Considered one of the most instagrammable places in Galway (if not Ireland), The Aran Islands offer a special magic and treasured memories to all who visit them. With incredible views from the islands in all directions of the wild Atlantic ocean, Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher and Galway Bay, for a location that is so small there is so much to discover. The islands are steeped in cultural, religious and maritime history offering an overwhelming amount to be explored by visitors.
Located in the heart of the gaeltacht region, the Aran Islands consist of three islands, together spanning over 25km; Inis Oirr (Inisheer), Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) and the largest, most well known island, Inis Mór (Inishmore). When coming to the west coast of Ireland to visit the Aran Islands it can be hard to know where to start on your journey. To get the most out of your visit the best recommendation would be that you get a tour of your visiting island.
There are several tours you can join while visiting the Aran Islands. For example, when visiting Inis Mór, depending on your interests, you have the following available:
https://www.instagram.com/p/B0WGERPCsdn/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
When coming to the west coast of Ireland to visit the Aran Islands it can be hard to know where to start on your journey. To get the most out of your visit the best recommendation would be that you get a tour of your visiting island.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5qc3mjHwg7/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Types of Tours on the Aran Islands
– Walking & Hiking Tours
– Self-guided Cycling / Biking Tours
– Tour Guide led Cycling / Biking Tours
– Horse Riding Tours
– Pony & Trap Tours
– Guided Bus Tours
– Underwater – Snorkeling & Diving Tours
– Boat & Fishing Tours
– Goat’s Cheese Factory Tours
– Seaweed Production & Environmental Tours
Walking & Hiking Tours:
If you need to shake off the cobwebs, taking a tour on foot of the Aran Islands is sure to invigorate and refresh you. The best thing about these kind of tours is that you can move independently through the roads less travelled on the Aran Islands, which is especially good if your looking for solitude and tranquility surrounded by amazing natural features in all directions. These types of tours can also be taken all year round and there are many routes to take, especially on Inis Mór where they are currently developing a camino style walking map.
Cycling Tours
Whether taking a tour guided or self guided cycling tour of the islands, this is the most popular tourist activity on the Aran Islands. Inis Mór for example has a world renowned cycle route which runs the length of the island and takes in all sites of importance along its track (Not to mention the beautiful scenery). No need to worry about how to lug your bike to the island, Aran Bike Hire is located right on the ferry pier and have multiple options of all ages and sizes, including electric bikes for those who want to cruise across the island in style.
Pony & Trap Tours
This is an amazing option for those who want to step back in time and get a really authentic Irish experience. With local Irish speaking tour guides, pony & trap excursions will have you feeling like Maureen O’Hara from the Quiet Man as you jaunt across the island with a blanket on your lap and a smile on your face.
Bus Tours
Travelling as a group? The bus tours on Inis Mór are a really fun and convenient way to tour the island. You will get an in depth history of the island as well as having mighty craic with your friends. Suitable for all ages and abilities, this less strenuous tour option is a great option for those who need a rainy day activity or want to pack in as many sites as possible in one day.
Snorkelling & Diving Tours
Visiting Inis Mór and need to plan an activity for your friends or even something to entertain the kids? Inis Mór’s newest Dive Academy will be opening in March 2020 and is offering snorkelling and diving tours, training and excursions! With options suitable for all ages, this a truly unique and special opportunity to try something new in some of the most unspoiled and crystal clear waters along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Boat & Fishing Tours
Love fishing or want to try it for the first time? Set sail for adventure with guided sea angling with Calypso Sea Angling tours. Get a real feel for the wild Atlantic ocean and learn about the west coast waters and underwater life with an experienced crew.
Goats Cheese Factory & Seaweed Production for Food & Beauty
Want to learn about how unique industries operate on our tiny island? Are you a dedicated foodie searching out authentically local and fresh produce? Then visiting Inis Mór’s micro factories is a must!
https://www.instagram.com/p/B7auplah0hx/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
9 Reasons to take a Tour on the Aran Islands:
● Time saving – less planning so you can maximize your experience on the islands if
you’re on a deadline
● You don’t miss any important points of interest
● You are offered local and knowledgeable guidance of the history and culture of the
islands
● You can discover hidden gems that you can revisit independently
● Your guides are very experienced and can help you with any issues or queries
● You get the best tips on how to enjoy your time on the island and the best places to eat
● Home to some of the friendliest people in Galway, you are bound to make new pals along
the way
● Convenience! There are plenty of options that are easily accessible, touring takes the
stress out of your trip
● Inis Mór offers tours for both solo travellers and groups and those of all ages
Most importantly you get to have a unique experience as there is no where in the world quite like The Aran Islands. So whether you are seeking out ancient forts, a cycling trip, Irish folklore, christian history or simply looking to have an interesting and adventurous day out, touring on the Aran Islands is a must.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B4f42tunkaI/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
If you would like more information about staying on the Aran Islands and booking a tour for you or your group, get in touch with us at info@irelandglamping.ie. If you’d like to see what accommodation options are available you can visit www.irelandglamping.ie for further information.
