Skellig Michael: A Hiker's Paradise in Co. Galway
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers unparalleled hiking experiences and stunning landscapes.
Skellig Michael is a breathtaking hiking area off the coast of Co. Galway, known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and serene environment, perfect for adventurous tourists seeking natural beauty and tranquility.
A brief summary to Skellig Michael
- CQ74+5C, Roxborough, Skellig Rock Great, Co. Galway, IE
Local tips
- Book your boat trip to Skellig Michael in advance, as spots fill up quickly during peak season.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water, as the terrain can be challenging.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as boat trips can be canceled due to rough seas.
- Consider bringing binoculars for optimal birdwatching opportunities.
- Respect the natural environment by staying on marked trails and following guidelines to protect wildlife.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, head towards the town of Portmagee, which is the primary departure point for boats to Skellig Michael. From the N70 road, follow the signs to Portmagee. Once in Portmagee, park your car at the designated parking areas, which may incur a fee of approximately €5-€10 for the day. Look for the local boat operators offering trips to Skellig Michael. It is advisable to book your tickets in advance as they sell out quickly, especially during peak tourist season.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, take a bus to Cahersiveen and then transfer to a local bus heading to Portmagee. The bus service may not run frequently, so check the schedule in advance. Once you arrive in Portmagee, follow the same steps as if you were driving: look for boat operators that provide trips to Skellig Michael. Make sure to reserve your boat tickets ahead of time and budget for the round-trip fare, which typically costs around €50-€70 per person.
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Boat
Once you have your tickets booked, you will need to board one of the boats to Skellig Michael. The boat ride takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on weather conditions. Be prepared for potentially rough seas, and ensure you have appropriate clothing and gear for the trip. Keep an eye on the departure times and plan to arrive at the boat launch site at least 30 minutes early to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Discover more about Skellig Michael
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Little Skellig
3.2 km
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Tobar Fionáin (Holy Well)
16.3 km
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Donnybrook
19.6 km
Explore the enchanting historical landmark of Donnybrook in County Kerry, where rich heritage meets stunning natural beauty in Ireland.
Loher Stone Fort
25.9 km
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Skellig Tours
26.8 km
Embark on a breathtaking adventure with Skellig Tours, exploring Ireland's stunning coastal landscapes and rich history on the Atlantic waters.
Derrynane Abbey
27.5 km
Explore the historic Derrynane Abbey in Co. Kerry, a captivating landmark that showcases Ireland's rich heritage amidst stunning coastal landscapes.
Derrynane National Historic Park
27.5 km
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Derrynane House
28.3 km
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Leacanabuaile Ring Fort
28.3 km
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Cahergal Stone Fort
28.3 km
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Top Of The Rock Viewing Platform
29.0 km
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The Old Abbey of the Holy Cross
29.1 km
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Daniel O'Connell Memorial Church
29.2 km
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Dursey Island Signal Tower(Túr Comhartha Oileán Baoi)
30.3 km
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Birthplace of Daniel O'Connell, Cahersiveen, Kerry, Ireland
30.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Sceilg Mhichíl / Skellig Michael
0.0 km
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Mainistir Fhionáin (St. Fionan’s Monastery)
0.2 km
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Skellig Michael Lower Lighthouse
0.3 km
Explore the Skellig Michael Lower Lighthouse, a historic gem on Ireland's rugged coast, where breathtaking views meet rich maritime history.
Sceilg Mhíchíl/ Great Sceilig
0.4 km
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Skellig Rocks
1.8 km
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Sceilg Bheag (Skellig Rock Small)
2.5 km
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Carraig Lomáin(Lemon Rock)
6.9 km
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Bealach (Puffin Sound)
12.6 km
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Siúlóid Bhólais( Bolus Barracks Loop Walk)
14.8 km
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Bray Head
14.9 km
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Kerry cliffs view point (south) 5€
14.9 km
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Tobairin Holy Well
15.1 km
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Skellig Falcon
15.2 km
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Kerry cliffs view point (north)
15.2 km
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Kerry Cliffs (Aillte Chiarraí)
15.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Driftwood Surf Cafe
16.5 km
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Fisherman's Bar & Skellig Restaurant Portmagee
17.5 km
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The Moorings Guesthouse & Seafood Restaurant @ The Bridge Bar
17.6 km
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Skellig Seafront Cafe
17.6 km
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The Atlantic Grill
19.4 km
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Cable O'Leary's
19.5 km
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Skellig Cafe
20.1 km
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The Ring Lyne Bar & Restaurant
20.6 km
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Royal Valentia Hotel Bar and Restaurant
24.5 km
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The Smugglers Inn
24.9 km
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O'Neills The Point Seafood Bar
25.3 km
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Dooley's Seafood & Steak House Waterfront Bar & Restaurant
26.0 km
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Butler Arms Hotel
26.1 km
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The Lobster Bar & Restaurant
26.2 km
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The Villa Waterville
26.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Skellig Coast Tourism Network
17.2 km
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Cois Cuain gifts
17.5 km
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Murphy's Marine
21.9 km
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Skellig Gift Store
26.1 km
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An Tigin
26.1 km
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Walsh's SuperValu Caherciveen
28.1 km
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Nautical Antiques by Michael Walsh
28.9 km
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Skellig Soaps
29.1 km
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Skellig Gift Store Caherciveen
29.3 km
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Great Blasket Island Coffee Shop
37.2 km
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THE PINK UMBRELLA
41.2 km
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Milleens Cheese Ltd.
41.6 km
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Holden Leathergoods
42.9 km
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Louis Mulcahy Pottery
43.0 km
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Marianne Klopp
44.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bridge Bar
17.6 km
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The Cafe Portmagee
17.7 km
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Sigerson's Bar - Tig Rosie
20.4 km
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The Fertha
29.1 km
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Mike Murt's
29.4 km
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Blind Piper
30.3 km
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O'Neill's Bar & Restaurant
37.1 km
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The Lighthouse Bar
37.1 km
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Jimmy's Bar
37.2 km
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The Urhan Inn Pub
38.8 km
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Krugers Bar
40.8 km
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Causkeys Bar
41.1 km
Discover the charm of Causkeys Bar in Eyeries, Co. Cork – a perfect blend of local flavor, friendly service, and inviting atmosphere.
O'Shea's Bar
41.1 km
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Ardgroom Village
44.5 km
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Jimmy's Pub
44.6 km
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