A new ferry route has set sail from the city docks of Galway to Inis Mór, the largest of the three Aran Islands – and it includes a cruise along the stunning Cliffs of Moher
Ireland: A new ferry route has set sail from the city docks of Galway to Inis Mór, the largest of the three Aran Islands – and it includes a cruise along the stunning Cliffs of Moher.
The new Aran Island Ferries route offers amazing connectivity to the most iconic islands on the Wild Atlantic Way from the waterfront at the ‘City of Tribes’ for the first time.
Departing daily at 9.30 a.m., the new sailing complements the traditional Aran Island Ferries route fromRossaveal Harbour in the heart of the Irish-speaking region of Connemara.
The trip takes 90 minutes and offers spellbinding views of the beauty of the west of Ireland coastline including the scenery of Connemara, County Clare and the glorious Aran Islands.
Once docked on Inis Mór, you can hire bikes, take minibus tours, relax on the many beaches, enjoy a swim, walk, or even take a pony and trap to explore.
Stop to enjoy a tasty lunch or snacks at the Aran Islands Hotel, sup a pint at Joe Watty’s Bar, sample the delicious Aran Islands Goats Cheese or relax with a coffee at the thatched-roofedTigh Nan Phaidi café.
In addition to the popular sights such as Dún Aengus, this summer there will be a range of fabulous new attractions on the island, including Inis Mór Dive Academy, which offer scuba courses for kids, adults, beginners and pros, and the Aran Off Roads Experience, which can bring you to the real hidden gems of the ancient Island.
The return trip to the mainland lets passengers cruise around the other two Aran Islands ofInisMeáin and InisOirr, before going on to see the spectacular cliffs of Moher. There is a full commentary on board the ferry, plus the chance to see dolphins and some of the unique birds and nature of Galway Bay.
The new ferry route opens up an array of Wild Atlantic Ways experiences before and after the voyage.
For a base in Galway, enjoy a home away from home with all the comforts of a luxury hotel on your doorstep at Lettery Lodge and Owenmore Cottage on the grounds of Ballynahinch Castle in Connemara. Few self-catering properties can offer the space, serenity, luxury and discreetness available in this iconic part of Ireland.
Look out also for an exciting getaway at the Dean Hotel Galway, a new boutique hotel opening in October in the city. A slice of boutique bliss in the centre of Galway, one of Europe’s friendliest cities, will be a delight in the autumntime.
If you prefer to get back to nature, head to Connemara National Park for the ultimate in wild camping, or go for a carbon-conscious adventure at Clifden Eco Beach Camping. This award-winning ecological park is nestled among sand dunes on the shores of the Wild Atlantic Way, close to the thriving town of Clifden and Connemara National Park.
Or, with Aran Islands Camping & Glamping, you can have everything you need for a stay on Inis Móritself. Comfort, jaw-dropping landscapes, gorgeous sunsets and night skies and local traditions that go back thousands of years all come as standard on the island.
Galway is regarded as the gourmet capital of Ireland, and while in the area some fine dining is a must.
Choose from the likes of the new Michelin Green Star and Michelin Bib Gourmand holders Kai Restaurant, and the Michelin-starred restaurant and wine bar, Loam. Michelin-starred food inspired by the west of Ireland is also available at Aniarin the west end of Galway city.
Or for sumptuous dining in an out-of-this-world setting on one of the Aran Islands, book a table, a room, or both at InisMeáin Restaurant and Suites on InisMeáin.
