The Wormhole cuts deep into Inis Mór’s limestone, filling with crashing Atlantic waves.
Make your way across the stone and see this rare formation up close.
Natural geological formation within a protected coastal landscape (Aran Islands)
Unique geological formation - wonders of nature
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Poll na bPéist
Poll na bPéist, also known as the Wormhole or Serpent’s Lair, is a naturally formed rectangular tidal pool located on the cliffs of Inis Mór in the Aran Islands. Cut sharply into the limestone bedrock, the pool appears almost man-made because of its straight edges and geometric shape. It lies close to the famous prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa, sharing the same rugged karst terrain of exposed grey stone, fissures, and sparse vegetation. The pool fills with seawater through underwater channels connected to the Atlantic, and waves can surge dramatically into the basin during high tide. The surrounding cliffs and rock platforms create a striking and exposed coastal environment.
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Church of Our Lady
Onze-Lieve-Vrouwe Kerk blends Romanesque origins, Gothic grandeur, and vivid medieval murals beneath its rebuilt sandstone tower.
Wander inside, trace centuries in stone and color, and discover Sint-Truiden from a new perspective.
The Hurler Stone Circles
Three ancient stone circles stand where legend says men once played on a Sunday and were turned to stone. Wander the wide moorland, count the stones (if you can!), and feel the echo of a Bronze Age crowd beneath the Cornish sky.
Hill of Tara
The Hill of Tara weaves together Neolithic tombs, vast ceremonial earthworks, and the legendary Stone of Destiny.
Walk the ridge, trace ancient boundaries, and feel the power of this iconic landscape.
Burial mounds De Regte Heide
The Regte Heide mixes open heathland, forest paths, and 3,000-year-old landmarks.
Perfect for curious walkers and weekend explorers!
Woodhenge
Six rings of ancient posts trace a solstice-aligned circle in open Wiltshire fields.
Step inside the rings and start connecting the ancient dots.
Isterberg
At Isterberg, exposed sandstone cliffs meet woodland and farmland, shaped by geology and centuries of use.
Walk the ridge, climb the tower and enjoy the wide cross-border views.
Kernhem House and Estate
The estate’s grand halls and wooded paths invite both art lovers and nature walkers alike.
Follow the trails, enjoy the gardens and escape from everyday life.
The Luttenberg
Luttenberg’s soft hills lead to forests, open meadows, and local crafts worth stopping for.
Come for the view. Stay for the charm!
House of Viviane (Hotié de Viviane)
The Hôtié de Viviane is a rare Neolithic burial chest on the Rauco heath, high above the Val sans Retour.
Take the forest trail and explore this unusual prehistoric landmark!
Le Val sans Retour
Red schist cliffs, forest trails and Arthurian landmarks bring geology and folklore together in one extraordinary valley.
Take the trail and uncover Brocéliande’s most famous stories!