytrips (20) Long, Co. Cork (21) Whiddy, Co. Cork (22) Dursey, Co. Cork (23) Garinish, Co. Cork (24) Na Blascaodaí (Blaskets), Co. Kerry (25) Na Scealga (Skelligs), Co. Kerry 281 275 AN DAINGEAN (DINGLE) 279 280 D 37 39 41 43 45 47 48 49 50 51 52 279 280 19. Valentia Island Bray Hd. 279 280 252 N71 270 236 21. Whiddy Island CASTLETOWN BERE 15. Bere Island try Ban Bay Bay s u man n DuGOLEEN 20. Long Island 16. Cape Clear www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP G 23. Garinish Island Rail Network P. 35 25 ver RiARDGROOM e r ma Mizen Hd. 2 KE 282 Cods Hd. For more information on bus and rail services, visit www.irishrail.ie and www.buseireann.ie 280 N70 Ken Bus Éireann Local Bus Service - Year Round Bus Éireann Local Bus Service - Summer Only Bus Éireann Expressway Coach - Year Round Bus Éireann Expressway Coach - Summer Only 280 SNEEM WATERVILLE 22. Dursey Island KERRY GLENBEIGH CAHIRCIVEEN 25. Skelligs N70 KILLORGLIN Bay ingle 35 279 273 281 24. Blasket Islands SOUTH WEST (Cork and Kerry) Getting to the Islands in the South West Islands where you can stay overnight (15) Bere, Co. Cork (16) Oileán Chléire (Cape Clear), Co. Cork (17) Heir, Co. Cork (18) Sherkin, Co. Cork (19) Valentia, Co. Kerry TRALE 25 SCHULL 237 23 ry LIMERICK N69 SOUTH WEST LIMERICK STOWEL N21 One could spend a lifetime exploring Ireland’s south-western islands. Hidden in harbours, stashed off strands, there’s an island here to suit every taste - from the great, spiritual splinters of the Skelligs to tiny Inis Beg and the vibrant storytelling of Oileán Chléire. The islands of Cork and Kerry are alive with literary spirits like Peig Sayers; with the sensory delights of contemporary cookery schools. They offer a magical island garden, ancient dinosaur tracks, even visual arts degrees. The trouble lies in deciding what to leave out. NEWCASTLE WEST ABBEYFEALE N21 EE MITCHELSTOWN CASTLEISLAND BUTTEVANT N20 KANTURK MALLOW N72 KILLARNEY MILLSTREET 40 50 MACROOM N22 230 230 255 50 236 BANTRY 237 Cork H a 252 rbour KINSALE 252 CLONAKILTY 237 N71 N71 MIDLETON COBH 40 233 230 INCHIGEELAGH BANDON 52 YOUGHAL CORK GLENGARRIFF 37 N20 40 ENMARE 52 Dungarvan CORK N22 270 WATERFORD FERMOY ROSSCARBERY 252 17. Heir Island SKIBBEREEN 251 Galley Hd. BALTIMORE 18. Sherkin Island P. 36 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE BERE ISLAND LOCATION: Bantry Bay, Co. Cork. By road, the ferry port at Castletownbere is roughly 48km (1hr 40 mins) from Kenmare and 51km (1hr 20mins) from Bantry. 15 SIZE: 11km x 5km. Bere Island can be enjoyed in a short visit, but a longer stay makes for a much more rewarding visit. POPULATION: 200+ FACILITIES: B&Bs, self-catering, pubs, café, restaurants, craft shops, boat hire, heritage centre. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Country and Western Weekend (May), Golf Classic (June), Regatta (August), Heritage Week (August). GETTING THERE: Ferries sail year-round from Castletownbere. Sailings take 10 minutes. Bere Island Ferries (353 27 75009; 353 86 2423140; www.bereislandferries.com) depart from Castletownbere, 2kms away on the Beara Peninsula. Murphy’s Ferry Service (353 27 75014; 353 87 238 6095; www.murphysferry. com) departs from Pontoon, 3 miles on the Glengariff side of Castletownbere. GETTING AROUND: Visitors can explore Bere Island on foot, by bus, or by hiring a bike. FIND OUT MORE: Bere Island Projects Group (353 27 75099; www.bereisland.net) or Bere Island Heritage & Information Service (353 27 75956; biheritage@gmail.com), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? Bere Island boasts a local theatre troupe. It has also been voted Ireland’s Tidiest Island three times in a row! Nature, culture and heritage Bere Island’s place in history is assured. Its Martello towers date from the Napoleonic wars. Several American ships based here during World War II met their fate at Pearl Harbour. After the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921, the island became one of three Irish ports retained by the UK. Why has it so often been at the centre of events? The answer is the island’s strategic position at the mouth of Europe’s deepest harbour. Berehaven and Lawrence Cove offer unrivalled shelter for boats of all sizes, something settlers have recognised since the Bronze Age – as the Druid’s Altar wedge tomb, St. Michael’s Holy Well and a scattering of standing stones and ring forts testify. Overnight stay P. 37 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP But it is its military might for which Bere is best known. In addition to the Martello towers, the island is home to a signal tower and, Lonehort, a military fortification dating from 1899 and housing two six-inch guns, an infantry trench, engine house and various underground structures. The result is unique, almost like an open-air museum. A looped walk (guides available) takes in the best of the sites, with wonderful mainland views of the Slieve Miskish and Caha Mountain ranges of the Beara Peninsula, and the marina is perfectly suited to visiting sailors. Top 3 Activities • Military history • Walking • Marine life That said, the deep waters of Bantry Bay are not solely taken advantage of by man. Killer whales, basking shark and bottle-nosed dolphins are all regular visitors, making Bere Island one of the primary bases in the southwest for diving, sea safari, deep-sea fishing and watersports. n ntoo To Po ere wnb eto astl To C PIER 8 PIER 5a 5 BALLYNAKILLA 8a 14 17 12 2 7 6 i Lonehort (military fortification) Martello Tower 4 10 RERRIN 3 13 9 15 11 16 18 Martello Tower LIGHTHOUSE For detailed info on islands listings see page 66 Dining/Pub P. 38 Accommodation Travel Activities www.discoverireland.ie/islands i Visitor information PRINT CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE LOCATION: 14.5km off Baltimore, West Cork. By road, Baltimore is roughly 42km (50mins). By road, Baltimore is roughly 12 km from Skibbereen, 42km (50mins) by road from Bantry, and 98km (1hr 45mins) from Cork. OILEÁN CHLÉIRE (Cape Clear) 16 Oileán na scéalaithe SIZE: 4.8km x 1.6km. Oileán Chléire (Cape Clear) can be enjoyed by daytrip, but a longer visit is required to see the entire island, or to fully enjoy its many festivals! POPULATION: 120. A Gaeltacht island. FACILITIES: B&Bs, self-catering, hostel, yurt village/campsite, observatory, shops (groceries, crafts), restaurants, pubs, heritage centre, goat farm, guided walks, tourist information office, library, internet access. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Walking/ Talking Weekend (May), O’Driscoll Clan gathering (June), Regatta (Aug), International Storytelling festival (Sept); Birdwatching festival (Oct). GETTING THERE: Ferries sail daily from Baltimore. Sailings take about 45 min. Year round: Cape Clear Ferry (Naomh Ciarán 2) – year round (353 28 39153, 353 87 2824008; www.capeclearferry.com) Cailín Óir Ferries – AprilOct (353 28 41923; 353 86 3465110; www.cailinoir.com The Karycraft (353 28 28278; 353 86 237 9302, www.capeclearferries.com) leaves from Schull Pier from June to Sept. GETTING AROUND: Visitors can explore the island on foot, by bus tour, boat hire or on board Paddy’s Wagon (the island’s cheerful and colourful tractor-drawn wagon). FIND OUT MORE: Island Co-op, Comharchumann Chléire Teo (353 28 39119; www.oilean-chleire.ie), www.discoverireland.ie/islands The storytellers’ island Oileán Chléire (Cape Clear) has an enviable location – right on the cusp of the continental shelf. The entrance to Roaringwater Bay is one of the leading dolphin and whale sighting locations in Europe and, if the weather’s on your side, a visitor might also catch sight of leatherback turtle, sunfish and shark. The island is also home to Ireland’s only manned bird observatory, which has been maintaining a daily species log since 1959. Located a mere two-minute walk from the ferry beach, the observatory is manned by a resident warden (March to November), and even offers birdwatchers hostel-style accommodation. May and October are high season. DID YOU KNOW? Oileán Chléire (Cape Clear) is Ireland’s southernmost inhabited Gaeltacht island. Overnight stay P. 39 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT Gaeltacht Island CONTENTS MAP Top 3 Activities • Birdwatching • Walking • Irish language courses In summertime, Oilean Chléire (Cape Clear) is festive. Scores of Irish language students energise the island; day-trippers stroll to the lake or the Old Lighthouse; yachts ply in and out of the harbours. A storytelling festival brings alive the oral traditions of yore and outdoor enthusiasts pitch up with kayaks, fishing rods, hiking boots and binoculars. Beneath the seas, scuba divers prowl old wrecks and precipitous reefs. The island is firmly on the radar of walkers too, many of whom - after a stroll on the pebble beaches or gorse-strewn headlands - will pop into one of the island’s lively pubs. The Cape Clear community speaks both Irish and English, and knows how to spring a music session, light a cosy fire or spark a friendly chat - visitors are always welcome at their social soirees. Cap e- Cape Bal tim ore – Schull 16 PIER 21 - 24 NORTH HARBOUR 8 i 5 3 12 17, 18, 19, 20 26 11 i 9 13 15 7 2 6 Loch Loral 14 1 LIGHTHOUSE TO SCHULL Heir Island SOUTH HARBOUR 25 BALTIMORE Sherkin Island Cape Clear For detailed info on islands listings see page 67 Dining/Pub P. 40 Accommodation Travel Activities www.discoverireland.ie/islands i Visitor information PRINT CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE HEIR ISLAND LOCATION: Roaringwater Bay, Co. Cork. Cunnamore, where ferries depart for Heir Island, is roughly 98km (1hr 50 mins) from Cork by road. Baltimore is about the same distance. 17 SIZE: 2.5km x 1.5km. Heir Island can be enjoyed in a short visit of a few hours, but the cookery courses require a slightly longer stay. POPULATION: 25. FACILITIES: B&Bs, self-catering, restaurant, art gallery, sailing school, cookery school, shop. