Things to Do in Inisheer, Ireland

Inisheer Things to Do

Inisheer is the smallest of the lovely Aran Islands in West Ireland. Take a look at some of the must-do activities that should be on your itinerary when you visit Inisheer.

Áras Éanna

Áras Éanna is Inisheer’s dedicated center for arts and culture. Here you can get an up close look at both traditional and contemporary arts in the area. The center offers events that change monthly, as well as showcases for various resident artists. If you’re interested in arts and crafts yourself, there are classes available, including a popular course on basket weaving.

The center also offers a variety of classes for children, ranging from traditional arts classes like painting and pottery to more specialized courses, such as one for learning circus skills. Visit their website for classes and programs that will be offered during the time of your visit.

Plassy Shipwreck

A popular site for tourists to visit is the Plassy shipwreck, located on the eastern part of the island. The ship in question was once a cargo ship that wrecked on the rocks of Inisheer in 1960. Local islanders are credited with saving the ship’s crew, at considerable risk to their own lives. Because of their bravery and willingness to venture into the rough seas, no lives were lost in the shipwreck. The ship itself was washed onto the rocks, where it remains as a point of interest for tourists.

O’Brien’s Castle

Overlooking the beach are the ruins of a castle built by the O’Brien clan, a family that ruled the Aran Islands for more than four centuries. The castle ruins date back to the 15^th century, but if that isn’t enough history for you, the castle is also located in the center of what was once a stone fort known as Dún Formna that dates all the way back to the Iron Age. Bring your camera when you go to the castle, as you’ll definitely want to capture the breathtaking views of the island that you can see from the summit of the hill that the castle stands on.

The Beach

The beach at Inisheer is notable for its clean shores and clear water, and for the fact that it’s usually fairly peaceful and uncrowded. It’s a good place for swimming and shore fishing, and you can also get a clear view of the traditional fishing boats called currachs, which have been used by the island’s fishermen for centuries and are still in use today.

Don’t miss these amazing attractions during your visit to Inisheer.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Inisheer.