The Man of Aran Cottage is perched over the North Atlantic and surrounded by a stark and breathtaking wilderness of open meadows filled with wild roses, saxifrage and ferns. The coast itself is rocky and delightful to explore, with an abundance of wildlife and tidal pools to hold one’s interest. As a whole the island is sparsely populated with very few autos to impede hikers or bicyclists alike. Within a 15 minute walk of the cottage lies Dun Aengus (Dun Aonghus), one of the finest Celtic stone circle forts to be found in Europe. There is also a village nearby with restaurants, pubs and several boutiques as well as authentic Irish sweater shops. You’ll be amazed to find that many of the most familiar sweater patterns seen throughout the world originated right there on the Aran Isles.

The islands are reached by ferry which depart from both Doolin and Rossaveal (Galway). You cannot bring your auto along, nor will you find an ATM money machine on the island**, so be prepared to rent bicycles and bring plenty of Euros. Given a chance to visit Ireland, you will undoubtedly find a stay with Joe and Maura to be a highlight of your trip. It is both beautiful and rejuvinating.