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Heir Island Regatta (August) GETTING THERE: Heir Island is a five minute ferry ride from Cunnamore, on the Skibbereen to Ballydehob Road, or a 20 minute trip from Baltimore. Sailings are daily, year-round services. The Miss Josephine (353 86 888 7799, www.heirislandferries.com) departs from Baltimore and Cunnamore Pier. The MV Thresher (353 86 8092447, www.heirislandsailingschool.com) departs from Cunnamore Pier. GETTING AROUND: It’s best to walk around Heir Island, though bikes can be hired and brought along from Baltimore. FIND OUT MORE: www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? At the centre of Heir Island lies an extensive marsh with a vibrant reed bed – it is home to some 200 varieties of wildflower. Gourmet food; gorgeous landscape. An island off the western edge of Europe is the last place you’d expect to find gourmet food (never mind learn how to cook it). But that’s one of the things that makes Heir/Hare Island famous. Using local duck and lamb, together with shrimp, crab and seasonal wild salmon caught by island fishermen, the island’s cookery school is a real hidden gem. Food lovers come from far and wide to hone their culinary skills over the course of a weekend and guests dine together in the evening. Overnight stay P. 41 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP Top 3 Activities •Cooking •Sailing •Walking Cu nn am or e- He Naturally, it’s not all about cooking. There is a well-regarded art gallery here, an established sailing school, and several sandy beaches are safe for swimming. Indeed, there is any number of ways to work up an appetite – be it angling, island-hopping, bird-watching, diving or cycling. And surrounded by the panorama of Roaringwater Bay, you have all the ingredients for a return visit too. ir Heir Island is the ideal base for this sustainable enterprise. One of Carbery’s Hundred Isles, it is an unspoilt oasis, the kind of place where caves and creeks are best explored by sea-kayak. Island cottages date back to the 1920s, with houses built since then modelled on the same design, giving a genuine feel of a retreat, a sanctuary, a place to book some much-needed time out. 4 PIER 3 re imo eir -H t Bal 7 8 6 5 Beach 2 1 TO SCHULL Heir Island BALTIMORE Sherkin Island Cape Clear For detailed info on islands listings see page 69 Dining/Pub P. 42 Accommodation Travel Activities www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE SHERKIN ISLAND LOCATION: Roaringwater Bay, Co. Cork. The ferry port of Baltimore is roughly 42km (50mins) by road from Bantry, and 98km (1hr 45mins) from Cork. 18 SIZE: 4.8km x 2.4km. Sherkin can be visited in a day, but you won’t be disappointed with an overnight stay - many visitors have even made their homes here! POPULATION: 100+ FACILITIES: Hotel, B&Bs, self-catering, restaurants, art gallery, coffee / craft shop, pubs, community centre, marina, library. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Sherkin family regatta (July), Celtic Music Festival (May) GETTING THERE: Ferries sail daily from Baltimore, year-round. Sailings take 10 minutes. Contact Sherkin Ferry (353 28 20218; 353 87 244 7828, www. sherkinisland.eu/ferry). GETTING AROUND: Sherkin richly rewards walkers; taxis (summer) and buses (year-round) are also to hand. FIND OUT MORE: www.sherkinisland. ie, www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? There’s a modern day trend on Sherkin – where people get married in the island’s little church, and crack open the champagne on the boat back! A melting pot of culture, life and art Sherkin’s location scores well on several fronts. It’s got all the seclusion of an island hideaway, yet lies just 10 minutes from Baltimore by ferry. It attracts a milder climate (when frost hits the lawns of Baltimore, you can find green grass out here), yet boasts stunning Atlantic scenery. Little surprise, then, that so many non-islanders have made Sherkin their home. The summer months, in particular, see crowds from far and wide flocking to the island - with the result that the ancestral hub of the O’Driscoll clan (their ivy-clad castle lies just above the pier) is today a melting pot of culture, life and art. Sherkin even offers a Visual Arts Degree Programme, and work by the island’s many artists and designers is sold at the Island Crafts Centre in Baltimore. Overnight stay P. 43 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP Certainly, artists have much to inspire them - from the islands dotting Roaringwater Bay to the ruins of Sherkin’s 15th century Franciscan Abbey; from passing porpoises to playful otters, rare birds and spectacular beaches and coves, the island is almost a work of art in itself. Top 3 Activities •Arts •Adventure •Sailing Visitors will find a warm and hospitable welcome year-round, but it is in July and August that Sherkin really comes into its own. Traditional music and the riotous colour of an annual regatta - a big splash in the island’s social calendar - are highlights of a time when walkers, swimmers, sailors and island-hoppers join the swelling ranks of islanders themselves, and everyone soaks up the atmosphere. THE DOCK Tramore 10 3 12, 13, 14 Castle Marina 7 Abbey Strand PIER 8 5 2 4 Silver Strand 9 11 Cow Strand To Baltimore Abbey KILMOON 1 Trabawn TO SCHULL Heir Island 6 BALTIMORE BALTIMORE Sherkin Island SLIEVEMORE Cape Clear For detailed info on islands listings see page 70 Dining/Pub P. 44 Accommodation Travel Activities www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE VALENTIA ISLAND LOCATION: Off the Iveragh Peninsula, Co. Kerry. Valentia is roughly 70km (1hr 20mins) by road from Killarney, and 9km (15 mins) from Cahirciveen. 19 SIZE: 11km x 3km. By driving, most of Valentia is easily done in a day, but a longer stay is recommended for an in-depth experience – particularly if you plan to visit the Skelligs. POPULATION: 600 FACILITIES: B&Bs, self-catering, hostel, shops, restaurants, pubs, heritage centre. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. GETTING THERE: Valentia is linked to the mainland by bridge at Portmagee. Valentia Island Ferries also leaves Renard Point, two miles from Cahirciveen (353 66 947 6141,email: rforan@ indigo.ie) daily, April – October. GETTING AROUND: Valentia can be seen on foot, bike, by car or on bus or boat tours. FIND OUT MORE: www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? Tetrapod footprints in north Valentia date from c.350 million years ago, when a primitive vertebrate passed along a muddy shoreline, leaving prints as if in wet concrete. The island of the Oak Forest A superbly accessible island, Valentia is joined to the mainland by bridge at Portmagee, near Cahirciveen. Though joined to the mainland, however, it is far from an extension to it – Valentia, a haven to seafarers marked on the earliest maps of Europe, has one of the strongest identities of all Irish islands. Originally known as ‘Oileán Dairbhre’ (Island of the Oaks), Valentia boasts both dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation (coaxed along by the mild Gulf Stream). It offers an Anglo-Irish feel in the stately buildings and cultured restaurants of Knightstown, but tempers that with an unadulterated wildness, a tattered coast, mouth-watering views of the Skelligs and a myriad of adventure sports. Overnight stay P. 45 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP Valentia is synonymous with communication. It was here, in 1858, that the first terminal for the Atlantic Telegraph was stationed. It is known the world over for its slate – which has been used in the Paris Opera House, Westminster Abbey and as railway sleepers in the San Salvador Railway. Top 3 Activities • Skellig Experience • Heritage • Adventure There’s also lots to do. The Skellig Experience interprets the monastery, seabirds, lighthouses and underwater life of those islands 13km offshore. Glanleam Estate, built in 1775 as a linen mill, boasts 50-acres of sub-tropical gardens that thrive in the relatively balmy climate. Diving, cycling, and rock-climbing are just some of the activities based out of the local adventure centre. Perhaps the island’s heritage centre says it best. Like Valentia itself, it describes itself as “not so much a museum as a meeting place of Today and Yesterday, of You and Us.” 13, 15, 19, 20, 22, 23, MARINA 34, 35 Valentia Lighthouse 28 KNIGHTSTOWN 16 18 33 17 Fogher Cliffs Geokaun Mountain 10 2, 3, 5, 6, 12 26 14 32 7 8 11 29 9 CHAPELTOWN 24 - 27, 30, 31 Coarha More 4 1 i 21 PORTMAGEE For detailed info on islands listings see page 71 Dining/Pub P. 46 Accommodation Travel Activities www.discoverireland.ie/islands i Visitor information PRINT CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE LONG ISLAND LOCATION: Roaringwater Bay, Co. Cork. The ferry pier at Schull is roughly 108km (1hr 50mins) by road from Cork, and 25km (30 mins) from Bantry. 20 SIZE: 4.8km x 0.8km. Long Island is easily visited in a day. POPULATION: 10 FACILITIES: Cafe/restaurant, internet access. GETTING THERE: Ferries sail from Colla Pier daily, year-round. Sailings take about ten minutes. Contact MV Nordic (353 86 888 7799; www.heirislandferries.com). Long Island can also be accessed by small boat in calm weather. GETTING AROUND:Walking is the best way to explore Long Island. FIND OUT MORE: www. discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? Roaringwater Bay is disconcertingly named. In fact, the sheer volume of islands here act together to guarantee sheltered water in almost all weather conditions. Top 3 Activities •Walking •Birdwatching •Swimming A near-shore getaway Just ten minutes by boat from the West Cork shore, Long Island is the perfect tonic after the buzz of cosmopolitan Schull. Pleasant walks, shingle beaches and abundant wildlife combine with beautiful south-western scenery here to create a real offshore treat. Inis Fada, as it is known in Irish, gets its name from its dimensions. This is a low-lying island stretching almost 5km in length, but barely a kilometre wide. A surfaced road makes some headway into the interior, with a rough, unkempt route extending to the Beacon lighthouse and an old copper mine in the east and to the cliffs at the west. Both seem to draw the visitor further away from modern life. Ruined houses, stores and sheds dating from the early 1900s add to the isolation, and a maze of closely-knit fields, gradually being reclaimed by opportunistic fauna and flora, completes the impression. Walkers, bird-watchers and boaters will be in their element here – whiling away an afternoon whilst keeping an eye out for otter, seals, dolphin, whales and even the occasional basking shark. DAY TRIP TICKET P. 47 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT WESTERN PIER PIER FROM COLLA TO SCHULL Beacon Day trip CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE WHIDDY ISLAND LOCATION: Bantry Bay Harbour, Co. Cork. Bantry ferry port is roughly 85km (1hr 30mins) by road from Cork, and 45km (1hr) from Kenmare, Co. Kerry. 21 SIZE: 4.8km x 1.6km. Whiddy can be easily explored a in a day. POPULATION: 29 FACILITIES: Bar, restaurant. