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Viewpoint · Kilronan, Galway
Poll na bPéist
Natural pool of an almost rectangular shape carved by the sea into the limestone slabs of the south coast of Inis Mór, connected to the Atlantic by an underground passage, at the foot of the cliffs.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Poll na bPéist
Poll na bPéist, whose Irish name means "the worm's hole", is a natural pool on the south coast of Inis Mór, at the foot of the cliffs, about 1.5 km east of Dún Aonghasa. Its shape is almost rectangular, roughly 30 metres long, and it looks as if it were cut by hand, but it was worn out by the sea along the natural fissures in the limestone.
The pool is connected to the Atlantic by an underground passage, and the water rises and falls with the waves and the tide, sometimes spilling over onto the rocks. Around it, smooth limestone slabs stretch to the cliff edge, with deep cracks, similar to the Burren.
The place became known off the island for hosting stages of an international cliff-diving championship. For visitors it is a spot to view from above, from the surrounding rocks, not to swim in: the sea rushes in strongly through the passage.
There is no marked trail or signs at the path end. Access is on foot across fields and limestone slabs from the road near Gort na gCapall, and the ground is uneven with fissures. In rough seas or rain, it is better to visit from a distance.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1h30 to 2 hours, including the round-trip walk across the fields and rocks.
Best time
On dry days, with calm sea and low tide. With strong waves the water overflows onto the rocks. Avoid visiting in the rain.
How to get there
Leave the road near Gort na gCapall, about 6 km west of Kilronan, and walk across the fields to the coast and then over the limestone slabs for about 20–30 minutes. There are painted marks on the stones along part of the route. You can also reach it along the coast from Dún Aonghasa.
Tip
Wear sturdy footwear and watch your step: the fissures in the limestone are deep. Keep away from the edge of the pool and the cliffs, especially when there are waves.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Poll na bPéist
Is the Poll na bPéist man-made?
No. Despite its almost rectangular shape, it was carved out by the sea along natural cracks in the limestone.
Can you swim there?
Not recommended: the sea rushes in through the underground passage and the water rises and falls with the waves.
Is there a trail to the site?
There is no marked trail at the end of the path. You go on foot across fields and limestone slabs, in about 20 to 30 minutes.