Beyond the iconic green fields and rugged cliffs of Ireland's west coast lies a secret that rivals any tropical getaway. The Inishkea Islands, a pair of stunning landmasses just three kilometres off the coast of County Mayo, offer a breathtaking escape into natural beauty and forgotten history, with their pristine shores remaining largely uninhabited for nearly a century.
A Hidden Gem on the Wild Atlantic Way
Located on the famous Wild Atlantic Way, the Inishkea Islands are a true hidden treasure of rural Ireland. Comprising Inishkea North and Inishkea South, separated by a narrow channel, these islands are more than just a scenic spot. Their name is thought to originate from Saint Kea, an ancient saint who is believed to have once lived there, adding a layer of spiritual mystery to their allure. The larger, Inishkea North, features higher ground covered in expansive landscapes of heather and willow.
Wildlife, White Sands, and Abandoned Villages
The islands are a sanctuary for nature lovers. Visitors can observe a flourishing seal colony, diverse seabirds, and abundant marine life in the surrounding waters. The crown jewel, however, is a spectacular beach of soft, white sand that invites relaxation and swimming in idyllic conditions.
Scattered across the islands are poignant historical landmarks, including the remains of a Christian monastery with beehive huts near St Colmcille's Church. This site was once part of a thriving monastic community and was later converted into stone dwellings for a fishing village. No one has lived permanently on the Inishkea Islands since the 1930s, leaving these structures as haunting yet beautiful testaments to a past way of life. While some individuals may visit seasonally, there are no year-round residents.
Planning Your Visit to the Inishkeas
Access to this secluded paradise is exclusively by boat. Fortunately, daily boat trips and guided tours are readily available, particularly during the summer months. Many excursions are run by local operators, with Belmullet Boat Charters offering regular departures from the town of Belmullet.
Recent tourists have left glowing reviews of their experiences. One visitor on TripAdvisor recounted, "We had a fabulous trip to Inishkea with Belmullet Boat Charters. It's a stunning island with lots of space to wander around through the abandoned village, up to the highest point where you can see the sea all around, and a swim at one of the beaches with beautiful white sand." Another praised the informative 50-minute ferry journey and the chance to see cliffs, seals, and cormorants.
For those seeking an adventure off Ireland's beaten track, the Inishkea Islands present a unique combination of raw natural splendour, fascinating wildlife, and a silently powerful history, all waiting to be explored just a short boat ride from the Mayo coast.
