Skellig MichaelSceilg Mhichíl, Co. Kerry, Ireland
CountryIreland
TypeIsland monastery
UNESCO1996
Season~May–Sept
History. A jagged sea rock off the Iveragh Peninsula holds one of the best-preserved early Christian monasteries in Europe: drystone beehive huts and oratories built by monks who lived there for centuries in the early Middle Ages. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 (UNESCO).
Legend. In one tradition, St Michael appeared here to help St Patrick drive the serpents and demons out of Ireland.
Visiting
- Landing only by licensed boat, mostly from Portmagee, in a short summer season run by the Office of Public Works. In 2026 the season opened 9 May and closed early, on 21 September, because of the weather (OPW).
- Book months ahead. Landings are often cancelled by swell.
- The climb is hundreds of steep, uneven stone steps with no handrails. Not for anyone unsteady on their feet.
- Can't land? "Eco tours" circle the island without landing, and the Skellig Experience on Valentia Island tells the story.
Next: St Michael's Mount
Kerry → Cork or Shannon airport → fly to Bristol/Exeter/Newquay, or take the ferry Rosslare–Pembroke/Fishguard, then train to Penzance.
Sources
Last verified: October 15, 2026. Prices, hours and rules change: confirm with the official source before you go.