Great Skellig
About Great Skellig
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Federico Bona
Available for hire
"Skellig Michael, also called Great Skellig, is a twin-pinnacled crag west of the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry.
The island is named after the archangel Michael, with "Skellig" derived from the Irish language word sceilig, meaning a splinter of stone. Its twin island, Little Skellig (Sceilig Bheag), is smaller and inaccessible (landing is not permitted).
Skellig Michael consists of approximately 22 hectares of rock, with its highest point, known as the Spit, 218 m above sea level.
It is best known for its Gaelic monastery, founded between the 6th and 8th centuries, and its variety of inhabiting species, which include gannets, puffins, a colony of razorbills and a population of approximately fifty grey seals.
The monastery can be approached by narrow and steep flights of stone steps which ascend from three landing points. The hermitage on the south peak contains a dangerous approach and is largely closed to the public. Because of the often difficult crossing from the mainland and the exposed nature of the landing spots, the island is accessible only during summer months.
UNESCO designated Skellig Michael a World Heritage Site in 1996."
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Krista Geiger
"The Skellig Islands are 2 uninhabited, rocky islets off the southwestern coast of Ireland. Skellig Michael is known for its well-preserved early Christian monastery. The site, reached by steep steps, includes stone beehive-shaped huts, oratories and crosses. Thousands of puffins breed on Skellig Michael during the warmer months. To the northeast, the island of Little Skellig is home to a large colony of gannets."
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Lisa
"Skellig Michael Island is truly awe inspiring both from the boat on approach to the island and on the island itself. The boat tour companies linked below offer two options, a boat tour around the island or a landing tour that allows you to disembark and explore the old Monastery on the island itself. Lots of opportunity for amazing photos, viewing wildlife like puffins and seals and soaking up some sea air."
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