About Inis Mor
Inis Mor, more than just a day trip.....
Inis Mor Weather
The Aran Islands has its own micro climate which is often 2 degrees warmer than the rest of Ireland.
Main Attractions/Things to do/Things to see
Dun Aengus (Dún Aonghasa) is a prehistoric fortress dating back to 1000 BC, perched on the edge of a 100m cliff, plunging straight into the Atlantic Ocean. It has been described as the most magnificent barbaric fortress in Europe. Absolutely stunning panoramic sea views the dun, it will astonish all by it's vast size and stone age construction. It is a must see.
The Worm Hole (Poll na Bpeist) - This is a rectangular shaped natural geological formation and as the tide turns in and out the water rushes up and down the sides from a cave underneath the Worm Hole. Years of this practice have worn rivlets into the sides of the feature giving the impression of loads of tiny waterfalls! This is best seen when the tide is coming in or when the sea is rough. It is located near the village of Gort na gCapall, which is connected to the Atlantic by an underground channel.
Dún Dúchathair (The Black Fort), a walled enclosure surrounded on three sides by cliffs with intricate designs in the stonework. This, more than any of the others on Inis Mór, raises the question of whether its use was defensive or ceremonial. When you get off the ferry most tourists head straight for Dún Aengus, which makes the Black Fort a much more enjoyable experience for the adventurer in search of solitude.
Puffing Holes (Na Poill Seideáin) are two large, circular holes about 100 yards from the cliff edge, where the sea water will "puff" up frequently as waves crash into a cave beneath the cliff.
Seven Churches (Na Seacht dTeampaill) - an ancient monastic site, with two churches and several out buildings. The Aran Islands have long drawn religious people seeking solitude and isolation. This ruin dates back to the 8th-11th centuries and there used to be 7 churches, but now only 2 are left and the ruins of 5 are still with us.
Kilmurvey Beach - This beautiful beach is close to Dun Aengus. It has been awarded a blue flag. The Blue Flag is awarded to beaches and marinas as an indication of their high environmental and quality standards. This beautiful beach ideal for fishing, swimming, kayaking amongst other water sports.
The Seal Colony – At the Seal Colony, Port Chorruch. During low tide you will be able to see the seals that live there. They are often lying on the rocks and thus look exactly like a rock themselves! They are more obvious when playing in the water. There are binoculars that you can use and a small lookout point.
Transport around Inishmore
There are several methods of transport on Inis Mor. One can get a guided bus tour, hire a pony & trap or rent a bicycle. We recommend hiring a bicycle! One enjoys a better experience of the island and its vast culture, in your own time and at your own leisure.
Accommodation
There is plenty of accommodation on Inis Mor including a Hotel, Bed & Breakfasts, Hostels and camping for the more outdoors type. Contact Kilronan Tourist Office for more information 099-61263
Events
Ted Fest – This is a four day festival which is a celebration of the television series “Father Ted.” It usually takes place the end of February, commemorating the late, great Dermot Morgan (Fr Ted) on his anniversary.
For a few days the island of Inis Mor is transformed into Craggy Island, formally the residence of Fr Ted.
The annual event draws hundreds of Fr Ted fanatics, all of whom arrive in costume, as a priest, nun, bishop, pope, milkman, a humble housekeeper or even a “lovely lady” to name but a few of the popular characters.
Some of the events include Matchmaking with Nellie, Holy Hour & Confession, the Lovely Girl Competition and Ted’s Got Talent. Roll on the sixth Ted Fest 2012.
Tickets on sale in early October. For more information visit http://www.tedfest.org/.
Patrun – Pátrún is a three-day festival consisting of sports, currach and hooker boat racing, tug-of-war, art and sandcastle competitions, road race - a fun-filled weekend. This is usually the end of June and usually enjoys the fantastic Aran sun!
Patrun weekend is a celebration of this great islands culture, enjoying a wealth of sea fairing activities.
Aer Arran Annual Half Marathon - The Aer Arann Half Marathon in aid of Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children usually takes place in April on the Inis Mor, Aran Islands. Next year (2012) will be the 11th half marathon on Inis Mor.
The Island Craic
We have a traditional Irish pub next door to our Restaurant ‘Joe Macs’. Local Musicians often start up their own music sessions here. “Ceol agus craic” always rounds a great day off on the island. The sound of the fiddle and accordion echo in the air of the peaceful island along with spectators feet tapping in time on the hard wood floors of the pubs.
Joe Mc’s never fails to be a hive of activity, for the weekend, all pubs are densely occupied with the spirit of their heritage. At times there can be just enough space inside to let the fiddlers elbow swing freely or to let a pint reach your lips, which makes for a great atmosphere!
