Great Blasket Island
Great Blasket Island
5
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
The Great Blasket Island – the most westerly point in Europe – is the largest Island of an archipelago of islands located 3 miles off the tip of the Dingle Peninsula. The Great Blasket once had a thriving population of inhabitants but in January of 1954 the remaining O'Sullivan family abandoned the Island due to a child contracting meningitis and dying. Many stories and literature have been famously published since this time generating a new found interest in this special area. Since 1954 the Great Blasket Island has been derelict with only visitors coming to a from the Island. In the past few years a number of the houses have been restored and amenities such as overnight accommodation and coffee shop are provided for visitors to the island.
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Mel
London, UK56 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
What seasonal island cafe, that lives off of its tourist season, is closed on a beautiful summers day??? I was baffled to learn that when we got to the island that the cafe, which also had the only public toilets on the island, we’re closed! It was early august, it was a stunning hot summers day. And you’re closed??? Sooo disappointing. Thankfully the beautiful beach, seals and scenery were too stunning to ruin our day.
Written 15 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sara1401
11 contributions
Aug 2021 • Couples
We took the boat from Dun Chaoin which was a nice short journey, the sun came out when we arrived on the island. We hadn't planned on doing the tour but very glad we did, Aine was a great guide, very informative and had some lovely stories. The seals on the beach were a joy to watch!
Written 4 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
pkofarrell
County Cork, Ireland43 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
We thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Blasket Island. Its a magical island steeped in history with stunning scenery & a large colony of seals. The OPW tour is recommended. The guide on the day we visited was outstanding.
Written 15 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Exocet1
Dublin, Ireland42 contributions
Jul 2014 • Family
I am writing this review primarily because of the lack of modern information for specifically 'camping' on the Great Blasket Island and secondly because of the magical experience that we encountered as a family, once we decided to plough ahead regardless.
Our tour to the Island began on 27th July 2014, after studying and adhereing to local weather reports that predicted top class sunny conditions. We are an Irish family of 2 adults and three children (16,14,12) and we didnt travel lightly. Being familiar with abrupt Irish weather changes, we decided to carry extra sleeping bags, fleece-wear, and cooking equipment, in preparation for the worst. Our options for travel, was either from Dingle Harbour or Dun Caoin further out the coast. The Dingle Ferry (45mins $35p.p) departure times didnt suit, but the Ferry Master kindly provided us with the contact number for the Dun Caoin boat. The Dun Caoin Ferry departed every hour on the half hour (20 mins) and the Ferry Man, having secured our committment, let us all board for a total of $50 return including all luggage. The Dun Caoin Ferry Port however is a treacherous mini great wall of China that descends sharply 100 feet to sea level and could be a problem for the elderly or infirm or indeed, anyone with a bad hip. Free Car Parking is provided on site, so we parked up and slowly negotiated the descent with our cumbersome luggage. Once at the pier, an inflatable RIB took us to the main boat in the bay and all luggage stayed in situ on the RIB for the journey to the island.
Once on board the boat 'The Excalibur', a 20 min journey and an easy transfer back into the Rib to take us ashore had us at our final destination. Again, this island jetty is slippery but once ashore, a small steep journey to the camping area is easily attainable and the area leaves you smack bang, in the middle of the small but reknowned extinct village. The scenery here is absolutely spectacular, and I'm aware of other reviews that attempt to explain the setting. Words simply cannot get the message across of what awaits. We were lucky with the weather. The sun created dazzling colours with the surrounding scenery. I would say that any budding artist would be easily overwhelmed by the pallattes of torquise, azure, and emerald, combined with the spattering of white Gulls, Puffins, Grey Seals and yellow sandy beach. We stood in awe for a while, completely forgetting the task of erecting our tent.
Even when we had bedded in, we stood for long periods gazing at unobstructed views of the landscape. Realising the time that could be lost in our trance, we decided to climb the mountain/ hill (An Cró Mór) to the immediate rear of the village. Two paths lead up the hill. We took the left hand path and at every bend on the trail, our senses were assaulted by more wild rugged beauty. At one point we decided to leave the beaten track and make a direct assault to the summit, but we were beaten back by midges and other insects who rightly enough, attempted to protect their territory. Stay on the trail for a leisurely three hour stroll that circumnavigates the entire island, where you will encounter Hares running wild, and seal colonies watching from the water.
