Ireland’s Best Kept Secret: The Aran Islands
You've heard about Galway and The Cliffs of Moher, but this island has it all from culture to story, history, views, and more minus the crowds. This is Inishmore.
We recently sent some of our team out to get the inside scoop on all things Ireland and here's what they found:
A step back in time
Inishmore sits about 40 minutes from Galway by ferry and is a landscape of stone, sea, and sky. The island is defined by its dry-stone field walls, low-slung houses with wavy roofs, and ancient fortresses perched on dramatic hills. Visitors often compare parts of the coastline to the Cliffs of Moher, but here the cliffs come with a quieter atmosphere and fewer crowds.
The Aran Islands are one of the strongest legacies of the Irish language and traditional ways. Irish, or Gaeilge, is still spoken daily by many locals. This gives the island a distinct culture and home-y feeling.
Must-see landmarks
Dún Aonghasa is the signature landmark. This prehistoric stone fort sits on a limestone cliff dating back thousands of years and offers sweeping views of the Atlantic.
Beyond Dún Aonghasa are smaller archaeological clocháns (beehive huts), and the maze of stone walls that once sectioned out tiny plots of land to families. The contrast of grass and stone, especially at golden hour, is unforgettable for photographers and history lovers alike.
The culinary scene
Food on Inishmore is both simple and rooted in culture. Kitchens lean into what the island provides: fresh seafood, hearty stews, and soda bread. One especially memorable place, Teach Nan Phaidi, was founded by three local women focused on keeping tradition alive. Their kitchen serves homemade Irish meals and desserts with a side of warm conversation.
These small eateries are cultural hubs. They conserve recipes passed down through families and offer a slice of local life that modern tourism often misses.
Practical tips for visiting Inishmore
Getting there: Ferries leave regularly from Galway and reach Inishmore in roughly 40 minutes. Check seasonal schedules and book ahead during peak months.
Getting around: The island is best explored by bicycle or on foot. For those who prefer, taxis and small bus tours provide guided access to key sites.
Packing essentials: Bring layers, a waterproof jacket, sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle. Weather on the Atlantic can change quickly.
Respect local life: Stay on marked paths near archaeological sites and avoid disturbing livestock or crops.
Timing: Early morning or late afternoon brings the best light for photos and fewer people at popular spots like Dún Aonghasa.
Local souvenir: Visit small shops or stalls selling Aran knitwear. These chunky sweaters are designed to keep fishermen warm and dry—but they are also woven with local meanings. Traditional stitch patterns can indicate family or region, and buying locally supports the artisans.
For those who want something beyond a postcard view of Ireland, Inishmore is a compact, quieter, older, and immersive experience threaded with local stories. It offers wild landscapes, deep history, living language, and a culinary scene rooted in family and community.
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