To Do and See
Inishturk's location on the fringes of Europe offers visitors an opportunity to explore a wild and rugged Atlantic environment.
The island's rugged pathways and trails offer hill walkers plenty of adventure and the unparalleled views make this location an artists paradise. Those with an interest in ornithology can spend time watching the magnificent colonies of sea-birds that use the island as their base. The eastern side of the island boasts two beautiful beaches Tranaun and Curran, both secluded and sheltered from the worst of the Atlantic weather. Scuba Diving enthusiasts can organise boat trips and dive excursions off the island coast There are many sites of immense historic interest on the island including Port An Dun . The remains of this ninth century fort overlook the only natural lagoon on any of the off-shore islands.It is believed that the fort was constructed by ninth century pirates. Visitors can also view the foundations of an old church part of which dates from Penal times.The roof of this church was removed in 1877 to repair the roof of a church on the mainland.Also Nearby
History
Inishturk island has a rich cultural heritage with the first human habitation dating back to 4000BCE and the current phase extending back to at least 1700. Evidence of pre- and early Christian island life includes a number of fulachta fiada, promontory forts, burial sites, beehive huts and a ruined oratory.The Watch Tower, built on the island’s highest point during the Napoleonic Wars, used mirrors to reflect light in an early Morse code signalling system. Pre Famine (1840's) the population of the island was almost 1000 but it has been in a steady decline since that time. The island has always been a bastion of the Irish language and Gaeilge is still widely spoken throughout though English is now the primary tongue.
Getting to Inishturk
- By Car:
- from Dublin, follow the N5 for Westport, in Westport follow signs for Louisburgh. It takes just over 3 hours 40 mins to drive from Dublin to Louisburgh. Go through Louisburgh and over the bridge and take the first turn right where you see the sign for Roonagh pier and Inishturk Ferries.The ferry travels twice a day and the trip takes approximately forty minutes.
- from Sligo, follow the N17 and then the N5 for Westport. Then follow signs for Louisburgh and as above.
- By Bus: Westport is served by a number of Bus Eireann routes Then from Westport there is a regional route to Louisburgh. For timetables and more information, visit Bus Eireann.
- By Air: You can fly to Knock Airport (IWAK) from a number of UK and European locations. Visit the Ireland West Airport Knock website for schedules and carriers.
Facts & Figures
- According to the 2006 census of Population Inishturk has 58 inhabitants.The island has a healthcare centre with a full-time nurse and a doctor visits once every three weeks. There is also a helipad on the island to facilitate emergency transport.
Education
Links