When we had returned to the base-camp, the children insisted on visiting the beach. The beach is possibly one of the finest I have ever seen. Again, another tricky descent is necessary to access the beach, but once upon it, you will not be disappointed. The sand and coastline is pristine, and whether this is due to the natural flow of the currents, or by staff employed to keep it that way, the place is a perfect picture postcard credit. The Seals come right up to the shore to investigate. The snaps we obtained there are unwordly.
We returned to the base-camp for a well overdue evening meal. There is a fresh water tap on the island on the main trail through the village. I compared the quality of it with our bottled water and its cool crisp filtered taste won hands down. Following our meal, we rambled lazily amid the ruins of the houses of some of the world renowned writers, such as Peig Seyers and Muiris O Suilleabháin. (If your'e interested in this culture, buy the book Fiche Bhlian ag Fás, (Twenty Years a Growing) by O Suilleabháin, easily the best author in my opinion, who in one of his experiences, describes the Islanders running to the beaches to salvage a variety of floatsom and jetsom from the doomed prey of the U-Boats during WWII.
Before long, sunset had arrived, and again, spectacular skies developed as the sun disappeared over the horizon. We retired to our tent to settle down at the end of one our best days on any holiday, anywhere. While laying there in the quiet, we heard Whale's crying. We had been informed earlier that, if we should hear sounds of an old woman wailing, that we should not be alarmed. The sounds had everyone on their feet again and out of the tent trying to record the howling on the mobile phones. We succeeded in recording some of the songs. Once accoustomed to the crying, everyone settled again and drifted off to the sad sound of these Minke Whales. Our next alarm came from the terrifying squeal of the Manx Shearwater seabird as it circled our tent, (someone had thrown half a sandwich nearby and this early riser was moving in for breakfast). I was glad when one of the tour guides later described this birds scream with the exact word that I had used to describe it, 'A Terrordactyl'. It reassured me to know that I wasn't exaggerating.
We arose early the next morning and breakfasted early in order to have time to further investigate the right hand trail of An Cró Mór. Some Diving Groups were camped nearby and were readying themselves for an excursion. This trail also passes by the new Hostel/Cafe on the Island. We stopped off to enquire about the accomodation. It appears that you can book in advance (€25 per Adult/ €15 for children under 14-Family Rooms available....cold showers only and out of service for 2 days when we visited-immersion problem). We didn't avail of this service but we did partake in Tea/ Coffee and Scones. I heard that some American tourists forsook the guided tour of the Island, in favour of fresh Scones from the Cafe. We tasted the Scones ourselves, sitting on the outside patio overlooking the sea and let me tell you, those Americans were obviously well travelled and knew a good thing when they saw it....or smelled it. Without sounding over the top, the Scones were absolutely splendid, and packed with blueberries and currants.
We decamped at midday and travelled the short journey back to the Pier. The Ferry was right on cue. As we departed, we looked back at the Island, still struck by its awesome beauty, very much aware of how we could have been limited had it been in storm conditions, and thankful that we were permitted to experience this wonder, in all its glory, this last great bastion of the purest Gaelic speaking region in the world. Beidhimid ar ais, ar fad (We'll be back, indeed).
NOTES: 1. Whether Day Tripping or Camping, wear well worn and 'light style' mountain boots. 2. Toilets are at the Hostel (up to the rear of the village/ 50 cent for campers). 3. Don't stray off the beaten track or you'll be eaten (bring Repellant). 4. Bring good Binoculars. 5. Nighttime temperatures can drop. 6. Check and recheck weather conditions (no point looking like Michael Flatley as you skid across the moss). 7. Bring a good camera.
Our tour to the Island began on 27th July 2014, after studying and adhereing to local weather reports that predicted top class sunny conditions. We are an Irish family of 2 adults and three children (16,14,12) and we didnt travel lightly. Being familiar with abrupt Irish weather changes, we decided to carry extra sleeping bags, fleece-wear, and cooking equipment, in preparation for the worst. Our options for travel, was either from Dingle Harbour or Dun Caoin further out the coast. The Dingle Ferry (45mins $35p.p) departure times didnt suit, but the Ferry Master kindly provided us with the contact number for the Dun Caoin boat. The Dun Caoin Ferry departed every hour on the half hour (20 mins) and the Ferry Man, having secured our committment, let us all board for a total of $50 return including all luggage. The Dun Caoin Ferry Port however is a treacherous mini great wall of China that descends sharply 100 feet to sea level and could be a problem for the elderly or infirm or indeed, anyone with a bad hip. Free Car Parking is provided on site, so we parked up and slowly negotiated the descent with our cumbersome luggage. Once at the pier, an inflatable RIB took us to the main boat in the bay and all luggage stayed in situ on the RIB for the journey to the island.
