The Skelligs, Ireland Travel Guide

Discover the Skellig Islands: A blend of ancient monastic heritage, thriving seabird colonies, and stunning natural landscapes off Ireland's rugged coast.

Home
Travel Guides
Ireland
The Skelligs

Located off the coast of County Kerry, the Skellig Islands invite you to a journey through time and nature's untouched beauty. These rugged islands, Skellig Michael and Little Skellig, are renowned for their dramatic landscapes and historical significance. Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to a well-preserved monastic settlement dating back to the 6th century. The climb to the monastery is steep and challenging, but the panoramic views and the sense of history are well worth the effort. The ancient stone huts and oratories offer a glimpse into the lives of early Christian monks who sought solitude and spirituality in this remote haven. Little Skellig, though inaccessible to visitors, is a sanctuary for seabirds. It hosts one of the world's largest gannet colonies, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. Boat tours around the islands provide breathtaking views of these majestic birds in their natural habitat, with the added bonus of spotting seals and dolphins in the surrounding waters. The Skellig Islands have also gained fame as a filming location for the Star Wars saga, adding a modern cultural layer to their allure. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or film buff, the Skelligs offer a unique and unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Book boat tours in advance, especially during peak season, as they can sell out quickly.
Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring water for the hike up Skellig Michael.
Check weather conditions before your trip, as rough seas can affect boat schedules.
Pack a pair of binoculars for birdwatching and spotting marine life.
Carry a light jacket or windbreaker, as weather can change rapidly on the islands.

Explore The Skelligs: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in The Skelligs

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Hold a Baby Lamb

Experience the joy of cuddling baby lambs in the breathtaking landscapes of Co. Kerry for an unforgettable family-friendly adventure.

4.6

Ceann Sibéal Golf Club

Discover Ceann Sibéal Golf Club: A stunning golfing experience on the Dingle Peninsula, where breathtaking views meet exceptional play.

4.8

Skellig Gift Store

Explore Skellig Gift Store in Co. Kerry for unique Irish crafts, clothing, and gifts, reflecting the rich heritage of Ireland's culture.

4.4

Bá Fhíonáin /St. Finan's Bay

Explore St. Finan's Bay, a stunning coastal gem in County Kerry, offering breathtaking views, rich history, and delightful local culture, perfect for all travelers.

4.8

Best landmarks in The Skelligs

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Kerry Cliffs (Aillte Chiarraí)

Discover the stunning Kerry Cliffs in Co. Kerry, where breathtaking views and dramatic landscapes await every adventurer and nature lover.

4.8

Skellig Michael Tours - Skellig Michael Landing Tours and Boat Tours - Casey's Skellig Island Tours

Experience the beauty and history of Skellig Michael with Casey's Skellig Island Tours, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

4.7

The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre

Discover the Skellig Experience Visitor Centre on Valentia Island, where the history and beauty of the Skellig Islands await your exploration.

4.4

Sceilg Mhíchíl/ Great Sceilig

Explore Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where breathtaking scenery, ancient history, and vibrant wildlife come together in a unique island experience.

4.9

Best restaurants in The Skelligs

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Fisherman's Bar & Skellig Restaurant Portmagee

Discover the flavors of the sea at Fisherman's Bar & Skellig Restaurant in Portmagee – where fresh seafood meets stunning coastal views.

4.5

The Moorings Guesthouse & Seafood Restaurant @ The Bridge Bar

Discover fresh seafood and cozy accommodations at The Moorings Guesthouse & Seafood Restaurant in Portmagee, County Kerry.

4.5

O'Carroll's Cove Restaurant & Bar

Experience authentic Irish cuisine with breathtaking views at O'Carroll's Cove Restaurant & Bar on the scenic Ring of Kerry.

4.5

O'Neills The Point Seafood Bar

Discover authentic Irish seafood at O'Neills The Point Seafood Bar in Co. Kerry—where fresh flavors meet stunning coastal views.

4.8

Best bars in The Skelligs

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Dick Mack's Pub

Discover the authentic Irish pub experience at Dick Mack's Pub in Dingle, where local brews and traditional music create unforgettable memories.

4.7

The Dingle Pub

Discover the heart of Dingle at The Dingle Pub, where live music, traditional Irish food, and warm hospitality await every visitor.

4.4

Fisherman's Bar & Skellig Restaurant Portmagee

Experience the best seafood in Portmagee with breathtaking views at Fisherman's Bar & Skellig Restaurant, a hidden gem in County Kerry.

