The huge Cliffs of Moher have long been recognized as a major Irish attraction, but the cliffs on the Aran Islands are drawing in more and more people each year. Read on to find out why.

The Cliffs of Inis Mor

The cliffs of the Aran Islands are savage and wild. They are natural beauty at its finest, and one of Ireland’s hidden treasures. You won’t find many caution signs or safety rails here. The cliffs get just a fraction of the tourists their more famous counterparts attract, and at some points during the year, you might find yourself to be the only person up there.

Stretching for about 8 kilometres along the western side of Inis Mor, exploring the Cliffs of Aran is all about witnessing nature at its most tranquil and powerful, and enjoying stunning views. Here’s 5 reasons you need to spend some time visiting the Cliffs of the Aran Islands during your glamping holiday in Ireland, and what you can see there.

1. Dun Aonghasa, Aran Islands

Dún Aonghasa is the most famous of the prehistoric forts on Inis Mor, and its origins are thought to date back to 1100 BC. It sits right on the cliff edge at over 100 metres above the ocean, and is a magnificent archaeological site with stunning views. Dún Aonghasa (pronounced Dun Angusa), consists of 4 concentric walls, part of which have been rebuilt and are over 6 metres high. The walls are arranged in a semi-circular shape, with the rear of the fort being the very cliff edge itself.

How to get to Dún Aonghasa

Many people choose to cycle to Dún Aonghasa, as there are other attractions to be seen along the way. Bikes can then be left at the Dun Aonghasa visitor centre, before walking up the final 1km to the fort itself. Another option is to include a visit to the fort as part of a hike. The site is busiest when the ferries from the mainland arrive and is virtually empty in the evenings.

2. The Black Fort

Dún Aonghasa might be the most famous attraction on the island, but the Black Fort (Dún Dúchathairt), is in some ways more intriguing. Whilst the design of the more well known Dún Aonghasa does give rise to the question was it a ceremonial structure or defensive, the Black Fort raises those questions further. This walled enclosure surrounded by cliffs on three sides features some intricate designs, and is so positioned that it looks absolutely stunning at sunset. A coincidence? Maybe.

3. The Worm Hole

The cliffs on the Aran islands are constantly assaulted by the elements, creating all sorts of incredible natural oddities. One of these, is know as the Worm Hole. This is a rectangular hole at the foot of the cliffs, into which the tide waters ebb and flow. Observers are often intrigued as to how this is not manmade, but geologists assure us that this is a consequence of weathering along joints in the rock which then collapsed.

The Worm Hole can be found be walking east along the cliffs from Dún Aonghasa, or by following the signs from the village of Gort na gCapall. Once you have seen it below, there is also another trail which will take you a little lower onto the ridge. Many people have chosen to spend hours here simply admiring this feat of nature. Interesting fact which has propelled interest in this site: – Red Bull regularly hold a cliff diving championship here. A sport for the truly brave!

4. Spectacular views

The cliffs on the Aran Islands are most appreciated by people who like stunning views. Which is everyone really! Whether on a bright sunny day, or a misty afternoon, the sweeping majesty of the views and cliffs themselves is something truly wonderful to behold. You can either cycle to various points along the cliffs, or even hike them. Whereas tours to the Cliffs of Moher often involve prolonged periods of sitting on a bus, and then being surrounded by other tourists, it is much easier to enjoy the Aran Island cliffs in solitude, especially if you are staying on Inis Mor itself. This way, you can pick which areas of the cliffs to visit that miss the ‘rush hour’ arrival of day trippers to the island who have turned up on the ferries.

5. Hiking Trails

Inis Mor is an ideal destination for people who enjoy hiking. Whether following quiet country lanes, or walking along the cliff edges, it is an excellent way to appreciate the natural beauty all around. One suggested hiking trail takes in some of the above attractions, and lasts for between 3-5 hours.

The walk forms a loop starting and ending in the village at Kilronan. It first visits the Black Fort, and then continues on to the incredible ‘Puffing Holes’. The walk follows no official path as such, but rather continues along the cliff edge. Exercise caution as you go, especially when nearing the Puffing Holes. These get their name from the waves crashing into the cliffs below, and forcing water up and out of the holes. A truly spectacular sight!

The walk could then continue along the cliffs and coastline, stopping by at 3 isolated beaches and an abandoned ancient church, before finishing in Kilronan once more. This hiking route is a great way to see the southern part of the island, and you can find out more by asking the team at Aran Camping and Glamping who will be more than happy to help.

Visiting Inis Mor

Whilst some people visit Inis Mor as a day trip, the best way to appreciate the Cliffs of the Aran islands is to stay a while on Inis Mor at Aran Camping and Glamping. The comfortable glamping units offer the perfect base from which to explore not only the cliffs, but the other areas of this small but fascinating island. For more information on where to stay and what to see and do on the Aran Islands, contact Aran Camping and Glamping.

