Skip to content

Heritage Ireland

Sceilg Mhichíl UNESCO World Heritage Property

An island monastery towering over the sea

11 May - 01 October 2024

See all opening times

Sceilg Mhichíl UNESCO World Heritage Property

An island monastery towering over the sea

11 May - 01 October 2024

See all opening times

Site Closed

Closed for 2024 Season

Admission

Free of Charge

Separate charge imposed by Boat Operators

A list of Boat Operators may be found here

Getting here

Co. Kerry
N/A

Get Directions

Sceilg Mhichíl UNESCO World Heritage Property

The magnificent Skellig Michael is one of only two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Republic of Ireland.

On the summit of this awe-inspiring rock off the Kerry coast is St Fionan’s monastery, one of the earliest foundations in the country. The monks who lived there prayed and slept in beehive-shaped huts made of stone, many of which remain to this day.

The monks left the island in the thirteenth century. It became a place of pilgrimage and, during the time of the Penal Laws, a haven for Catholics.

Following in the monks’ footsteps involves climbing 618 steep, uneven steps. Getting to the top is quite a challenge, but well worth the effort.

As well as the wealth of history, there is a fantastic profusion of bird life on and around the island. Little Skellig is the second-largest gannet colony in the world.

Opening Times

11 May – 01 October 2024

Opening arrangements are variable, depending on weather conditions.

At all other times this site is unmanned and visits are prohibited.

Average Length of Visit: 2.5 hours (excluding boat trip)

 

Notice

Visitors are requested to adhere to the instructions of OPW Guide Staff at all times.

A visit to the monastery will entail a climb of 618 steps, ascending over 600 ft. (180 metres). It is a demanding climb and any person with health issues should consider carefully their own physical limitations before exploring this part of the site.

  • Visitors must stay on the recognised pathways at all times
  • The island is not recommended for children under the age of 12
  • Beware of falling rocks
  • Steep gradient on the steps
  • Uneven steps
  • Steps slippery when wet

Visitors are advised to carry water and to wear protective clothing.

This is a particularly vulnerable site and visitors are therefore asked to co-operate with our efforts to protect this monument. No animals are allowed on this site.

Contact

Co. Kerry
N/A

Getting Here

11.5km boat trip from Portmagee, Valentia, Ballinskelligs or Derrynane Harbour.

Open location in Google Maps

Click the relevant icon below to open Maps directions

Facilities

  • Guided tours
  • Toilets

Restrictions

  • Appropriate footwear
  • Challenging Access
  • Hold hand rail
  • Limited Access
  • Stay back from edge
  • Uneven walkways

Nearby sites to visit

You might also like

Heritage Card

Unlimited access to Ireland’s past

Buy one today

Join our mailing list

Are you happy to receive marketing material via email from Heritage Ireland

Subscribe