10 minute read
The Loveliest Islands in Ireland
Embark on an extraordinary journey to uncover the enchanting archipelagos of Ireland. Each Tír na nÓg, 'land of the young', is a remarkable fusion of natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural heritage. From the rugged Aran Islands to the captivating Skellig Islands, these wonderful destinations hold the promise of hibernian happiness.
The Aran Islands
Arguably the most well-known of Ireland’s islands, Inishmore, Inisheer, and Inishmaan offer wild seascapes, cultural heritage, and ancient history just 30 miles west of Galway Bay. Inishmore is home to World Heritage Site Dún Aonghasa, the clifftop Iron Age fort overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, with Inishmaan and Inisheer the quieter of the three islands.
Recommended Highlights: Firstly, the journey getting there! Dream Escape guests travel by small plane from Connemara; ferry from Doolin, Co. Clare; or helicopter from Ashford Castle. You can also explore the island by horse and carriage, look for grey seals during low tide, and visit the Worm Hole, a unique natural pool at the bottom of cliffs.
For more Bronze Age and Iron Age sites, visit Dún Dúchathair, also known as the black stone ringfort, and the well-preserved monastic settlement Na Seacht dTeampaíll. In Kilronan, the island capital, you can explore the Aran Heritage Centre dedicated to preserving the disappearing way of life.
Achill Island, Co. Mayo
Ireland’s most extensive offshore island, with 80 miles of coastline, Achill is famous for its surfing at Keel Beach, hikes on the 671m Slievemore and the dramatic cliff of the 668m Croaghaun. The island has a selection of cycling trails, and links via a bridge to the mainland. It is home to the Great Western Greenway, a 26-mile trail along a former railway.
Recommended Highlights: You might enjoy visiting the Deserted Village at Slievemore. This atmospheric site consists of around 80 ruined stone cottages, giving visitors a glimpse into the island's past and the lives of its former inhabitants. It's a fascinating and evocative place to explore, offering a real sense of history and a beautiful backdrop of the surrounding landscape.
Inchagoill Island on Lough Corrib, Co. Galway
Known for its ancient monastic ruins dating back to the 5th century AD, including St Patrick’s Church and the Grave of the Saint, Inchagoill Island attracts visitors interested in early Christian relics. Just 1km long and 300m wide, it has views over James Joyce country and the mountains of Connemara.
Recommended Highlights: Experience the stunning Lough Corrib – Ireland’s second-largest lough – on a private boat charter, offering unspoiled views of the surrounding mountains. Dream Escape can arrange a wonderful private guided tour featuring historical insights, 5th- and 12thcentury ruins, nature trails, and secluded beaches. Stay at the magnificent Ashford Castle, standing sentinel on the shores of Lough Corrib for over 800 years, and enjoy a Chief’s Island picnic adventure with third-generation professional ghillie and marine and countryside guide. Frank Costello will escort you on an exploration of the lough, with a picnic pit-stop at one of the more unique islands on the lake. Explore the island's 100 acres of state-owned forest park and visit St Patrick's 5th-century Monastic site and the Church of The Saints, built by the Augustinian monks of Cong in 1180 AD.
Blasket Islands, Dingle Bay, Co. Kerry
Renowned for their rugged beauty and rich cultural heritage, the Blasket Islands on the western point of the Dingle Peninsula were inhabited until 1953. Today they attract visitors with their dramatic landscapes and connection to traditional Irish language and literature. The islands are home to diverse marine life, including seals, whales, dolphins, puffins and more – it is a wildlife seeker’s paradise.
Recommended Highlights: One of our favourite Dream Escape experiences is an exclusive boat excursion around the islands to catch glimpses of seals, dolphins and a variety of seabirds, including puffins, razorbills, and guillemots. The waters around the islands are also known for their clarity and make for excellent snorkelling or diving experiences, allowing you to observe the diverse marine ecosystem up close.
Garinish Island, Glengarrif, Bantry Bay, Co. Kerry
Famed for its stunning Italian gardens designed by Harold Peto, Garinish Island’s mild microclimate supports a variety of exotic plants, making it a horticultural treasure and a popular tourist destination. Garden buildings include the Grecian temple, the clock tower, the casita, and an original Martello tower. Recommended Highlights: You won't want to miss the exceptional private boat charter experience from Glengarriff, where you can spot seals basking on rocks. The garden offers stunning views and diverse plantings, including an Italian garden. Accessible only through a rock tunnel, this hidden gem is off the beaten path. Dream Escape will also arrange a private visit to Irish-American actress Maureen O'Hara's former Irish home across the hill. On the return journey, enjoy breathtaking views along the Brendan Pass and savour rustic seafood at Helen's in Lauragh.