Once on board the boat 'The Excalibur', a 20 min journey and an easy transfer back into the Rib to take us ashore had us at our final destination. Again, this island jetty is slippery but once ashore, a small steep journey to the camping area is easily attainable and the area leaves you smack bang, in the middle of the small but reknowned extinct village. The scenery here is absolutely spectacular, and I'm aware of other reviews that attempt to explain the setting. Words simply cannot get the message across of what awaits. We were lucky with the weather. The sun created dazzling colours with the surrounding scenery. I would say that any budding artist would be easily overwhelmed by the pallattes of torquise, azure, and emerald, combined with the spattering of white Gulls, Puffins, Grey Seals and yellow sandy beach. We stood in awe for a while, completely forgetting the task of erecting our tent.
Even when we had bedded in, we stood for long periods gazing at unobstructed views of the landscape. Realising the time that could be lost in our trance, we decided to climb the mountain/ hill (An Cró Mór) to the immediate rear of the village. Two paths lead up the hill. We took the left hand path and at every bend on the trail, our senses were assaulted by more wild rugged beauty. At one point we decided to leave the beaten track and make a direct assault to the summit, but we were beaten back by midges and other insects who rightly enough, attempted to protect their territory. Stay on the trail for a leisurely three hour stroll that circumnavigates the entire island, where you will encounter Hares running wild, and seal colonies watching from the water.
When we had returned to the base-camp, the children insisted on visiting the beach. The beach is possibly one of the finest I have ever seen. Again, another tricky descent is necessary to access the beach, but once upon it, you will not be disappointed. The sand and coastline is pristine, and whether this is due to the natural flow of the currents, or by staff employed to keep it that way, the place is a perfect picture postcard credit. The Seals come right up to the shore to investigate. The snaps we obtained there are unwordly.
We returned to the base-camp for a well overdue evening meal. There is a fresh water tap on the island on the main trail through the village. I compared the quality of it with our bottled water and its cool crisp filtered taste won hands down. Following our meal, we rambled lazily amid the ruins of the houses of some of the world renowned writers, such as Peig Seyers and Muiris O Suilleabháin. (If your'e interested in this culture, buy the book Fiche Bhlian ag Fás, (Twenty Years a Growing) by O Suilleabháin, easily the best author in my opinion, who in one of his experiences, describes the Islanders running to the beaches to salvage a variety of floatsom and jetsom from the doomed prey of the U-Boats during WWII.
Before long, sunset had arrived, and again, spectacular skies developed as the sun disappeared over the horizon. We retired to our tent to settle down at the end of one our best days on any holiday, anywhere. While laying there in the quiet, we heard Whale's crying. We had been informed earlier that, if we should hear sounds of an old woman wailing, that we should not be alarmed. The sounds had everyone on their feet again and out of the tent trying to record the howling on the mobile phones. We succeeded in recording some of the songs. Once accoustomed to the crying, everyone settled again and drifted off to the sad sound of these Minke Whales. Our next alarm came from the terrifying squeal of the Manx Shearwater seabird as it circled our tent, (someone had thrown half a sandwich nearby and this early riser was moving in for breakfast). I was glad when one of the tour guides later described this birds scream with the exact word that I had used to describe it, 'A Terrordactyl'. It reassured me to know that I wasn't exaggerating.