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Whiddy Island Regatta (August) GETTING THERE: Ferries sail from Bantry, daily, year-round. Sailings take 10-15 minutes. Contact Whiddy Island Ferries (353 86 862 6734, www.whiddyislandferry.com). GETTING AROUND: Visitors to Whiddy can hire bikes, take boat trips, or explore the island by foot. FIND OUT MORE: Email: whiddy.island@yahoo.com www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? Whiddy Island’s drinking fountain, known as the ‘Cup and Saucer’, was made by American naval officers during the First World War. Top 3 Activities •Walking •Fishing •Birdwatching Wildlife retreat; wild history Resting between peninsulas in Bantry Bay, Whiddy Island enjoys a superb strategic position in one of the world’s finest deep water harbours. The result is a lively and vibrant naval history. During World War I, seaplanes from a US navy base on Whiddy patrolled Fastnet Rock. More recently, the island serves as a Gulf Oil terminal for berthing supertankers. It was here, in 1979, that the French tanker Betelgeuse exploded in what remains the biggest maritime disaster in Irish history. Of course, there’s more to Whiddy than modern industry and warfare. At the Kilmore lakes, an early ecclesiastical enclosure features a holy well, church and graveyard dating from the 6th century. In the early 1500’s the great chieftain, Donal Cam O’Sullivan Bere, built Reenananig Castle on the island, which was bombarded during the Cromwellian Wars, and finally collapsed in a 1920 storm, however three magnificent forts have survived. The result is a fascinating prospect - an island where walkers can absorb a landscape heaving as much with history as it is with red and purple fuchsia in the summer months; a hideaway where bird-watchers can break out the binoculars; an escape where everyone can grab a wellearned drink at the welcoming island pub. Whether you’re walking, boating or simply relaxing here, you’ll find an island of hidden depths. Castle Fort P. 48 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT Day trip CONTENTS MAP PIER 3 To B a ntry Fort For detailed info on islands listings see page 72 Dining/Pub DAY TRIP TICKET Fort 2 1 Accommodation Travel Activities FACT FILE DURSEY ISLAND LOCATION: 219m off the Beara Peninsula. By road, Dursey Island is roughly 64km (1hr 50 mins) from Kenmare and 73km (1hr 55mins) from Bantry. 22 SIZE: 6.6km x 1.5k. Most visitors spend a couple of hours on Dursey. POPULATION: 6 FACILITIES: Bring all essentials, including a packed lunch, as there are no facilities on the island. GETTING THERE: Ireland’s only cable car departs daily, year-round, from Ballaghboy - at the tip of the Beara Peninsula, Co. Cork. The trip takes ten minutes. Contact 353 27 73017, www.windypointhouse.com GETTING AROUND: Dursey is a walker’s delight. FIND OUT MORE: Beara Tourism and development association (353 27 70054, www.bearatourism.com/bwdursey. html), www.discoverireland.ie/islands Connect with Ireland’s only cable car Fancy beating the rat race for a little while? Dursey Island is the place to do it. Lying across a narrow sound off the tip of the Beara Peninsula, this is the dictionary definition of escape – no business, no traffic, no hassle. Just you, rugged nature and the awe-inspiring Atlantic Ocean. DID YOU KNOW? Sunset on Dursey Island featured in a worldwide televised broadcast of the final hours of the last millennium. Top 3 Activities •Cable Car •Walking •Birdwatching There is one sign of civilisation, of course – Dursey’s unique and charismatic cable car. Hitched to the mainland above dolphin-strewn Dursey sound, this is Ireland’s only cable car, running 250 metres above the sea. With a capacity of carrying just six people at a time, the cable is a lifeline for the handful of inhabitants living in three small villages on the island. Stepping onto the island, visitors can continue on foot along a stretch of the Beara Way. Highlights on Dursey include the ruins of O’Sullivan Beara’s castle, a 200-year-old signal tower with views stretching to the Skelligs and Mizen Head, and several standing stones. The indented coastline, open bog and wild winds leave you in no doubt – you’re far from the madding crowd. BALLAGHBOY CABLE CAR 1 For detailed info on islands listings see page 73 Dining/Pub DAY TRIP TICKET P. 49 www.discoverireland.ie/islands Day trip PRINT CONTENTS MAP Accommodation Travel Activities FACT FILE GARINISH LOCATION: Glengarriff Harbour in Bantry Bay. By road, Glengariff is roughly 91km (1hr 40 mins) from Cork and 17km (20 mins) from Bantry. 23 SIZE: 15 hectares. Garinish is a short visit of a couple of hours. POPULATION: 0 FACILITIES: Coffee shop and toilets. GETTING THERE: Ferries depart Glengariff daily from March to October. Sailings take 15 minutes. Contact Glengarriff and Garinish Boat Services (353 27 63116; www.harbourqueenferry.com) or the Blue Pool Ferry ( 353 27 63333; www.bluepoolferry.com). Temple Martello Tower Garinish was bequeathed to the Irish people in 1953, and is today managed by the Office of Public Works. It remains a magical island garden, a sanctuary beloved of horticulturalists and casual visitors alike – not to mention the seals that regularly pitch up on its southern shore rocks. Walled Garden PIER ini sh 1, 2 ar Top 3 Activities • Garden trails • Birdwatching • Marine life How is it so? Over 100 years ago then-owner Anna Bryce joined forces with the Edwardian garden designer Harold Peto. Noticing that the Gulf Stream and the island’s sheltered position blessed it with an almost subtropical climate, they began cultivating ornamental plants from all over the world. -G DID YOU KNOW? Ilnacullin means the ‘island of holly’. rif f FIND OUT MORE: Heritage Ireland (+353 27 63040; heritageireland. ie), www.discoverireland.ie./islands Garinish Island, or Ilnacullin, is a tiny island with a big reputation. Stashed away in Glengarriff harbour, it is home to a series of gardens showcasing an incredible richness of plant form and colour. Changing with the seasons, it is flush with with rhododendrons and azaleas in May and June, climbing plants and herbaceous perennials in midsummer, and awash with autumnal hues, particularly on the magnificent heather bank, in the months of September and October. ga GETTING AROUND: Garinish is best explored on foot. There are a range of self-guided short walks. A magical island garden Gl en Garinish Island is open from March to October, and there is an island admission charge separate to that charged by ferry boats. For detailed info on islands listings see page 73 Dining/Pub DAY TRIP TICKET P. 50 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT Day trip CONTENTS MAP Accommodation Travel Activities FACT FILE LOCATION: Off Slea Head, Co. Kerry. The ferry port of Dún Chaoin (Dunquin) is 15km (30 mins) from An Daingean (Dingle) and roughly 81km (1hr 40mins) from Killarney by road. SIZE: 6km x 1km approx (Great Blasket). A visit to Na Blascaodaí (the Blaskets) will take at least a couple of hours. NA BLASCAODAÍ 24 (Blasket Islands) Corraitheach agus millteanach POPULATION: 0 FACILITIES: None, though camping is permitted. GETTING THERE: Ferries sail seasonally from Dún Chaoin. Sailings take about 20 minutes. Blasket Islands Ferry (353 66 9154864, 353 87 231 6131; www.blasketislands. ie) sails each hour from Dún Chaoin (Dunquin), weather permitting, from April to October. Blasket Island Ferries + Eco Tours (353 66 915 6422, www.blasketislands. com) also leaves Dún Chaoin (Dunquin) every hour from 10.30am between April and September. GETTING AROUND: Na Blascaodaí (the Blaskets) can be explored on foot. FIND OUT MORE: The Blascaod Centre, Dún Chaoin (353 66 915 6444, www.heritageireland.ie), www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? Former Irish Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Charles Haughey bought Inishvickillane in 1974 for £25,000. He built a holiday home on the island, and introduced to it a herd of red deer. Top 3 Activities • Walking • Birdwatching • Heritage Poignant and awe-inspiring Na Blascaodaí (The Blaskets) have an awesome literary heritage. Perched on the edge of Europe, these small islands are responsible for works like An tOileánach (The Islandman) by Tomás Ó Criomhtháin, Peig by Peig Sayers, and Fiche Blian ag Fás (Twenty Years A-Growing) by Muiris Ó Suilleabháin. The Blaskets comprise six islands - Great Blasket, Beginish, Inishabro, Inishvickillane, Inishtooskert and Tearaght Island. From the middle ages, island life was a constant hardship here, involving thrashing storms, hazardous fishing, regular isolation and a three-mile crossing to the mainland. Though the last of the islanders left Great Blasket in 1953, however, their spirit remains. Na Blascaodaí (The Blaskets) today are about solitude, a place where walkers can wander through deserted villages, past rousing seas and wild beaches, utterly removed from modernity. Gazing over the wild Atlantic and this scattered archipelago at once poignant and glistening – it feels like the ends of the earth. As Ó Criomhtháin writes at the close of An tOileánach, “the likes of us will never be again”. DAY TRIP TICKET P. 51 www.discoverireland.ie/islands Day trip PRINT Inishtooskert Beginish Great Blasket Island Tearaght Island Inishabro Inishvickillane Gaeltacht Island CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE LOCATION: 13km off the Iveragh Peninsula, Co. Kerry. The harbour town of Portmagee is roughly 70km (1hr 20mins) by road from Killarney, and 9km (15 mins) from Cahirciveen. SIZE: Around 44 acres (Skellig Michael). The main Skellig is accessed by boat, and trips generally take about half a day (leaving at 10am and returning at 3pm). NA SCEALGA 25 (The Skelligs) An t-imeallchríoch spioradálta POPULATION: 0 FACILITIES: None GETTING THERE: Several boat operators depart mid-morning for Na Scealga (the Skelligs)from Portmagee, Valentia Island, Ballinskelligs and Derrynane and return mid-afternoon. A two hour cruise around Na Scealga (The Skelligs) departs approx 2.30pm from The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre. All sailings are weather-permitting. Further information is available from The Skellig Experience (353 66 947-6306; www.skelligexperience.com) GETTING AROUND: Walking is the only option on Sceilg Mhicil (Skellig Michael), and a degree of fitness is required for the steps. FIND OUT MORE: The Skellig Experience (353 66 947-6306; www. skelligexperience.com) is open yearround. www.discoverireland.ie/islands DID YOU KNOW? “Stormy”, a Skellig storm petrel, lived long enough to earn inclusion in the Guinness Book of Records. She undertook an annual return journey of 20,000km for 26 years. Top 3 Activities • Birdwatching • Heritage • Boat trips The spiritual outpost Sceilg Mhicil (Skellig Michael) is Ireland’s Machu Picchu. A staggering shard of rock punching out of the Atlantic, what drew early Christian monks to row out here? What compelled them to build a monastery on the edge of what was then the known world? Nature designed the Skelligs to be inaccessible – but that only seems to have motivated these frontiersmen of the Christian faith. Today, Sceilg Mhicil (Skellig Michael) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a 1,000 year-old stone stairwell leading to the small cluster of huts, oratories, chapel and stone crosses clinging to its cliffs. Two lighthouses (the second was finally made automatic in 1987) tell of another self-sacrificing island lifestyle. But Sceilg Mhicil (Skellig Michael)is not alone. Alongside it are two other rocky outcrops – the seabird sanctuaries of Little Skellig, home to more than 30,000 pairs of gannets, and Puffin Island (puffins are best seen in late spring). Taken together, they offer one of the most dramatic vistas Ireland has to offer. DAY TRIP TICKET P. 52 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT Day trip Kerry Coastline Puffin Island Little Skellig Skellig Michael Gaeltacht Island CONTENTS MAP FACT FILE RATHLIN ISLAND LOCATION: 12 km off Ballycastle, Co. Antrim. By road, the ferry port at Ballycastle is roughly 90km (1hr 20mins) from Belfast and 80km (1hr 30mins) from Derry. 