4.5

The Moorings Guesthouse & Seafood Restaurant @ The Bridge Bar

Experience the best of coastal cuisine and warm hospitality at The Moorings Guesthouse & Seafood Restaurant in Portmagee, Co. Kerry.

4.5

Best nightclubs in The Skelligs

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

The Crane Lane Theatre

Experience Cork's vibrant nightlife at The Crane Lane Theatre, where live music, cocktails, and a lively atmosphere await.

4.4

The Dingle Pub

Discover the vibrant culture and traditional flavors of Dingle at The Dingle Pub, a lively Irish pub with live music and a warm atmosphere.

4.4

The George

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The George, Dublin's premier gay nightclub, known for its lively atmosphere, drag shows, and inclusive community.

3.6

The Bishopstown Bar & Restaurant

Discover the heart of Irish culture at The Bishopstown Bar & Restaurant, where traditional fare meets a lively pub atmosphere in Cork.

4.3

Best shops in The Skelligs

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Skellig Gift Store

Explore Skellig Gift Store: Your gateway to authentic Irish crafts, clothing, and local heritage in the heart of Co. Kerry.

4.4

Skellig Gift Store Caherciveen

Discover unique Irish crafts and heritage treasures at Skellig Gift Store, a must-visit tourist attraction in Caherciveen.

5.0

Explore The Skelligs on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in The Skelligs, mapped for you.

The Skelligs Essentials

The Skelligs are located off the southwestern coast of Ireland, near Portmagee in County Kerry. The nearest airport is Kerry Airport, approximately 75 kilometers away. From Kerry Airport, you can rent a car or take a bus to Portmagee. Boat tours to the Skelligs operate from Portmagee, generally from April to September, weather permitting. It is advisable to book these tours well in advance as they are very popular and have limited availability.
To explore the surrounding areas, renting a car is the most convenient option. Public transport is limited, but local buses do operate from major towns to Portmagee. Once in Portmagee, boat trips to the Skelligs are the primary mode of transportation. These boats are operated by licensed tour companies. Walking is the only way to explore the islands themselves, and be prepared for steep and uneven terrain.
The official currency in Ireland is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Portmagee and other towns. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and for tips. ATMs are available in Portmagee but may be limited on the islands.
The Skelligs and Portmagee are generally safe for tourists. However, due to the rugged and remote nature of the islands, it is essential to follow safety guidelines provided by tour operators. There are no high-crime areas targeting tourists, but basic precautions such as not leaving belongings unattended and being aware of your surroundings are advisable.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 or 999 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities are in Cahersiveen, about 15 kilometers from Portmagee. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. On the Skelligs, there are no medical facilities, so it is crucial to be cautious and well-prepared before embarking on a tour.
Fashion: Do wear sturdy, comfortable footwear suitable for hiking. Avoid high heels or open-toed shoes. Religion: Do respect the sacred nature of the Skellig Michael monastery. Be mindful and respectful when exploring these ancient sites. Public Transport: Do check the local bus schedules in advance as they can be infrequent. Don't rely solely on public transport for your trip. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' The Irish are known for their hospitality. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and traditional Irish dishes. Don't forget to sample some local brews and whiskeys responsibly.
To experience The Skelligs like a local, engage with the local community in Portmagee. Visit the Skellig Experience Visitor Centre to learn about the history and significance of the islands. Try to participate in local events or festivals if your visit coincides with them. For a unique dining experience, sample fresh seafood at the local restaurants. Don't miss the opportunity to stargaze, as the remote location offers spectacular night skies.

When is the best time to visit The Skelligs?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for The Skelligs

