Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Illaunloughan
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Illaunloughan, a hidden monastic gem off the coast of Portmagee, County Kerry.
Nestled off the coast of Portmagee in County Kerry, Illaunloughan is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique glimpse into Ireland's rich monastic history. This serene island, accessible by boat, is home to well-preserved ruins of an ancient monastery, enveloped in stunning natural landscapes and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, Illaunloughan promises a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
A brief summary to Illaunloughan
- Portmagee, Co. Kerry, IE
Local tips
- Plan your visit during low tide for easier access to the island.
- Bring a camera; the stunning landscapes and ruins are perfect for photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the rocky terrain.
- Check local boat schedules in advance, as service may vary.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the tranquil surroundings.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start from the village of Portmagee, Co. Kerry, which is the most common departure point for accessing Illaunloughan. Drive towards the Skellig Ring road (R565) and follow the signs for the Skellig Michael visitor center. Once you reach the harbor in Portmagee, you can park your car in the designated parking area. Please note that there may be a parking fee. From the harbor, you'll need to take a boat to Illaunloughan, as there is no direct road access to the island.
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Public Transport
If using public transport, take a bus to Portmagee from Killarney or Kenmare. The bus services are limited, so check the schedule in advance. Once you arrive in Portmagee, head to the harbor where you can find boat services that operate to Illaunloughan. Be sure to check the boat schedule as it may vary depending on the weather and the season. There is typically an additional cost for the boat ride, which you should be prepared for.
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Boat
Once at the harbor in Portmagee, you will need to board a boat (usually operated by local tour companies) that will take you to Illaunloughan. The journey will provide scenic views of the surrounding waters and islands. The boat ride usually lasts about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to confirm the return trip schedule with the boat operator, as it’s important to know when the last boat will return to Portmagee. The cost for the boat ride can vary depending on the operator, but expect to pay around €20-€30 per person.
Discover more about Illaunloughan
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Donnybrook
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Tobar Fionáin (Holy Well)
5.1 km
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Top Of The Rock Viewing Platform
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Daniel O'Connell Memorial Church
12.2 km
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Birthplace of Daniel O'Connell, Cahersiveen, Kerry, Ireland
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Little Skellig
14.4 km
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Sceilg Bheag (Skellig Rock Small)
15.0 km
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Skellig Rocks
16.6 km
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Sceilg Mhíchíl/ Great Sceilig
16.9 km
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Mainistir Fhionáin (St. Fionan’s Monastery)
17.1 km
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Sceilg Mhichíl / Skellig Michael
17.3 km
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Skellig Michael
17.3 km
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Skellig Michael Lower Lighthouse
17.5 km
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Loher Stone Fort
18.1 km
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Skellig Tours
20.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Skellig Rock Boat Tours (@timmysboat)
0.5 km
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The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre
0.5 km
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Skellig Walker Cruises
0.5 km
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Great Skellig
0.5 km
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Skellig Michael Tours - Skellig Michael Landing Tours and Boat Tours - Casey's Skellig Island Tours
0.5 km
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty and rich history of Skellig Michael with Casey's Tours, a must-see destination for every traveler to Ireland.
Skellig Michael tours- Skellig Michael landing tours - Skellig Island Eco tours - Skellig Boats - Skellig Michael Cruises
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Explore Skellig Michael, Ireland's breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its ancient monastery and stunning coastal scenery.
Skellig Michael Boat Trips
0.6 km
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Skellig Michael Voyage
0.6 km
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Skelligs Rock Cruises
0.6 km
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Skellig Coast Adventures
0.6 km
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Skelligs Michael - Landing Boat Tours with Pat Joe Murphy
0.6 km
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Portmagee Whiskey
0.8 km
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Telegraph Field Valentia Island (First Atlantic Undersea Cable for Communications)
1.4 km
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Bray Head (Co. Kerry) Loop Walk(Siúlóid Lúb Ceann Bhré)
1.7 km
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Kerry cliffs view point (north)
2.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Fisherman's Bar & Skellig Restaurant Portmagee
0.5 km
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The Moorings Guesthouse & Seafood Restaurant @ The Bridge Bar
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Skellig Seafront Cafe
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The Ring Lyne Bar & Restaurant
3.4 km
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Driftwood Surf Cafe
5.1 km
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Royal Valentia Hotel Bar and Restaurant
7.3 km
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O'Neills The Point Seafood Bar
8.1 km
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Skellig Cafe
9.5 km
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The Atlantic Grill
9.7 km
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Cable O'Leary's
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Eva's
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Quinlan & Cooke Boutique Hotel & QC’s Seafood Restaurant
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Cahersiveen Restaurants | Camo's
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Apache Pizza Cahersiveen
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The Smugglers Inn
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cois Cuain gifts
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Skellig Coast Tourism Network
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Murphy's Marine
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Walsh's SuperValu Caherciveen
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Nautical Antiques by Michael Walsh
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Skellig Soaps
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Skellig Gift Store Caherciveen
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Skellig Gift Store
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An Tigin
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Great Blasket Island Coffee Shop
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Holden Leathergoods
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LilyMais
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The Coach House
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Kerry Woollen Mills
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Morans Supermarket
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bridge Bar
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The Cafe Portmagee
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Sigerson's Bar - Tig Rosie
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The Fertha
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Mike Murt's
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Blind Piper
22.8 km
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Krugers Bar
28.1 km
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Jimmy's Pub
28.8 km
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The Green Room Dingle
28.9 km
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O'Flaherty's Bar
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Paudie's Bar
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Paddy Bawn Brosnan’s
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Hannie Agnes's
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O'Sullivan's Courthouse Pub
29.1 km
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Dick Mack's Pub
29.2 km
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