Inisturk Walking Tour Island
Guided tour led by Islander Jack Heane
Walk/Tour
Date: Thursday September 26th, 2024
Time: 10am for 10.30am ferry / Return 5:15pm
Ferry Departs from: Roonagh Point, Louisburg, Co.Mayo F28W8P3
Tranquil, isolated and stunningly beautiful, Inishturk lies around 15km (9 miles) off the coast of County Mayo, nestled between the islands of Inishbofin and Clare. Inishturk Island juts out of the wild North Atlantic Ocean, reaching 189m (621ft) at its highest point stands the ruins of a Napoleonic era watchtower that was part of a network of towers from Mayo to Waterford.
Inishturk has been inhabited on and off since 4,000 BCE and has been inhabited permanently since at least 1700. Some of the more recent inhabitants are descended from evacuees from Inishark to the southwest.
On our walk we will talk about the islands bronze age past, its pirate coves and view the stunning cliffs. Our host, and Island native Jack Heane will be more than happy to talk about life on the island with a small community and the plans for helping it to survive in the future.
In 1993 Inishturk Community centre was opened, this community centre doubles as a library and a pub. The island is home to a primary school on the island which in 2011 had only 3 pupils, this believed to be the smallest primary school in Ireland.
Inisturk is one of the true gems sitting offshore our Island waiting for you to visit.
Cost including Ferry is €30
Ferry timetable available at https://inishturkpassengerferry.ie
Bring your walking boots and remember to wear appropriate clothing for the outdoors!
Soup and sandwiches will be made available on the island at the InisTurk Community Club, but would be advised to bring own additional drinks or snacks.