Inis Meáin Ferry

Inis Meáin Beaches & Coastlines

Two beaches are located on the Northern and Eastern part of the Island. They are a great spot to relax and enjoy a picnic or swim and the incredible views. Inis Meain was and is still a retreat for many famous writers, poets, and artists. The most famous was JM Synge of course. The lure of island life was a powerful influence on this great Irish writer. The cottage where he stayed and crafted classics has recently been renovated and you can now go in for a visit. Synge’s poems are said to have inspired Harry Clarke’s stained glass windows which you can also find in the Island church.

Fort Ruins

There are two well preserved forts remaining on Inis Meain. Dún Chonchúir and Dún Fearbhaí. Dún Chonchúir is the largest of the two forts and it rests on the highest hill top of the Island. It has an oval shape with high walls making for very dramatic scenery. The walls are even thicker than those on Dun Aonghasa on Inis Mor. The forts were built in the bronze or iron ages and were occupied until medieval times. Dún Fearbhai is located closer to the pier on the south eastern side of the Island. This fort is different from Dun Chonchuir in that it is a more rectangular shape rather than oval.

Inis Meain Gatherings

There is only one pub on the here so it is an important gathering place for Islanders and guests. The Island hosts Irish language and Traditional Culture courses where you can learn about the history and traditions of the Aran Islands. Courses range from music, story-telling and poetry, to set dancing and environmental studies.

You can now also join presenter of RTÉ’s acclaimed nature series ‘Faoi Bhláth’, Aedín Ní Thiarnaigh, on a breathtaking Wildflower Walk on this most remote place of the Aran Islands.