Overview
Inisglora (Irish: Inis Gluaire), often written Inishglora, lies a short distance off the western tip of the Mullet Peninsula in north‑west County Mayo. At only 0.35 km² it is one of Ireland’s tiniest islands, yet its low‑lying machair, white sand beaches and a blanket of evergreen needle‑leaf forest give it a striking silver‑green sheen from the sea. Grey seals, seabirds, wild sheep and the occasional blackbird make the island a haven for wildlife watchers.
The island has been uninhabited since the early‑20th century (the 1930s) but remains a pilgrimage‑like destination for those drawn to its holy atmosphere and dramatic legends.
History / Background
Early Christian foundation
According to long‑standing tradition, St Brendan the Navigator (c. 484‑c. 577 AD) founded a monastic settlement on Inisglora in the sixth century. The core of that settlement is a roofless, Gallarus‑type stone chapel whose west gable still stands. A wooden statue of the saint once occupied the north‑east corner of the chapel; by the late 19th century it had decayed to a “shapeless lump” and disappeared.
Later medieval additions
Monks later added two more churches:
- Teampall na bhfear (the Men’s Church)
- Teampall na mBan (the Women’s Church), possibly an early nunnery.
Scattered across the island are several early Christian cross‑slabs and pillar stones, evidence of the island’s continued spiritual importance.
Monastic cells and the holy well
Three beehive‑style oratories (torthithe) survive, the largest known as St Brendan’s Cell – a circular stone chamber about six feet high on its west side, originally part of a tri‑cell penitential complex. Near the cell stands St Brendan’s Well, once roofed in beehive style. Local superstition claimed that water taken by a woman would turn to blood and be full of red worms – a tale perhaps intended to deter illicit meetings between monks and nuns.
Stations of the Cross
Seven Stations of the Cross are spread across the island; four lie in the western half, and the final station, a rock with two small stone heaps, is known locally as Cloch na h‑Athchuinge (the Rock of Prayer).
Legends & Folklore
Inisglora is intimately linked with the tragic Children of Lir myth. After 900 years as swans, the children were baptized by St Brendan on the island, briefly regaining human form before dying. Their burial sites are said to lie east of St Brendan’s chapel, once marked by white stones kept by the Gaughan family.
Another enduring legend, recorded by Gerald of Wales (12th century) and later by Patrick Weston Joyce (1911), claims that bodies left exposed on the island do not decay – an eerie story that adds to the island’s mystique.
What to See & Do
| Feature | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Ancient Churches | Roofless St Brendan’s chapel (Gallarus type), Teampall na bhfear, Teampall na mBan – spanning early‑medieval to later centuries. |
| Beehive Cells | Three stone beehives; the largest is St Brendan’s Cell, a penitential retreat. |
| Holy Well | St Brendan’s Well – clear, refreshing water despite the colourful superstition. |
| Stations of the Cross | Seven stations across the island, ending at Cloch na h‑Athchuinge in the west. |
| Cross Slabs & Pillars | Early Christian stone carvings dotting the landscape, offering insight into Celtic art. |
| Wildlife | Grey seals bask on the low‑lying shores; seabirds nest on the cliffs; wild sheep roam the machair; occasional blackbirds are a rare sight. |
| Scenic Walks | Coastal paths provide panoramic views of the Atlantic, the Mullet Peninsula and surrounding islands. |
Visitors often pause to break bread inside the beehive cells, echoing the communal spirit of the early monastic community.
Getting There
- Transport: There is no pier, public facility or scheduled service. The island is reached only by a locally‑operated currach (traditional wooden rowing boat). Operators launch from Belmullet harbour; a north‑easterly wind usually offers the smoothest landing.
- Tides & Weather: Check tide tables before you go – the island can be cut off at high tide. Strong Atlantic swells make landings hazardous in rough weather, so aim for a calm day with a light wind.
- Booking: As landings are by arrangement, contact a Belmullet currach operator in advance. (Exact operator details should be confirmed locally.)
Wildlife & Nature
The island’s machair grassland supports a modest but varied fauna:
- Seals – Grey seals frequently haul out on the sandy bays, especially in early morning or late evening.
- Birds – Guillemots, razorbills and other seabirds nest on the cliffs; occasional terns and gulls are seen over the water.
- Mammals – A small herd of feral sheep grazes the interior, and the occasional blackbird or chaffinch flits among the scrub.
- Flora – Low‑lying grasses, sea thrift and heather give the island its silvery‑green hue; wildflowers appear in late spring.
Quiet observation is encouraged; keep a respectful distance from wildlife, particularly seals during pupping season (late summer).
Practical Information
- Access: By currach only – arrange with a local operator in Belmullet. No regular ferry service.
- Facilities: None on the island. Bring water, food, a packed lunch and a waste bag for any litter.
- Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof shoes with good grip are essential; the terrain is uneven and can be slippery when wet.
- Safety: The island is low‑lying (max elevation ≈ ‑5 m) and exposed to strong Atlantic winds. Monitor weather forecasts and avoid landing in high seas.
- Accessibility: The island is not wheelchair‑friendly due to uneven ground and lack of pathways.
- Dog policy: Dogs are not recommended as they may disturb nesting birds and seals.
- Conservation: As a site of archaeological and ecological importance, stay on marked paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and take any litter home.
- Nearby services: Belmullet (≈ 5 km east) offers parking, cafés and accommodation for day‑trippers.
Nearby Attractions & Day‑Trip Ideas
- Mullet Peninsula – Explore the rugged coastline, historic lighthouses and the Gaeltacht village of Belmullet.
- Clare Island – A short boat ride from the peninsula, home to the 13th‑century Clare Island Abbey and spectacular sea‑views.
- Inishkea Islands – Further out, these islands offer additional wildlife spotting opportunities, especially for birdwatchers.
Combining Inisglora with any of these sites makes for a rewarding full‑day itinerary on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Summary
Inisglora offers a rare blend of early‑Christian heritage, haunting folklore and thriving wildlife – a compact pilgrimage that rewards the adventurous traveller with both spiritual reflection and natural beauty.