Inis Mór Travel Guide

A comprehensive guide for Inis Mór, including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety, getting there, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Inis Mór

Inis Mór is the largest of the three Aran Islands located off the west coast of Ireland. It is a popular destination for tourists looking for a secluded getaway with breathtaking scenery, rich history and culture, and outdoor activities. Inis Mór is steeped in Irish folklore, with its prehistoric and early Christian ruins providing insight into the island’s past.

List of Places to Visit in Inis Mór

If you’re planning to visit Inis Mór, you must explore the following places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Dún Aonghasa
  • The Worm Hole
  • Na Seacht dTeampaill (The Seven Churches)
  • Seal Colony
  • Kilronan Harbour

Natural Attractions of Inis Mór: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cliffs of Aran
  • Black Fort
  • Doolin Cave
  • Inisheer Island
  • Inishmaan Island

Hiking/Biking Routes of Inis Mór

Inis Mór has plenty of hiking and biking trails that you can explore.

  • Dún Aonghasa Walking Trail
  • The Bog Road Cycling Trail
  • Forthill Walking Trail
  • Killannin and Oatquarter Cycling Trail

Best Things to Do in Inis Mór: Activities and Tours

  • Explore Cliffs of Aran
  • Scuba Diving
  • Horseback Riding
  • Kayaking
  • Visit Dunaihy Burren

Week-Long Itinerary for Inis Mór

To help you plan your trip, we have prepared a week-long itinerary.

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival, Check-In at Accommodation
Day 2 Explore the Cliffs of Aran
Day 3 Visit Dún Aonghasa and Na Seacht dTeampaill
Day 4 Horse Riding on the Beach or Kayaking
Day 5 Visit Inishmaan Island
Day 6 Do Local Distillery Tour or Go for Scuba Diving
Day 7 End of Your Trip on Inis Mór

Food and Drink Scene of Inis Mór

When it comes to food and drink, there are plenty of options to try in Inis Mór.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood Chowder
  • Irish Stew
  • Boxty
  • Fish and Chips
  • Potato Bread

Local Beverages

  • Guinness Stout
  • Irish Coffees
  • Local craft beers and whiskey

Where to Stay in Inis Mór: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Inis Mór has some excellent accommodation options, from hotels to guesthouses, and everything in between.

  • Hotel Inis Mór
  • Kilronan Hostel
  • Aran Island Hotel
  • Kilmurvey House

What to Buy in Inis Mór: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Inis Mór has several markets and stores that offer unique local goods, souvenirs, and crafts.

  • Aran Islands Knitwear
  • Handmade crafts
  • Local art
  • Irish coffee supplies

Local Culture and Customs of Inis Mór

Inis Mór has a rich history and culture, full of traditional Irish customs. Some of the most important cultural customs to consider include:

  • Respect the locals and Irish language
  • Celebrate traditional Irish music and dance
  • Take part in the local festivals such as St. Patrick’s Day and Galway Arts Festival

Best Time to Visit Inis Mór

The best time to visit Inis Mór is between May and September when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are at their best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Inis Mór

When traveling to Inis Mór, it’s important to observe proper etiquette and practices.

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Pack appropriate clothing and gear for the possible weather conditions
  • Bring cash, as there are limited ATMs

Don’t:

  • Litter in public spaces
  • Damage the natural or cultural attractions
  • Ignore safety rules when engaging in outdoor activities

Safety and Health

Inis Mór is generally safe for tourists, but it’s essential to observe basic safety measures and health precautions.

Safety in Inis Mór

  • Always follow safety rules for outdoor activities and water sports
  • Keep your valuables safe and avoid night-time walking on desolate roads
  • Check the weather forecast before setting out for your activities

Health in Inis Mór

  • Bring necessary prescription medicines
  • Apply sunblock, as the sun can be harsh during summer in Inis Mór
  • Drink bottled water only

Getting to Inis Mór: Transportation Options and Logistics

To get to Inis Mór, you can use the following transportation options and logistics.

Airports Near Inis Mór

  • Galway Airport
  • Ireland West Airport Knock

Bus Stations Near Inis Mór

  • Galway Bus Station
  • Doolin Bus Station

Other Options

  • Ferry Services from Doolin and Rossaveal Harbour

How to Get Around in Inis Mór

While on Inis Mór, you can explore the island by walking, cycling, or hiring a motorbike. The island is relatively small, so it is easy to get around.

Where to Go Next from Inis Mór: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

When you’re done exploring Inis Mór, make sure you visit the nearby destinations and excursions.

  • Galway City
  • The Burren and the Cliffs of Moher
  • Connemara National Park
  • Portumna Castle and Gardens

Conclusion

Inis Mór offers an unforgettable travel experience, blending stunning natural scenery, rich history and culture, and thrilling outdoor activities. With this comprehensive guide, you’re now ready to plan an itinerary that makes the most of your visit to Inis Mór. Don’t forget to stay safe, observe local customs, and capture those breathtaking memories.

Cliff at Dun Aonghasa Cliff at Dun Aonghasa Along the coast road Along the coast road Sunrise at Teampall Bheanáin Sunrise at Teampall Bheanáin Entrance to Dún Aonghasa Entrance to Dún Aonghasa Beach at Kilmurvey Beach at Kilmurvey