There are so many wonderful things to see and do on the Aran Islands and Inis Mor is no exception. So to make things a little easier for you here is a list of Inis Mor’s top attractions. You can also see where these sights are located on Inishmore Island on our Island map.
A. Dún Aonghasa
One of Inis Mor’s most popular attractions is the Dun Aonghasa. Also known as ‘Fort of Aengus’ it is arguably the most famous attraction on the Island. This magnificent fort is a semi-circular structure that rests on the edge of a high cliff, rising 100 metres out of the Atlantic Ocean. This is the largest of the prehistoric ruins on the Aran Islands. The fort is about a 900 metre hike from the Visitor Centre to the base of the rise. After visiting the centre the fort is about a 10 minute climb up to reach the top. So please be sure to have appropriate footwear and be prepared for some amazing views!
Is there an entry fee to visit Dun Aengus?
The 2022 entry fees are as follows:
B. Poll Na BPéist (Serpents Lair)
You’ve probably already heard of the famous worm hole on the Aran Islands, also referred to as Poll na bPeist or Serpents Lair. This is a perfectly rectangular shaped pool located near the village of Gort na gCapall. The worm hole pool is connected to the Atlantic by an underground channel. The famous Red Bull Cliff Diving competition took place here in 2012.
C. Dún Eoghanachta (Fort of Eoin)
If you’re looking for things to do on the Aran Islands then Dún Eoghanachta should certainly be on your list. This is an inland ring fort as well located in the western side on Inis Mor in a remote area of the island off the road between Kilronan and Dun Aengus. This fort is in the townland of Eoghanacht, south of the village of Sruthán. It has a single circular two-terraced wall of impressive height. The remains of several Clochain (stone houses) lie inside. The fort takes its name from the Eoghanachta tribe of Munster who were associated with the island in medieval times.
D. Na Seacht d’Tempaillt (The Seven Churches)
If you’re unsure what to do on the Aran Islands then why not visit the seven churches. Despite its name these remains are comprised of two small churches and several domestic buildings. This was a well-known place of pilgrimage in the West of Ireland in its time. The monastic settlement founded by Dísert Bhreacáin rivaled the St. Enda’s settlement on the east side of Inis Mór.
If you’re unsure what to do on Inis Mor then why not learn about its history and visit some of the islands Forts and Ancient Ruins.
E. Clochán naCarraige
A Dry Stone House, a clochán is a stone-roofed bee-hive hut and something that should be on everyone’s list of things to do on the Aran Islands. Hermit monks occupied these huts in in isolation from the rest of his order as a form of punishment. There are many of these on the island but the one at Struthán, near Kilmurvey, is the best preserved example.
F. Leaba Dhiarmda agus Ghráinn
Diarmuid and Grainne’s Bed is a megalithic wedge tomb dating back to 2000 B.C. and is a burial place of early farmers. Wedge tombs are the earliest known monuments on Aran.
G. Teampall an Cheathrair Álainn
Church Of The Four Beauties is a fantastic 15th Century church dedicated to the ‘Four Beautiful Saints’: Fursey, Brendan, Conal and Berchan, who are said to be buried nearby.
H. Dún Eachla
Dun Eachla is an amazing stone ringfort located at the highest point on the Inishmore Island. The inner walls measure approximately 5 metres in height, and over 3 metres in depth. The fort has an almost 360 degree view of the island. It has been estimated that Dún Eochla was built sometime between 550 and 800 A.D.
I. Dún Dúchathair
The Black Fort on Inis Mor lies one and a half miles west of Killeany via the cliffs. Originally it was probably the biggest fort on the island, though now it is smaller than the one at Dún Aonghus. Visitors however, can enjoy the solitude of it in contrast to Dún Aonghus. It’s understood that the name comes from the darker coloured limestone that is characteristic of this area. The fort consists a terraced wall surrounding the remains of some early dwelling houses known as Clocháns.
J. Teampall Bheanáin
Church Of St. Benan, said to be the smallest church in the world at 3.7m by 1.8m. This tiny church overlooks Killeany Bay and the villages of Kilronan and Killeany. The remains of the church are located on the eastern headland of Inis Mór and is a great example of one of the earliest Christian churches. Nearby are the remains of a cashel wall, a dwelling structure, and a small beehive hut (clochán).
K. Teaghlach Éinne
St. Enda’s Household is a little church, half buried in sand in Cill Einne (Killeany) graveyard on the south-east end of the Inishmore island. It contains the grave of St. Enda who died around 535 A.D. and is the patron saint of Inis Mór. The graveyard is at least 1,500 years old and is still in use as the main burial ground of the Island.
If you’re looking for more things to do on the Inishmore Islands why not try these:
Aran Islands Goat Cheese Tour
Tour Aran Islands Goat Cheese making with Gabriel. He will introduce you to his herd of goats and take you through the process of making his award winning product before sampling and experiencing the range for yourself. Tel. 0872226776.
Bláth na Mara – Aran Islands Seaweed Excursion
Go on an excursion with Jenn of Blath na Mara. She offers seaweed foraging experience and tours for small groups. Contact her for availability, E. jenny@blathnamara.ie
Dive Academy
Book an amazing scuba diving excursion set on the Aran Islands. Tel. 0857257260.
Inis Mor Shops
Inis Mor has a range of shops to cater to the needs of visitors. Home to several shops selling souvenirs, gifts, and handicrafts, such as Aran sweaters, jewelry, and pottery. There are also several convenience stores where visitors can purchase groceries, snacks, and beverages. In addition, there is also a bike rental shop that offers bicycles for exploring the island. Whether you’re looking for a memento of your trip or need to stock up on essentials, Inis Mor’s shops have got you covered.
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