We arose early the next morning and breakfasted early in order to have time to further investigate the right hand trail of An Cró Mór. Some Diving Groups were camped nearby and were readying themselves for an excursion. This trail also passes by the new Hostel/Cafe on the Island. We stopped off to enquire about the accomodation. It appears that you can book in advance (€25 per Adult/ €15 for children under 14-Family Rooms available....cold showers only and out of service for 2 days when we visited-immersion problem). We didn't avail of this service but we did partake in Tea/ Coffee and Scones. I heard that some American tourists forsook the guided tour of the Island, in favour of fresh Scones from the Cafe. We tasted the Scones ourselves, sitting on the outside patio overlooking the sea and let me tell you, those Americans were obviously well travelled and knew a good thing when they saw it....or smelled it. Without sounding over the top, the Scones were absolutely splendid, and packed with blueberries and currants.
We decamped at midday and travelled the short journey back to the Pier. The Ferry was right on cue. As we departed, we looked back at the Island, still struck by its awesome beauty, very much aware of how we could have been limited had it been in storm conditions, and thankful that we were permitted to experience this wonder, in all its glory, this last great bastion of the purest Gaelic speaking region in the world. Beidhimid ar ais, ar fad (We'll be back, indeed).
NOTES: 1. Whether Day Tripping or Camping, wear well worn and 'light style' mountain boots. 2. Toilets are at the Hostel (up to the rear of the village/ 50 cent for campers). 3. Don't stray off the beaten track or you'll be eaten (bring Repellant). 4. Bring good Binoculars. 5. Nighttime temperatures can drop. 6. Check and recheck weather conditions (no point looking like Michael Flatley as you skid across the moss). 7. Bring a good camera.
Written 28 July 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
hannigan007
Cork, Ireland118 contributions
I have been to Dingle many times before but this year I had the pleasure of visiting the Blaskets. You go there by boat from the Dunquin pier and boats leave every half hour from 9:30 on. The crossing takes 20 minutes and the scenary on the way over is breathtaking. A small dingy takes you from the boat to the slipway as the boat is too big to pull up next to the pier, so families with small children would want to be careful if its a choppy day on the sea. Once you land turn around and look back at the mainland the view is a view that words cannot described, you have to see it first hand to appreciate how beautiful it is. The island itself is quite big so you will definately need a few hours to explore it fully but it is so worth it. This is the real Ireland forget everything else Blarney Castle the Lakes of Killarney etc this is Ireland at its best. Alot of the old houses are in ruins but there are some refurbished houses out there and even a small cafe. The island itself is full of wildlife such as wild birds, rabbits, donkeys, sheep etc. There is a gorgeous beach thats well worth the trek down to. On the beach you can see seals playing in the water along with some of the most clearest water ever. Apart from its beauty the island itself is steeped in history, I was very moved having stood in the ruins of Tomas O Criomhthain's house (author of An t-Oileanach) thinking this is where he wrote the book. If you go to Dingle you HAVE to go here it will totally eclipse everything else you've seen around Dingle.
Written 7 June 2005
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1234male
2 contributions
Jun 2013
First of all I must say the views are brilliant on the Island but I would recommend trying to find your own way onto the island before taking a boat trip with the Blasket island ferries company! First of all the lady in the office was very abrupt and didn't seam to be too interested in satisfying her customers needs. We were all supposed to leave to land on the island at 11am but some of the group had to wait until 12pm on the pier until the boat returned which wasn't agreed when organising this trip. Once we stepped onto the boat the crew members were certainly not the best trained in customer service and there was a lack of interest in their tone of voice as the threw the life jackets at us and said "get them on ye".... Once we landed the island spoke for itself but due to the delay in the second boat we only got 2 hours on the island before they demanded we get on the boat back! We were all disgusted as we had been told the returning boat would run until at least 4.30 and they wanted us to leave at 2.30!!! This is a clear example of how a company should not be run.
Written 30 July 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
traveller4576
Dublin301 contributions
Aug 2016 • Couples
One of the best sights on the Dingle Peninsula (would rate Skellig Michael better, but that is a bigger / longer undertaking, and on the other neighboring peninsula).
1. One boat leaves from Dunquin pier (the narrow concrete path down to the pier is one of the most famous "tourist" photographs in Ireland when filled with sheep). There is a ticket shack there (and they have a website). You get a rib from the pier to the boat, boat across, and rib to the Island's pier. Not in any way dangerous (it is a big rib) and don't needs wet-clothes etc. Boat across takes about 20 mins.
2. Other way is to leave from Dingle Harbor (ticket office on the harbor front). You avoid one of the rib journeys of Dunquin but it takes over an hour extra. You get to see fungi the dolphin on the way (a plus). You travel around the Slea Head by boat (instead of car in 1. above). Both are excellent trips on a fine day.
