Inishbofin

Inishbofin is a small island off County Galway's coast with steep cliffs, white sand beaches, and walking paths along the shoreline. The interior shows green fields divided by traditional stone walls, and the whole place feels windswept and open to the sea.

A monastic community established a monastery on the island in the 7th century, which became a center of religious life for hundreds of years. Viking raids later threatened this settlement, leading to the decline of the original monastery.

The island keeps its Irish identity alive through regular music sessions in pubs and storytelling gatherings where locals share traditions. These meetings happen in the few local establishments and show how the community lives its heritage in daily life.

The ferry departs daily from Cleggan on the mainland, with more frequent sailings in summer and fewer crossings in winter. There are few shops on the island, so visitors should bring food and supplies from the mainland.

Several rare bird species, including corncrakes and Atlantic puffins, use the island as a breeding ground during certain seasons. These birds arrive at specific times of year and create surprising natural activity on the otherwise quiet island.