Ireland's islands uncovered: Why the Saltee Islands are one of Ireland’s best wildlife experiences

In the first of a summer series exploring Ireland’s most remarkable islands for holiday adventures, Cían Byrne takes a high-flying trip to The Saltees

Great Saltee Island, carpeted with moss, heathers and wildflowers

I don't see myself as an islander. I live on one and grew up 10km from the beach, yet I feel there’s a disconnect between myself and the sea. My life isn’t dictated by the tide and ferry timetables like it is for the people living on the roughly 30 inhabited islands of Ireland; I live the life of a mainlander with 24/7 convenience and allow nature to be part of my life when and how I choose. Our islands are intriguing places full of legends and lore but my visits tend to be flying ones — day trips rather than proper immersion, which I plan to rectify.

In this series of journeys to six of Ireland’s islands, I’ll visit some of the country’s most spectacular places, meet the people behind these captivating isles, and experience things that can’t be found anywhere else in the country. I’m beginning with a visit to Co Wexford and the very special residents found here for a short number of months each year.