3. On the Island, just up from the pier, are about 20 ruined cottages plus a youth hostel (you can spend the night), which was Peig's old house, plus a small coffee / snack shop (and proper modern toilet - thank god). There are guided tours at intervals in the afternoon around the ruins (on who lived there) for 30 mins.
4. Just beside the Island pier (which is well protected by big concrete walls) is a lovely sandy beach (bring your swim trunks on a fine day). Water is lovely with waves and there are quite a few (especially at the far end of the beach) seals in the water.
5. The big one is to walk the "loop" around the Island's main peak. Incredible views (especially on a fine day) and very safe and pretty flat path, with takes about 1 hr 30 mins (max) to do. Path can be big boggy / swampy in places (esp north side), so don't bring your best shoes on this if possible (very light climbing shoes ideal).
6. If you have time, you can add in the two extra peaks that sit on the west end of the Island. At the apex of the "loop" path, the path branches off to take in both of them. They are also spectacular and not boggy. This path does go along a cliff so be careful. Takes about another 1 hr 30 mins to add in these two peaks (45 mins per peak) round trip. So if you do the full "loop" plus the two extra peaks, that is 3 hours of walking in total. A fit walker might do faster, but it will still be well over 2 hours.
7. So, if you are staying around the Island ruined village + stroll on beach, you need about 1-2 hours. If you are going to do the "loop" (and maybe get to the westerly peak), you need +3-4 hours of time on the Island to take it in. Ideal time is to leave mid-morning (about 10-12), and return in evening (4-5pm). Last boat is 5.30pm.
Good attraction for young kids if they like the beach (and it is a fine day), or if they like hill walking etc. The boat+ribs give a sense of adventure as well. Very safe and easy (on a fine day). We with a family who left from Dunquin and brought their 3 month baby across (i.e. the rib is not that big a deal). However, it was a fine day.
Cannot overstate the difference in experience between seeing the Great Blasket Island on a fine day (amazing infinity sea views - very inspirational) vs. a wet day (quite depressing really - a truly hard life). It is very binary experience in my view.
Well worth while taking in the nearby Great Blasket Island Heritiage Centre (also in Dunquin). Amazing building, very good exhibits / explanations, and restaurant.
The nearest best seafood dining experience post your Great Blasket Island day trip is either Dingle or The Skipper in Ventry (which is very good). The nearby Louis Mulcahy cafe is also excellent but likely to be closed by time you get off island.
1. One boat leaves from Dunquin pier (the narrow concrete path down to the pier is one of the most famous "tourist" photographs in Ireland when filled with sheep). There is a ticket shack there (and they have a website). You get a rib from the pier to the boat, boat across, and rib to the Island's pier. Not in any way dangerous (it is a big rib) and don't needs wet-clothes etc. Boat across takes about 20 mins.
2. Other way is to leave from Dingle Harbor (ticket office on the harbor front). You avoid one of the rib journeys of Dunquin but it takes over an hour extra. You get to see fungi the dolphin on the way (a plus). You travel around the Slea Head by boat (instead of car in 1. above). Both are excellent trips on a fine day.
3. On the Island, just up from the pier, are about 20 ruined cottages plus a youth hostel (you can spend the night), which was Peig's old house, plus a small coffee / snack shop (and proper modern toilet - thank god). There are guided tours at intervals in the afternoon around the ruins (on who lived there) for 30 mins.
4. Just beside the Island pier (which is well protected by big concrete walls) is a lovely sandy beach (bring your swim trunks on a fine day). Water is lovely with waves and there are quite a few (especially at the far end of the beach) seals in the water.
5. The big one is to walk the "loop" around the Island's main peak. Incredible views (especially on a fine day) and very safe and pretty flat path, with takes about 1 hr 30 mins (max) to do. Path can be big boggy / swampy in places (esp north side), so don't bring your best shoes on this if possible (very light climbing shoes ideal).
6. If you have time, you can add in the two extra peaks that sit on the west end of the Island. At the apex of the "loop" path, the path branches off to take in both of them. They are also spectacular and not boggy. This path does go along a cliff so be careful. Takes about another 1 hr 30 mins to add in these two peaks (45 mins per peak) round trip. So if you do the full "loop" plus the two extra peaks, that is 3 hours of walking in total. A fit walker might do faster, but it will still be well over 2 hours.
