Lying twelve kilometres off north Donegal, Toraigh, the most remote of Ireland’s inhabited islands is a timeless place where people still talk of 'travelling to Ireland'. Toraigh’s remoteness has led to the preservation of the traditions and way of life of its resilient and independent people. Their music, dance, song and stories are living expressions of an ancient Gaelic culture. Many of Toraigh’s ancient customs still survive, including the appointment of the island king or Rí Thoraí.

Toraigh is famous for its school of "primitive painters", who were encouraged by the internationally famous painter, the late Derek Hill. Gailearaí Dixon exhibits the work of island artists.

Interesting historical sites include a round tower that once protected monks from Viking raids, the ruins of St. Colmcille’s 6th century monastery and the intriguing Tau Cross that suggests early seafaring links to the Coptic Christians of Egypt. The island also boasts an abundance of rare bird life and wild flower species as well as a rich submarine landscape that can be explored through the local dive centre.

Highlights

The Bell Tower (An Cloigtheach) of the sixth/seventh century; T-shaped Tau Cross standing close to the harbour pier, dating from the 12th century; Balor’s Fort: (Dún Bhaloir) located on the highest part of the island; The Wishing Stone; St. John’s Altar; guided walks, spectacular scenery and birdlife.

Activities

Scuba diving (dive centre); waymarked walking trail; cycling; sea angling; rock climbing; birdwatching; traditional music & dance, dolphin and whale watching.

Address

Tory Island

Donegal

Republic Of Ireland

Telephone

+353 ((0)74) 9121160

Directions

12 km off the coast of Donegal. Access by Ferry from An Bun Beag and Machaire Uí Rabhartaigh.

Accommodation

Hotel, small number of B&Bs, apartments, hostel. Café, pubs, shops, gallery. Bike-hire, mini-bus hire.

Population

Population: Over 130. A Gaeltacht island.

Size

Approx 3 km long and 1 km wide.

Irish Spoken

Yes