The islands strike one immediately as being like a desert of rock. They are in fact a continuation of the ‘boireann’ (burren) limestone rock in Co Clare to which they were once joined millions of years ago. Owing to the limestone landscape the islands enjoy a rare flora and fauna and are a haven for botanists.

From May time onwards the visitor can enjoy a tremendous profusion of colour which marks an attractive contrast to the grey limestone rock. The warmth of the Bloody Crane’s- Bill( Crobh Dhearg) or Spring Gentian( Ceadharlach Bealtaine) in bloom are just two such examples among many.

Some flowers such as Purple Milk Vetch( ) are uniquely found in Inis Mór and Inis Meáin and are not found elsewhere in Ireland.