How to Plan Your Cycling Tour of Inishmore Island in Aran Islands

If you’re looking for an adventure in the Aran Islands, cycling through Inishmore might be the perfect activity for you. With ancient stone forts, wildlife colonies, and beautiful scenery, there’s something for everyone on the largest of the Aran Islands. In this post, we’ll walk through how to plan your cycling tour of Inishmore Island in Aran Islands.

Overview of the Cycling Tour

The self-guided cycling tour of Inishmore Island allows you to explore the island at your own pace. Cycle through lush green fields and feel the sea-breeze on your face as you’re transported into the lap of nature. The tour offers an opportunity to explore the famous island attractions, including the ancient stone forts, pagan standing stones, and the Worm Hole, a natural wonder rectangle pool by the seaside.

The tour starts at the pier on Inis Mor Island and includes the rental of a bike, in addition to a free map of the island, roadside assistance, and helmets. With a large collection of high-quality bikes, you can choose one that’s suitable for your choice of cycling through the terrain. The cycling trail is well laid-out, and all the famous island attractions are easily accessible by bike.

What’s Included

The cycling tour offers the rental of a high-quality bike, suitable for cycling through the island’s terrain. The bikes are in excellent condition, and you can choose the one that fits you the best. In addition to the bike rental, the tour includes a complimentary island map that will help you navigate your way through the island’s various attractions. The tour offers free helmets and roadside assistance, so you’ll be safe throughout your cycling adventure.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is Inishmore. The tour starts at 10:00 AM and ends back at the meeting point, so you have plenty of time to explore the island at your pace. The start point is the pier on Inis Mor Island, and you can easily reach there through ferry.

What to Expect on the Tour?

The cycling tour of Inishmore is perfect for those who love adventure and prefer to explore the island at their own pace. The tour covers all the prominent island attractions, including ancient stone forts, standing stones, and natural wonders like the Worm Hole. There are plenty of options for food and snacks on the island, so you can take all the time you need to explore its natural beauty.

Booking Your Tour

To book your cycling tour of Inishmore Island in Aran Islands, visit the link:
book the tour here. The tour is offered by a third-party company, Viator, and provides high-quality bikes and complimentary island maps, helmets, and roadside assistance.

Conclusion

Cycling through the ancient stone forts, wildlife colonies, and beautiful landscapes of Inishmore Island is an excellent way to immerse yourself in nature. With a self-guided cycling tour, you can explore the island at your pace, and take in all the attractions this beautiful island has to offer. Book your tour today, and get ready for an unforgettable cycling adventure through Inishmore Island in the Aran Islands.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Aran Islands

The Aran Islands are a set of three islands located in Galway Bay off the west coast of Ireland. They are a popular tourist destination due to their stunning landscapes, unique culture, and rich history. If you are planning a visit to the Aran Islands, you may have some questions. In this post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the Aran Islands.

1. How do I get to the Aran Islands?

The Aran Islands can be reached by ferry or plane. Ferries operate from two locations on the mainland – Rossaveal in Connemara and Doolin in County Clare. The journey from Rossaveal takes approximately 45 minutes, while the journey from Doolin takes around 90 minutes. Flights to the Aran Islands operate from Inverin in Connemara and take around 10 minutes.

2. Which island should I visit?

The Aran Islands consist of three islands – Inis Mor, Inis Meain, and Inis Oirr. Inis Mor is the largest and most visited island, known for its stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and traditional culture. Inis Meain is quieter and less touristy, ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Inis Oirr is the smallest and most intimate of the three islands, with a close-knit community and beautiful beaches.

3. What is the best time of year to visit?

The best time of year to visit the Aran Islands is during the summer months, from May to September. During this time, the weather is generally warm and dry, and the days are long. However, it is also the busiest time of year, with large crowds of tourists on the islands. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April or October.

4. What should I pack for my trip?

When visiting the Aran Islands, it is important to pack appropriately. Bring warm, waterproof clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable. Comfortable footwear is also essential, as the islands are rugged and hilly. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and unique culture of the islands.

5. What are the must-see sights on the islands?

There are many must-see sights on the Aran Islands, including:

– Dún Aonghasa – a spectacular ancient fort located on the edge of a cliff on Inis Mor
– The Wormhole – a natural swimming pool on Inis Mor that was used as a location in the TV series “Red Rock”
– Teampall Bheanain – the smallest church in the world, located on Inis Oirr
– The Plassey shipwreck – a famous shipwreck on Inis Oirr that was made famous by the TV series “Father Ted”
– The Aran Sweater Market – a popular store on Inis Mor selling traditional Aran sweaters and other knitwear

6. What is the traditional culture of the Aran Islands?

The Aran Islands have a rich and unique culture, with a strong emphasis on traditional Irish language, music, and crafts. The Aran Islands are known for their distinctive knitwear, including the famous Aran sweater. Traditional Irish music sessions are also a common sight on the islands, with many local pubs hosting live music throughout the week. Visitors can also experience the traditional Irish language, with many locals speaking Irish as their first language.

7. Is it possible to stay overnight on the islands?

Yes, there are a number of accommodation options on the Aran Islands, including guesthouses, hostels, and self-catering apartments. The islands are also home to several campsites, ideal for those seeking a more adventurous experience. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during the busy summer months.

8. What is the food like on the islands?

The Aran Islands are known for their delicious seafood, including freshly caught fish and shellfish. Traditional Irish dishes such as Irish stew and soda bread are also a common sight on menus. The islands are also home to several artisanal food producers, including cheese-makers and chocolatiers, offering a unique taste of the local cuisine.

In conclusion, the Aran Islands are a unique and fascinating destination that offers a window into Ireland’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Whether you are interested in ancient ruins, traditional culture, or simply stunning landscapes, the Aran Islands are sure to delight. By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope to help you plan your trip to the Aran Islands and make the most of your visit.