IRELAND has basked in glorious sunshine over the past few days, and with no sign of the good weather ending ahead of this June Bank Holiday weekend, it may be time for an adventure.
One hidden gem that is well worth the visit is Ireland's secret tropical island Inishkea.
The Inishkea Islands, also known as Inis Cé, are located just 3km off the coast of Blacksod, Belmullet, Co Mayo and are home to one of the country's most spectacular beaches.
Believed to be named after a saint that lived on the island called Saint Kea, it has an abundance to offer visitors, from nature watching, which includes a thriving seal colony and a wide range of waders and seabirds, to swimming and, of course, ultimate relaxation.
The coves and beaches across the islands are breeding ground and home to a large colony of grey seals.
A number of bird species have also made a home here, including barnacle geese.
Lapwing breed on The islands and peregrine falcons hunt for prey.
There are two main islands, Inishkea North and Inishkea South, with the population said to be around three people, increasing to around fifteen during the summer months.
To get to the stunning island, people can take daily boat trips and guided tours of the island.
The island tours are led by island descendants and are available with Belmullet Boat Charters during the summer.
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Visitors can take a 35-minute trip with Blacksod Sea Safari and Island Tours across the waves aboard the charter boat "Huntress" and enjoy an afternoon on Inishkea Islands.
Here you can enjoy sandy dunes, fertile grassy machair, long silver strands and incredibly clear turquoise waters.
Have a picnic on the beach, walk the abandoned ruins of the village or hike to the signal tower at the highest point and take in the incredible views of the mainland.
And for those interested in the history of the stunning landscape, why not learn about the islands' fascinating history and how Inishkea was once a thriving community until tragedy struck?
The islands are home to a number of significant historical sites such as The Alt Mór navigation tower, The Bailey Mór, an early Christian monastery, St Colmcille's Church and the old Norwegian whaling station.
Walking maps with information on these sites are provided.
'PURE BLISS'
Taking to Instagram, one recent visitor, travel blogger Joshua Nueva said: "This is INISHKEA.
"One of the best places in Ireland I've ever camped in. Crystal clear water. White sand beaches.
"Beautiful sunrises/sunsets. Whole island to ourselves. It was pure bliss, and the perfect summer adventure.
"Book the boat to the islands with @blacksod_sea_safari, Mick is your man. He's an absolute gent and will look after you.
"You can also book a same day return if you only wanted a few hours on the island, but I'd highly recommend camping there if the weather suits.
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"NB: Please leave no trace. If you decide to visit/camp here, take your rubbish with you (if you can bring it there, you can take it back) and be mindful that your impact has huge effects on places like this.
"Do your best to preserve it and leave it in great condition for the next person."
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