Top 20 Natural Monuments in Galway

Cnoc Raithní (Prehistoric Ruin) Cnoc Raithní is a Bronze Age burial mound. It was previously covered in sand (like many things on Inis Oírr!) but was uncovered by a severe storm in 1885. Although perhaps not the most impressive site in the Aran Islands, it is a significant site, probably pre-dating Dún Aoghasa. The site was excavated by D. Murphy in 1886 and important artefacts were found, the remains of which are dated to 1500 BC. The site itself consists of a sand mound 21m in diameter, surrounded by a dry stone wall. Inside is a stone box made up of a circle of upright 4ft high slabs. At the top are the remains of slab-lined graves, as well as two small limestone pillars. When the stone casket was excavated, parts of a sealed urn, a smaller vessel and a bronze pin were found. The urns contained fragments of burnt bones and a charred substance. This is typical of burials during the Bronze Age from 1500 BC to 500 BC. Cremation was common and the burnt bones were often placed in decorated urns, of which there were several types - with encrustations, with collars and with cords. The urns were placed upside down in the grave, usually together with a smaller food vessel. Sometimes other objects such as daggers, needles, beads or battle axes were also placed alongside. (Source: https://www.rothai-inisoirr.com/cnoc-raithni/)

A Caisleán / O'Briens Castle Caisleán Uí Bhriain (O' Briens Castle) was built in the 14th century. It was built within an older ring fort called Dún Formna, which is thought to date from 400 BC. As well as fantastic views of the island, there are also magnificent views from the Cliffs of Moher, stretching to the left to the Burren, across Galway Bay to the 12 Pins of Connemara and to the west to Inis Meáin and Inis Mór. On a fine day you can even see the Kerry Mountains in the distance. It's worth taking your camera, especially for a spectacular sunset. The castle is a rectangular keep built by the O'Briens. They were a clan from County Clare who ruled the islands and large parts of Clare in the Middle Ages. From this castle they were able to control the shipping routes to Galway and are said to have operated protection rackets there. Due to its strategic location the castle was the subject of numerous competing interests. It was captured by the O'Flahertys around 1582 and was in use until it was supposedly captured and destroyed by Cromwell in 1652. The original entrance led to the first floor and was accessed via an external wooden staircase. Inside there was a hall taking up the whole of the first floor with an internal staircase in the SW wall leading up to the parapets. The ground floor was originally a basement with three vaulted chambers accessed from the first floor. Look out for the corbel of a watchtower which survives on the external wall and has a human face carved into it. The original Dún Formna has been restored a number of times throughout its history. It dates from the same period as the more famous Dún Aonghasa on Inis Mór and probably contained some clocháns, of which no trace remains today. (Source: https://www.rothai-inisoirr.com/an-caislean/)

Wonderful view over the bays and lakes of Conemara

Just walk a little further and you will find a small, beautiful, secluded beach

Nice circular route, just don't let it be too windy 🙈

Wikipedia (O'Brien's Castle (Inisheer) (Irish: Caisleán Uí Bhriain), 2022-11-04): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/O'Brien's_Castle_(Inisheer) https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dún_Formna “… A ringfort once stood on the site, named Dún Formna ... and dated to between the 5th century BC and 1st century AD. …” Wikipedia (List of national monuments in County Galway, 2024-08-09): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_national_monuments_in_County_Galway “41.07 … O'Brien's Castle (Great Fort, Furmina Castle) … Cashel”

The only way to get a bike here is to carry it 😉

The Monks Fishing House on the Cong River is a fascinating historical landmark that was used by monks for fishing in centuries past. The inventive design, which included a hole in the ground through which the net was lowered, reflects the ingenuity of the time. When enough fish were caught in the net, a bell connected to the net signaled the cook in the monastery that it was time to collect the fish. Surrounded by scenic countryside and the flowing Cong River, known for its salmon run, this idyllic cottage offers visitors a glimpse into the monks' way of life and use of natural resources. It's worth not only looking at the fisherman's house itself, but also looking into the water under the bridge, where, with a bit of luck, salmon can be observed in their natural habitat. Access to the grounds of nearby Ashford Castle via the small bridge behind the abbey is another insider tip for visitors. Although the direct route to the castle may now be partially restricted, the walk along the river is still very worthwhile and leads through impressive landscapes. For hiking enthusiasts, there are several circular hiking trails in the area that start from this historic point and lead through the breathtaking nature of Connemara. A visit to the Monk Fisherman's House and its surroundings is therefore not only a cultural experience, but also an opportunity to explore the beauty of the Irish countryside on foot.