Dún Dúchathair (Black Fort): A Cliffside Fortress
Explore Dún Dúchathair, the Black Fort on Inishmore: a dramatic cliffside fortress offering a glimpse into Ireland's ancient past and stunning ocean views.
Dún Dúchathair, or the Black Fort, is an ancient stone fort dramatically situated on the cliffs of Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. Dating back to the Iron Age or early medieval period, its imposing walls and strategic location offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and a glimpse into Ireland's ancient past.
A brief summary to Dún Dúchathair (Black Fort)
- Inis, Killeany, Co. Galway, IE
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain around the fort can be uneven and rocky.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the spectacular views of the cliffs and ocean.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions on the island can change rapidly.
Getting There
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Walking
From Kilronan, the main village on Inishmore, Dún Dúchathair is approximately a 4 km walk. Head west out of Kilronan, following the coastal path. The walk takes about an hour, offering scenic views along the way. Be prepared for uneven terrain.
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Bicycle
Rent a bicycle in Kilronan, with rental shops near the pier. Follow the road west towards Dún Dúchathair, about a 30-minute ride. Be cautious of traffic on the narrow roads. Bike rentals typically cost €10-€15 per day, plus a deposit.
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Public Transport
A local bus service runs from Kilronan to Dún Dúchathair. Buses are available regularly throughout the day. Ask the driver to drop you off at the closest stop to Dún Dúchathair, which is a short walk from the bus stop. The fare is approximately €5 one way.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Kilronan to Dún Dúchathair. This will cost roughly €15-€20, depending on the driver and time of day. Taxis can be booked through local providers, and it's advisable to call ahead during peak tourist season.
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Ferry
To reach Inishmore, take a ferry from Rossaveal in Connemara or Doolin in County Clare. From Galway city, you can combine your Aran Island Ferry ticket with a bus transfer to Rossaveal. Ferry tickets from Rossaveal typically range from €70-€199. A round trip ferry from Doolin to Inishmore costs €39 for an adult.
Discover more about Dún Dúchathair (Black Fort)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tigh Fitz
1.6 km
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Aran Islands Hotel
1.7 km
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Seacrest B&B
2.0 km
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Thomas Faherty Tours
2.0 km
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Aran Celtic Tours
2.0 km
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Man of Aran Fudge
2.1 km
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Aran Islands Information
2.1 km
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Ard Einne House
2.1 km
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Visit Aran Islands
2.2 km
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Discover Aran Islands
2.2 km
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Fáilte Bus Tour, Aran Islands.
2.2 km
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Aran Tourist Information Centre
2.2 km
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Pier House Guesthouse
2.3 km
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Claí Bán Bed & Breakfast
2.3 km
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Joe Watty's Pub & Seafood Bar
2.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Dabhach an tSnámha
1.2 km
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Teampall Bheanáin
1.4 km
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Cliffs of Aran
1.6 km
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Kilronan Beach
1.7 km
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Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @Inis Mór (Port)
2.0 km
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Aran Sweater Market
2.0 km
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Aran Islands
2.2 km
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Iaráirne
2.4 km
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Dún Eochla
2.6 km
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Frenchman's beach
2.9 km
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Inishmore
3.5 km
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Seal Colony Viewpoint
4.1 km
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The Worm Hole
4.9 km
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Poll na bPéist - The Wormhole
4.9 km
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Kilmurvey Beach
5.1 km
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Essential places to dine
The Bar
2.1 km
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Bayview Restaurant
2.1 km
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The Galley Fish & Chips
2.1 km
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Tigh Joe Mac
2.1 km
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Tigh Ned
11.5 km
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Café Úna
11.7 km
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Inis Oírr Hotel- Flaherty's
11.8 km
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An Currach
11.9 km
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Gus O'Connor's Pub
22.6 km
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The Ivy Cottage
22.6 km
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Anthony's at Doolin Inn
22.7 km
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Homestead Cottage
22.7 km
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Glas Restaurant
23.0 km
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STONEWALL WOOD-FIRED PIZZERIA, ORGANIC WINE BAR & COFFEE HOUSE
23.0 km
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Russell's Fishshop
23.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Carraig Donn Aran Islands
2.0 km
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Man of Aran Coffee and Crafts
2.0 km
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Ebike Self Guided Tours Aran Islands
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Aran Islands Cafe
2.0 km
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Aran Islands Knitwear
2.0 km
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Dive Academy - Scuba Diving School
2.1 km
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Spar
2.1 km
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Rainbow Bike Hire
2.1 km
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Aran Bike Hire
2.2 km
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Aran Islands Handcrafts
2.9 km
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Minnie’s Café
3.0 km
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Stigutha
5.0 km
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An Púcán Aran Sweaters
5.4 km
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Aran Islands Knitwear Store
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Bláthín
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Poki's prosecco pitstop
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Innismann
7.3 km
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Teach Ósta
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Fitz's Pub
23.0 km
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McGann's Pub
23.2 km
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McDermott's Pub
23.2 km
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Egans Pub
27.0 km
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The Edge
29.7 km
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P Frawley's Bar
29.7 km
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Flanagans Bar
29.8 km
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The Nineteenth Bar
29.8 km
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Kenny's Bar
29.9 km
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The Claremont Bar & Nightclub
29.9 km
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Slatterys bar
29.9 km
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Cullinans Bar
32.0 km
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