I hope to visit the Irish district of Connemara with my family next year as we have relatives living near the area in Galway. I have always wanted to visit the nearby Aran Islands and I would like to include a visit this time, can you tell me how to get there. I live in Gloucestershire so ideally I would like to fly from Bristol, I understand it can be trickier travelling to the west coast of Ireland, can you tell me if it is possible to fly to Galway from Bristol? As we have yet to book this trip any suggestions on what to do while we are there would be great as well. Ailish Green, Gloucestershire

Times Online Travel News Editor Ginny McGrath responds: There is a direct flight from Bristol to Galway with Aer Arann, which operates four times a week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday), but only until October 14, as it's a summer service. The carrier also flies on a daily basis from Luton to Galway all year round, but it means a trek into London. Otherwise you'd need to fly from Birmingham or Southampton to Galway with Flybe or via Dublin with Ryanair from Bristol, changing to Aer Arann for the hop to Galway.

From Galway you can get to the three Aran Islands with Arran Islands Ferries. The ferries depart from Rossaveal in Galway Bay, which is reached from Galway city centre by shuttle bus, picking up from Kinlay House on Merchants Road one hour prior to sailing time. A return crossing costs €25 for adults, plus €6 for a return ticket on the shuttle bus (seniors and students pay €20 and €5 repectively; children pay €13 and €4). Ferries operate six times a day in summer ansd three times a day for the rest of the year - see the website for sailing times.

Walkers are regular visitors to the three islands: Inis Mor (Big Island), Inis Meain (Middle island) and Inis Oirr (East island). Expect bracing sea air, spectacular views and mostly flat terrain. Alternatively, you can hire bikes from Kilronann on Inis Mor, which is within walking distance of the pier.

The Aran Islands are also popular with naturalists because of the abundant flora and fauna - there are around 437 varieties of wild flowers, and there are some striking rock formations including The Worm Hole on Inis Mor, which is naturally formed but looks like a perfect rectangular swimming pool.

As for where to stay, the Aran Islands Ferry website has some useful links to guesthouse, B&B and hostel accommodation, and the Aran Islands website has some great ideas on what to see and do - including some wonderful photos.

The seafood is great, particularly in Kilronan, which has the best selection of restaurants, including Pier House Restaurant, which has great views and fresh fish dishes.

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