| The Aran Islands are a group of three islands | | | | Inis Meáin is the middle island and the less |
| situated in Galway Bay, just about 45km off the | | | | visited of the three, so if you really want to get |
| coast of County Galway in the west of Ireland. | | | | away from it all, head here. It has superb views of |
| These islands are very special places as they have | | | | the Cliffs of Moher and has become a popular |
| remained one of the last remaining parts of the | | | | destination for diving due to its clear unpolluted |
| country, which still bear a very strong sense of Irish | | | | waters. It has a share of historical attractions and an |
| culture and language. The islands are 'Gaeltachts' | | | | unusual flora and fauna similar to that of the Burren. |
| (Irish-speaking areas) and their location has helped | | | | The island has a population of about 200 people and |
| them to preserve and protect these traditions | | | | depends largely on fishing and sheep rearing which is |
| against foreign influences on the mainland down | | | | important for making the famous woolly Aran Island |
| through the years. | | | | jumpers. |
| The largest of the three island is Inish Mór | | | | Inis Oírr is the smallest one of the islands and |
| which is just 12km by 3km in size and has a | | | | has a population of about 300 people. It has a |
| population of about 900 people. It is one of the most | | | | distinctive charm about it and the local folk on the |
| popular island destinations in Ireland. It's of huge | | | | island still very much live a traditional Irish way of life. |
| historical interest with over 50 different historic | | | | The little village on the island has a popular Irish pub, |
| monuments dotted all over the island, the largest and | | | | which is a great spot to enjoy a traditional Irish music |
| most impressive being Dun Aengus - a prehistoric | | | | session at its best! |
| fort built during the Bronze Age at the top of a 100 | | | | Getting to these offshore islands is a pleasant |
| metre high cliff. | | | | experience. Most boats to take you to the islands |
| The island has unspoilt sandy beaches with clear blue | | | | leave from Rossaveal, which can be found about 1 |
| waters, green fields with stone walls, beautiful cliff | | | | hour west of Galway city. Some companies run a |
| walks and spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean - | | | | shuttle service between Galway city and Rossaveal |
| it's really no wonder that it has been the setting for | | | | Harbour. |
| a movie and the inspiration for many writers and | | | | The islands are usually explored by foot, bike or |
| artists who frequent the island regularly. The main | | | | horseback. They are a paradise for outdoor activities |
| village on the island is Kilronan, which is where visitors | | | | like hiking, fishing, swimming, diving, surfing or |
| to Inish Mór disembark. It's a lively spot during | | | | birdwatching. |
| the Summer months, so pop into the local pub for a | | | | Visitors also have the option of staying on the islands |
| creamy pint of Guinness and mingle with the locals | | | | with B&B and guesthouse accommodation |
| who will enthral you with the island folklore - which | | | | available. |
| they are very proud of. | | | | |
