Portmagee and The Skellig Islands
An extraordinary, far-flung place of pilgrimage lies on the very edge of Ireland. Skellig Michael was built 1300 years ago by early Christian monks. At the time, this jagged ocean crag was the limit of the known world. This mysterious and awe-inspiring place, described by George Bernard Shaw as “part of our dream world”, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Weather-permitting, daring adventurers can reach this place on a small boat from Portmagee. Portmagee was the winner of Ireland’s first ever Tourism Town Award in 2012. Known for its small family-run businesses, local food producers, artists, and atmospheric pubs with peat fires and traditional music sessions, this is a peaceful and interesting place for visitors of all ages. Across the bridge there is the Skelligs Experience Visitor Centre, where you can follow an audio-visual tour recreating the magic of the Skellig region.