The journey begins with a boat ride across the parcel of Atlantic Ocean which separates Ireland from the Aran Islands. During this 40-minute venture over the water, you begin to get a sense of the isolation of this string of islands. While today, the journey to and from is not overly complicated, imagine just 100 years ago, how much more isolated the people of the Aran Islands would have been. To understand the degree of separation from Aran to Ireland, it is worth noting that the population of the Aran Island were never affected by the great potato famine the Irish suffered on the mainland. This was because the Aran food supply never came into contact with the disease which affected the entirety of the potato crop in Ireland.
There are several Aran Islands you can visit, the largest of which is the island of Inishmore. This particular island boasts a population of 1,500…cows that is. In regards to the people of Inishmore, the number rests around 800.
Church Site from 1000 A.D
When you arrive at the dock, you might notice the one airplane landing at the near by airport flying overhead. You will also notice shops advertising the well-known Aran sweaters, which are sold all over Ireland. It is a fine idea to book a guided tour for your afternoon stay. Typically, these tour guides will pick you up at the dock and drive you around either in a horse and carriage buggy or a small tour van. All the tour guides are very friendly and, once you begin to pick up on their extremely thick accents, they have some fantastic stories to share.
Likely, your tour guide will talk to you about the three police man on the island, the one doctor, the two nurses and the fact that their one and only blacksmith just left town. As one would imagine, the community on Inishmore is very small.
You might also learn that the people of Inishmore all speak fluent Gaelic. Because of this, Inishmore hosts many young Irish men and women who spend several months in school here to become fluent in their native language.
As you venture around, take note of the unique landscape. Essentially, the Aran Islands are all giant slabs of rock which jut out from the ocean floor. Therefore, there is relatively no natural soil, just stone. Today, the average depth of the soil you see is between 8 and 12 inches. Largely, this soil is the result of the people of Inishmore taking sand and seaweed from the small beaches and carrying it up to their plots of land to make soil. To describe the barren landscape is challenging as it is so unique, but to say that it is a green and rocky desert of sorts might be as accurate as one could attempt.
The trail to the fort across the rocky land.
An interesting sight to see is the prehistoric fort which was built of stone and sits on the highest point of the Island, somewhere around 150ft above sea level. Continuing up the trail to the fort only takes about ten to fifteen minutes, depending on your pace. If you pay attention to the stones beneath your feet, you will notice some with precise gashes laced on the edges. These are prehistoric stones which contain the first forms of writing and signage for the native Irish people.
Prehistoric European Fort 150ft above the Atlantic Ocean
When you approach the fort, you will notice that it is still impressive, and must have looked exceptionally dominating back in its day. Explore the walls of the fort and learn about its history from the signed markers. However, just as interesting as the fort, is the view that you have from the edge of the island. Cliffs drop straight down to the ocean. Should you be able to muster up the courage to crawl to the edge and look down, you will witness the Atlantic Ocean thrashing at the edge of the stone mass, working its way under the foundation of the rock and chipping away at Inishmore ever so slowly. From across the way, about ten miles out, you can see Galway and the Cliffs of Moher in the distance. Chances are, you will be staring at these breathtaking views for quite a while.
Inishmore Cliffs with Galway and the Cliffs of Moher in the Distance
North West Corner of the Fort
Eventually, it will be time enough to continue on with your journey. When you depart the fort, follow the trail back to the cluster of buildings at the base of the trail. If you are hungry, stop at the small cottage next to the sweet shop for some of the best Irish food you will ever have. For a recommendation, try the Guinness stew or the incredible potatoes gratin. Also, don’t forget a slice of cake for dessert! If there is a line, wait in it. The food is phenomenal.
Eat Incredible Irish Food Here
Overall, you will find that Inishmore is one of the most peaceful towns a person could live. Take advantage of this and stroll along the shoreline and around the houses. Watch as pet donkeys roll around in the grass, children pick up seashells by the beach and the Sheppard dogs keep the sheep in line. Fall in love with the peaceful setting of Inishmore. You will be dreaming of going back as soon as your 4pm boat leaves the dock, bound to take you back to Galway.
Inishmore Airport to the Distant Right
The Remote Aran Islands: Top Ten Sights to See in Ireland The journey begins with a boat ride across the parcel of Atlantic Ocean which separates Ireland from the Aran Islands.