TRAIL BLAZING
and no walker’s backpack is complete without a rst-aid kit, a torch and a whistle. Please remember that mobile phone coverage can be inconsistent and unpredictable, so it’s always good to have enough back-up bits included in your bag. e main thing is to equip yourself realistically, bearing in mind your current ability, tness and experience. Never push on regardless – and this relates to all walks. If unsure, be safe and return another day. e Aran Islands, with their unique combination of ora, fauna and landscape, are explored by large numbers of walkers annually. Access to the Aran Island is by ferry from Rossaveel, County Galway or from Doolin pier in Clare. A recommended pocket-sized walking guide is the revised edition of the popular e Burren & e Islands – A Walking Guide by Tony Kirby,
Inis Mór is the largest and most developed of the Aran Islands that lie scattered o the Galway Coast. It’s the island that I will start my own walking vacation on. Many rare owers are to be found there such as gentian violets and orchids.
Inis Meáin has a population of around 200 and has been described as ‘A precious sanctuary of Irish cultural tradition’. e landscape is hilly and when the weather is favourable, you can get clear views of the Cli s of Moher. ere are many ancient sites to explore on the island that was a retreat haven for the famous Irish playwright, John Millington Synge.
Inis Oírr is the smallest and most easterly of the three Aran Islands – just eight kilometres o the coast of Clare. e island has been described as ‘a tranquil place – perfect for quiet contemplation and relaxed walks’.
It’s a tonic for mind, body and spirit to explore new places and discover and complete new walks. My 13-day walk from Ballyhaunis to Dublin has been a pure joy – every step of the way; meeting old and new friends and walking at a steady pace with a grateful heart and purpose in every stride.
Guided Walks are also available on e Aran Islands. See: or phone: 353- (0) 99 75 979 or email: cleasteo@gmail.com e OSI Adventure Series is an activity oriented map and provides detailed mapping in speci c locations, like the Aran Islands, for the outdoor enthusiast such as mountaineers, hill walkers, cyclists and other users of the Irish countryside.
For more visit
www.cleas-teoranta.com store.osi.
For this week only, RTÉ Guide readers can avail of free postage when purchasing the Aran Islands Adventure Series Map online at store.osi.ie using this code Aranfreeshipping2020.
Happy exploring!
While all walking trails are clearly outlined on Sheet 51 of Ordnance Survey Ireland’s Discovery Series, more information is available on a number of websites, including gear requirement, colour of directional arrows and links to downloadable maps and guiding notes. Up-to-date information is available at:
discoverireland.ie/aran-islands sportireland.ie/outdoors/walking/ trails