Ireland’s Islands and loughs are some of thee most beautiful places to visit. Ireland boasts over eighty islands around the Island Republic of Ireland and a number of Islands and loughs in Northern Ireland as follows:
The most popular Ireland’s Islands
Achill Island (Co. Mayo)
Achill Island is Ireland’s largest offshore island. It is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including the dramatic cliffs of Croaghaun and Keem Bay. The island offers a rich cultural history, with ancient forts and churches. It’s also a haven for outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and cycling.
Aran Islands (Co. Galway)
The Aran Islands, consisting of Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer. They are famous for their rugged landscapes, ancient stone forts, and strong Irish cultural heritage. known for preserving traditional Irish language, music, and crafts, it’s home iconic Aran sweaters.
Inishmore (Inis Mór)
Inishmore is the largest of the Aran Islands. Known for its prehistoric forts like Dún Aonghasa, it offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The island is a popular tourist destination for those interested in exploring traditional Irish culture and the Irish language.
Inishmaan (Inis Meáin)
Inishmaan, the middle of the Aran Islands, is the most tranquil and least visited. Definately a peaceful retreat with its stunning natural beauty. With traditional stone walls, and cultural sites Inishmann boasts Synge’s Cottage home to the playwright J.M. Synge.
Inisheer (Inis Oírr)
Inisheer, the smallest and most eastern of the Aran Islands. It offers picturesque landscapes, sandy beaches, and the iconic Plassey shipwreck. The island is rich in history and offers a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxing and exploring traditional Irish life.
Blasket Islands (Co. Kerry)
The Blasket Islands is an archipelago off the coast of County Kerry and renowned for their rugged beauty and rich cultural history. The island was once inhabited by a vibrant community, though not anymore. It remains a significant site for wildlife.
Great Blasket Island (An Blascaod Mór)
Is the largest of the Blasket Islands, Great Blasket Island. It is famous for its literary heritage, being the home of several noted Irish-language writers. A popular destination for visitors interested in history, wildlife, and stunning coastal scenery.
Inishvickillane
Inishvickillane is a remote island in the Blasket group, known for its rich birdlife and rugged landscapes. Privately owned it was a summer retreat for former Irish Taoiseach Charles Haughey. The island is a haven for seabirds and offers stunning views of the Atlantic.
Inishtooskert
Inishtooskert, also known as An Fear Marbh or the Dead Man. It is an island in the Blasket group notable for its unique silhouette resembling a sleeping giant. The island is a prime spot for observing seabirds and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Beginish
Beginish, located in the Blasket Islands, is rich in archaeological remains, including Viking-era structures. The island is uninhabited and offers beautiful scenery, making it a great destination for those interested in history and nature.
Clare Island (Co. Mayo)
Clare Island is situated at the entrance to Clew Bay and is best known for its rugged landscape, rich history, and biodiversity. The island is home to the medieval Clare Island Abbey and the Clare Island Lighthouse. It offers visitors a blend of culture and nature.
Inishbofin (Co. Galway)
Inishbofin is a scenic island off the coast of County Galway. Its crystal-clear waters, beaches, and vibrant traditional music scene make a must visit. The island has a rich history, including medieval ruins and forts, and offers a peaceful retreat with numerous outdoor activities.
Inishturk (Co. Mayo)
Inishturk is a remote island located between Inishbofin and Clare Island. It has stunning cliffs, birdlife, and traditional Irish culture. The island offers visitors a tranquil escape, with activities like hiking, fishing, and exploring historical sites.
Valentia Island (Co. Kerry)
Valentia Island is located off the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry. It is famous for its dramatic landscapes historical significance, including the Valentia Slate Quarry and the transatlantic telegraph cable station. The island is a popular tourist destination with scenic drives and outdoor activities.
Irish Sea
The Irish Sea lies between Great Britain and Ireland, serving as a major channel for transport and trade. It is known for its rich marine biodiversity and is an important route for ferries and shipping. The sea also has historical significance, with many ancient shipwrecks and maritime heritage sites.
Lambay Island (Co. Dublin)
Lambay Island, situated off the coast of County Dublin. Notable for its unique wildlife, including a colony of wallabies. Its historical architecture includes Lambay Castle designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. The island is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with diverse bird species and marine life.