7. So, if you are staying around the Island ruined village + stroll on beach, you need about 1-2 hours. If you are going to do the "loop" (and maybe get to the westerly peak), you need +3-4 hours of time on the Island to take it in. Ideal time is to leave mid-morning (about 10-12), and return in evening (4-5pm). Last boat is 5.30pm.
Good attraction for young kids if they like the beach (and it is a fine day), or if they like hill walking etc. The boat+ribs give a sense of adventure as well. Very safe and easy (on a fine day). We with a family who left from Dunquin and brought their 3 month baby across (i.e. the rib is not that big a deal). However, it was a fine day.
Cannot overstate the difference in experience between seeing the Great Blasket Island on a fine day (amazing infinity sea views - very inspirational) vs. a wet day (quite depressing really - a truly hard life). It is very binary experience in my view.
Well worth while taking in the nearby Great Blasket Island Heritiage Centre (also in Dunquin). Amazing building, very good exhibits / explanations, and restaurant.
The nearest best seafood dining experience post your Great Blasket Island day trip is either Dingle or The Skipper in Ventry (which is very good). The nearby Louis Mulcahy cafe is also excellent but likely to be closed by time you get off island.
Written 30 August 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Peter H
Great Malvern, UK23 contributions
Jun 2016 • Solo
An unforgettable experience for those who have the sensibility to appreciate a unique place of great natural beauty, once home to a small yet vital community. I have been fascinated by the Blasket Islands for many years, after reading the amazing literary heritage left by a number of Islanders who lived their lives in the small village on the Great Blasket Island, until it was evacuated to the mainland in 1953/4.
I took the opportunity not to just visit the Great Blasket Island on a day trip, but to stay for 4 nights at the very simple yet comfortable self-catering hostel on the island. Billy O'Connor, the operator of Dingle Bay Speed Boat Tours & Blasket Island Landings, based in Dingle (office beside Dingle Tourism Office, facing statue of Fungie the dolphin), has performed a Herculean and praiseworthy task in renewing a number of old cottages in the ruins of the island village to create a very simple and basic, though comfortable, hostel. See Billy's greatblasketisland.net for details of the great sea tours & ferry he operates from Dingle in his fast boat Peig Sayers, and for details of the hostel accommodation.
The hostel will suit those who are happy to 'rough it' a bit in order to have an amazing and privileged experience appreciating the amazing quiet and natural beauty of the island, in a setting imbued with the history of the small but vital community that once lived out their lives there.
Day visitors need to be aware that there is NO SHELTER on the island if the weather turns bad. They will just have to bear the weather until the next ferry boat arrives from Dunquin or Billy's boat from Dingle. It is also a steep walk up from the landing place to the ruined village and the hostel at the far end.
It is possible to buy a tea or coffee, possibly even a scone or chocolate bar, from the hostel's very simple 'cafe', lovingly served by the incomparable Geraldine from Northern Ireland :) and her delightful Patagonian assistant Carolina. But visitors note, there is no indoor seating at this 'cafe', you will sit outside at the picnic tables to enjoy your drink, no matter the weather, with the most beautiful view down the green slope to the White Strand, with the small island of Beginish and other rocks before you, with Sybil Head, Mounts Brandon and Eagle in the distance. Please appreciate where you are, and the effort entailed in bringing all supplies onto the island and up to the hostel. This is NOT Starbucks, do NOT ask for a Macchiato or a skinny Latte! Tho' you will get a cafetiere of good quality coffee. There is a toilet available to visitors, through the hostel reception door - please leave a donation in the box as requested, those toilet rolls have come a long way and been hauled up a steep slope for your convenience!!
If you have to have all the benefits of 'civilization' within reach, it is probably best if you just visit the Blasket Heritage Centre in Dunquin and gaze at the Islands from a safe distance.
The Great Blasket Island is a wonderful place for those wishing to get away from 'civilization' for a short time of peace and quiet, sea birds and seals, island walks above stunning sea cliffs - just nature in all her finery.
