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Skellig Islands
Skellig Islands, County Kerry
Isles of the elements
It lies out there like a dream in the middle of the Atlantic, this incredible island, and star of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. Settled by monks well over a millennium ago, Skellig Michael is a destination that sets your imagination on fire, with an against-the-odds tale of endurance, survival and architectural artistry.
As it looms up out of the ocean, the sheer unreality of this UNESCO World Heritage Site becomes clear. Accessible only by boat, lashed by the elements, and inhabited almost solely by the numerous seabirds for which both Skellig Michael and its sister island Little Skellig are famous, it feels like a place to which man was never meant to venture. An "incredible, impossible, mad place", in the words of playwright George Bernard Shaw, "a part of our dream world."
If Skellig Michael seems unlikely, that’s because it is. No wonder it was chosen as a location for Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
Skellig Islands, County Kerry
L-R: stone steps on Skellig Michael; puffins on the Skellig rocks; beehive huts built by monks in the 6th century; an aerial view of Skellig Michael
Monastic marvels
In the 6th century, however, a small group of monks retreated here. The artistry, creativity and ingenuity of these early settlers is still there to see. Little windows in the church built here frame the view of nearby Little Skellig, the sun warms the monastic village, which seems remarkably protected from the wind, and a vast expanse of sea and sky surrounds you.
Just like the monks all those centuries ago, you're battling the elements to get here. Access to the island is seasonal (usually between summer and autumn), and weather permitting. Numbers visiting the island are limited, too, so booking in advance is highly recommended. And of course, don’t forget a hardy pair of shoes…
Skellig Michael, County Kerry
A walk amongst wonders
As you climb the 600 or so steps leading to the monastic village, the views will take your breath away. But those steps are not for the faint of heart. Anyone with a fear of heights may find the summit – some 218 metres (714 feet) high – a step too far, while the trip is also not recommended for those with reduced mobility.
But for those up to the challenge, it's a privilege to experience this stark serenity untouched by the modern world. We wonder at the fortitude of those long-ago monks who chose this place – but to live surrounded by such beauty? Suddenly Skellig Michael starts to make sense.
3 ways to experience the Skellig Islands
Explore the Skelligs by boat
Take to the ocean on a boat trip to Skellig Michael. Or choose a boat tour that will take you around the island.
Visit the Skellig Experience
What was life really like on these isolated islands? Learn about history of the Skellig Islands at this heritage centre.
Tour the Skellig Ring drive
The Skellig Ring drive is a detour off the Ring of Kerry: think winding lanes, mountain roads and the Atlantic Ocean.
Skellig Islands highlights
Don't miss these things to see and do
Skellig Coast Discovery
Skellig Coast Discovery in Caherdaniel, County Kerry, offers boat trips for up to 12 people to experience the seascapes, maritime folklore, history and wildlife of the Skellig coast. An audio tour is included. Enjoy an immersive experience where you can see marine life up close.
Kerry
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The Skellig Experience
This heritage centre tells the story of the Skellig Rocks. Learn about the monks who lived on these desolate rocks, the seabirds, the nearby lighthouses and the marine life of the Skelligs.
Kerry
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Skellig Tours
John O'Shea of Skellig Tours has the local islands in his blood. He departs daily for the Skelligs from Derrynane Harbour near Catherdaniel, County Kerry.
Kerry
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The Bridge Bar
Open all year round, the award winning Bridge Bar in Portmagee, County Kerry, is the perfect place to experience true village life. Great food, great atmosphere and great craic with regular traditional music and set dancing sessions.
Kerry
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Skelligs Chocolate
Stop off at Skelligs Chocolate in Ballinskelligs on a trip around the stunning Ring of Kerry. Enjoy the experience of watching chocolate makers at work and taste the delicious treats for yourself.
Kerry
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Moorings Seafood Restaurant
With the ocean’s bounty at the doorstep, it comes as no surprise that seafood plays a large part in The Moorings cuisine.
Kerry
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Killarney National Park
Make your way to the internationally renowned Killarney National Park, in County Kerry. Come here for the scenic beauty with 10,000 hectares of stunning lakes, mountains and woods.
Kerry
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Valentia Island - Kerry
Traces of 350 million year old wildlife are found on Valentia Island, one of the largest islands off the South West coast of Kerry. Nowadays a plethora of living flora and fauna make this beautiful Island their home.
Kerry
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Skellig Coast Discovery
Skellig Coast Discovery in Caherdaniel, County Kerry, offers boat trips for up to 12 people to experience the seascapes, maritime folklore, history and wildlife of the Skellig coast. An audio tour is included. Enjoy an immersive experience where you can see marine life up close.
Kerry
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Wild Atlantic Boats
Wild Atlantic Boats on Valentia Island, County Kerry, provide angling and marine sightseeing trips aboard the Wey Chieftain. Explore the Skellig Coast with local skippers and anglers. The Skellig Coast is rich with marine life including whales, dolphins, seals and marine bird life.
Kerry
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