Discover Inis Meáin (Inishmaan), a stronghold of Irish heritage and history on the West Coast of Ireland. Inis Meáin is the middle of the three Aran Islands. While it has the smallest population of the three isles, it is saturated with incredible folklore, stories, and sights. Inis Meáin is predominantly Irish speaking, like the other Aran Islands, Inis Mór and Inis Oírr. The island is home to incredible ruins saturated in the history of Galway and Inis Meáin. Literary enthusiasts will delight in visiting J.M. Synge’s Cottage where the Irish playwright spent every summer from 1898 to 1902. No matter the season, Inis Meáin is a must-visit destination in Galway. Read our guide to Inis Meáin below to discover the best sights to see, where to eat and drink and what to explore!
How to get to Inis Meáin
The three Aran Islands are just a short ferry ride or flight from Galway. Inis Meáin can be reached by ferry with Aran Island Ferries or by plane with Aer Arann. The islands are accessible year-round. Ferries to Inis Meáin depart daily from Rossaveal (Ros a Mhíl) docks which are only a 38km shuttle bus or car ride from Galway’s City Centre. Alternatively, if you’re interested in catching a flight, make your way to the Connemara Airport. Aer Arann operates daily flights to and from the islands making it a convenient and quick way to travel. This airport is located 30km from Galway City. Both Rossaveal and Connemara Airport are accessible via bus routes from Galway City when booking.
Sights to see on Inis Meáin
Dún Conor (Dún Chonchúir) - Dún Conor is a breathtaking stone ringfort perched at the very centre of Inis Meáin. The ringfort, or cashel, is located on the highest point of the island and is believed to date all the way back to the first millennium AD, when sea levels were lower and the Aran Islands were a part of the mainland. Today the fort is an impressive and enduring structure with an irregular oval shape. Be sure to explore these ruins when on Inis Meáin.
Carrownlisheen Wedge Tomb (Diarmuid and Gráinne's Bed) - Saturated in folklore and neolithic history, this wedge tomb can be found in the eastern lowlands of Inis Meáin. Carrownlisheen Wedge Tomb is a wedge-shaped gallery grave, and is believed to date back as far as c. 4000–2500 BC. This particular tomb is believed to be the site of “Leaba Dhiarmada agus Ghrainne” or “Diarmuid and Gráinne’s Bed”. Legends says that the pair were lovers who were fleeing from Fionn MacCool, and that this is thought to have been the fort they constructed to evade their pursuer. Today, the wedge tomb stands as the one of the oldest monuments in Ireland, as well as the best preserved wedge tomb in Ireland.
Synge’s Cottage - J.M. Synge was a celebrated playwright, poet and key figure in the Irish Literary Revival of the 20th century. He was also a frequent visitor of Inis Meáin. Synge first traveled to Inis Meáin in 1898, after his friend and collaborator W.B. Yeats suggested that he “live there [The Aran Islands] as if you were one of the people themselves; express a life that has never found expression.” Synge proceeded to spend five consecutive summers on the small island, enamoured with the culture and engrossed in his writing. He stayed with Bríd and Paidín MacDonnchadha (MacDonagh), owners of the cottage that is now known as Teach Synge. Today, Teach Synge is restored and open in the summer months. This is a must-visit museum for those interested in literature and culture. Be sure to also visit Synge’s Chair, located on the very edge of the western part of Inis Meáin. A large flat stone emulates a chair looking out west on the Atlantic. Here, Synge would often spend his days writing. In his words it’s “a place where I can sit for hours without hearing anything but the sea-gulls’ cry.”
Activities on Inis Meáin
Explore the sights - Inis Meáin is a stunning island saturated with monuments and history. The island is bicycle-friendly and the perfect place to spend the day cycling or strolling along the winding stone paths. Take the time to explore all the incredible sights on Inis Meáin. Once you’ve landed on the island start your exploration by walking to the centre of Inis Meáin. Here you’ll find Teach Synge. Continue south and explore Dún Conor. From there you can walk west and see Synge’s Chair, or wander back into the centre of the island. There is plenty to uncover, be sure to take your time and discover all the hidden gems throughout the island.
Pints on Inis Meáin - There is a sense of solitude and peace across the Aran Islands. And sometimes there’s nothing better than a quiet pint among locals and friends. Be sure to grab a pint of Guinness at one of the pubs on Inis Meáin. Teach Ósta is our recommendation. This is a traditional pub at the centre on the main road of the island. If you’re visiting in the summer months, be sure to stay for the live traditional music.
Grab a bite to eat - While the island is quaint, there are still a number of fantastic restaurants and places to grab a bite to eat. These are welcoming and cosy destinations with home cooked dishes that make you feel right in place. An Dún Accommodation is a family owned and operated bed and breakfast that serves fantastic food all day. Make sure you try the local seafood when on Inis Meáin!
Where to Stay on Inis Meáin
Looking to extend your adventure for a few days? You’re in luck! There are a number of local and welcoming bed and breakfasts across the island. An Dún Bed and Breakfast is a warm and cosy B&B on the island. Inis Meáin Island Stays offers two extraordinary Houses also available to book for groups. No matter what you're looking for, there is an amazing accommodation available for you.
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