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in The Skelligs. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloDia duit
  [dee-ah gwit]
- GoodbyeSlán
  [slawn]
- YesTá
  [taw]
- NoNíl
  [neel]
- Please/You're welcomeLe do thoil
  [leh duh hull]
- Thank youGo raibh maith agat
  [guh rev mah ag-at]
- Excuse me/SorryMaith thú
  [mah hoo]
- How are you?Conas atá tú?
  [kun-us ah-taw too]
- Fine. And you?Tá mé go maith. Agus tú?
  [taw may goh mah. ah-gus too]
- Do you speak English?An labhraíonn tú Béarla?
  [ahn law-vree-un too bayr-lah]
- I don't understandNí thuigim
  [nee hug-im]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseBa mhaith liom an ménu a fheiceáil, le do thoil
  [bah wy luhm on may-noo ah eck-ahl, leh duh hull]
- I don't eat meatNí ithim feoil
  [nee ih-him foh-il]
- Cheers!Sláinte!
  [slawn-cheh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseBa mhaith liom íoc, le do thoil
  [bah wy luhm ee-uk, leh duh hull]
- Help!Cabhraigh!
  [kah-vree]
- Go away!Imigh uaim!
  [ih-mee oom]
- Call the Police!Glan an Garda!
  [glahn ahn gahr-dah]
- Call a doctor!Glan dochtúir!
  [glahn dohk-too-ir]
- I'm lostTáim caillte
  [taw-im kahl-cheh]
- I'm illTá tinneas orm
  [taw chin-uss urm]
- I'd like to buy...Ba mhaith liom ceannach...
  [bah wy luhm can-uk]
- I'm just lookingNíl mé ach ag breathnú
  [neel may awk egg bronth-noo]
- How much is it?Cé mhéad atá air?
  [kay vayd ah-taw air]
- That's too expensiveTá sé ró-dháiríre
  [taw shay row-daw-reh]
- Can you lower the price?An féidir leat an praghas a ísliú?
  [ahn fay-dur lat on prah-gus ah eesh-loo]
- What time is it?Cén t-am é?
  [kayn tahm ay]
- It's one o'clockTá sé a haon a chlog
  [taw shay ah hayn ah klog]
- Half past (10)Leathuair tar éis (10)
  [la-hoo-er tahr aysh (10)]
- MorningMaidin
  [mah-jin]
- AfternoonTráthnóna
  [traw-noh-nah]
- EveningTráthnóna
  [traw-noh-nah]
- YesterdayInné
  [in-ay]
- TodayInniu
  [in-yoo]
- TomorrowAmárach
  [ah-maw-rahk]
- 1Aon
  [ayn]
- 2Dó
  [doh]
- 3Trí
  [tree]
- 4Ceathair
  [ka-hur]
- 5Cúig
  [koo-ig]
- 6Sé
  [shay]
- 7Seacht
  [shokht]
- 8Ocht
  [uhkht]
- 9Naoi
  [nee]
- 10Deich
  [deh]
- Where's a/the...?Cá bhfuil a/an...?
  [kaw will ah/ahn]
- What's the address?Cad é an seoladh?
  [kahd ay ahn shul-ah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?An féidir leat mé a thaispeáint (ar an léarscáil)?
  [ahn fay-dur lat may ah hash-paynt (ahr ahn layr-skawl)]
- When's the next (bus)?Cathain atá an chéad (bus) eile?
  [kah-hayn ah-taw ahn khayd (bus) ell-eh]
- A ticket (to ....)Ticéad (go dtí ....)
  [tic-ayd (goh dee ....)]

History of The Skelligs

The Skelligs are renowned for their early Christian monastic settlement, which was founded between the 6th and 8th centuries. Skellig Michael, the larger of the two islands, features a well-preserved monastic complex with beehive huts, oratories, and stone steps. These structures were built by monks who sought solitude and a closer connection to God in this remote and rugged environment.
The remote location of the Skelligs did not shield it from Viking raids. Historical records indicate that Skellig Michael was attacked by Norsemen in the 9th century. Despite these incursions, the monastic community persisted, demonstrating the resilience and dedication of the monks who inhabited the island.
Throughout the Middle Ages, Skellig Michael became an important pilgrimage site. Pilgrims would undertake the challenging journey to the island to pay homage to the monastic settlement and seek spiritual solace. The island's isolation and the monks' austere way of life added to its mystique and allure as a holy site.
By the 12th century, the monastic community on Skellig Michael began to decline. The exact reasons are not fully known, but factors likely included harsh living conditions, the shift of religious life to the mainland, and changing political landscapes. By the 13th century, the island was largely abandoned as a monastic site.
In the 1820s, Skellig Michael took on a new role with the construction of two lighthouses to aid in maritime navigation. The challenging terrain and harsh weather made the construction process arduous. The lighthouses played a crucial role in guiding ships through the treacherous waters of the Atlantic.
In 1996, Skellig Michael was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition highlighted the island's cultural and historical significance, as well as its remarkable natural beauty. The site is now carefully managed to preserve its unique heritage and ensure its protection for future generations.
The Skelligs gained international fame in recent years due to their prominent feature in the Star Wars film series. Skellig Michael served as the filming location for scenes in 'The Force Awakens' and 'The Last Jedi.' This brought a new wave of tourism to the islands, blending ancient history with modern pop culture.