Inis Oírr may be the smallest of the Aran Islands, but there is enough to fill a full day without rushing. The best things to do on Inis Oírr are spread between the harbour, village, eastern shoreline and higher ground around O’Brien’s Castle, so the island works particularly well for visitors who enjoy walking and stopping often.
Featured image: Christine Matthews / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0.
O’Brien’s Castle
O’Brien’s Castle sits above the island and is one of the most recognisable landmarks on Inis Oírr. The ruined tower house stands within the remains of an older ringfort, with wide views across the island and Galway Bay.
The climb is not long, but the ground can be uneven and exposed. Give yourself time at the top rather than treating it as a quick photo stop.
Walk to the Plassy shipwreck
The Plassy wreck on the eastern side of the island is one of the classic Inis Oírr walks. The ship was driven ashore in the 1960s and its rusted remains now sit above the rocky coastline.
Combine the wreck with a longer loop rather than walking there and back as quickly as possible. The stone walls and Atlantic shoreline are part of the experience.
Spend time at the beach
The sandy beach beside the village is an easy stop after the ferry or before the return journey. On a calm day it is one of the most relaxed places on the island; in cooler weather it is still worth walking along the shore.
Inis Oírr Lighthouse
The lighthouse stands on the southern side of the island. Reaching it takes you away from the busiest area around the pier and gives the walk a very different feel, with open coastline and fewer buildings.
Áras Éanna
Áras Éanna is the island’s arts and cultural centre, with galleries, performances, workshops and artist spaces. What is on changes through the year, so treat it as a place to discover rather than relying on one fixed programme.
For more ideas beyond the obvious sights, see our hidden gems on Inis Oírr. If you are planning the whole day, also read how to get to Inis Oírr from Galway, where to eat on Inis Oírr and our Inis Oírr pub guide.
Explore more on Inis Oírr
Planning more than one stop? These Galway City Life guides cover travel, food, pubs, accommodation, shopping, culture, hidden places and practical details.
Map and directions
The map points to Inis Oírr village and harbour, a useful starting point for exploring the island.
