V2661 : Through the Arch

An Sceilg Bheag [Little Skellig]

131m Elevation
131m Prominence
I Country

Good walks are even better shared.

V2661 : Through the Arch

Adam Ward Photo source

Explore routes near An Sceilg Bheag [Little Skellig]

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Route planning notes

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Skellig Michael Trail

A moderate hike taking you from the landing area on the island, weaving through ancient monastic ruins to the summit.

2 km ~2.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Hump SIB

Elevation

131m

430 ft

Prominence

131m

Coordinates

51.7814, -10.5091

V269617

OS Map

83

At the Summit

A rocky summit crowned with ruins of a 6th-century monastic site, boasting a rather impressive collection of beehive huts.

Terrain & Geology

Rugged and rocky with steep steps and uneven paths leading to the top.

Granite and sandstone formations, with stunning sea cliffs and rocky outcrops that will make your heart skip a beat (quietly, of course).

Views & Scenery

Panoramic views of the Wild Atlantic Way, the larger Skellig Michael, and a glimpse of the Blasket Islands on clear days.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'An Sceilg Bheag' translates to 'the little Skellig' in Irish, lovingly named to distinguish it from its larger sibling, Skellig Michael.

Historical Significance

Once a place of monastic significance, it holds a rich history linked to early Christian communities and has gained fame from its cinematic appearances!

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Parking is available at the pier in Portmagee, with boat trips to the Skelligs departing from here. Arrive early to snag a spot!

Public Transport

Bus services run from Killarney, although a car is recommended for accessibility to Portmagee.

Nearby Facilities

Basic facilities in Portmagee; expect toilets and a couple of quaint cafés, perfect for a post-hike cuppa.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Slippery rocks, sudden weather changes, and steep drops — not the place for a picnic with a view if you're afraid of heights!

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up An Sceilg Bheag [Little Skellig]?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around An Sceilg Bheag [Little Skellig] through the maps

Are there other walkers around An Sceilg Bheag [Little Skellig]?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for An Sceilg Bheag [Little Skellig] search or of course create your own walk for An Sceilg Bheag [Little Skellig]

Can I organise a walk to An Sceilg Bheag [Little Skellig]?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to An Sceilg Bheag [Little Skellig].

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up An Sceilg Bheag [Little Skellig]?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to An Sceilg Bheag [Little Skellig] here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible