Everything you Need to Know About Skellig Michael and How to Get There!

Julia Labedz
May 6
2 min read

Off the coast of County Kerry, Skellig Michael rises dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean, 13 km from the mainland. This remote island, known as Sceilg Mhichíl in Irish, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its early Christian monastic settlement and stunning natural beauty.

What to Expect

Skellig Michael is known for its well-preserved monastic settlement dating back to the 6th century. The monks who lived here built stone beehive huts, oratories, and terraces, all of which remain remarkably intact. Reaching the monastery requires climbing over 600 ancient stone steps, carved into the steep cliffs of the island. The ascent is challenging and requires a good level of fitness, but the panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort.

Wildlife and Natural Beauty

Little Skellig hosts Ireland's largest gannet colony, while Skellig Michael is home to puffins, kittiwakes, and other seabirds The surrounding waters are rich with marine life, including dolphins, seals, and occasionally basking sharks.

Star Wars Connection

Fans of the Star Wars franchise may recognize Skellig Michael as the filming location for Luke Skywalker's hideaway in "The Force Awakens" and "The Last Jedi" - and seeing it all up close makes sense why!

Tips for Visitors

Book Early: Tours are limited and fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Dress Appropriately: Wear sturdy footwear with ankle support, and bring waterproof clothing, as weather conditions can, and probably will, change rapidly.
Prepare for the Climb: The steps to the monastery are steep and uneven; ensure you're physically prepared for the ascent.
Bring Supplies: There are no facilities on the island, so carry water, snacks, and sunscreen.
Check Weather Conditions: Tours are weather-dependent and may be cancelled at short notice due to rough seas.

How to Get There

Access to Skellig Michael is by boat from Portmagee, a charming village in County Kerry. The island is accessible only during the official landing season, which runs from mid-May to the end of September.

Landing Tours: These tours allow you to set foot on the island and explore the ancient monastic site. The journey takes about 45 minutes each way, with approximately 2.5 hours allocated for exploring the islandTickets are priced at €130 per person.

Eco Cruises: If climbing 600+ stone steps isn't your thing, this is a great option. Eco cruises circle both Skellig Michael and Little Skellig, offering close-up views of the islands and their wildlife. These tours last about 2.5 hours and cost €50 per adult and €25 per child.