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Na Blascaodaí

Discover pre-historic remains and extraordinary bird-life. Some 6 km beyond the most westerly tip of the Dingle Peninsula (Leithinis an Daingin) in County Kerry, large humps of sandstone with awesome cliffs rise from the Atlantic Ocean. Surrounded by smaller rocks and reefs, these are Na Blascaodaí. The largest of the nine islands An Blascaod Mór was finally abandoned in 1953 when the last twenty two people living on the island were moved to the mainland. The island's population, which once boasted one hundred and seventy five residents, had steadily declined through emigration. No other island community of this size has yielded such a literary wealth, producing world renowned writers who documented island life in their beloved Irish language and whose work have been translated into many languages. An Blascaod Mór remains uninhabited today but the island is open to visitors. Explore this historic island on foot along its steep grassy paths and hilly tracks. Discover the pre-historic remains and extraordinary bird-life as well as the large colony of seals who have made Na Blascaodaí their home. Vist the Blasket Islands centre in Dún Chaoin for an insight into the islands.

Directions:

6 km west of Slea Head, at the very tip of the Dingle Peninsula (Leithinis an Daingin), Co. Kerry.

Descriptions:

• Activities
• Did you know?
• Population
• Size
• When to visit

Highlights:

Walking the island trails and village ruins, bird-watching, picnicing and bathing on White Strand.

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