Inis Cealtra (Holy Island)
Inis Cealtra
An early Christian monastic island on Lough Derg, with an Irish round tower, several ancient churches and a holy well.
Inis Cealtra, also known as Holy Island, is a small island off the west shore of Lough Derg. St Caimin founded a monastery here in the 7th century, and for centuries afterward it was an important pilgrimage site. The island preserves a round tower about 24 metres high, the ruins of five ancient churches, early Christian grave slabs with inscriptions and a holy well. The atmosphere is peaceful. In summer, small boats take about 15 minutes to reach the island from Mountshannon pier. Boatmen usually provide commentary, and a round trip with sightseeing takes about 2 hours. New visitor facilities have recently been built on the island, but check the ferry times in advance. It is about 50 km from Limerick.
Opening hours
Depends on ferry times; approx. May–Sep
Nearby sights
- Killaloe & Ballina (Lough Derg)
- University of Limerick & Living Bridge
- St Mary's Cathedral
- King John's Castle
- St John's Cathedral
- Treaty Stone & Thomond Bridge
- The Hunt Museum
- The Milk Market