The best things to do on Inis Mór go far beyond a quick visit to Dún Aonghasa. The largest of the Aran Islands combines prehistoric forts, early Christian sites, beaches, cycling routes and a landscape of limestone fields and dry-stone walls.
Dún Aonghasa
Dún Aonghasa is the island’s headline attraction, standing at the edge of the Atlantic cliffs near Cill Mhuirbhigh. Allow at least an hour for the visitor centre, uphill walk and time at the fort itself.
Na Seacht dTeampaill – the Seven Churches
The Seven Churches is one of the island’s most important medieval religious sites. Despite the name, two church buildings survive alongside crosses, graves and other remains. It is a quieter stop than Dún Aonghasa and works well as part of a western-island route.
Poll na bPéist
Poll na bPéist, often called the Wormhole, is a striking rectangular natural pool in the limestone coast. The walk is over rough ground, so allow more time than the map suggests and do not approach the edge in poor weather or heavy seas.
Beaches and swimming
Kilmurvey is the best-known beach on Inis Mór, while smaller sandy stretches can also be found closer to Cill Rónáin. Even when it is too cold to swim, the beaches make good breaks between historic sites.
Cycling and island roads
Bicycles and e-bikes are a practical way to cover more ground than walking. If you are on a day trip, choose a realistic route and leave a generous margin to return the bike before the ferry.
For the full logistics, use our getting to Inis Mór from Galway guide. For quieter stops, see hidden gems on Inis Mór.
Explore more on Inis Mór
Keep planning your island visit with Galway City Life guides to travel, food, pubs, accommodation, shopping, culture and things to do.
Map and directions
The map points to Cill Rónáin, the main arrival village and a useful starting point for exploring Inis Mór.
