Aran Island Bus Tour – Failte Tours

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Attractions Visted:

• Aran Islands

Description:

A trip to the Aran Islands is an ideal tonic to escape the pressures of modern life. If you are looking for a place to commune with nature, be inspired and find peace to envelop body & soul, look no further.

Whether you wish to bask on sandy beaches, sailboard, or just walk the quiet winding byways, the Aran Islands have it all.

Located in the heart of Galway Bay, the Aran Islands offer visitors a glimpse into a way of life that has long since disappeared from most of the county. The Islands’ raw beauty and charm leaves visitors longing to return again and again. While the South –West coast of the island battles with the Atlantic, the North- East coast offers smooth passage for visitors between the mainland at Ros a’ Mhíl and the Islands.

The Islands’ seems to defy their size by all they have to offer: breath-taking scenery, ecclesiastic ruins from early Christian times, medieval castles, cliffs, prehistoric stone forts (including the famous Dún Aonghasa ring fort), sandy beaches, clean air, unique flora and fauna, and a rich folklore that the islanders are proud to recount.

Inishmore, or Inis Mór in Irish, is the largest of the islands and by far the most popular. With a population of approx. 1,000 people spread among 14 villages, it is well served by mini-bus tours, hostels, hotels & restaurants. The main attraction is undoubtedly the cliff fort of Dun Aonghasa, which can just as easily be accessed by renting a bike or walking. Read More

Visitors to Inis Mór can book a Mini-bus tour / Bike hire Online !

Inismaan, or Inis Meáin in Irish, is the middle island and the least visited and therefore the most pristine, Irish can be heard spoken and the lack of tourists in comparison to the other two islands is noticeable. Pubs and people inhabit this island.

Inisheer, or Inis Oírr, is the smallest of the three islands coming in at approx. 3.2km by 3.2km, with a population of 300. The closest island to the mainland, it has more recently been made famous when the wreck, “The Plassey” which floundered off its coast appeared in the “Father Ted” television series.

Fáilte Tours are delighted to partner with Island Ferries to ensure that your trip is the most enjoyable.

Island Ferries is owned and operated by the O’Brien family from near-by Carraroe. Their ancestors have been involved in the passenger – cargo service to the Aran Islands for generations. The original service was provided by one of the traditional Galway Hookers, ‘An Tónaí’, still treasured by the family but now only used to compete in the famous ‘Galway Hooker Races’. There is still huge interest in Hooker racing among both young and old and four of these races (and their accompanying festivals) take place on the islands every year; two on Inis Mór and one each on Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr.

Aran Island Ferries staff are happy to advise visitors on any aspect of their trip from accommodation, bike hire or mini-bus tours to evening meals. Sail in comfort and luxury with Aran Island Ferries and let us help you experience the Magic that is Aran.

Island Ferries were awarded the National Award for Excellence in 2006 for their service to the Tourism Industry.