The middle island can be reached by boat from Inis Mor. Not as popular as the other islands, it is the most unspoilt (with only one pub!), although the number of ancient and medieval monuments shows it had a rich past. There is an 8km (5 mile) Aran Way walk which follows the island’s history.

Inis Mor is the largest of the three islands, and has the busy village of Kilronan at the harbour. The best way to see the island is to get a map from the Visitors Centre in Kilronan and then hire bicycles at the harbour. The most important sight is Dun Aengus, a pre-historic fort from 800 B.C. perched on the cliff-edge. Kilronan and Kilmurvey are busy in the evenings with traditional song and dance in the pubs. Although much of this is organised for the tourist now, you will often find a quiet pub suddenly transformed by an impromptu sean-nos (traditional Irish) noisy singing session.

The smallest of the three islands and closest to County Clare, it can be reached by boat from Doolin in Clare, or from the other Aran Islands. It is busier than Inis Meain, with several restaurants, pubs and guesthouses. Has a lovely sandy beach and many medieval ruins, which you can explore on a marked walk (about 10km / 6 miles).