The Aran Islands are one of Ireland's most fascinating destinations, a place with an Old World atmosphere where the locals speak Irish Gaelic among themselves. The three islands, Inishmore, Inishmaan and Inisheer, are located about 23 miles off the west coast of Ireland near Galway and have a collective population of just 1,200. While there may be more sheep than humans living here, it is here that you will find some of the most imaginative scenery along with the chance to watch fishermen in woollen jumpers transport their catch in traditional currach boats and walk through a maze of stone walls, contemplating life amidst the stillness.
Fly in for a spectacular aerial view Credit: bigstock.com Inisheer Island
Fly in for a spectacular aerial view (Hotels nearby)
While ferries are available to take you to the islands, you might consider taking the short flight simply for the view, since the aerial view of the islands is probably the best you can get. Scenic excursions are also available, taking off from Connemara Airport, flying south along the coast for incredible views of the Cliffs of Moher before travelling northwest along Galway Bay to see all three Aran Islands, including views of Dun Aengus Forte on Inishmore.
Take a ride on Inisheer's Pony and Trap 
Credit: K.C. Dermody Pony and Trap tour of Inisheer Island, Ireland
Take a tour of Inisheer's Pony and Trap
The smallest of the three islands, Inisheer is also the quietest. While you'll see a few tourist groups arriving on day trips, if you stay and spend the night, you'll pretty much have it to yourself. While the two-square-kilometre island is easily navigable on foot, one of the best ways to see the highlights is to take a pony and trap driver tour that includes a visit to the Plassey shipwreck, a steamboat that was washed ashore in 1960. It is perhaps best known for its appearance in the opening credits of the popular BBC television series, 'Father Ted', which was filmed in many parts of the county and is celebrated throughout the year with numerous festivals.
Admire the views from Dun Aonghasa Fort 
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Admire the Views from Dun Aonghasa Fort (Hotels nearby)
Dun Aonghasa Fort stands on a 300-foot cliff spanning the entire western part of Inishmore, an imposing stone fort that is one of the most extraordinary of its kind in all of Europe. Consisting of three concentric semi-circular stone walls of massive thickness and height, while the exact date of its construction is unknown, it is believed to date from the late Bronze Age. From here on a clear day, you can see for miles. If you can, visit early in the morning or late in the evening after hikers have gone to enjoy it in silence.
Search Wildflowers 
Credit: K.C. Dermody wildflower in Aran Islands, Ireland
Search Wildflowers (Hotels nearby)
Depending on the time of year you visit, usually April, May and June, you may be pleasantly surprised by the variety of colourful flowers growing among the limestone karst landscape of the islands. Take a walk around one of the islands to see them - you might also want to pick up author Charles Nelson's locally available book, Wild Plants of the Burren and Aran Islands, for more details on local wildflowers. The best known and perhaps most beautiful is the spring gentian, shown here. This dazzling blue flower grows on the ground in grassy areas where vegetation is kept low by grazing.
See the Beehive huts 
Credit: Bigstock.com Beehive hut, Ireland
See the Beehive huts (Hotels nearby)
While you're on Inishmore, you won't want to miss the beehive huts. The stone houses dating back to medieval times are oval on the outside and rectangular on the inside, with the beehive hut just west of Kilmurvey beach the most well preserved of all. While the purpose of the huts is unknown, one theory is that they served as temporary accommodation for religious pilgrims.
See the wormhole 
Credit: Red Bull Cliff Diving Red Bull Cliff Diving, Ireland
Discover the Wormhole (Hotels nearby)
The Wormhole, officially known as Poll na bPist, is a remarkable natural rock formation along the south coast of Inishmore. The 'péist' is said to be the reptilian sea monster of Gaelic folklore. Sea water pours into it through an underground cave, or when the tide is high, filling it from above. In recent years it has become almost as popular as Dun Aonghasa, thanks to participation in the Red Bull Cliff Diving Competition. Participants dive directly into the naturally rectangular-shaped pool where the cold Atlantic ebbs and flows into the underside of the cliffs - an incredible feat that will make your heart race, even if you just watch the event.
Visit Inishmore's Seal Colony 
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Visit Inishmore's Seal Colony (Hotels nearby)
Inishmore is home to a seal colony along the coastal road, about a 10-minute bike ride from Kilmurvey Beach. One of the island's most popular attractions, when the tide is right, you will see as many as 15 to 20 grey animals that can weigh up to 500 pounds, sunbathing on the rocks. Next to the colony is a small, picturesque lake where swans and ducks float on the serene waters, providing delights for birdwatchers.
Buy an Aran jumper 
Credit: Aran Sweater Market Aran Sweater Market, Ireland
Buy an Aran Sweater (Hotels nearby)
The village of Kilronan on Inishmore is the liveliest village on the islands as its main settlement, located on Kilronan Harbour with its pretty pier and fishing boats. Here you'll find the famous Aran Sweater Market, which naturally produces the famous Aran jumper from its extensive collection of Aran knitwear, with each garment intricately patterned with traditional motifs. Many come just for the chance to buy a jumper directly from The Aran Sweater Market and get that 'Certificate of Authenticity' in person. Even if you don't plan to buy, it's worth visiting the displays and exhibitions that pay homage to the history, culture and heritage of the craft.
Catch an Aran Sunset 
Credit: K.C. Dermody sunset from Inisheer Island, Ireland
Catch an Aran Sunset (Hotels nearby)
Sunsets on any of the Aran Islands are absolutely spectacular. No matter which one you plan to stay, go out before dusk with your camera and prepare to be amazed. This sunset with its golden yellow and bright orange hues was captured from what is probably the best B&B on Inisheer Island, South Aran House.