Cnoc Raithní, Aran Islands Travel Guide

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Explore Cnoc Raithní on Inisheer: a Bronze Age burial mound offering a glimpse into Ireland's ancient past and stunning island views.

Cnoc Raithní, a Bronze Age burial mound on Inisheer, dates back to 1500 BC, marking it as one of the island's earliest settlements. Rediscovered after a storm in 1885, this historical landmark offers a glimpse into Ireland's ancient past.

A brief summary to Cnoc Raithní

Unnamed Road, Inisheer, Inisheer, Co. Galway, IE
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cnoc Raithní.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around Cnoc Raithní is uneven.
Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views from the top of the mound.
Check the ferry schedule in advance, as they can vary depending on the season.
Consider renting a bike from the pier to explore more of Inisheer.

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Getting There

Ferry

To reach Cnoc Raithní, you must first take a ferry to Inisheer. Ferries operate from Doolin and Rossaveal. From Doolin, the ferry takes about 15-30 minutes. A round-trip ticket from Doolin costs approximately €32 for adults. From Rossaveal, the ferry takes about 55 minutes. Check the ferry schedules as they vary.
Walking

From the Inisheer pier, Cnoc Raithní is about 3 kilometers away. Head east from the pier towards the village. Follow the road signs for about 30-40 minutes; the terrain is relatively flat. Alternatively, consider a horse-drawn cart from the pier for around €10-€15 per person.

Discover more about Cnoc Raithní

Cnoc Raithní, meaning "hill of bracken," is a Bronze Age burial mound and a national monument on Inisheer, the smallest of the Aran Islands. Dating back to approximately 1500 BC, it stands as one of the earliest known settlements on the island.Covered by sand for centuries, a storm in 1885 exposed the mound, leading to its rediscovery and subsequent excavation. Excavations revealed cinerary urns containing cremated bones and a bronze pin, artifacts now displayed in Dublin's National Museum. The site may have served as a tomb for pagan ceremonies.The structure consists of a sandy mound encircled by a drystone wall. The southern half features about 27 slab-lined graves, while the northern half has a kerbed platform with two limestone pillars. From the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. Today, Cnoc Raithní is open to visitors, offering a trek back in time and a chance to admire Ireland's natural splendor.