Árainn Mhór

Árainn Mhór is situated in a Gaeltacht (Irish speaking area) in the Republic of Ireland, approximately three miles from the Donegal mainland.

The island is serviced throughout the year from the fishing village of Burtonport by regular ferries. The journey from Burtonport on the mainland, to the pier in Leabgarrow takes you between a number of small islands, before crossing the stretch of open Atlantic known as Aran Roads.

The narrow channel between Rutland island (Inis Mhic an Doirn) and Inishcoo (Inis Cú/Ederinish) island is known as The Black Hole due to its deep, dark, fast moving waters. The shelter provided by the islands allows the Ferry to run in all but the most severe weather conditions.

Renowned worldwide for their atmosphere and charm, Árainn Mhór boasts six traditional Irish Pubs. Each pub has its own distinct strengths and you will find one to quench the thirst of a thirsty traveller on most quarters of the island. A large store of stories are a prerequisite for the job of Island barmen and they will entertain you long into the night, if you let them.

Árainn Mhór is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts who visit the island at most times of the year. The West of the island gives testament to the Atlantic's fury with many marine caves and stacks carved from solid rock resulting in a spectacular cliff coastline. The island is mountainous (225 meters) with poor land dotted with rocks and small lakes characteristic of the Rosses area of Donegal.

Excellent views of the mainland from Glen Head to Tory Island are to be found while walking the islands 7 square miles. The lighthouse, whose predecessor has warned seafarers from the islands shores since 1798, is situated on Rinrawros Point at the Northwest of the island providing a focal point for exploration of the surrounding area.

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Runrig - The Mighty Atlantic.