30 Jun Inishbofin , County Galway
The island lies low in the sea off the Galway coast surrounded by reefs and flanked by uninhabited Inishark. The cliffs on its Western end are wild and windswept but the Eastern end has sheltered beaches.
Its turbulent history is recalled by the ruined castle which guards the harbour entrance. Originally a fort built by Spanish pirate Don Bosco , it was later used by woman pirate Grace O’Malley. In the mid-1600s it was extended and rebuilt as a castle. It was garrisoned by Cromwellian soldiers who used the island as transportation centre for priests.
Inishbofin is a hidden gem and a must see on your Ireland tours.