Arranmore Island is the largest island in Donegal, and the second largest in Ireland. The majoriy of the people on the Island speak both English and Irish, making it the ideal place for those wishing to practice or learn Irish. There are spectacular cliff top walks for hill walkers and bird watchers. The crystal clear waters and safe beaches are enjoyed by both swimmers and divers, for those wishing to go fishing ; Arranmore is the ideal area, with a wealth of local knowledge. For diving and fishing, boat hire can be arranged locally.
Arranmore is situated approximately 3 miles off the coast; a car ferry service operates from Burtonport to Arranmore with a journey time of around 15minutes, for the time table and information on diving and fishing trips :
www.arranmoreferry.com
Places off interest;
The Glen Hotel; The islands first hotel was established by Jack and Hannah Boyle, and its now in its third generation. It was bought from an English landlord, John Stoupe Charley who was the original owner of the building.
The Old Mill; The Old Mill dates back to the 18th century, its situated at the top of the ferry pier and the quern stone from the mill is now on the lawn of The Glen Hotel.
The Cave of Slaughter; In 1641, during the plantations, one of Cromwell's Captains, Captain Conynham with his men,
massacred the women and children of the Island who had taken refuge there.
The Lighthouse; The lighthouse was built in 1978 it was Donegal's first lighthouse and was manned by keepers until 1976, sea caves and arches can be seen nearby.
The Cliffs; These are upto 120 meters high all along the West and North coasts of the Island.
The Three stags; They can be seen in the distance from Arranmore, legend has it that they are a pagan sister and two brothers who were turned to stone by St. Colmcile as they leapt into the sea at Tory Island in an attempt to swim to Arranmore.