26 SIZE: 6km x 1.5km. Rathlin can be visited in a daytrip, but a longer stay is very worthwhile (only visitors staying six nights or more may take their car on the ferry). POPULATION: 95 FACILITIES: Guesthouse, B&Bs, hostel, shops (groceries, crafts), restaurant, pub, visitor centre. Please see listing of tourism providers at end of brochure. FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS: Rathlin Festival Week (July). GETTING THERE: Ferries sail from Ballycastle, year-round. Sailings take 20 or 45 minutes, depending on the boat. Contact Rathlin Island Ferry (44 (0)28 2076 9299; rathlinballycastleferry. com). Online advance booking is advisable to avoid disappointment. Those visitors who are staying for six or more nights need to apply for a permit which is available from Moyle District Council. Blue badge holders are able to go over and back on the same day. GETTING AROUND: With its walking trails, bike-hire and bus tour, Rathlin is an easy island to get around. FIND OUT MORE: Ballycastle Tourist Office (44 (0)28 2076 2024; Email: tourism@moyle-council.org, www.moyle-council.org/tourism) Northern Ireland Tourist Board (44 (0)28 9023 1221; discovernorthernireland.com) DID YOU KNOW? In 1987, Richard Branson crashed his hot-air balloon, the ‘Virgin Atlantic Flyer’ into the sea off Rathlin, after his crossAtlantic flight from Maine. P. 53 P. 53 www.discoverireland.ie/islands www.discoverireland.ie/islands Treasure trove of now and then Boomerang-shaped Rathlin Island has quite a distinction – not only is it Northern Ireland’s sole inhabited offshore island; it is also Ireland’s most northerly inhabited island, full-stop. It’s remote then – a fact that served Vikings well when they staged the first of their Irish raids here in AD795; a fact reinforced by brilliant basalt cliffs, tens of thousands of seabirds (their drone has been likened to the inside of a beehive) and Rathlin’s time-worn fort, castle and smuggler’s house. On a good day, you can even see the Mull of Kintyre on the extreme west coast of Scotland. Overnight stay PRINT CONTENTS MAP For all its romantic isolation, however, Rathlin is ultra-accessible. Ferries from Ballycastle take as little as 20 minutes, and the quick whizz across the Sea of Moyle transports visitors to a place where spirited céilís, summer festivals (look out for ‘Chicks on the Rocks’ at the bird sanctuary) and regular doses of music, song and dance – as only the Rathlin islanders can provide them – are commonplace. Elsewhere, divers stalk silent shipwrecks. Walkers and cyclists chart quiet roads. History is in the air, like the smell of fresh heather. Rathlin has been a smugglers’ haven, a Neolithic axe factory and, on July 6th 1898, Marconi transmitted the first commercial radio signals from the island’s East Lighthouse. Top 3 Activities • Birdwatching • Walking • Wreck-diving The most famous local lore puts Robert the Bruce in a cave on Rathlin after his defeat by the English in 1306. According to legend, the dispirited warrior watched a spider persevere with trying to set a web. Eventually it succeeded, inspiring Bruce to return home and regain the Scottish throne. Old Coastguard Hut East Lighthouse West Lighthouse Seabird Viewpoint PIER To Ballycastle P. 54 Accommodation Travel 3 7 1 2 6 5 4 Rue Lighthouse For detailed info on islands listings see page 74 Dining/Pub i Activities www.discoverireland.ie/islands i Visitor information PRINT Waymarked Trails CONTENTS MAP NORTH WEST ISLANDS ÁRAINN MHÓR (ARRANMORE) (MAP REF 1) PAGE 09 Map Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Cultural & Tourism Centre Visitor information Fál an Ghabhann, Arranmore, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9520533 comharchumann@ oileanarainnmhoir.com www.oileanarainnmhoir.com Name Type Address Tel Email Web Accommodation 6 Baile Saoire Arranmore Holiday Village Self catering Cloughcor, Arranmore, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9520533 comharchumann@ oileanarainnmhoir.com www.oileanarainnmhoir.com 3 Claire's B&B B&B An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9520042 clairelouise22@yahoo.com www.claires@arainmhor.com 2 Glen Hotel Hotel An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9520505 annemarietheglen@gmail.com www.theglenhotel.weebly.com 4 Lightkeeper Cottages Self catering - lighthouse accomm. Arranmore, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9125635 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Activities 10 Arranmore Bike Hire Bike hire An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9520500 16 Arranmore Charters Boat and angling trips An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal 00353-87-3171810 louise@arranmorecharters.com www.arranmorecharters.com/ tours 7 Arranmore Pitch & Putt Pitch and putt Fál an Ghabhann, Arranmore, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9520533 comharchumann@ oileanarainnmhoir.com www.oileanarainnmhoir.com Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web arranmoreferry@gmail.com www.arranmoreferry.com annemarietheglen@gmail.com www.theglenhotel.weebly.com Dining/Pub 8 Bonners Ferryboat Restaurant Restaurant An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9520532 9 Early's Bar & Lounge Bar An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9520515 11 Neily's Bar Bar Ballintra, Arranmore, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9520509 5 Glen Bar Bar An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9520505 13 Smugglers Niteclub & Bar Bar/ Niteclub An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9520512 12 Teach Phil Ban Bar An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9547795 P. 55 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Travel 14 Cara na nOilean Ferry Service Ailt an Chorráin/Burtonport, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9520532 arranmoreferry@gmail.com www.arranmoreferry.com 15 Arranmore Ferry Service/Arranmore Charters Ferry Service An Leadhb Gharbh, Arranmore, Co. Donegal 00353-87-3171810 louise@arranmorecharters.com www.arranmorecharters.com TORAIGH (TORY) (MAP REF 2) PAGE 11 Map Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Comharchumann Oileán Thoraí Visitor information Tory Island, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9135502 ccthorai@eircom.net www.oileanthorai.com Name Type Address Tel Email Web Accommodation 1 Ostan Thoraigh (Ostan Tory) Hotel Tory Island, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9135920 ostantory@eircom.net www.toryhotel.com Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web divetory@eircom.net www.toryhotel.com Activities 2 Dive Tory Dive centre Tory Island, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9135920 4 Gailearai Dixon Art Gallery Art gallery Tory Island, Co. Donegal 00353-91-35011 5 Tory Bicyle Hire Bicycle hire Tory Island, Co. Donegal 00353-74-965614 Map Name Type Address Tel www.oileanthorai.com Email Web Email Web Dining/Pub 3 Caife an Chreagain Cafe Tory Island, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9135856 7 Club Soisialta Thorai Pub Tory Island, Co. Donegal 00353-86-8763754 Map Name Type Address Tel Travel 6 Mc Geehans Minibus hire Tory Island, Co. Donegal 00353-86-4008233 8 Turasmara Teo Ferry service Tory Island, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9531340 eolas@toryislandferry.com www.toryislandferry.com 9 Toraigh na dTonn Ferry service Tory Island, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9135920 ostantory@eircom.net www.toryhotel.com P. 56 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP OILEÁN RUAIDH (ISLAND ROY) (MAP REF 3) PAGE 13 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Accommodation 3 Doherty Holiday Homes Self catering Oileán Ruaidh, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9155535 marydomnick@eircom.net www.dohertyholidayhomes.com Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Activities 1 Coiste Forbartha Oileán Ruaidh Guided walks Oileán Ruaidh, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9155535 ancaire@eircom.net www.donegalislands.com 2 Coiste Forbartha Oileán Ruaidh Art classes/ workshops Oileán Ruaidh, co. Donegal 00353-74-9155535 ancaire@eircom.net www.donegalislands.com INIS BÓ FINNE (INISHBOFIN) (MAP REF 4) PAGE 14 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Activities 1 Coiste Forbartha Inis Bó Finne Angling, windsurfing, kayaking Inis Bó Finne, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9135635 ancaire@eircom.net www.donegalislands.com Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Ferry service Inis Bó Finne, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9135635 ancaire@eircom.net www.donegalislands.com Travel 2 Carmel Olivia INIS FRAOIGH (INISHFREE) (MAP REF 5) PAGE 15 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Activities 1 Culturlann Inis Fraoigh Courses in irish music, dance, poetry Inis Fraoigh, Co. Donegal 00353-74-9522893 ancaire@eircom.net www.donegalislands.com 3 Guided Walks Walking Inis Fraoigh, Co. Donegal 00353-74-952 2895 ancaire@eircom.net www.donegalislands.com Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Ferry service Burtonport Pier, Co. Donegal 00353-87-9253534 ancaire@eircom.net www.donegalislands.com Tel Email Web Travel 2 Inishfree Charters GABHLA (GOLA) (MAP REF 6) PAGE 16 Map Name Type Address Activities P. 57 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP 3 Coiste Forbartha Ghabhla Guided walks Coiste Forbartha Ghabhla, Gola, Co. Donegal 1 Mountaineering Council of Ireland Guided rock climbing Gola Island, Co. Donegal 2 Seod na nOilean Art classes/ workshops An Chrannóg, Na Doirí Beaga, Co. Donegal Map Name Type Ferry service 00353-74-9531743 ancaire@eircom.net www.donegalislands.com mci@eircom.net www.climbing.ie 00353-74-9532571 ancaire@eircom.net www.donegalislands.com Address Tel Email Web Gola Island, Co. Donegal 00353-87-6607003 ancaire@eircom.net www.donegalislands.com Travel 4 Gola Island Ferry Service (Seod Gabhla) WEST ISLANDS ACAILL (ACHILL) (MAP REF 7) PAGE 19 Map Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Achill Tourism Visitor information Cashel, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-47353 info@achilltourism.com www.achilltourism.com Name Type Address Tel Email Web Accommodation 9 Achill Cliff House Hotel Hotel Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-43400 info@achillcliff.com www.achillcliff.com 1 Achill Cottages Self catering Glendarrary, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-45200 info@achillcottages.com www.achillcottages.com 