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Towering 714 feet above sea level and about 8 miles off the Southwest Irish coast, is the remote island of Skellig Michael. It is widely known as a filming location for “Star Wars: A Force Awakens” and “The Last Jedi,” but it holds much more sacred history than meets the eye. Skellig Michael is a UNESCO world heritage site, a bird sanctuary is and home to a well-preserved, 6th-century ancient monastery.
How to visit Skellig Michael
Tours are offered during the summer months from May-September out of the small village of Portmagee. There are two ways to see the island. A landing tour or an Eco (viewing) tour.
Viewing/Eco Tour:
The Eco tours do not land on the island but view around the isle via boat. This tour is best for families with smaller children, as landing tours will not allow kids under 8 years of age due to safety reasons. The viewing tours circumnavigates around Skellig Michael and the inaccessible Small Skelligs. Don't let a "viewing" tour deter you as you can still take some remarkable pictures of the island's jagged landscape, view the wildlife and see the structures built by the monks from the boat!
Landing Tour:
The landing tours must be booked well in advance, as less than 200 people are allowed to step foot on the island per day. This hike is not for those that are afraid of heights. This trail was built with uneven stones as your trail. This is a steep, narrow, path to the top with over 600 steps, no guardrails and fierce drop-offs. The boat ride to the island is an adventure in itself. The entirety of the tour lasts about five hours, which includes the time on the island. It is about an hour boat ride (each way) through the open sea to reach Skellig Michael, then you are allowed two and a half hours to explore. (Tip: Take a waterproof jacket and any motion sickness medication, if you are prone. You will thank yourself later!) This is a remote island with no restrooms, food outlets or overhead shelters. Bring a backpack with snacks and water and come prepared. Don’t forget this also means there are no trashcans. You will be packing out what you pack in, so help keep this island unharmed by human interaction.
Note: Keep in mind that all tours are not guaranteed to depart and subject to favorable weather conditions. High winds and storms can frequently cancel all trips for the day as it can be too dangerous to land on the island.
What to bring:
Your camera
Water and wind-resistant jacket
Motion sickness medication (If you are prone to seasickness)
A snack and water
A small backpack or drawstring bag for your water and snacks
Decent hiking or walking shoes with traction. (No sandals or flip flops)
Sunscreen
Things to do nearby
It will be after lunchtime when the tour finishes. Walk across the street to the Moorings' or Fisherman's bar to grab some local seafood. Try the seafood chowder recommended by the locals. Not a soup person? Can't go wrong with the fish & chips!
Want to get out the traditional attractions on the Ring of Kerry? Check out Valentina Island. The Skellig Visitor center is located here right across the bridge if you wish to learn more about the history of these magnificent Islands. After, take a left out of the visitor center to Bray Head Loop Walk for some beautiful views. If the weather is good, you can even see the Skellig’s from here.
Skellig Michael is arguably one of the most beautifully protected archeological sites in all of Europe. The main sites to see on Skellig Michael is the well-preserved remains of the ancient monastery, beehive huts and even a small cemetery. If you are a bird enthusiast, you’re in luck, as Skellig Michael is a huge breeding ground for the Atlantic puffin starting in late spring. If you are lucky enough to snag one of the coveted spots to Skellig Michael, you will be rewarded with unforgettable memories, stunning views and Ireland’s hike of a lifetime.
