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    Ireland's most remote island that's home to 141 people is truly beautiful - and has its own pub

    By Gráinne Ní Ghréacháin,

    7 days ago

    Situated off the coast of the renowned Wild Atlantic Way, you'll find Ireland's most isolated inhabited island . Stretching three miles in length and 0.6 miles in width, Tory Island, located off the coast of County Donegal, is home to a small community of 141 residents.

    Referred to as Toraigh in Irish, translating to 'place of steep rocky heights', the island's primary language is Irish, forming part of the broader Donegal Gaeltacht on the mainland.

    Steeped in history and culture, the island's isolation has helped preserve its authentic Irish traditions , including the language, music, storytelling, and dance, attracting thousands of tourists to its shores annually.

    Visitors can reach the island via a brief ferry journey from the picturesque Magheraroarty Pier. Traditionally, the King of Tory would welcome guests upon their arrival, a long-standing custom.

    https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=1Md0Ky_0uMaZ6yv00

    The previous King, Patsai Dan Mac Ruaidhri, was selected by the islanders' consensus and served as the King of Tory from the 1990s until his passing in 2018. A skilled musician and painter, he often welcomed visitors to the island in Irish, his mother tongue.

    The compact island is divided into four towns: East Town, West Town, Middletown, and Newtown.

    The island's only pub, known as 'the Club', is nestled in West Town and serves as the hub for music, dancing and good old Irish craic. Tory Island is famed for its lively musical sessions, attracting talented performers from all corners of the globe.

    Regular ceilis are a staple here, so don't forget to pack your dancing shoes for your trip.

    By day, the island reveals some truly awe-inspiring landscapes. A 4km loop walk starting in West Town offers breathtaking cliff views and a chance to spot some unique wildlife.

    Constructed between 1828 and 1832, the island's lighthouse is another must-see on your itinerary.

    Imbued with a rich history, the island's Bell Tower is the largest surviving structure from the 16th-century destruction of the monastery. The round tower itself dates back to the 6th or 7th century.

    Halfway between West Town and East Town, you'll find a torpedo that washed ashore during World War II.

    In the sunnier months, visitors can cycle around the island or kayak and swim along the golden sandy beaches. With B&Bs, hostels and a hotel available, your stay on Tory Island promises to be unforgettable.

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