Explore Inishbofin

Home to some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the whole country, Inishbofin (from the Irish Inis Bó Finne which means ‘Island of the White Cow’ in English) is a small island off the Connemara coast, in County Galway.

With its unspoiled beaches and crystal-clear water, in Inishbofin you can enjoy activities such as swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, and sailing. The island offers several looped cliff walks, with various degrees of difficulties, where you can enjoy the island’s wild scenery.

Two of the island’s beaches have also been awarded the “Green Coast Award” thanks to their exceptional water quality and the unspoiled nature that surrounds them.

Most of the island landscape is also an Area of Special Conservation due to the large population of seals and birds (especially corncrakes that have been nesting and breeding here for many years).

The island is also renowned for its pubs where you can enjoy freshly poured pints and delicious local seafood.

A famous landmark on the island is the Cromwell’s Barracks: a star-shaped fort built in the 16th century by Cromwell’s regime, this castle was used to house captured Catholic clergy that was declared guilty for high treason. You can walk along the coast from the harbour to the entrance.