Discover the Majestic Great Skellig Island
Explore Great Skellig Island, a breathtaking Irish gem known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and ancient monastery perched on dramatic cliffs.
Great Skellig Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and the stunning remains of an ancient monastery. A true gem for adventurous tourists seeking nature and culture.
A brief summary to Great Skellig
- Skellig Rock Great, IE
Local tips
- Book your boat trip in advance, especially during peak tourist season, as spots fill quickly.
- Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for steep climbs when exploring the monastery ruins.
- Bring a light jacket, as weather conditions can change rapidly on the island.
- Consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
- Respect the natural environment and wildlife; stay on marked paths and do not disturb nesting birds.
Getting There
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Boat
To reach Great Skellig, you will first need to take a boat from the mainland, typically departing from Portmagee. The boat ride lasts about 30 minutes and offers stunning views of the Skellig Islands. You can book a guided tour in advance, which usually costs around €50-€70 per person. Make sure to check the weather conditions, as trips can be canceled due to rough seas.
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Hiking
Once you arrive at Skellig Michael, you can hike up to the monastic settlement. The hike involves climbing approximately 600 steps carved into the rock. It can be challenging, so wear sturdy footwear and bring water. The hike is free, but ensure you have enough time to return to your boat before its scheduled departure.
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Guided Tour
Consider joining a guided tour that provides insights into the history and wildlife of the area. Many tours include transportation from your accommodation in Portmagee, and some may also offer refreshments. Costs vary, so inquire ahead of your visit.
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Public Transportation
If you are arriving from Killarney or other larger towns, you can take a bus to Portmagee. Bus Eireann operates routes to Portmagee, but you should check the schedule in advance as they may not be frequent. From Portmagee, you will still need to take a boat to reach Great Skellig.
Discover more about Great Skellig
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Little Skellig
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Tobar Fionáin (Holy Well)
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Donnybrook
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Loher Stone Fort
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Skellig Tours
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Derrynane Abbey
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Derrynane National Historic Park
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Derrynane House
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Leacanabuaile Ring Fort
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Cahergal Stone Fort
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Top Of The Rock Viewing Platform
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The Old Abbey of the Holy Cross
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Daniel O'Connell Memorial Church
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Dursey Island Signal Tower(Túr Comhartha Oileán Baoi)
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Unmissable attractions to see
Skellig Michael
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Mainistir Fhionáin (St. Fionan’s Monastery)
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Skellig Michael Lower Lighthouse
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Sceilg Mhíchíl/ Great Sceilig
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Skellig Rocks
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Sceilg Bheag (Skellig Rock Small)
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Carraig Lomáin(Lemon Rock)
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Bealach (Puffin Sound)
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Siúlóid Bhólais( Bolus Barracks Loop Walk)
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Kerry cliffs view point (south) 5€
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Bray Head
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Tobairin Holy Well
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Skellig Falcon
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Kerry cliffs view point (north)
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Kerry Cliffs (Aillte Chiarraí)
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Essential places to dine
Driftwood Surf Cafe
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Fisherman's Bar & Skellig Restaurant Portmagee
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The Moorings Guesthouse & Seafood Restaurant @ The Bridge Bar
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Skellig Seafront Cafe
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The Atlantic Grill
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Cable O'Leary's
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Skellig Cafe
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The Ring Lyne Bar & Restaurant
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Royal Valentia Hotel Bar and Restaurant
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The Smugglers Inn
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O'Neills The Point Seafood Bar
25.2 km
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Dooley's Seafood & Steak House Waterfront Bar & Restaurant
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Butler Arms Hotel
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The Lobster Bar & Restaurant
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The Villa Waterville
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Skellig Coast Tourism Network
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Cois Cuain gifts
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Murphy's Marine
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Skellig Gift Store
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An Tigin
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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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Great Blasket Island Coffee Shop
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THE PINK UMBRELLA
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Milleens Cheese Ltd.
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Holden Leathergoods
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Louis Mulcahy Pottery
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Cafe Portmagee
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The Fertha
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Mike Murt's
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Blind Piper
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O'Neill's Bar & Restaurant
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The Lighthouse Bar
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Jimmy's Bar
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The Urhan Inn Pub
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Krugers Bar
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Causkeys Bar
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O'Shea's Bar
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Ardgroom Village
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Jimmy's Pub
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