10 Achill Head Hotel Hotel Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-43108 achillheadhotel@eircom.net www.achillheadhotel.ie 19 Achill Island Hotel Hotel Achill Sound, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-45138 reservations@achillislandhotel. com www.achillislandhotel.com 11 Achill Isle House B&B Newtown, Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-43355 achillisle@eircom.net www.achillislehouse.com 8 Achill Lodge B&B Hillside, Bunacurry, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-47878 kennethdeery@hotmail.com www.achilllodge.ie 2 Achill Sound Holiday Homes Self catering Barr na Farraig, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-1 2018400 reservations@ tridentholidayhomes.ie www.tridentholidayhomes.ie 4 Corrymore - No. 5, 6, 7 Self catering Dooagh, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98 28752 lavelle5@eircom.net 5 Dugort Self catering Dooagh, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-1-8453745 timmyo@indigo.ie 25 Glenvale Cottage Number 1 Self catering The Valley Crossroads, Dugort, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-94-9024116 paulomalley@paulomalley.net 26 Glenvale Cottage Number 2 Self catering The Valley Crossroads, Dugort, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-87-6647467 glenvalecottage@gmail.com 27 Grays Guesthouse Self catering Dugort, Achill Co. Mayo 00353-98-43244 20 Hy Breasal B&B St Fionans Road, Achill Sound, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-45114 P. 58 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS hybreasalmayo@hotmail.com MAP www.holidayhomesdirect. ie/12074/ 12 Keel Holiday Cottages Self catering Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-94-9032054 post@mayoholidays.com www.mayoholidays.com 13 Keel Sandybanks Caravan & Camping Caravaning & camping Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-43211 info@achillcamping.com www.achillcamping.com 28 Lavelle's Golden Strand Caravan & Camping Caravaning & camping Dugort, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-47232 14 No.1 The Links Self catering Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-43158 csmythsc@eircom.net 21 Ostán Ghob a'Choire/ Achill Sound Hotel Hotel Achill Sound, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-45245 achillsoundhotel@eircom.net 15 16 Purteen Self catering Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-96-22843 muredachroache@gmail.com 16 Realt na Mara Self catering Sandybanks, Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-43458 martin.m@roadrunner.com 22 Scanlons Rose Cottage B&B Achill Sound, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-45167 scanlonsrosecottage@hotmail. com 6 Seaside House Self catering Dooega, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-45116 7 Seaview Self catering Crumpaun, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-87-2518958 kennysdsl@eircom.net 29 Slievemore Houses Self catering Dugort, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-61-335799 info@westcoastholidays.ie 30 Slievemore Holiday Village Self catering Dugort, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-87-8232604 joemiriammorrin@eircom.net 31 Slievemore Holiday Village Self catering Dugort, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-1-2803040 cjdaly@indigo.ie 32 Strand Hotel Hotel Dugort, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-43241 info@strandhotel.ie www.strandhotel.ie 3 The Gallery Apartment, Danlann Yawl Art Gallery Self catering Owenduff, Tonragee, Achill 00353-98-36137 gallery@achillpainting.com www.achillpainting.com 17 The Links Self catering Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-1-4961034 rossamartin@eircom.net 18 The Sandybanks Self catering Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-51-380964 mel@thesandybanks.com www.thesandybanks.com 24 West Coast House B&B School Road, Dooagh, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-43317 achillwestcoasthouse@eircom.net www.achillcliff.com/ westcoasthouse.htm 23 Woodview House B&B Springvale, Achill Sound, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-45261 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web www.achillsoundhotel.com www.lavellesseasidehouse.com www.westcoastholidays.ie Activities 33 Achill Adventures Boat trips Slievemore, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-85-1311453 mcdowellshotel@eircom.net www.achilladventures.com 38 Achill Archaeological Field School Courses Dooagh, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-43564 info@achill-fieldschool.com www.achill-fieldschool.com 40 Achill Golf Club Golf Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-43456 achillgolfclub@eircom.net www.achillgolfclub.com 35 Achill Outdoor Education Centre Adventure Cashel, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-47253 info@achilloutdoor.com www.achilloutdoor.com 36 Achill Sea Angling Angling Cashel, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-86-3211560 tmburke@eircom.net www.angling.irl.com 37 Blackfield Surf School & Bike Hire Surfing/ cycling Closhreid, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-87-2495175 info@blackfield.com www.blackfield.com 34 Calvey's Equestrian & Pony Trekking Centre Equestrian Slievemore, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-87-9881093 ponytrek@calveysofachill.com www.calveysofachill.com P. 59 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP 39 Dánlann Yawl Art Gallery & Coffee Shop Gallery Owenduff, Tonragee, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-36137 gallery@achillpainting.com www.achillpainting.com 41 McDowells Hotel And Activity Centre Adventure Slieve Mor Road, Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-90-6494801 mcdowellshotel@eircom.net www.achill-leisure.ie 42 O'Malley's Island Sports Bike Hire Bike hire Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-43125 jomalley@eircom.net 43 WindWise Watersports Events Adventure Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-86-4023068 info@windwise.ie www.windwise.ie Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Dining/Pub 44 Blackfield Coffee & Dessert House Café Closhreid, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-87-2495175 info@blackfield.com www.blackfield.com 46 Zamba Nightclub Nightclub Keel, Achill, Co. Mayo 00353-98-43108 achillheadhotel@eircom.net www.achillheadhotel.ie 47 The Beehive Craft & Coffee Shop Café + craft Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 0035398-43134 48 Calvey's Restaurant Restaurant Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-098-43158 49 Chalet Seafood Restaurant Restaurant Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-43157 45 The Cottage Coffee Shop Café Crumpaun, Keel, Achill Island, Co. Mayo. 00353-98-43908 achillfinedining@eircom.net www.ferndale-achill.com 50 Gieltys Clew Bay Restaurant Dooagh, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-43119 info@gieltys.com www.gieltys.com 51 Masterson's Bar Bar Dugort, Achill Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-47216 mastersonsgoldenstrand@live.ie CLARE ISLAND (MAP REF 8) PAGE 21 Map Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Clare Island Development Group Visitor Information Clare Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-26525 cliaracdp@eircom.net www.clare-island.org Name Type Address Tel Email Web carlogradyci@eircom.net Accommodation 1 Bayview Hotel Hotel Clare Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-26307 6 Cois Abhainn B&B B&B The Quay, Clare Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-26216 4 Granuaile B&B B&B Capnagower, Clare Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-26250 info@granuailehouse.net www.granuailehouse.net 3 O'Gradys Guesthouse Guesthouse Clare Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-22991 info@ogradysguesthouse.com www.ogradysguesthouse.com 2 Seabreeze B&B The Quay, Clare Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-26746 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Activities 8 Ballytoughey Loom Weaving Ballytoughey, Clare Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-25800 bethmoran@eircom.net www.clareisland.info/loom 7 Clare Island Yoga Retreat Centre Retreat centre Clare Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-25412 bookings@yogaretreats.ie www.yogaretreats.ie P. 60 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP 5 Map John McCabe Diving The Quay, Clare Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-26250 Connemara Safari Walking/ Island hopping (Inishbofin, Inisturk, Clare) Sky Road, Clifden, Co. Galway 00353-95-21071 bookings@walkingconnemara. com www.walkingconnemara.com Name Type Address Tel Email Web Travel 9 Clare Island Ferry Ferry service Clare Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-23737 clareislandferry@anu.ie www.clareislandferry.com 10 O'Malley Ferry Services Ferry service Clare Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-25045 enquiry@omalleyferries.com www.omalleyferries.com Web INISHTURK ISLAND (MAP REF 9) PAGE 23 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Accommodation 1 Ferryman's Inn B&B Inisturk, Co. Mayo 00353-98-45541 helenheanue@vodafone.ie 2 Ocean View House B&B Inisturk, Co. Mayo 00353-98-45520 mheanue@online.ie www.inishturkisland.com 3 Teach Abhainn B&B Inisturk, Co. Mayo 00353-98-45510 teachabhainn@hotmail.com www.inishturk.com.ie/ teachabhainn 4 Tranaun House B&B Inisturk, Co. Mayo 00353-98-45641 tranaunhouse@gmail.com www.inishturkisland.com Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Ferryman's Inn Boat trips Inisturk, Co. Mayo 00353-98-45541 helenheanue@vodafone.ie Connemara Safari Walking/ Island hopping (Inishbofin, Inisturk, Clare) Sky Road, Clifden, Co. Galway 00353-95-21071 bookings@walkingconnemara. com www.walkingconnemara.com Name Type Address Tel Email Web Activities 5 Map Dining/Pub 7 Inishturk Community Centre Pub Inisturk, Co. Mayo 00353-98-45655 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web clareislandferry@anu.ie www.clareislandferry.com Travel 8 Clare Island Ferry Ferry service Clare Island, Co. Mayo 00353-98-23737 9 Inishturk Ferries Ferry service Inisturk, Co. Mayo 00353-98-45541 P. 61 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS www,inisturkisland.com MAP INISHBOFIN ISLAND (MAP REF 10) PAGE 25 Map Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Inishbofin Community Centre Visitor information/ activites Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway 00353-95-45861 bofindev@eircom.net www.inishbofin.com Name Type Address Tel Email Web Accommodation 1 Dolphin Hotel Hotel Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway 00353-95-45991 info@dolphinhotel.ie www.dolphinhotel.ie 2 Doonmore Hotel Hotel Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway 00353-95-45804, 45814 info@doonmorehotel.com www.doonmorehotel.com 3 Inishbofin Island