Inishbofin, Island in County Donegal, Ireland
Inishbofin is a small island off the northwest coast of County Donegal in Ireland, reachable by ferry from Magheroarty. The island is made up of two parts connected by a narrow sandy strip, with sandy beaches, steep cliffs, hidden coastal caves, and open grassy fields.
The island was inhabited year-round for centuries, with a small village on the southeastern side where people fished, farmed, and prepared for harsh winters. The last permanent residents left in the 1970s, and today only a handful of people return during warmer months.
The name Inishbofin means 'Island of the White Cow' in Irish, pointing to old mythological stories still told on the island today. Most residents speak Irish as their first language, and visitors can notice it on signs and sometimes hear it spoken in everyday conversation.
The ferry from Magheroarty does not run every day, so it is worth checking the schedule in advance as it can change with the season. The island has very few shops or cafes, so visitors planning to stay for a while should bring their own supplies.
The island is a known breeding ground for the corncrake, a rare bird now endangered across much of Europe. Arctic terns and barnacle geese are also spotted here, making it one of the few places in Ireland where so many uncommon bird species gather in one small area.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
