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My Ireland

Looking for inspiration? Planning a trip? Or just want to scroll yourself happy? We'll show you an Ireland that's tailor-made for you.

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    Skellig Islands

    A long time ago, before Skellig Michael welcomed Star Wars, dedicated monks made this remote island their sanctuary
    • #WildAtlanticWay
    • #NatureandWildlife
    • #StarWars
    County Kerry
    Amazing landscapes
    3hrs from Shannon Airport

    Skellig Islands, County Kerry

    Isles of the elements

    It lies out there like a dream in the middle of the Atlantic, this incredible island, and star of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. Settled by monks well over a millennium ago, Skellig Michael is a destination that sets your imagination on fire, with an against-the-odds tale of endurance, survival and architectural artistry.

    As it looms up out of the ocean, the sheer unreality of this UNESCO World Heritage Site becomes clear. Accessible only by boat, lashed by the elements, and inhabited almost solely by the numerous seabirds for which both Skellig Michael and its sister island Little Skellig are famous, it feels like a place to which man was never meant to venture. An 'incredible, impossible, mad place,' in the words of playwright George Bernard Shaw, "a part of our dream world."

    If Skellig Michael seems unlikely, that’s because it is. No wonder it was chosen as a location for Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

    Skellig Islands, County Kerry

    L-R: stone steps on Skellig Michael; puffins on the Skellig rocks; beehive huts built by monks in the 6th century; an aerial view of Skellig Michael

    Monastic marvels

    In the 6th century, however, a small group of monks retreated here. The artistry, creativity and ingenuity of these early settlers is still there to see. Little windows in the church built here frame the view of nearby Little Skellig, the sun warms the monastic village, which seems remarkably protected from the wind, and a vast expanse of sea and sky surrounds you.

    Just like the monks all those centuries ago, you're battling the elements to get here. Access to the island is seasonal (usually between summer and autumn), and weather permitting. Numbers visiting the island are limited, too, so booking in advance is highly recommended. And of course, don’t forget a hardy pair of shoes…

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    Skellig Michael, County Kerry

     

    Otherworldly isles

    The islands are wild, unusual, and as described by George Bernard Shaw, 'part of our dream world'.

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    A walk amongst wonders

    As you climb the 600 or so steps leading to the monastic village, the views will take your breath away. But those steps are not for the faint of heart. Anyone with a fear of heights may find the summit – some 218 metres (714 feet) high – a step too far, while the trip is also not recommended for those with reduced mobility.

    But for those up to the challenge, it's a privilege to experience this stark serenity untouched by the modern world. We wonder at the fortitude of those long-ago monks who chose this place – but to live surrounded by such beauty? Suddenly Skellig Michael starts to make sense.

    3 ways to experience the Skellig Islands

    Sneem, County Kerry Sneem, County Kerry

    Explore the Skelligs by boat

    Take to the ocean on a boat trip to Skellig Michael. Or choose a boat tour that will take you around the island.

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    Visit the Skellig Experience

    What was life really like on these isolated islands? Learn about history of the Skellig Islands at this heritage centre.

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    Tour the Skellig Ring drive

    The Skellig Ring drive is a detour off the Ring of Kerry: think winding lanes, mountain roads and the Atlantic Ocean.

    Skellig Islands highlights

    Don't miss these things to see and do

    Attraction

    Skellig Coast Discovery

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    Attraction

    The Skellig Experience

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    Attraction

    Skellig Tours

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    Attraction

    The Bridge Bar

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    Attraction

    Skelligs Chocolate

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    Attraction

    Moorings Seafood Restaurant

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    Attraction

    Killarney National Park

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    Attraction

    Valentia Island - Kerry

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    Attraction

    Kerry International Dark-Sky Reserve

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    Skellig Coast Discovery

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    Attraction

    Wild Atlantic Boats

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    Attraction

    Kissane Sheep Farm

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