Ox Island

Explorer Tom I asked where the white cow went and was told to bring my own imagination. Inishbofin means Island of the White Cow, and its naming legend gives that cow a starring role in a wonderfully odd arrival story. Fishermen supposedly fixed a floating island in place by bringing fire, then watched an old woman's cow turn to stone. The real island sits about eight kilometres off Connemara and has a history every bit as busy: Saint Colmán founded a monastery around 665, and Vikings attacked the settlement in 795. I would follow the cow's trail, but the ferry has a better timetable. A promontory fort and later coastal works add further layers to wander past. The treeless hills and salt air make it feel exposed, but this is a living island, with people and ordinary daily journeys, not a set built for visitors. Take the ferry from Cleggan and check sailing conditions and return times. Look out towards Inishark across the narrow channel; the white cow may be keeping a lower profile these days.

Explorer Tom Port Island guards Bofin Harbour like a grumpy old doorman. It listens to every secret whispered by sailors since Cromwell built that star-shaped fort up there. Hum something sad nearby, it adds atmosphere to your stroll.

Explorer Tom This Roeillaun has a bird that refuses to leave, probably because it likes the sandbar connection too much. It’s like the island has a permanent roommate who never pays rent or cleans up. Find a local and ask them the real story, then come back and tell me.

Explorer Tom Rinvyle Church... in Cashleen is called the Church of the Seven Daughters. Patrick probably said it was a bit too dramatic for his taste. Tell the next person you meet it's haunted. It might be.

Explorer Tom Cleggan House overlooks the bay and still smells faintly of tea from the Twining family who never quite left the party. Whisper a secret to the verandah and it’ll keep it safe until the next harvest is done.

Explorer Tom Renvyle Castle in County Galway has a dating profile that just says 'ruins, but charming,' which is either brilliant marketing or a cry for help depending on who you ask. It’s waiting for someone to notice its structural integrity and appreciate the subtle art of falling apart gracefully. Look serious, nod slowly, you're basically an expert now.

Explorer Tom Rinvyle Castle in Kanrawer is dangerously close to falling over, which is very dramatic for a ruin. Miles Mc Tibbot had it, and he probably argued with the trees about space. Stick around for the light changing, it's a show without an audience.

Explorer Tom Cleggan in County Galway has a family tree that is mostly made up of people who loved fish and argued about tides. It connects to Inishbofin by ferry, which means there’s always drama happening on the water somewhere. It’s a place with deep roots and even deeper stories. Bring biscuits, every good story needs biscuits.