Aran IslandsTake a short drive to Rossaveal and board the ferry to the mystical Aran Islands that are situated in the middle of Galway Bay.  The rugged, natural beauty along with thatch roofed stone cottages that dot the islands provide a splendid example of Celtic and early Christian heritage and gives one the impression that they have just travelled back in time.

The islands are Inishmore - the largest, Inishmaan and Inisheer being the smallest. With Gaelic still being the first language of the islanders, a true feel for 'older Ireland' is to be found. Throughout the islands, you will find the ruins of early Christian monasteries and fortifications, the best known being Dun Aengus which dates back over 2000 years, and many churches.  The ruins of the House of Saint Enda, the most important Medieval religious settlement on Inishmore, can still be seen.  Fishing is still the main industry on the islands and in many cases, the methods of the fishermen's ancestors are still used. The lives of these fishermen were the subject of the John M Synge 1904 play 'Riders to the Sea'.

There are a number of options open in travelling to the islands.  You may either travel by ferry from Rossaveal with either Island Ferries or with Aran Direct - who have also just launched a new direct route from Galway city, or take the very short flight on Aer Arann from Inverin airport in Connemara.  When planning your trip to the Aran Islands, one should take into account that accommodation on the island is limited as well as seasonal.  During the peak season, over 1000 visitors make the crossing to the Islands each and every day.