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(0 votes)Arranmore Island is accessible by ferry from Burtonport, a small fishing village on the mainland. The ferry journey takes approximately 15 minutes. It is best to check the timetable in advance, as it may vary depending on the season and weather conditions.
Off the coast of County Donegal in the far north-west of Ireland lies a small, barren yet utterly captivating piece of land: Arranmore Island. Accessible in just 20 minutes by ferry from Burtonport Harbour, this 8-kilometre-long island is home to fewer than 500 people. But appearances can be deceptive! Beneath its wind-battered cliffs, the largest of the Árainn islands holds fabulous treasures for those who take the time to discover it. Follow the guide and explore its rugged charms!
Traces of occupation dating back to the Neolithic period attest that the island has been inhabited since time immemorial. Its Gaelic name, Árainn Mhór, means “the great island of Arran”, referring to the legendary king IránmacUidhir, who is said to have ruled Donegal. In the 5th century, the monk tasked with evangelising Ireland, Saint Columba, is said to have come here himself to found a monastery, the remains of which can still be seen in the south of the island.
Later, from the 12th to the 16th century, the MacLochlainn clan established a prosperous kingdom there through fishing and trade with nearby Scotland. Sadly, intensive potato cultivation carried out by the English caused devastating famines in the 19th century.
The population then fell to 300 inhabitants, who lived from farming and small-scale fishing.
Today, the island is enjoying a new lease of life thanks to sustainable tourism and new residents from the mainland, attracted by this haven of peace where time seems to have stood still.
To reach “Árainn the great”, simply take the ferry from Burtonport, a charming fishing harbour with colourful houses. Crossing the bay already offers a taste of the island’s rugged beauty, with breathtaking views of towering cliffs and rocky coves battered by the waves.
Once you have disembarked, it is impossible to get lost!
A single 15-kilometre road circles the island and connects its few scattered hamlets. Do not miss the village of Leabgarrow and its traditional dry-stone-walled houses, some of which are inhabited year-round. Strolling along the coastal path also allows you to admire Owey Island, a rocky islet known for being… the smallest inhabited island in Ireland, with just two residents!
As for nature, the scenery is breathtaking, with cliffs, salt-spray-swept heathland and wild coves such as the magnificent beach at Corc. The lucky ones may even spot seals, dolphins and ospreys from the panoramic viewpoints along the coast.
Do not leave without tasting the famous local lobster, caught in the bay that very day, as well as traditional Irish coffee to warm hearts and bodies after a windy walk along the cliffs!
You will leave won over by the rugged charm of this island frozen in time, where the warm welcome of the locals contrasts with the postcard landscapes. So, tempted by a timeless escape to Árainn Mhór?
