June 16-17, 2009

Aran Islands:  Inis Mor

Early in the morning of the 16th we (Ralph and Jenni) went to Shannon where they picked up a rental car which they drove to Rossaveal in Connemara where they took a ferry to Inis Mor, the largest of the Aran Islands, which are Gaelic.  We arrived in Kilronan, the largest town, from which they took a taxi a few miles west to Creig-An-Cheirin where they checked in to the Creigmount House B&B.

Under threatening skies we walked for several miles along the main road to see some of the sights.

Na Seache d'Teampheall (The Seven Churches), the remains of several ancient churches and some 15th Century monastic houses.
Stone walls were everywhere.  They are loose laid and intentionally built with gaps so that the winds can blow through.

Then we walked to and visited Dun Aengus, a vast 4000-year-old semi-circular Celtic stone fortress on the edge of a cliff some 90m above the sea.  Its purpose is unknown.

The Inner Fort
There is barely any soil.

As the rain became heavier we got a ride into town where we had a wonderful dinner at the Pier House.  The next morning we wandered about the town and harbor and noted a number of unusual plants in the yards before taking a ferry back to the mainland.

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Last updated: September 13, 2009