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Location: Just off the coast of the Belmullet peninsula, County Mayo lies The Inishkea Islands - Inishkea north and Inishkea South. View Map
About: The Inishkea Islands have a long and fascinating history dating back thousands of years. Evidence of Neolithic and Bronze Age settlements on the islands points to their importance as a hub of human activity, likely due to the abundance of marine resources. In more recent centuries, the islands were home to thriving fishing and farming communities until their eventual abandonment in the 1940s.
In the early 20th century, the islands faced a series of tragic events, including a devastating storm in 1927 that claimed the lives of several fishermen. These tragedies, coupled with the harsh living conditions, eventually led to the evacuation of the islands, leaving behind a hauntingly beautiful landscape filled with the ruins of the once-thriving community.
Today, the Inishkea Islands are designated as a Special Protection Area and Natural Heritage Area, recognised for their ecological significance and the wealth of archaeological treasures that still await discovery.
Get there: It isn't so easy - during the summer months, local boat operators offer trips to the islands from the nearby villages of Belmullet and Blacksod. These boat trips typically take around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on weather conditions.
You should book your trip in advance, as spaces on the boats can be limited. Also the journey is weather-dependent, so be prepared for potential delays or cancellations.
Once you're there, follow Will's advice of exploring and getting in that crystal clear water! You can explore the ruins, check out the wildlife and get on some hikes.
It's a great place to step back in time as it is untouched - there are no shops, cafes or facilities so pack wisely!
On your way back, check out that Musical Bridge and see if you can do a better job of making it sing than Will did...
Check out the reel by our friend Will AKA @will_murphyyy
Featuring Creator...
@will_murphyyy
Wearing...
Mint Original Tee
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