Photo taken by Lauren Dallaglio.
Ireland is one of the most beautiful, peaceful and comfortable countries to visit. Although majority of the locals speak traditional Irish, many do speak English as well. Ireland’s location in Europe also allows for extremely easy travel to other countries, making it the perfect destination to see if you’re already planning a trip to another European country. An especially amazing place to visit is the beautiful island of Inis Oirr.
Getting There:
Once in Ireland, you can head to Doolin. Doolin has 30 minute ferry rides to Inis Oirr and the tickets can be purchased online or at the ferry ports.
Before Departing From Doolin:
Doolin is such a pretty area that it would be a shame not to spend some time there before leaving for Inis Oirr. Here is a list of activities you can do and places to see while in Doolin.
Horseriding. You can take morning beach rides before 11:00 A.M. which you need to book in advance. All levels riders are welcomed so don’t be discouraged! You can also ride in Burren, which you can ride horses for a whole day or just for an hour, whatever you like.
Sea Kayaking. All equipment is provided including wetsuits and life preservers. Again, any skill is welcomed! Sea View House in Doolin and North Clare Sea Kayaking are both places that offer this activity.
Cliffs of Moher. Located over the Atlantic ocean, you can see the Aran Islands where Inis Oirr is located, as well as Galway Bay, the Twelve Pins Mountains in Connemara and Loop Head. This is a popular spot for birds to fly…take cover. These birds are under special protection in this area. You can drive up to The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience only about 10 minutes from Doolin. You can also take a coastal walk on the Cliffs of Moher along a trail. Hiking from Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher would take about two hours, and you can take a bus back if you’re tired. The Visitor Experience at the cliffs does have a charge but not if you hike. If you are more in the mood to relax then you can take a scenic cruise ride to the bottom of the Cliffs of Moher between March to October and the cruises can take you to Inis Oirr. Tickets can even be purchased the day of. Possibly one of the most adventurous things to do at the cliffs is go surfing at the bottom.
Stay in a B&B. Sea View House Bed & Breakfast in Doolin.
Grab some drinks. Gus O’Connors Pub, McDermott’s and McGanns pub.
Visit the Caves. The Burren is about 400 square kilometres and the caves are very susceptible to flooding. There are three different entrances, Fishermanss Pot, Aran View Swallet and St Catherines One. The Green Holes near Doolin Harbor have four caves; The Hell Complex, Mermaids Hole, The Reef Caves and Urchin Cave.
Get some exercise. You can go biking on the island, take mountain bike tours, or go surfing at the Cliffs of Moher.
Where to stay in Inis Oirr:
Tigh Ruairi is a B & B with wifi, a gift shop, home cooked food, beer and music. Designed by a local craftsmen, Creagan Bed & Breakfast is cottage-like with more views of the water and sunsets. It was made to be eco-friendly with recycled materials, solar panels and composting. Inis Oirr Hotel is close to the beach and pier. It has been run by the same family for several decades now. There are 14 bedrooms and has a bar, a restaurant and a lounge and overlooks a beautiful view.
Photo taken by Kerrin Harvan.
Rent a Bike:
You can rent a bike at the pier when you arrive there to explore the island. A Pony and Trap, otherwise known as a horse and carriage, is a romantic and special option to get around the island. Walking man symbols tell you when there is a walking trail coming up if you feel like getting off your bike and stretching your legs around the area.
Photo taken by Lauren Dallaglio.
When You’re Getting Hungry:
Tigh Ned is a seafood pub very close to the pier. You can have lunch any day of the summer such as shellfish caught right from the water. Even more beautiful than the meal displays is the beer garden out front with amazing views of the water.
Teach an Tae is a café/tea room that serves delicious scones and warm drinks to cozy up after a tiring afternoon. One of the cutest fudge shops can also be found on this island, with fudge flavors such as dark chocolate, milk chocolate, white chocolate, caramel, peanut butter and coffee.
Photo taken by Kerrin Harvan.
Best Picture Spots:
An Tra is the main beach on Inis Oirr. It is one long, beautiful beach and has a lifeguard on duty. The locals speak traditional Irish but many speak English especially with travelers visit.
Photo taken by Lauren Dallaglio.
2. Fishing at high tide at the pier
Photo taken by Lauren Dallaglio.
Photo taken by Lauren Dallaglio.
4. Loch Mor is the lake on the way to the Plassey Shipwreck
5. Inis Oirr Lighthouse
Photo taken by Lauren Dallaglio.
There are so many amazing things to do and see in Ireland, and this is just one gem of an area you should definitely visit. Whether with friends, family, a school program, or even alone, Inis Oirr will not disappoint. Enjoy your trip, and keep sending pictures to wanderersonlyinfo@gmail.com. Sláinte!
