Guide to the Blasket Islands in County Kerry

Hello Community! 

Have you hear of these uninhabited islands in the west of Ireland? Nestled off the rugged coast of the Dingle Peninsula, the Blasket Islands beckon adventurers with their untamed beauty and rich history. Surrounded by the wild Atlantic Ocean, this archipelago offers a truly authentic experience in County Kerry.



How to get there?
To reach the Blasket Islands, you must embark on a boat journey from the mainland. The boat crossings, available from Dingle Harbor, provide not only transportation but also a thrilling introduction to the experience that awaits.Various tour operators in Dingle such as Great Blasket Islands Experience or Dingle Boat Tours offer guided trips to the islands, providing insight into the area's rich history and marine life. These excursions are not only a mode of transportation but a vital part of the overall experience, making the journey as enchanting as the destination.

Experience its Marine Wildlife
As you approach the Blasket Islands, the surrounding waters come alive with marine wildlife. Keep a keen eye out for seals, dolphins and basking sharks. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the diverse seabird population, including puffins, gannets, and fulmars.As previously mentioned, there are tour-operators organizing boat tours to the island, with some focusing on the islands’ wildlife, such as Blasket Eco Marine Tours.

Accommodation on Great Blasket Island
The largest of the Blasket Islands, Great Blasket, boasts a unique accommodation experience that transports visitors back in time. While the island is uninhabited during the winter months, from April to October, visitors can stay in charming traditional cottages. These accommodations provide a simple and rustic experience, allowing guests to disconnect from the modern world.Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing on the shore, surrounded by the untouched beauty of the rugged landscape. And did you know that two people were selected each year to be the caretakers of Great Blasket Island? 

Things to Do on the Blaskets
Great Blasket Island offers a range of activities for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Explore the island's walking trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints, capturing the essence of the landscape.
Next, visit the the Great Blasket Centre on the mainland (in Dun Chaoin, on the Dingle Peninsula) from November to March to learn more about the island's rich literary history, with a particular focus on the works of the island's former inhabitants.
Finally, you can also simply unwind on the tranquil beaches, letting the beauty of the surroundings rejuvenate your spirit and fuel your creative spirit. Speaking of which, did you know that the Blaskets inspired our writers?

In conclusion, a journey to the Blasket Islands on the Dingle Peninsula promises a unique blend of natural beauty, marine adventure, and cultural immersion. Has anyone from our Community had the chance to visit the Blasket Islands? I’m all ears! 

Useful links: 
Great Blasket Centre and Island: blasket.ie
Cottage accommodation: greatblasketisland.net/accommodation

Applications for this year are closed, but maybe someone from the Community would want to apply for 2025!

The Blasket Islands have such a rich history! An absolute must-see when visiting the Dingle Peninsula. Did you know that every year, a couple are hired to take care of the island from June until October? Dream job!

The caretakers are the only ones living on the remote island, sometimes alone for weeks on end during bad weather. This year's braver caretakers were a couple from Cork. 

Thanks, Alinde! That truly sounds like the ultimate seasonal job! I mean, you get to enjoy the landscapes daily and meet fellow travelers staying in the cottages. 😀 

And since there's no wifi or electricity, sounds like this is the perfect social media detox to me! I just read the testimony of the caretakers from 2022 and I can tell they had a lot of fun.

Cheers,

I heard that Blasket Islands could be a great spot for stargazing, in particular on clear nights between November and December, when there's no light pollution and darkness can last for up to 16 hours a day.

Here are some tips and suggestions for a memorable stargazing adventure:

1 - First and foremost, check weather conditions: monitor weather forecasts before planning your trip to increase the likelihood of clear skies.

2 - Bring warm clothing: during winter time, the coastal weather can be cool, especially at night. Dress warmly in layers to stay comfortable during your session. 

3 - Choose a dark spot for a great view: the more removed you are from light pollution, the better you'll be able to see celestial objects. If you have binoculars or a portable telescope, bring them along to enhance your stargazing experience.

4 - Be mindful of wildlife and safety: the islands may have unique nocturnal wildlife, so be respectful of the natural environment and try to minimize noise. Lastly, be aware of your surroundings, especially if you are in a remote area. Ensure you have a safe and clear path if you're moving around in the dark. Bring a comfortable chair or blanket to sit or lie down and enjoy the experience. :cool:

What an incredible opportunity! The annual caretaker role on the Blasket Islands sounds like a dream job for anyone seeking a unique and solitary island adventure. Kudos to the brave couple from Cork who took on this remote living experience.