Hostel Hostel Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway 00353-95-45855 enquiries@inishbofin-hostel.ie www.inishbofin-hostel.ie 4 Inishbofin House Hotel Hotel Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway 00353-95-45809 info@inishbofinhouse.com www.inishbofinhouse.com 5 Middlequarter Self catering Knock, Inishbofin, Co. Galway 00353-95-45849 mmschofieldohalloran@yahoo.ie Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web info@islandswest.ie www.islandswest.ie Activities 6 Islands West Diving/ Island hopping Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway 00353-87-2227098 7 Bofin Angling Angling/ Island hopping Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway 00353-95-45974 8 Inishbofin Cycle Hire Bike hire Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway 00353-95-45833 9 Inishbofin Heritage Museum Museum Old Pier, Inishbofin, Co. Galway 00353-95–45950 11 Farmers Market Market Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway 00353-95-45842 Michael Gibbons Guided walks Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway 00353-95-21379 Connemara Safari Walking/ Island hopping (Inishbofin, Inisturk, Clare) Sky Road, Clifden, Co. Galway 00353-95-21071 bookings@walkingconnemara. com www.walkingconnemara.com Name Type Address Tel Email Web Map www.bofinangling.com marylav@eircom.net Dining/Pub 10 Day's Bar Bar Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway 00353-95-45829 15 Dolphin Hotel Restaurant Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway 00353-95-45991 16 Doonmore Hotel Bar/ Restaurant Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway 00353-95-45804, 45814 info@doonmorehotel.com www.doonmorehotel.com 17 Inishbofin House Hotel Restaurant Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway 00353-95-45809 info@inishbofinhouse.com www.inishbofinhouse.com P. 62 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Travel 12 Island Mini Bus Hire Minibus service Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway 00353-95-45895, 45861 13 Inishbofin Island Discovery Ferry service Inishbofin Island, Co. Galway 00353-91-45819 www.inishbofinislanddiscovery. com ÁRAINN (INISHMORE) (MAP REF 11) PAGE 27 Map Map Name Type Address Tel Email Tourist Information Office Visitor Information Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 00353-99 61263 aran@failteireland.ie Web Name Type Address Tel Email Web www.ancrugan.com Accommodation 1 An Crúgan Self catering Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 00353-99-61150 ancrugan@eircom.net 2 An Réalog B&B Mainistir, Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 00353-99-61159 realog@eircom.net 13 Ard Einne Guesthouse Inis Mór, Co. Galway 00353-99-61126 ardeinne@eircom.net www.ardeinne.com 3 Ard Mhuiris B&B Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 00353-99-61208 ardmhuiris@eircom.net www.ardmhuiris.com 14 Beach View House B&B Inis Mór, Co. Galway 00353-99-61141 beachviewhouse@eircom.net www.beachviewhousearan.com 4 Claí Bán B&B Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 00353-99-61111 claibanhouse@gmail.com 5 Creigmount House B&B Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 00353-99-61139 creigmount@gmail.com 6 Kelly House B&B Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 00353-99-61259 stiofankelly@eircom.net 15 Kilmurvey House Guesthouse Kilmurvey, Inis Mór, Co. Galway 00353-99-61218 kilmurveyhouse@eircom.net www.kilmurveyhouse.com 12 Mainister House Hostel Hostel Mainistir, Inis Mór, Co. Galway 00353-99-61169 mainistirhouse@eircom.net www.mainistirhousearan.com 16 Man of Aran Cottage B&B Kilmurvey, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 00353-99-61301 manofaran@eircom.net www.manofarancottage.com 7 Ocean View B&B Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 00353-99-61347 oceanviewaran@gmail.com www.oceanviewaran.com 8 Ostán Arainn Hotel Kilronan, Inis Mór, Co. Galway 00353-99-61104 info@aranislandshotel.com www.aranislandshotel.com 9 Pier House Guesthouse Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 00353-99-61417 pierh@iol.ie 10 Radharc na Céibhe Country home Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 00353-99-61297 noirinuighoill@hotmail.com 11 Tigh Fitz Guesthouse Killeany, Kilronan, Inis Mór, Co. Galway 00353-99-61213 penny@tighfitz.com www.tighfitz.com Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web mahonnoel@hotmail.com www.tourbusaranislands.com Activities 17, 17a Craft Village/shops Craft Kilmurvey and Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 18 Luxury Tours of Inis Mór Bus hire/ tour Killeany, Kilronan, Inis Mór, Co. Galway 00353-87-7782775 19 Rother Arainn Teo Bike hire Frenchman's Beach, Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 00353-99-61132 P. 63 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Dining/Pub 20 Pier House Restaurant Restaurant Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 00353-99-61811 21 Lios Aengus Café, Kilronan: Café Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 00353-99-61030 22 Óstán Arann Restaurant Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 00353-99-61104 23 An tSean Cheibh Restaurant Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 00353-99-61228 24 Mainistir House Hostel Restaurant Kilronan, Inis Mor, Co. Galway 00353-99-61169 25 An Sunda Caoch Café Café Kilmurvey, Inis Mor, Co, Galway 00353-99-61983 26 Tigh Nan Phaidí Restaurant Kilmurvey, Inis Mor, Co, Galway 00353-87-7473935 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web www.obrienline.com www.aranfisherman.com Travel 27 Aer Arann Islands Flight service Connemara, Co, Galway 00353-91-593034 info@aerarannislands.ie www.aerarannislands.ie 28 Aran Doolin Ferries Ferry service Doolin, Co. Clare 00353-65-7074455 doolinferries@eircom.net www.doolinferries.com 29 Doolin Ferries Ltd Ferry service Doolin, Co. Clare 00353-65-7075555 info@doolinferry.com www.obrienline.com 30 Doolin2Aran Ferries Ferry service Doolin, Co. Clare 00353-65-7075949 info@doolin2aranferries.ie www.doolin2aranferries.com 31 Island Ferries Teo Ferry service Rossaveal, Co. Galway 00353-91-568903 mailto:islandferries@eircom.net www.aranislandferries.com INIS MEÁIN (INISMAAN) (MAP REF 12) PAGE 29 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web anduninismeain@eircom.net www.inismeainaccommodation. com www.inismeain.com Accommodation 1 An Dún B&B Inis Meáin, Co. Galway 00353-99 73047 2 Creig Mór B&B Inis Meáin, Co. Galway 00353-99-73012 3 Inis Meáin Restaurant & Suites Luxury accomm. Inis Meáin, Co. Galway 00353-86-8266026 post@inismeain.com 4 Ostán Inis Meáin Hotel Inis Meáin, Co. Galway 00353-99-73020 bernieinismeain@aol.com 5 Tig Conghaile B&B Moore Village, Inis Meain, Co. Galway 00353-99-73085 bbinismeain@eircom.net Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Dining/Pub 7 An Dún Restaurant/ café Inis Meáin, Co. Galway 00353-99 73047 anduninismeain@eircom.net www.inismeainaccommodation. com 8 Inis Meáin Restaurant & Suites Restaurant Inis Meáin, Co. Galway 00353-86-8266026 post@inismeain.com www.inismeain.com P. 64 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Travel 9 Aer Arann Islands Flight service Connemara, Co, Galway 00353-91-593034 info@aerarannislands.ie www.aerarannislands.ie 10 Aran Doolin Ferries Ferry service Doolin, Co. Clare 00353-65-7074455 doolinferries@eircom.net www.doolinferries.com 11 Doolin Ferries Ltd Ferry service Doolin, Co. Clare 00353-65-7075555 info@doolinferry.com www.obrienline.com 12 Doolin2Aran Ferries Ferry service Doolin, Co. Clare 00353-65-7075949 info@doolin2aranferries.ie www.doolin2aranferries.com 13 Island Ferries Teo Ferry service Rossaveal, Co. Galway 00353-91-568903 mailto:islandferries@eircom.net www.aranislandferries.com INIS OÍRR (INISHEER) (MAP REF 13) PAGE 31 Map Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Comhar Caomhán Teo Visitor information Inis Oírr, Co. Galway 00353-99-75008 ccteo@eircom.net www.inisoirr.ie Name Type Address Tel Email Web Accommodation 3 Fisherman's Cottage Accomm Inis Oírr, Co. Galway 00353-99-75073 foodwise@eircom.net www.southaran.com 4 Ostán Inis Oírr Hotel Lurgan Village, Co. Galway 00353-99-75020 ostaninisoirr@gmail.com www.ostaninisoirr.ie 7 Radharc an Chláir B&B Castle Village, Inis Oírr 00353-99-75019 bridpoil@eircom.net 6 Radharc na Mara Hostel Hostel West Village, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway 00353-99-75024 radharcnamara@hotmail.com 5 Tigh Uí Chatháin B&B Formna, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway 00353-99-75090 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web www.araseanna.ie Activities 13 An Céard Siopa Craft shop An Baile Thiar, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway 00353-99-75021 14 Aras Eanna Arts centre Inis Oírr, Co. Galway 00353-99-75150 araseanna@eircom.net 15 Rothaí Inis Oírr Bicycle hire An Baile Thiar, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway 00353-99-75033 rothaiinisoirr@gmail.com Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web foodwise@eircom.net www.southaran.com Dining/Pub 9 Fisherman's Cottage Accomm & organic café Inis Oírr, Co. Galway 00353-99-75073 10 Teach an Tae Café Baile an Lurgan, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway 00353-99-75092 11 Tigh Ned Pub & dining An Baile Thiar, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway 00353-99-75004 12 Tigh Ruairí Pub & dining Inis Oírr, Co. Galway 00353-99-75002 P. 65 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS Paraicoconghaile@gmail.com www.strand-house-inisheer-aran. ie/index.html MAP Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Travel 8 Síob an Phobail Transport/ taxi Cleas Teo, Inis Oírr, Co. Galway 00353-99-75979 cleas@utvinternet.com 20 Aer Arann Islands Flight service Connemara, Co, Galway 00353-91-593034 info@aerarannislands.ie www.aerarannislands.ie 16 Aran Doolin Ferries Ferry service Doolin, Co. Clare 00353-65-7074455 doolinferries@eircom.net www.doolinferries.com 17 Doolin Ferries Ltd Ferry service Doolin, Co. Clare 00353-65-7075555 info@doolinferry.com www.obrienline.com 18 Doolin2Aran Ferries Ferry service Doolin, Co. Clare 00353-65-7075949 info@doolin2aranferries.ie www.doolin2aranferries.com 19 Island Ferries Teo Ferry service Rossaveal, Co. Galway 00353-91-568903 mailto:islandferries@eircom.net www.aranislandferries.com Tel Email Web INIS BIGIL (INISHBIGGLE) (MAP REF 14) PAGE 33 Map Name Type Address Inis Bigil, Co. Mayo 00353-98-45513 Travel 1 Angling/Ferry service www.southaran.com SOUTH WEST ISLANDS BERE ISLAND (MAP REF 15) PAGE 37 Map Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Bere Island Projects Group Visitor Information Community Centre, Bere Island, Co. Cork 00353-2775099 bereisle@eircom.net www.bereisland.net Name Type Address Tel Email Web Accommodation 5 Admiral's House Self catering Lawrence Cove, Bere Island, Co. Cork 00353-27-75213 info@visitbereisland.com www.visitbereisland.com 4 Ardagh Holiday