Skellig Michael

About Skellig Michael

Twelve kilometres off the Kerry coast, Skellig Michael rises like a cathedral spire from the Atlantic. Early medieval monks seeking solitude carved stairways into the rock and built a small monastery of drystone beehive huts, oratories and terraced gardens near the summit. The community lasted until around the 12th century, enduring storms and Viking raids.

The site is one of the most striking expressions of Irish monastic asceticism. Reaching it requires a boat crossing and a climb of more than 600 uneven stone steps without handrails. Puffins nest on the island in summer, and the setting gained new fame from the Star Wars films.

What to see

• Beehive huts of the monastery
• Ancient stone stairways
• Small oratories and cross slabs
• Puffin colonies in early summer
• Little Skellig gannet colony

Visiting Skellig Michael: practical guide

Best time

May to early October

Hours

Landings only from mid May to September or early October, weather permitting

Entry

Licensed boat trips about 100 to 140 EUR

Dress code

Strong boots and waterproofs

Nearest airport

Kerry Airport (KIR), 80 km

Tips from experienced pilgrims

• Book boat landings well in advance
• Trips are often cancelled for swell, so build in flexibility
• Not suitable for people with mobility issues or vertigo

Festivals and special days

• Feast of St. Michael (29 September)

Etiquette for visitors

Guidance drawn from Christianity tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.

• Cover shoulders and knees when entering churches, cathedrals and monasteries.
• Men usually remove hats indoors, while some Orthodox churches ask women to cover their hair.
• Avoid sightseeing in the main aisle during Mass or services.
• Check whether photography and flash are allowed before taking pictures.
• Keep your voice low and switch phones to silent.
• Only receive Communion if you understand and follow that church's rules.

Location map

Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions

Frequently asked questions