We all know that traveling is not the best decision you can make in this period of time. However, if you are the type of person that likes to plan things ahead, and is looking for a remote, yet appealing location to visit after the pandemic, this article will shed some light on the islands of Aran, an impressive place with an intricate history located on the west coast of Ireland.
Whatever your interests may be, the range of activities in this place is incredible. Something that is out of the ordinary related to the Aran Islands, and that attracts most tourists, are the forts on the island that date back to the Bronze and Iron Ages. The most renowned forts are Dun Aengus, the Black Fort, or O’Brien’s Castle, built in the 14th century. Killing two birds with one stone, you can enjoy the history behind these buildings, while also sightseeing and gazing at the tremendous geographical attractions this place has to offer.
Another interesting piece of information about the Aran Islands is the geology behind the place. Mainly based on karst limestone, they date back to approximately three hundred and fifty million years ago, and they were compressed alongside sea urchins and corals. The islands are considered to be one of the “finest examples of a Glacio-Karst landscape in the world”.
When it comes to transport, there are quite a number of specifics you must know when traveling to the Aran Islands. The primary means of transport you should use while visiting the place are the hired bikes since they are the most convenient way of traveling on the mainland roads. Another thing you should acknowledge is that there are plenty of ferries that can take you around said islands, all year round. Up until 2019, there used to be an airport that provided flight services, but its activity ceased at the end of that year.
If you are one for arts and crafts, however, this is the place to be. Probably one of the most versatile pieces of clothing, the Aran jumper, originates right from these islands and has an enthralling history that will fascinate even the most skeptical people. Aran sweaters are thought to be the reflection of the knitter’s family history, beliefs, and creeds, that were bestowed on the future generation by passing on the art of knitting. Specific patterns offer specific interpretations of the purpose and message behind the sweater. Primarily made for the fishermen that lived on these islands, these Irish garments slowly made their way to the mainland, and were known for their special property of being water-resistant. That was because of the special wool they were crafted from, which maintained its natural oils and gave the clothing item its quality. Nevertheless, the Aran sweater is a piece of history that successfully passed the test of time, and carried on the legacy of the locals. If you do want to purchase an Aran sweater but are unable to travel to the islands personally, fear not: you can choose Irish sweaters at online stores as that sell Irish knitwear.
All things considered, this place won’t be done justice just by writing about it. People have to go and visit the Aran Islands themselves and get a taste of the Irish elements firsthand, in order to fall in love with the intricacies of the culture. Perhaps this has offered you a new target for your post-quarantine travels, and is an incentive to suggest the place to your friends as well!
