For my second to last day in Ireland, I had the good fortune of getting out to the Skellig Islands. I’ve known about these island since my first visit to Ireland, but wasn’t able to get out to them as they are closed during the winter months. The Skelligs, two crags seven miles off the mainland of Ireland, are home to not only an abundance of sea birds, but also a 6th century monastic site.

Portmagee, a village on the north western tip of the Iveragh Peninsula (also known as the Ring of Kerry), was named after a 18th century smuggler. Portmagee is one of the access harbors to get to the Skellig Islands. I spent my last two nights in Portmagee. A most wonderful little village.

Views of Portmagee from the boat as we leave the harbor towards the open ocean.

The last bit of sun we would see for the day.

Little Skellig.

First views of the 6th century monastery site after walking up the almost 600 steps from the boat.

Pics from around the monastery. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996, it’s limited on the number of visitors that have access per day. Even on the limitation to visitors and given the sites small size, it was a busy place. I found myself waiting a lot to get the pic I wanted. Even with the crowds, it was an awesome experience.

Dedicated to Saint Michael around 1044, the monastery atop the Great Skellig is believed to be from the 6th century.

Six beehive huts can be found at the monastery. It’s believed these huts hosted 12 monks and an abbot.

A bunch of sea birds can be found on the Skelligs. Some of the more well know are the Puffins ( they already left when I was there) and Gannets (up to a six ft wing span).

The fog/mist rolled across the Great Skellig while I was there, adding a wonderful feel.

An East/West walkway in the Monastery. Each stone has a cross carved into it.

That big scary ocean.

The monks made three different access points to the monastery. The main one used today has almost 600 medieval stone steps. A climb from the dock that takes about a half hour.

More of the stone steps.

A steep climb up and down the steps.

The Wailing Woman and Little Skellig.

Back at the harbor.

More of the stone steps placed by the monks.

Making our way to Little Skellig.

Birds. Lots and lots of Sea Birds.

Great Skellig in the distance.

Views around the boat as we made out way back to the harbor at Portmagee.

Portmagee harbor.

Portmagee. I took a liking to this little village. The name of the town coming from a notorious smuggler from the 18th century.

Guiness is good for you.

End.