Discover Inis Oírr (Inisheer), a quiet yet breathtaking island off the coast of Galway. Inis Oírr is the smallest of Ireland’s Aran Islands, located in beautiful Galway Bay. Inis Oírr, Inis Meáin and Inis Mór are three rocky and ruggedly beautiful Galway destinations. Each island is overflowing with heritage, tradition and story! On this quaint little island, there are some truly incredible things to see and do. When visiting you're met with a serene sense of seclusion and adventure. From exploring spectacular ruins like O’Brien’s Castle to having the perfect pint accompanied by traditional music in Tigh Ned, there’s so much Inis Oírr has to offer. Read our guide to Inis Oírr below and start planning your unforgettable day trip.
How to get to Inis Oírr
The three Aran Islands are just a short ferry ride or flight from Galway. Inis Oírr can be reached by ferry boat with Aran Island Ferries or by plane with Aer Arann. The islands are accessible year-round. Ferries to Inis Oírr depart daily from Rossaveal (Ros a Mhíl) Docks, just 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 Connemara Airport. Aer Arann operates daily flights to and from the islands, making it a convenient and quick way to travel. The airport is 30km from Galway City. Both are accessible by bus from Galway City when booking your trip.
Sights to See on Inis Oírr
The Plassey Wreck The MV Plassey is a steam trawler from the 1960s that tragically crashed into Finnis Rock and was eventually washed up upon Inis Oírr by powerful winds. The Plassey which once carried whiskey, stained glass, and yarn, is still perched upon the shore of Inis Oírr to this day. Fans of beloved comedy series Father Ted might recognise the ship from the opening credits.
O’Brien’s Castle This 15th-century castle located on the northern end of the island is a sight to behold! The ruins span centuries of history upon Inis Oírr. Built by the Clann Teige, a branch of the O’Brian family, the castle was subsequently seized by the ferocious O'Flahertys in the 1500s. In the 1600s, the castle was captured and slighted during the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland. Today, the ruins are still a powerful and structural sight on the landscape of Inis Oírr.
Inis Oírr Lighthouse The Inis Oírr or Fardurris Point Lighthouse marks the southern-eastern entrance into Galway Bay. The active 19th century lighthouse was built as a replacement for the first lighthouse on the Aran Islands, which was built in 1818 on Inishmore near Dun Oghil. While the tower is closed apart from the occasional operation day, the lighthouse is most definitely worth a visit. The 34-metre-high tower has been quoted as “a masterpiece of ashlar limestone construction”.
St Caomhan’s Church A testament to the serene solitude of spiritual respite found on Inis Oírr are the grounds of St Caomhan’s Church. The 10th-century ruins are believed to have been built on the grounds of St Caomhan’s original hermitage. St Caomhan, the patron Saint of Inis Oírr, is known for his spirituality and solitude. The ruins are a particularly interesting sight to see as the church was partially submerged and covered by sand over the course of centuries. Today, you can visit ‘The Sunken Church’ as it’s been excavated and well maintained by the locals of Inis Oírr.
Activities on Inis Oírr
Walking and Cycling the Island Take advantage of the sunshine and explore the island by bike. Like the other Aran Islands, Inis Oírr is incredibly bike-friendly! The roads of the island are easy to explore on foot or by bike. As the smallest of the three islands, it’s easy to spend the entire day exploring it coast to coast. Rent a bike from Rothaí Inis Oírr - Inisheer Bike Hire, and pedal your way through the incredible sights.
Island Swimming In the heat of the summer, locals and visitors alike will plunge into the Atlantic for a dip. Inis Oírr has two Green Coast Awards, recognising its clean beaches and safe swimming. An Trá and Trá na Caoraigh are two stretches of white sandy beaches perfect for swimming. The clear waters are incredibly inviting. Go on a warm summer day when the water is incredibly refreshing!
Traditional music sessions and pints Check out the tunes in local pub Tigh Ned on Inis Oírr. The Aran Islands are rich in heritage, and the music scene is no exception. In the summer months, be sure to pop into a pub to have a pint of Guinness and listen to the swell of mirth, music and merriment. It’s the perfect way to end your day of exploration.
Where to grab a bite to eat Despite its small size, Inis Oírr is home to some of our favourite places to grab a bite to eat. Tigh Ned, Tigh Ruairi, Fish Restaurant and B&B are only a few of the great restaurants and pubs located on the island. And be sure to try the local seafood while you’re there!
Photo courtesy of Tigh Ned's Instagram
Where to stay
If you’re hoping to extend your time on Inis Oírr, you’re in luck. There are several wonderful places to stay located on the island. Tigh Ruairi (Rory's Pub) Bed & Breakfast is a quaint and welcoming B&B. This family-run guest house has 20 en-suite rooms and is a great place to rest your head if you’re looking to spend more time enjoying a slower-paced life on Inis Oírr.
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