Inishmaan

Inishmaan, one of the Aran Islands, located about 30 miles off the coast of Galway City is also known as the middle island. It is about one third the size of Inishmore but slightly larger than Inisheer. With its mainly stone cottages and thatched roofs, it gives perhaps the best example among the islands of what the old, traditional lifestyle was like.

Full electrical coverage to the people of Inismaan was only completed in the mid 70s The Irish language is the main one spoken by the islanders, but you will not have any problems getting by with English. The main industry on the Island is fishing (many of the fishermen still use the traditional Aran boat called the Currach) and sheep raising (to provide the wool for the world renowned Aran jumpers). There is also a knitwear company that provides the top of the line wool clothing for many businesses as well as for some exclusive stores in the United States.

Dun Conchuir, an ancient oval stone fort, the largest of the Aran Island forts, gives a breathtaking view of the island's other ancient sites as well as some superb views of the sea. It also contains the ruins of several hut foundations. Among its more notable monuments is the ancient Kilcanonagh Church, the 15th century Templemurray and the fragments of Templeshaghtmacree, or the church of the King's seven sons. There is one church on the island with beautiful Harry Clarke Studio windows.

Bed and Breakfast accommodation is available on Inishmann, but reservations should be made ahead of time due to the limited amount of rooms and the fact that some owners provide only a seasonal service. There are no banks on the island, so the bank flies in with Aer Arann (which also flies in visitors, who choose not to take the ferry, from Connemara Co. Galway) each month for business. Ferry service is available to and form the other Aran Islands as well as from Galway City and from Doolin, Co. Clare .