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Poll na bPéist: The Wormhole of Inishmore

Discover the Wormhole (Poll na bPéist) on Inishmore: a unique geological wonder and natural pool carved into the Aran Islands' rugged coast.

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Poll na bPéist, or the Wormhole, is a naturally formed rectangular pool on Inishmore Island, one of the Aran Islands. Carved into the limestone rock, this unique geological formation is a popular spot for adventurous travelers and those seeking stunning coastal scenery.

A brief summary to Poll na bPéist - The Wormhole

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain around Poll na bPéist is rocky and uneven.
  • Check tide times before visiting to see the Wormhole at its most dramatic.
  • Do not swim in the Wormhole due to dangerous currents and difficult exit.
  • Bring snacks and water as there are no facilities directly at the Wormhole.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Kilronan Pier, the main arrival point on Inishmore, follow the coastal road west towards Dún Aonghasa. The walk to the Wormhole is approximately 5-6 km and takes about 1.5-2 hours. Pass Kilmurvey Beach and the village of Kilmurvey. Continue towards Gort na gCapall, a small hamlet signposted from Kilmurvey Beach. From Gort na gCapall, follow the marked trail across the rocky landscape to Poll na bPéist. Be prepared for uneven terrain and wear appropriate footwear.

  • Bicycle

    Rent a bicycle from one of the rental shops near Kilronan Pier. Cycle west from Kilronan towards Dún Aonghasa, following the road signs. The cycle to Gort na gCapall is approximately 5 km. Leave your bike at Gort na gCapall and continue on foot, following the trail across the rocks to Poll na bPéist. Bike rental typically costs around €15-20 per day.

  • Mini-Bus Tour

    Several mini-bus tours operate on Inishmore, departing from Kilronan Pier. These tours typically include a stop at Dún Aonghasa, from where you can walk to the Wormhole. The walk from Dún Aonghasa to the Wormhole is approximately 1.6 km along the cliffs. Mini-bus tours usually cost around €20 per person.

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Discover more about Poll na bPéist - The Wormhole

Poll na bPéist, also known as the Wormhole or Serpent's Lair, is a remarkable natural wonder located on Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. This unique geological formation is a rectangular-shaped pool carved into the island's limestone bedrock. Its striking geometric shape often leads visitors to believe it was man-made, but it is, in fact, a product of millennia of natural erosion. The Wormhole is situated on the western side of Inishmore, approximately 1.6 kilometers south of the ancient cliff fort of Dún Aonghasa. The pool is connected to the sea by a series of underground channels, causing it to fill and empty with the tides. This creates a dynamic and ever-changing environment, with waves sometimes crashing over the edges. The dimensions of Poll na bPéist are approximately 25 meters long, 10 meters wide, and between 10 and 20 meters deep. In recent years, Poll na bPéist has gained international recognition as a venue for the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. Professional divers have leaped from a 28-meter platform into the pool below, showcasing their acrobatic skills. However, swimming in the Wormhole is generally not recommended due to strong and unpredictable currents and the difficulty of exiting the pool. Legend has it that the pool is a serpent's lair, adding to the location's mystique. Visiting Poll na bPéist offers a chance to witness the raw beauty of the Irish coastline and marvel at the power of nature. The surrounding landscape is rugged and dramatic, with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

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