I took the opportunity not to just visit the Great Blasket Island on a day trip, but to stay for 4 nights at the very simple yet comfortable self-catering hostel on the island. Billy O'Connor, the operator of Dingle Bay Speed Boat Tours & Blasket Island Landings, based in Dingle (office beside Dingle Tourism Office, facing statue of Fungie the dolphin), has performed a Herculean and praiseworthy task in renewing a number of old cottages in the ruins of the island village to create a very simple and basic, though comfortable, hostel. See Billy's greatblasketisland.net for details of the great sea tours & ferry he operates from Dingle in his fast boat Peig Sayers, and for details of the hostel accommodation.
The hostel will suit those who are happy to 'rough it' a bit in order to have an amazing and privileged experience appreciating the amazing quiet and natural beauty of the island, in a setting imbued with the history of the small but vital community that once lived out their lives there.
Day visitors need to be aware that there is NO SHELTER on the island if the weather turns bad. They will just have to bear the weather until the next ferry boat arrives from Dunquin or Billy's boat from Dingle. It is also a steep walk up from the landing place to the ruined village and the hostel at the far end.
It is possible to buy a tea or coffee, possibly even a scone or chocolate bar, from the hostel's very simple 'cafe', lovingly served by the incomparable Geraldine from Northern Ireland :) and her delightful Patagonian assistant Carolina. But visitors note, there is no indoor seating at this 'cafe', you will sit outside at the picnic tables to enjoy your drink, no matter the weather, with the most beautiful view down the green slope to the White Strand, with the small island of Beginish and other rocks before you, with Sybil Head, Mounts Brandon and Eagle in the distance. Please appreciate where you are, and the effort entailed in bringing all supplies onto the island and up to the hostel. This is NOT Starbucks, do NOT ask for a Macchiato or a skinny Latte! Tho' you will get a cafetiere of good quality coffee. There is a toilet available to visitors, through the hostel reception door - please leave a donation in the box as requested, those toilet rolls have come a long way and been hauled up a steep slope for your convenience!!
If you have to have all the benefits of 'civilization' within reach, it is probably best if you just visit the Blasket Heritage Centre in Dunquin and gaze at the Islands from a safe distance.
The Great Blasket Island is a wonderful place for those wishing to get away from 'civilization' for a short time of peace and quiet, sea birds and seals, island walks above stunning sea cliffs - just nature in all her finery.
Written 18 June 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mollyjessCork
cork51 contributions
Sept 2011 • Couples
I fully agree with all the very positive comments regarding The Great Blasket and would urge anyone travelling in the Dingle peninsula not to miss a trip there. You will experience rugged beauty at its very best here, with unimaginable views that will truely take your breath away.
The "BUT" comes in the shape of midges and tiny, black flying things..........billions of them that will happily feast on you, get stuck in your hair, eyebrows, ears and clothes. We visited in September when the weather wasn't very good, so we didn't even need sun block. It therefore didn't cross our minds to bring insect repellant!!!!! Be warned, if you do go to Great Blasket, protect yourself with the best repellant you can afford........and bring reinforcements, you're going to need them.
The "BUT" comes in the shape of midges and tiny, black flying things..........billions of them that will happily feast on you, get stuck in your hair, eyebrows, ears and clothes. We visited in September when the weather wasn't very good, so we didn't even need sun block. It therefore didn't cross our minds to bring insect repellant!!!!! Be warned, if you do go to Great Blasket, protect yourself with the best repellant you can afford........and bring reinforcements, you're going to need them.
Written 18 September 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ire3333
london1,993 contributions
Jul 2017 • Couples
We had a wonderful trip to the Blasket Islands last week. We caught the boat from Dunquin pier and despite the sunshine the water was very very rough. However the crew were fantastic helping guests on and off the dingies and the big boat. As very experienced scuba divers we spend a lot of time scrambling on and off boats and were seriously impressed with these guys.
The island is spectacularly beautiful , would really recommend climbing to the top as the view towards Skellig Rock was even more impressive. We also spent some time on the beautiful beach , watched by some very curious friendly seals. A few years ago we went at the end of the season and the seals were all sleeping on the beach. There were probably too many people last week. We also saw two puffins and countless cormorants.
However when we come back we will also do the all day trip that goes around the Skellig Rock. The day we went the people on the all day trip saw basking sharks and Minnie whales apparently. The organization on the boats was excellent , so us wouldn't hesitate to do an all day trip.