Skellig Islands, Co. Kerry and Valentia Island
Accessible only by boat, the Skellig Islands, particularly Skellig Michael, are famous for their well-preserved early Christian monastic settlement and dramatic cliffs. Located off the coast of County Kerry with a bridge linking you to Valentia Island, they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and were featured in the Star Wars films as the home of Luke Skywalker.
Recommended Highlights: Visit the beehive huts, known as clocháns, featured in Star Wars, and learn about the monks of St Fionan who once lived there. Cross the bridge to Valentia Island and hike the Loop Head Peninsula, enjoying the beautiful scenery and nature. Dream Escape guests also enjoy tailored private boat expeditions with special access to the beehive huts – and a cruise around the islands.
Scattery Island
Scattery Island in the Shannon Estuary is known for its early Christian heritage, featuring monastic ruins, a round tower, Napoleonic War artillery battery, a lighthouse, and several churches. Located on the Wild Atlantic Way, a 20-minute boat journey through the Shannon Estuary from Kilrush, County Clare, Scattery offers a tranquil escape with a rich history dating back to the 6th century.
Recommended Highlight: Dream Escape offers a meticulously planned luxury cruise from Kilrush to Scattery Island, complete with a private guided walking tour and a delicious lunch featuring artisanal and locally sourced cuisine. Children can also participate in engaging activities like painting stones and learning about the rich history and heritage of the island.
Lough Derg
Lough Derg, one of Ireland’s largest lakes, spans counties Clare, Galway, and Tipperary. It is a popular destination for boating and fishing, but is mainly renowned as a site of pilgrimage for over 1500 years, particularly to Station Island, a significant site for St Patrick’s Purgatory. Visitors travel the three-day route between 1 July and 15 August.
Recommended Highlights: Experience a medieval adventure at Castlebawn, sitting on its own tiny island only accessible by boat and appointment. Castlebawn enjoys spectactular views and is one of Ireland's hidden treasures. Restored from ruins, this 16thcentury castle enjoys a colourful history and romantic backstory. Enjoy dancers, musicians, finger food, and a range of artisan 16th-century delicacies, including honey glazed ham and Irish mead. This unique experience is perfect for families, offering a full tour of the castle and the chance to sample authentic medieval Irish cuisine.
Carrick-a-Rede Island, Co. Antrim
Carrick-a-Rede Island, accessible via the famous Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, offers stunning views of the North Antrim coast. The island is unique due to its dramatic location and the thrilling experience of crossing the bridge. Its home to just one building, a fisherman’s cottage, and a variety of seabird life. The rope bridge suspends 100ft above sea level, erected over 250 years ago by salmon fishers.
Recommended Highlight: Dream Escape's exclusive private tour experience, with unique access to the charming cottage on the island, where you'll be immersed in the fascinating stories of the local fishers and their industry, is a firm favourite. Indulge in the delightful flavours of a picnic hamper filled with local Causeway produce and perhaps a tipple of Irish whiskey, adding a touch of refinement to this extraordinary experience.
The islands of Strangford Lough, Co. Down
Strangford Lough, located in County Down, is a large sea inlet known for its biodiversity and scenic beauty. It is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is home to many marine and bird species, attracting nature enthusiasts and bird-watchers. Drive the 33km Ards Peninsula to observe the lough, the road that offered inspiration to Irish poet Seamus Heaney. Take to the water by kayak, stand-up paddleboard or boat to enjoy the calm waves and views of Scrabo Tower.
Recommended Highlight: Embark on a fishing expedition on Strangford Lough admiring the breathtaking natural beauty and serene marine nature reserve with Joe and the skipper.
This unforgettable experience includes sailing around the numerous islands in the Lough, catching your own meal and returning to the Cookery School to cook and indulge in a feast celebrating the local food and culture.
ROSIE PEATTIE - CLIENT RELATIONSHIP MANAGER
Ireland is surrounded by stunning smaller islands, each with a unique story to tell. Centuries ago, these islands were the first landfall for early settlers who navigated the seas and rivers. Many of these islands are located in the Gaeltacht regions, where the Irish language, Gaelic, is still predominant, and traditional cultural practices thrive. Initially self-sufficient, the islanders relied on the sea for sustenance. During dark winter months, they would entertain themselves with storytelling, music and dance, contributing to Ireland's rich cultural heritage today. Each island I've visited exudes a sense of peacefulness and tranquility that transports you back in highly recommended for your next visit to Ireland.
