Inis Meain

Inis Meain (2,252 acres) is the middle island and is said to be the most untouched of the three Aran Islands. Here you will experience the natural, cultural, traditional way of life of the islanders. The island is currently populated by only 200 people. This botanical paradise has over 300 flowering plants from places as far apart as the Arctic and the Mediterranean region. Among the plants to be found on the island are Orchids, Honeysuckle and Irish Saxifrage. A wide variety of nesting birds and natural ecosystems are also to be found A hotel recently opened on the island, Óstán Inis Meain, this offers accommodation all year round. When travelling to Inis Meain it is recommended that you would organise accommodation prior to arriving.

Places to Visit on Inis Meain:

Dún Chonchúir:
This is a large oval fort dating around 5th Century A.D. Built by Conchúir brother of Aengus of the Fir Bolg. It is located on a high point of the island where the view is magnificent. This magnificent oval stone fort contains a number of hut-foundations.

Dún Fearbhaí:
This stone fort of the 4th Century A.D, is an unusual in being almost square, instead of circular as the other forst are on the island. It is located on the top of a hill with terraced hills to its front. It is easy to climb on top of the wall, and look over to the pier and watch all the activity of boats arriving and departing.

Teach Synge:
The house where John Millington Synge stayed in while visiting the island. It has recently been fully restored to its original glory by the Co-Operative on the island. It is highly recommended that you visit this house while on the island.

Leaba Dhiarmuid agus Gráinne:
Dermot and Gráinne's bed, a collapsed neolithic wedge tomb named after tragic lovers from ancient Irish mythology.

Seipeal Eoin agus Naomh Mhuire gan Smal:

Church erected in 1939 with beautiful stained glass windows by Harry Clarke.

Teampall na Seacht Mac Ri:

Early Christian church; formerly a place of pilgrimage

Inis Meáin Knitwear:
Knitwear factory offering locally produced Knitwear that is shipped all over the world. The factory has a shop where you can purchase goods directly and offers tax free shopping to visitors outside the EU.