Village Self catering Lawrence Cove, Bere Island, Co. Cork 00353-21-275176 info@dreamireland.com www.dreamireland.com 2 Bere Island Holiday Homes Self catering Ardagh, Bere Island, Co. Cork 00353-27-75995 info@bereislandholidayhomes. com www.bereislandholidayhomes. com 3 Laurence Cove Lodge B&B Lawrence Cove, Bere Island, Co. Cork 00353-27-75988 edel@bereislandlodge.com www.bereislandlodge.com Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Activities 5a Admiral's House Sailing School Sailing School Lawrence Cove, Bere Island, Co. Cork 00353-27-75213 info@visitbereisland.com www.visitbereisland.com 15 Bere Island Bike Hire Bike hire Lawrence Cove, Bere Island, Co. Cork 00353-27-75988 edel@bereislandlodge.com www.bereislandlodge.com 8a Bere Island Ferries Boat hire/ trips Ferry Lodge, Bere Island Co. Cork 00353-86-2423140 biferry@eircom.net www.bereislandferry.com P. 66 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP 6 Bere Island Heritage Centre Heritage centre/ visitor information Heritage Centre, Bere Island, Co. Cork 00353-27-75956 biheritage@gmail.com www.bereisland.net 7 Bere Island Projects Group Guided walks/bus tours Community Centre, Bere Island, Co. Cork 00353-27-75099 bereisle@eircom.net www.bereisland.net 14 Bere Island Sea Safari Boat hire/ trips West End, Bere Island, Co. Cork 00353-86-8595701 blueoceanmarine@eircom.net www.bereislandseasafari.com 10 Lawrence Cove Marina Marina Lawrence Cove, Bere Island, Co. Cork 00353-27-75044 lcm@iol.ie www.lawrencecovemarina.com 16 Murphys Shop Shop Bere Island, Co. Cork 00353-27 -75004 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Dining/Pub 13 Cattapilla Café Restaurant Lawrence Cove, Bere Island, Co. Cork 00353-86-1064363 17 Island Picnics Outdoor picnics/ lunches Ballinakilla, Bere Island, Co. Cork 00353-86-3660518 12 The Lookout Restaurant West End, Bere Island, Co. Cork 00353-27-75999 11 The Hotel Restaurant Ballinakilla, Bere Island, Co. Cork 00353-27 75018 18 Sullivans Pub Pub Bere Island, Co. Cork 0035327- 75192 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web sheilawalsh2@gmail.com hotel18@hotmail.com Travel 8 Bere Island Ferries Boat hire/ trips Ferry Lodge, Bere Island Co. Cork 00353-86-2423140 biferry@eircom.net www.bereislandferry.com 9 Murphys Ferry Ferry service The Anchorage, Lawrence Cove, Bere Island, Co. Cork 00353-87-23 6095 info@murphysferry.com www.murphysferry.com OILÉAN CHLÉIRE (CAPE CLEAR) (MAP REF 16) PAGE 39 Map Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Comharchumann Chléire Teo (Island Co-op) Visitor information (Jan-May, Sept-Dec) Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-39119 ccteo@iol.ie www.oilean-chleire.ie Information & craft shop Visitor information (May-Sept) Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-39100 ccteo@iol.ie www.oilean-chleire.ie Name Type Address Tel Email Web Accommodation 1 Ard na Gaoithe B&B The Glen, Cape Clear Island, Co.Cork 00353-28-39160 ardnagaoithe@hotmail.com www.dirl.com/cork/ard-nagaoithe.htm 2 Cape Clear Youth Hostel Hostel The Old Coastguard Station, South Harbour, Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-41968 capeclearhostel@gmail.com www.capeclearhostel.com P. 67 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP 3 Cluain Mara B&B North Harbour, Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-39153 codriscoll@eircom.net www.capeclearisland.com 5 O'Driscoll Holiday Cottage Self catering North Harbour, Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-39153 codriscoll@eircom.net www.capeclearisland.com Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Activities 25 Baltimore Sea Safari Boat Hire/ Trips Church Strand, Baltimore, Co. Cork. 00353-28-20753 info@baltimoreseasafari.ie www.baltimoreseasafari.ie 24 Cailin Oir Ferries Themed boat tours & cruises Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-39159 info@cailinoirr.com www.cailinoirr.com 8 Cape Clear Heritage Centre Heritage centre/ museum Oileán Chléire, an Sciobairín, Co. Cork 00353-28-39119 ccteo@iol.ie www.oilean-chleire.ie 6 Cape Clear Island Adventure Centre Adventure centre Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-39198 lasmuigh@eircom.net www.lasmuigh.ie 7 Cape Clear Maritime Centre/Ionad Mara Chléire Heritage centre/ museum Oileán Chléire, an Sciobairín, Co. Cork 00353-28-41976 9 Cape Clear Bird Observatory & Hostel Observatory/ hostel Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-39181 info@birdwatchireland.ie www.birdwatchireland.ie 13 Cléire Goats Open farm Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-39126 goat@iol.ie 14 Coláiste Ciarán Irish language learning Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-21-4821116 gaelteo@eircom.net 15 Coláiste Phobal Chléire Irish language learning Oileán Chléire, an Sciobairín, Co. Cork 00353-28-39119 ccteo@iol.ie 16 MVS Gaisceanán Boat hire/ trips Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-39182 comolane@eircom.net 26 Library Internet access North Harbour, Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-39119 ccteo@iol.ie www.oilean-chleire.ie Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web www.oilean-chleire.ie Dining/Pub 17 Ciarán Danny Mike's Bar/ restaurant Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-39153 codriscoll@eircom.net www.capeclearisland.com 18 Cotter's Bar/ restaurant North Harbour, Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-39153 codriscoll@eircom.net www.capeclearisland.com 19 An Siopa Beag Grocery shop/café North Harbour, Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-39099 neil@siopabeag.ie www.siopabeag.ie 20 Sean Rua's Restaurant Restaurant North Harbour, Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-39099 neil@siopabeag.ie www.siopabeag.ie Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Vintage tractor tour Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-39101 Travel 11 P. 68 Paddy Wagon Tours www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP 12 Bus Tours Bus Service Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-39119 capeclearti@eircom.net www.oilean-chleire.ie 21 Cailin Oir Ferries Ferry Service Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-41923 info@cailinoirr.com www.cailinoirr.com 22 Naomh Ciaran 2 Ferry Service Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-39153 codriscoll@eircom.net. www.capeclearferry.com 23 Karycraft Ferry Service Cape Clear Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-28278 kieran@capeclearferries.com www.capeclearferries.com Tel Email Web HEIR ISLAND (MAP REF 17) PAGE 41 Map Name Type Address Accommodation 1 MJ Hartes Self catering Heir Island, Co. Cork harteheirisland@gmail.com 2 Nell's Cottage Self catering Heir Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-38483 dianapitcher@o2.ie 3 Roaringwater Lodge Accomm (part of sailing school) Heir Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-38511 info@heirislandsailingschool.com www.heirislandsailingschool.com Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Activities 4 Heir Island Sailing School Sailing School Heir Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-38511 info@heirislandsailingschool.com www.heirislandsailingschool.com 5 Island Cottage Cookery school and accomm Heir Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-38102 info@islandcottage.com www.islandcottage.com Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Dining/Pub 6 Island Cottage Restaurant Heir Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-38102 info@islandcottage.com www.islandcottage.com Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Travel 7 Heir Island Ferries Ferry Service Heir Island, Co. Cork 00353-86-8887799 www.heirislandferries.com 8 MV Thresher/Heir island Sailing School Ferry Service Heir Island, Co. Cork 00353-86-8092447 www.heirislandsailingschool.com SHERKIN ISLAND (MAP REF 18) PAGE 43 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web www.sherkinisland.com Accommodation 1 Horseshoe Bay House Self catering Horseshoe Bay, Sherkin Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-21794 clintonellis@eircom.net 2 Horseshoe Cottage B&B Sherkin Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-20598 joe@gannetsway.com P. 69 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP 3 Islander's Rest Hotel Sherkin Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-20116 4 Windhoek B&B/ Self catering Sherkin Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-20275 info@islandersrest.ie www.islandersrest.ie Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Activities 5 Horseshoe Cottage Yacht charter Sherkin Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-20598 joe@gannetsway.com 6 Packard Gallery Art gallery Sherkin Island, Co. Cork 00353-28 20336 kgpackard@eircom.net 7 Rib Rides Boat hire/ trips Sherkin Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-20116 8 Sherkin Island Guided Walks Guided walks Sherkin Island, Co. Cork 00353-87-7715862 karen.mould@gmail.com 9 Summer Art Courses Art courses Sherkin Island, Co. Cork 00353-87-8319929 cora_collins@eircom.net www.sherkinart.com Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web 00353-28-20379 Email Web Dining/Pub 10 Jolly Roger Restaurant Sherkin Island, Co. Cork 11 Tigin Coffee shop/crafts Sherkin Island, Co. Cork Map Name Type Address Tel Travel 12 Rural Transport Bus hire Sherkin Island, Co. Cork 00353-86-0431956 13 Sherkin Ferry Boat trips/ Ferry service Sherkin Island, Co. Cork 00353-28-20218 14 Ten Island Tours Boat tours/ cruises Sherkin Island, Co. Cork 00353-87-2638470 sherkinferry@gmail.com www.tenislandtours.com Type Address Tel Email Web Self Catering/ watersports Baltimore, Co. Cork 00353-28-21745 bookings@inishbeg.com www.inishbeg.com www.sherkinisland.eu/ferry INISH BEG Map Name Accommodation Inish Beg Self Catering Holiday Cottages & Homes P. 70 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP VALENTIA (MAP REF 19) PAGE 45 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Accommodation 1 Shealane Country House B&B Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476354 marylane@eircom.net www.valentiaskelligs.com 2 Spring Acre B&B Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476141 springacre@eircom.net www.springacrebb.com 3 Atlantic Villa B&B/self catering Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476839 atlanticvilla@gmail.com www.anirishexperience.com 4 Carraig Liath House Self catering Bridge Road, Coromore, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476344 francesosullivan766@hotmail. com www.carraigliath-house.com 5 Ivy House Self catering Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476141 springacre@eircom.net www.springacrebb.com 6 Knightstown Holiday Homes Self catering Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-1-2018400 reservations@ tridentholidayhomes.ie www.tridentholidayhomes.ie 7 Oaklodge Self catering Ballyhearney West, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-25-31982 