Ireland’s Eye (Co. Dublin)
Ireland’s Eye, located near Howth, County Dublin. It is a small, uninhabited island known for its rich birdlife, including puffins and guillemots. A popular spot for birdwatching and exploring historical ruins, such as the Martello Tower and an early Christian church.
Dalkey Island (Co. Dublin)
Dalkey Island, off the coast of the Dublin suburb of Dalkey. Again rich in history, featuring a 10th-century church, a Martello Tower, and a gun battery. The island is accessible by boat and is a popular spot for picnics, birdwatching, and scenic views of Dublin Bay.
Loughs and Inland Waters
Ireland’s loughs and inland waters are critical to its natural beauty and cultural heritage. These bodies of water provide habitats for wildlife. Opportunities for recreation such as fishing and boating, and are steeped in historical and mythological significance.
Lough Derg (Shannon River)
Lough Derg, located along the River Shannon, is one of Ireland’s largest lakes. It is known for its picturesque scenery and Catholic retreats the famous pilgrimage destination, Station Island. Its recreational activities include sailing and fishing, and spiritual sites,
Holy Island (Inis Cealtra)
Holy Island, also known as Inis Cealtra, is located in Lough Derg. It is one of Ireland’s most important early Christian sites. The island features well-preserved ruins, including a round tower, several churches, and ancient graves.
Lough Corrib
Lough Corrib, the largest lake in the Republic of Ireland, is famous for its trout and salmon fishing. With many islands featuring archaeological sites, Lough Corrib offers stunning natural landscapes. It is also a popular destination for boating and sightseeing.
Inchagoill Island
Inchagoill Island, situated in Lough Corrib, is known for its historical significance and scenic beauty. The island features ancient monastic ruins, including the Church of the Saints, and offers beautiful walking trails and views.
Lough Ree
Lough Ree, part of the River Shannon system, is known for its tranquil waters and numerous islands. It is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and exploring historical sites, including early Christian ruins.
Hare Island
Hare Island, located in Lough Ree, is noted for its natural beauty and wildlife, including a variety of bird species. The island is a serene spot for nature walks and birdwatching. Its name is derived from the hares that were once abundant there.
Inchcleraun
Inchcleraun, also known as Quaker Island. Located in Lough Ree and is famous for its monastic ruins and early Christian history. The island features the remnants of seven churches and offers a peaceful setting for exploration.
Lough Key
Lough Key, in County Roscommon, is known for its picturesque scenery, historic sites, and recreational activities. The lake is surrounded by Lough Key Forest Park, which offers activities such as boating, zip-lining, and exploring historical ruins.
Castle Island
Castle Island is located in Lough Key and is home to the ruins of a medieval castle. The area is steeped in local legend and history. The island adds a touch of mystery and intrigue to the already scenic Lough Key area.
Trinity Island
Trinity Island, also in Lough Key, is known for its ancient monastic settlement and beautiful natural surroundings. The island is a quiet retreat, perfect for those interested in history and nature.
Northern Ireland
Atlantic Ocean
The Atlantic Ocean borders the west coast of Ireland, providing the island with a dramatic and rugged coastline. Known for its powerful waves, the Atlantic plays a crucial role in Ireland’s weather patterns.
Rathlin Island (Co. Antrim)
Rathlin Island is located off the coast of County Antrim in Northern Ireland. It is the only inhabited offshore island of Northern Ireland. The island renowned for its stunning cliffs, diverse wildlife, particularly its seabird colonies. It has a rich history, including the Rathlin Island Massacre. It is a popular destination for birdwatching, diving, and exploring historical sites like the Rathlin West Lighthouse.
Loughs and Inland Waters
Ireland’s loughs and inland waters are essential features of the landscape, offering recreational opportunities, wildlife habitats, and historical significance. These water bodies include major lakes and rivers like Lough Neagh and the River Shannon. Both central to Ireland’s natural heritage and cultural history.
Lough Neagh
Lough Neagh is the largest lake in Ireland and the United Kingdom, covering several counties. It is a vital resource for water supply, fishing, and recreational activities like boating and birdwatching. The lake surrounded by rich wetlands has a significant role in Irish mythology. Many legends and stories are associated with it.
Coney Island
Coney Island is a small, privately owned island in Lough Neagh, Northern Ireland. It is known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and historical sites, including ancient burial mounds and ruins. The island offers a peaceful retreat and is accessible by boat. It really is a unique destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs.
If you’d like to explore these Ireland’s Islands check out; https://www.wildernessireland.com/
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