Introduction
When you see the ghostly shapes of these islands floating 48km (30 miles) out at sea like misty Brigadoon, you instantly understand why the Aran Islands have been the subject of fable and song for thousands of years.
The islands -- Inis Mór (Inishmore), Inis Meain (Inishmaan), and Inis Oirr (Inisheer) -- are outposts of Gaelic culture and language. Life on the islands is deeply isolated -- to this day, many of the 1,500 inhabitants maintain a somewhat traditional life, fishing from currachs (small crafts made of tarred canvas stretched over timber frames), living in stone cottages, relying on pony-drawn wagons to get around, and speaking Gaelic.
They still wear the classic, creamy, hand-made bainin sweaters that originated here, as there's nothing better for keeping out the chill.
Sadly, though, the constant flow of tourists has had an impact on island life, and many islanders are involved in modern life, running tourist-related businesses. In fact, visiting in the high...
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Aran Islands (The)
- These three islands lie across the mouth of Galway Bay, about 30 miles out to sea. The Aran Islands consist of Inishmaan, Inisheer and the largest,...
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- Attractions
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Na Seacht dTeampaill (The Seven Churches)
- Just a short walk from the island's main road is one of the most famous historical sites on Inishmore. The Seven Churches date back to the 8th...
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Walks through Ancient Times
- This walking programme provides one of the best cultural walking holidays, and facilitates groups of up to fourteen people. The eight-day course...
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