osullivanspyke@eircom.net 8 Teach Dairbhre Self catering Tennies, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-7127921 germosullivan@eircom.net 9 Tiarna Self catering Ballyhearney, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 0044-780-2725364 diarmaid.osullivan@sky.com 10 Valentia Holiday Homes Self catering Farranreagh, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-61-335799 info@westcoastholidays.ie www.westcoastholidays.ie 11 Valentia Island Cottages Self catering Tennies, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476224 mossieos@eircom.net www.valentiaislandcottages.com 12 Watch House Cottages/Valentia Island Holiday Homes Self catering Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66 9792208 gledwith@launeproperties.com www. valentiaislandholidayhomes.com Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Activities 13 Alan Hall Sculptor Art gallery Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-947 6105 14 Barbara Lively Art gallery Coarhabeg, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-87-1349195 15 Farmers Market Farming Low Road, Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-87-6172898 16 Geokaun Mountain and Fogher Cliffs Heritage / walking Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476306 muirisodonoghue@eircom.net www.geokaun.com 17 Geokaun Mountain and Fogher Cliffs Walking Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476306 muirisodonoghue@eircom.net www.geokaun.com 18 Glanleam House and Subrtropical Gardens Botanical Glanleam, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476176 €5 entrance info@glanleam.com www.glanleam.com 19 Heather Valley Angling Sea angling Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-87-6155072 rquigs@eircom.net 20 Irish Art Collector Art gallery Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-87-2767999 art@irishartcollector.com www.irishartcollector.com 21 Skellig Experience Visitor Centre Visitor Centre Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476306 skelligcentre@eircom.net www.skelligexperience.com 22 Valentia Island Sea Angling Sea angling Altazamuth House, Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476300 nealielyne@eircom.net www. valentiaislandseaangling.com Nealielyne@eircom.net P. 71 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP 23 Valentia Island Sea Sports & Adventure Centre Adventure centre Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476204 info@divevalentia.ie www.divevalentia.ie 34 Valentia Island Heritage Centre Museum School Road, Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476411 ValentiaHeritageCentre@gmail. com 35 CC Angling Angling Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-87-124558 richard@ccangling.com www.ccangling.com Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web bostonbarvalentia@eircom.net Dining/Pub 24 Boston's Bar & Restaurant Restaurant Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 353-66-9476140 25 Farmhouse Icecream Farming Kilbeg, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476864 26 Fuschia Restaurant Restaurant Knightstown, Valentia island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476051 27 Knightstown Coffee Shop Restaurant Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-94-76373 28 The Lighthouse Café Restaurant Dohilla, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476304 29 The Ring Lyne Bar/ restaurant Chapeltown, Valentia Island. Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476103 30 The Royal Valentia Bar/ restaurant Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-94-76144 31 The Sandbar Restaurant Knightstown, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-87-0548618 Map Name Type Address Tel Email www.valentiaicecream.com www.royalvalentia.com Web Travel 32 Kennedy Bus Hire Bus/taxi hire Coarhabeg, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476183 kennedybus@eircom.net 33 Quigley's Hackney Service Bus/taxi Glanleam, Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-87-9708200 teachsolas@hotmail.com WHIDDY ISLAND (MAP REF 21) PAGE 48 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Dining/Pub 1 Bank House Restaurant Boat hire/ trips Whiddy Island, Co. Cork 00353-86-8981927 bookings@inishbeg.com www.inishbeg.com Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Travel 2 Whiddy Island Ferries Ferry Service Whiddy Island, Co. Cork 00353-86-8626734 3 Island Tripper Boat tours/ cruises/ ferry service to Cape, Sherkin, Whiddy Cape Clear, Co. Cork 00353-28-41923 P. 72 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS www.whiddyislandferry.com info@islandtripper.com MAP www.islandtripper.com DURSEY ISLAND (MAP REF 22) PAGE 49 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Cable Car Dursey Island, Co. Cork 00353-27-73017 info@windypointhouse.com www.windypointhouse.com Travel 1 Dursey Island Cable Car GARINISH ISLAND (MAP REF 23) PAGE 50 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Travel 1 Glengariff + Garinish Ferry services Ferry service Glengariff, Co. Cork 00353-27-63116 info@harbourqueenferry.com www.harbourqueenferry.com 2 Blue Pool Ferry Ferry Service Glengariff, Co. Cork 00353-27-63333 info@bluepoolferry.com www.bluepoolferry.com BLASKET ISLANDS (MAP REF 24) PAGE 51 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Blasket Islands Ferry Ferry Service Blasket Islands, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9154864 ferryandtours@blasketislands.ie www.blasketislands.ie Blasket Island Ferries + Eco Tours Eco marine adventure tour/ferry service Blasket Islands, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9156422 Travel www.blasketislands.com THE SKELLIGS (MAP REF 25) PAGE 52 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Visitor Centre Valentia Island, Co. Kerry 00353-66-9476306 skelligcentre@eircom.net www.skelligexperience.com Travel Skellig Experience Visitor Centre P. 73 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP NORTHERN IRELAND ISLANDS RATHLIN ISLAND (MAP REF 26) PAGE 53 Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Accommodation 1 Coolnagrock Bed & Breakfast B&B Ballynoe, Rathlin Island, Ballycastle, Co. Antrim, BT54 6RT 0044-28-20763983 www.n-ireland.co.uk/rathlin 2 Puffin Cottage B&B 7 Church Bay, Rathlin Island, Ballycastle, Co. Antrim, BT54 6RT 004428-091811659 reservations@donard.com www.donard.com 3 Rathlin Manor House Manor house Rathlin Island, Co. Antrim, BT54 6RT 0044-28-20763964 info@rathlinmanorhouse.co.uk www.rathlinmanorhouse.co.uk 4 Soerneog View Hostel Hostel Ouig, Rathlin Island Co. Antrim, BT54 6RT 0044-28-20763954 john_jennifer@btinternet.com www.n-irelandholidays.co.uk/ rathlin Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Dining/Pub 6 Bruce's Kitchen Cafe The Harbour, Rathlin Island, Ballycastle, Co. Antrim BT54 6RT 0044-28-207 63974 7 Manor House Restaurant Rathlin Island, Co. Antrim, BT54 6RT 0044-28-207 63964 info@rathlinmanorhouse.co.uk www.rathlinmanorhouse.co.uk Map Name Type Address Tel Email Web Ferry Service Ballycastle Ferry Terminal, 18 Bayview Road, Ballycastle, Co. Antrim, BT54 6BT 0044-28-20769299 info@rathlinballycastleferry.com www.rathlinballycastleferry.com Travel 5 P. 74 Rathlin Island Ferries www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP FÁILTE IRELAND OFFICES CONTACTS DUBLIN OPERATIONS Fáilte Ireland, Amiens Street, Dublin 1 If dialing from inside the Republic of Ireland Tel: 1890 525 525 or (01) 8847700 Fax: (01) 855 6821 From outside the Republic of Ireland Tel: 00 353 1 8847700 Email: info@failteireland.ie MULLINGAR Fáilte Ireland, Dublin Road, Mullingar, County Westmeath. Tel: +353 (0) 44 9348761 Fax: +353 (0) 44 9340413 Email: eastandmidlandsinfo@ failteireland.ie SLIGO Fáilte Ireland, Áras Reddan, Temple Street, Sligo. Tel: +353 (0) 71 9161201 Fax: +353 (0) 71 9160360 Email: northwestinfo@failteireland.ie CORK Fáilte Ireland, Áras Fáilte, Grand Parade, Cork City. Tel: +353 (0) 21 4255100 Fax: +353 (0) 21 4255199 Email: corkkerryinfo@failteireland. GALWAY Fáilte Ireland, Áras Fáilte, Forster Street, Galway City. Tel: +353 (0) 91 537700 Fax: +353 (0) 91 537733 Email: irelandwestinfo@failteireland.ie P. 75 www.discoverireland.ie/islands WATERFORD Fáilte Ireland, 41 the Quay, Waterford City. Tel: +353 (0) 51 875823 Fax: +353 (0) 51 876720 Email: SouthEastInfo@failteireland.ie PRINT CONTENTS BELFAST Fáilte Ireland, 53 Castle Street, Belfast BT1 1GH Tel: (028) 9026 5500 Fax: (028) 9026 5515 If dialing from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland the direct code is: (048) 9026 5500 E-mail: infob@failteireland.ie DERRY Fáilte Ireland, Derry Visitor & Convention Bureau, 44 Foyle Street, Derry, BT48 6AT Tel/Fax: (028) 7136 9501 Email: failteireland@derryvisitor.com MAP TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICES For more information on travel to Ireland please contact Tourism Ireland, the overseas marketing body for the island of Ireland, at www.discoverireland.com Cliffs of Moher Tourist Information Office Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre, Cliffs of Moher, Co Clare T. +353 (0)65 7081171 E. tourisminfo@ shannondevelopment.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/shannon Aran Tourist Information Office Cill Ronain (Kilronan), Inis Mór, Aran Islands, Co Galway T. +353 (0)99 61263 E. irelandwestinfo@failteireland.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/west Clifden Tourist Information Office Galway Road, Clifden, Co Galway T. +353 (0)95 21163 E. irelandwestinfo@failteireland.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/west P. 76 www.discoverireland.ie/islands Westport Tourist Information Office James Street, Westport, Co Mayo T. +353 (0)98 25711 E. irelandwestinfo@failteireland.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/west Donegal Town Tourist Office The Quay, Donegal Town, Donegal T. +353 (0)74 9721148 E. northwestinfo@failteireland.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/ northwest Dingle Tourist Information Office The Quay, Dingle, Co. Kerry T. +353 (0)66 9151188 E. corkkerryinfo@failteireland.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/ southwest Cork City Tourist Information Office Grand Parade, Cork City T. +353 (0)21 4255100 E. corkkerryinfo@failteireland.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/ southwest Killarney Tourist Information Office Beech Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry T. +353 (0)64 6631633 E. corkkerryinfo@failteireland.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/ southwest PRINT CONTENTS Discover Ireland Centre Aras Failte, Forster Street,Galway City Centre T. +353 (0)91 537700 E. irelandwestinfo@failteireland.ie W. www.discoverireland.ie/west MAP Fáilte Ireland, Amiens Street, Dublin 1 Tel: 1890 525 525 / +353 1 884 7700 Fax: +353 1 855 6821 www.failteireland.ie www.discoverireland.ie P. 77 www.discoverireland.ie/islands PRINT CONTENTS MAP