The island is a very special place , really recommend a visit.
The island is spectacularly beautiful , would really recommend climbing to the top as the view towards Skellig Rock was even more impressive. We also spent some time on the beautiful beach , watched by some very curious friendly seals. A few years ago we went at the end of the season and the seals were all sleeping on the beach. There were probably too many people last week. We also saw two puffins and countless cormorants.
However when we come back we will also do the all day trip that goes around the Skellig Rock. The day we went the people on the all day trip saw basking sharks and Minnie whales apparently. The organization on the boats was excellent , so us wouldn't hesitate to do an all day trip.
The island is a very special place , really recommend a visit.
Written 23 July 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Any idea why it says closed when all boat companies are currently bringing visitors to The Great Blasket Island? Very odd to have this incorrect banner attached to The Great Blasket IslandTripadvisor page....
Written 23 July 2020
Are the steps up to Great Blasket Island safe? How wide are they? Any guard rails? How many steps?
Thanks
Written 15 May 2019
Is there a fee for Blasket Island? Thank you
Written 8 August 2017
No landing fee when you reach the island, just your ferry ticket fee of course on the mainland.
Written 9 October 2018
Think €35 return but one of the ferries does an island tour which might me more I think
Written 11 August 2017
Would you recommend this island over Skellig Michael? We are traveling next month (August) and probably don't have time to do both.
Written 17 July 2017
It depends on what you are into. If you are into the whole Star Wars theme, then Skellig Michael is a must, otherwise they are both equally beautiful. Although when you get back home, you probably will be sorry for not doing both !
Written 17 July 2017
Bonjour
Pouvez-vous m'indiquer où il faut se rendre pour prendre ce bateau avec Billy. Avez vous ses coordonnées ?
Merci par avance
Bon dimanche
Written 25 June 2017
bonsoir le bateau pour se rendre sur l'ile par du port de dingle; plusieurs possibilités, soit être déposé sur l'ile et le bateau revient 3 h après soit un autre parcours fait le tour de plusieurs iles avec découverte des phoques des macareux et bien sur des dauphins ensuite dépose sur l'ile durant une heure! super excursion
Written 25 June 2017
Bonjour
Pouvez-vous m'indiquer où il faut se rendre pour prendre ce bateau avec Billy. Avez vous ses coordonnées ?
Merci par avance
Bon dimanche
Written 25 June 2017
Hi we are travelling to Ireland in August and photos and comments on Blasket Island sound great. How do you get there if not on a tour and if on a tour what would you recommend? We like smaller groups and would want to be able to wander round the island
Written 2 April 2017
Ireland has excellent tourist centers in every city and they can show you many options of traveling through Ireland. Some people like bus tours, others like to take trains to their destinations. Many small tour operators are available, also. We've done all types of touring and were pleasantly surprised to find good information and accommodating tour guides. Good luck!
Written 2 April 2017
Would having a personal guide for this island be a huge plus or should I opt for a different day hike on the Dingle Penninsula to do with a guide?
Written 4 March 2017
We joined a small tour group on our first trip and then this last trip, a few months ago, we were part of a larger tour group. The guides definitely point out many things that you would miss on your own. Our recent trip was with CIE Tours and they arranged several stops along the way.
Written 5 March 2017
Which boat did you take. Were you happy with the trip? Thanks. Amy
Written 13 June 2016
I was just out there last Thursday 09/06/2016 and it was an amazing place. I got the 1:30pm boat out and the 4:50pm boat back in. I would say to get the earliest boat you can out and spend the day out there and get the last boat back in. I could of done with longer time out there. To walk the entire island it will take between 5 - 6.5 hours and to do the small loop it will take about 1 - 2 hours. Including the tour and if you bring some lunch time will fly. I got a good day, overcast, only a small bit of rain. Sibeal is the girl I dealt with, she's lovely, at the little cabin and as I was early she gave me a great tip to go back up on to the main road and visit the local cafe that two spinsters run with lovely traditional Irish baking, it's called Caife Dún Chaoin. I got blackberry & apple tart and tea, it was lovely! It cost €6.95 go there.
The boat out to blasket cost €30 for 1 adult(June 2016)
Paul
Westmeath
Written 13 June 2016
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