Inishbofin is a gem of an island off the coast of Galway, and may very well be the highlight of your whole trip. Not as commercialised as the Aran Islands, Bofin is for backpackers, not tourists. A true break away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. All the stereotypical, romanticised images that exist about Ireland come to life on this Island. Fresh sea breezes, thatched cottages, stone walls, matchbox cars, cattle and sheep grazing lazily in the fields, farmers with their loyal sheepdogs walking about, fisherman working in their boats, traditional music playing in cosy pubs, mountains, pristine beaches – it’s a picture-perfect paradise. With trails for walking, mountains for hiking, bikes and kayaks for renting, and even equestrian tours available, this is a garden of Eden, an untouched, undisturbed oasis in a world of concrete modernity.

Staying in Clifden Eco Beach Campsite in Connemara means it’s very easy to get to Inishbofin. You will need to get a ferry from Cleggan, a small village just 10 minutes drive away. There’s a small bar-restaurant, The Pier Bar, at Claggan Pier where you can pass time while waiting for the ferry. The ferry is for people only, not vehicles (but you can bring a bike). There are two long-term car parks where you can leave your car/caravan for the few days you’re gone. (One carpark is right behind the ferry ticket office, one is at the other end of the village). You won’t need your car on Inishbofin, everything is within walking/ cycling distance. The ferry ride lasts about 40 minutes.