Ireland’s The Wild Atlantic Way is the perfect route along which to take a family Glamping road trip. Whether cherry picking different sections in weekend blocks, or completing the entire route in several weeks, you can be assured of seeing Ireland at its delightful best.

 

The Cliffs of Moher 🙌🌈 . . . . Photo by @davidsbeenhere

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The Wild Atlantic Way

At over 1,600 miles in length, the Wild Atlantic Way is one of the longest coastal routes in the world. The route is designed to showcase the very best of Irish natural beauty. You can expect stunning views of coastline, countryside, enchanting villages and ancient monuments along the way. It is a great place for a family adventure, and there is a range of accommodation to choose from along the way varying from campsites to hotels. One form of accommodation growing in popularity with families travelling along the Wild Atlantic Way is glamping, and here’s why.

Glamping on the Wild Atlantic Way

Glamping is often referred to as posh camping, but that’s not really an accurate description. In reality, glamping has little to do with camping at all, apart from the fact that most glamping units or pods are normally located on a camping/glamping site. The reason why glamping is so different from camping, is that there is no need to set a tent up, or indeed to have any experience in sleeping outdoors. Instead, you will stay in a glamping pod or unit.

 

Glamping on the Isle of Wight l in the most beautiful Bell Tent ⛺️💛 @visitisleofwight #familyglamping #glamping #isleofwight #visitisleofwight #travelwithkids #familytravel #wearetravelmums #traveltheworld #tomsecolodge #belltent #ukparentbloggers #uktravelblogger #uktravels #tomsecolodge

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What is a Glamping Unit or Pod

Glamping units or pods are forms of permanent on-site accommodation. They can vary from yurts to treehouses and everything in between. On the Aran Islands, the glamping units are specially designed based on the shape of the island’s ancient stone huts known as Cochlans.

Glamping pods are normally self contained, having somewhere to shower, cook, and store food. Some may even have outdoor terrace areas and access to shared campsite facilities. In this respect they make an excellent choice for families travelling along the WIld Atlantic Way. Having somewhere the whole family can stay in the same building, being able to cook, and not having to worry about carrying camping gear and bedding is a great bonus when planning a road trip.

 

Our hobbit house for the night!!! #mayoglamping #glamping #ireland #glampinglife #glampingireland #lordoftherings #hobbithouse #hobbithole #hobbiton

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Glamping in Ireland

There are a number of glamping sites in Ireland, with perhaps the most unique one being on Inis Mor. The largest of the Aran Islands, Inis Mor is located almost directly in the middle of the Wild Atlantic Way, and an essential stopover point for visitors. Although many people choose to visit the Aran Islands during a day trip, it is by staying for a few nights that the true beauty and nature of the island is revealed.

 

#glamping #camping #inismor #aranislands #ireland #adventure #wildatlanticway #beachview #atlantic #glamorouscamping

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Glamping on Inis Mor

The purposefully designed glamping units on Inis Mor are suitable for families of up to 4 people. Comfortable and cosy, they contain everything you need to make yourselves feel at home right away. Bedding is provided, there is a fridge to store food, cooking facilities inside as well as a shared camp kitchen, and a shower room. Outside, it is possible to make your own BBQ and enjoy dining al-fresco underneath the stars at night.

What to do on Inis Mor

Inis Mor is almost a microcosm of the Wild Atlantic Way itself. If you only have a few days of vacation, you could head straight to the island and have a full and memorable experience. Outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling are popular on the island, and there are a number of interesting archaeological sites and other notable places of interest to see. Kids will love renting bikes out and being able to cycle from one end of the island to the other, as well as seeing the pony and carts that trot along the roads.

Main Highlights of Inis Mor

Dún Aonghasa (Dun Aengus)

This is the most famous landmark on the island. An incredible fortress designed in a semi-circular fashion, the fort is thought to be over 2000 years old. The fort can be reached after leaving the visitors centre nearby, from where it is a 10 minute climb to the top. The views are certainly worth it though, and it is one of the most remarkable prehistoric sites and fortresses in Europe.

Dún Duchathair (The Black Fort)

The Black Fort is just as intriguing as the first fort, but receives only a fraction of the visitors. As such, it is a great place to explore when staying at the glamping site, as if you get there early enough, you may be the only people there! Inside the fort are the remains of beehive huts, and the walls reach 6 metres in height in some places.

The Worm Hole

A curious rectangular hole at the bottom of the cliffs, which is believed to have been created by natural erosion. From the top, it looks like it might even be a swimming pool! Waters ebb in an out of the pool from underneath, and it is fascinating spending some time there simply looking it at. Red Bull at one point held a cliff diving championship there. We certainly don’t recommend you try this yourselves!

