Illaunamid

Illaunamid is a small, rocky island at the far end of Slyne Head, the westernmost point of County Galway, south-west of Ballyconneely in Connemara. It is the site of the Slyne Head Lighthouse, whose light marks one of the most dangerous stretches of the Connemara coast.

Landscape

The island covers about 43 acres of bare rock and thin grass, the outermost of the chain of islands and reefs that stretches out from the mainland at Slyne Head into the Atlantic. The seas here are often wild, and the reefs around the island have claimed many ships.

History

Two lighthouses were built on Slyne Head in 1836. Only the western tower is still in use, maintained by the Commissioners of Irish Lights; the eastern tower stands dark beside it. Like all Irish lights, it is now automatic.

Only the western tower is still in use, maintained by the Commissioners of Irish Lights; the eastern tower stands dark beside it.

Visiting

There is no public access to Illaunamid. The lighthouse towers can be seen from the coast near Ballyconneely and from boats in calm weather. You can collect Illaunamid as a sighting in your Island Passport.

Wildlife and area

Grey seals haul out on the reefs, and gannets, Manx shearwaters and common dolphins pass offshore. Nearby islands include Turbot Island, Inishturk South and Omey Island.