Stone walls
In semicircles.
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The best known of the prehistoric stone forts of the Aran Islands, standing at the edge of a cliff 100 m above the Atlantic on Inis Mór, the largest of the three islands, and one of the most important archaeological sites in Ireland. The first building here goes back to around 1100 BC, and most of its structures date from the Bronze and Iron Ages: rings of semicircular stone walls that end abruptly at the cliff edge, surrounded by a field of upright stones set to slow down attackers. Getting there is a trip in itself: a ferry from Rossaveal near Galway to the island in about 40 minutes, then a bike or minibus to the visitor centre, and from there a climb of about a kilometre on a rough, rocky path past the stone walls and green fields typical of the island. The fort costs €5 for adults and the return ferry about €34, per visitor guides. There is no railing at the cliff edge, so keep well back, especially with children and in wind, and wear sturdy shoes.
In semicircles.
Above the Atlantic.
To the island.
Inis Mór, Aran Islands, Galway Bay
Take the ferry from Rossaveal near Galway to Inis Mór, about 40 minutes, then a bike or minibus to the visitor centre and a climb of about a kilometre on a rocky path.