THESE Irish islands off the coast of Co Wexford are a hub for diverse wildlife and the perfect spot a day trip. Saltee Islands are located just five kilometres off the coast of Kilmore Quay in Co Wexford . The Saltee Islands consists of Great and Little Saltee both visable from the Wexford coastline.
Both islands are havens for wildlife with Puffins, Gannets, Gulls and Manx Shearwaters. However, Great Saltee is the only island open to public visitors. The islands have been uninhabited since the 1990s and are the perfect spot for a remote outdoor day trip.
The Grey Seals are a huge attraction of these Wexford islands. Around 120 seals are typically present around the Autumn months and over 20 seal pups are born there each year. Bird watching is the main attraction of this quiet but beautiful island.
Aside from bird watching you can chose from many walking trails to take in the scenic and tranquil views of the islands. The island is covering in cliffs with breathtaking views and rolling hills which are perfect for spotting marine wildlife. You may be able to spot both dolphins and whales from the peaks.
The islands are very remote with no restaurants or even rubbish facilities. If you are planning to spend a day in the great outdoors it is important to bring everything you need and make sure to leave no rubbish behind on the islands. While the walking routes to explore the island are easy to follow, a visit requires a great deal of walking and some grassy and stony areas could be hard to navigate for those with limited mobility.
To access the Island you can get the ferry from Kilmore Quay. It is around a 30 minute boat ride and the An Crosan and An Foracha ferries go multiple times a day in the summer months from 10am to 4.30pm.
There is a "wet landing" on the Saltee Islands shore where passengers may have to walk through shallow water or across seaweed covered rocks to exit the boat. The ferries carry 12 people but do sell out so it is important to book in advance. Tickets are €15 for children and €30 for adults for a return trip to the Island.
There is a car park located at the harbour but in busy summer months spaces fill up quickly so leave plenty of time for parking. Once you return to shore there is plenty to do on Kilmore Quay. There are stunning long beaches in the fishing town where you can see the islands in the distance.
You can hire bikes at the harbour office and take a spin in the salty sea air or relax with some fish and chips at Saltee Chipper. If you're looking to relax even further make sure to pack a swimsuit and call in to the Saltee Sauna. The wood-fired sauna is located at the beach and is the perfect way to warm up after a sea swim.
You can book in for a private solo session or book in your travel group from €75. Otherwise, you can enjoy a social session and meet some new people for just €15 for 50 minutes..