The Puffing Holes

Again, a curiosity that has been created by natural erosion, the Puffing Holes get their name from the water which is pushed into caves and holes at sea level, and is then transferred up the cliffs above, spouting out when it reaches the top. The Puffing Holes are not very well marked, and so you will need to ask at the glamping site for accurate directions before you leave.

Find out more about Glamping on Inis Mor

For more details about glamping on Inis Mor with the family on the Wild Atlantic Way, contact us today. We can answer any questions you may have regarding things to see and do on the island, and also recommend the best time of year to go Camping or Glamping on the Aran Islands.

Sitting next to your partner with a glass of something sparkling, looking up at the night sky in Ireland, and listening to the sound of the waves. The perfect moment on a romantic glamping break in Ireland!

Are you looking for a romantic weekend away, a Valentine’s break in Ireland with a difference, or even a unique honeymoon? A romantic glamping break at Aran Camping and Glamping could be just what you need. You’ll feel like you have left the world behind when you stay at this glamping site on an Irish island renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Ireland.

Romantic Glamping Breaks in Ireland
There’s something timeless about the romanticism of getting away from it all, and leaving the stresses of life behind. The feeling that it is just the two of you. Places where you can do that are getting fewer and far between nowadays, which is perhaps why the Aran islands is becoming more popular with couples seeking a romantic glamping break in Ireland.

Surrounded by wild natural beauty, but with all the comforts of home, it has the makings of a perfect setting. Add in friendly locals, and plenty to see and do, and it really is the ideal destination. If you are looking for an escape from the fast pass of city life, the Aran Islands could be just for you.

Where in Ireland are the Aran Islands?
The Aran Islands are 3 islands located just off Galway Bay on the west coast of Ireland. Accessible by a one hour ferry journey from either Doolin or a port near Galway itself, they are a popular destination for day trippers, but increasing numbers of people are so attracted by their charms, that they want to stay for longer.

Inis Mor is the larger of the three islands, and Aran Camping and Glamping was created there to cater for the needs of people who desire a unique glamping experience in a beautiful location. It’s the perfect place from which to explore the island, and to rekindle the romance in your relationship!

Here’s 5 reasons why you’ll love a romantic glamping break at Aran Camping and Glamping.

1. Trying Something New

The concept of glamping has been around a while now, but if this is your first time, you are in for a real treat! Glamping offers all the benefits of regular camping, such as a sense of getting closer to nature and leaving problems behind, but none of the hassle. You don’t need to worry about setting a tent up in the wind, being cold at night, or rain making everything wet. In a glamping pod, you are snugly shielded from all the elements in a nice, cosy glamping unit purposefully designed to make your stay a pleasant and relaxing one. The glamping units on Inis Mor have a design based on the famous stone beehive shaped huts the island is well known for. Each one is self contained, and there is also access to a communal kitchen and BBQ area. They are also ideally sized for couples, and have a cute, homely feel!

 

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2. Quality time together

Nowadays, our lives seem to revolve around the gadgets we surround ourselves with. It seems that it’s getting harder and harder to have something as simple as a good conversation. Getting away to the Aran Islands on a romantic glamping break, you can leave all the tech behind, and enjoy each other’s company the way it should be. Share some laughs, some special moments, and rekindle your romance with just the two of you. There are few places on earth which can offer such a distraction free environment. We don’t want to give you the impression that you are totally isolated though! You will find the locals friendly, and are sure to make friends with other people staying at the site.

3. Relax

One of the best things about glamping, is that it takes all the hassle away from camping. There is no need to worry about whether or not you packed the tent pegs, spending hours setting camp up just to find you misjudged where the sun will rise, or getting wet through leaky canvas when it rains. You simply turn up, but your things in the glamping pod, and relax. It really is that easy!. You are also going to get a far better night’s sleep staying in a glamping unit than when camping as well. There’s no rocks or hard ground to think of, and you won’t be woken up with every slightest noise. Instead, you can get a perfect night’s sleep, and have a lay-in in the morning for as long as you want to. It’s your vacation, so relax!

4. Eat Alfresco and look up at the stars at night

There’s something special about firing up the BBQ and eating outdoors. A sense that the priorities of life are really just reduced to the simple things that matter – The person you are with and the peace of nature. Breath in that fresh air, cook a feast, and then eat outside as you see the moon and stars appear overhead at night. Add in a glass of wine or two for the ultimate in romantic glamping!

5. Location is everything

Our final reason why you will love a romantic glamping break at Aran Camping and Glamping, is due to the location. Beautiful Inis Mor has inspired poets and writers for years, and is sure to inspire you as well! Walking along the stunning cliffs, exploring ancient forts, and taking a bike ride around the island are just some of the ways to see this remarkable place. We’re sure you will love Inis Mor as much as we do!

Find out more about romantic glamping breaks for couples

If you are interested in finding out more about romantic glamping breaks on the Aran Islands, get in touch with us today. We’ll be happy to explain more about the area so you can plan the perfect romantic getaway!