The Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher are world famous sea cliffs dramatically rising to 214 metres ( 702 feet) at their highest point from
the Atlantic ocean and stretch for about 14 kilometres ( 9 miles) with 3 viewing platforms and paved pathways beside the visitor centre with stunning views of the Aran Islands and Galway Bay. The Cliffs of Moher are part of the Burren & Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Geopark. We highly recommend the Cliffs of Moher coastal walk that links Doolin village to Liscannor via the Cliffs of Moher.
A linear route of 20km, it takes 4.5 hours to complete but there is a few options to do just a portion of it.
Aillwee Burren Experience
Explore Aillwee through unique overground and underground experiences in the karst landscape of the Burren. From a guided walk through the cave that take 45 minutes to daily interactive flying displays at the Birds of Prey centre... with an optional private hawk walk at Aillwee. A visit to the Farm Shop to watch traditional farming methods used in creating their own award winning Burren Gold Cheeses...taste their cheeses and homemade fudges !!
Doolin Ferries
Take a ferry to one of the three Aran Islands from Doolin pier or a cruise to see the Cliffs of Moher and enjoy the breathtaking views from the sea. ( Can do a combination ticket to include both which is highly recommended ).
Doolin Cave
Experience an authentic new world at Doolin Cave from its deep, magical limestone wonderland to the Great Stalactite, at 7.3metres ( 27feet) it is the longest free-handing stalactite in Europe. Explore the wild natural beauty of the Eco-Trail indulge in local hand baked cakes in their cafe.
Burren National Park
The Burren National Park is a place of great natural beauty. Established in 1991 and is one of Ireland's six National Parks.
It is situated on the south east border of the Burren region covering 1,800 hectares. There are various marked trails in the part that take you through many habitats typical of the landscape of the Burren, from limestone pavement, hazel scrub, grasslands and lakes. Entry if free. The National Park Guide staff provide free guided walks, their base is at the Information point in Corofin village. A free shuttle bus runs from there to the trailhead in the park from the beginning of May to the end of August.
Caherconnell Stone Fort & Sheepdog demonstrations
A must visit to Caherconnell to experience Clare's only sheepdog demonstrations. The stone fort is over 1000 years old, is a well preserved site of enormous international archeological importance. Through interaction with expert local staff, the traditions and heritage of Caherconnell is brought to life.
Poulnabrone Dolmen
Situated on the high Burren limestone plateau Polnabrone Dolmen is one of Ireland's most iconic archaeological monuments and is the second most visited locations in the Burren after the Cliffs of Moher. It is the oldest dated megalithic monuments in Ireland. Poulnabrone is classified as a portal tomb.
Burren Smokehouse - Taste the Atlantic - Salmon Experience
Burren Smokehouse - Taste the Atlantic - Salmon Experience
The Burren Smokehouse is a family-run business set up in 1989 by owners Birgitta & Peter Curtin in Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare. At the Burren Smokehouse, they are passionate about smoking the best salmon, healthy and locally produced foods and sharing their knowledge with their visitors. In their visitor centre, you can buy their Burren Smoked Irish Organic Salmon and other smoked fish, high-quality locally produced foods and crafts.
You can also step into their world with bookable experiences like
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Taste the Atlantic - Salmon experience
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VIP tour into the smoking facility, guided by the owners
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Master class in smoking salmon
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craft beer tastings and brewery visits at the Burren Brewery inside the Roadside Tavern
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Whiskey tastings.
The Burren Perfumery
The Burren Perfumery is located in the heart of the Burren drawing inspiration from the flora and beauty of the Burren
landscape. Everything from perfumes, soaps candles etc. is made on site by hand in small batches. The Organic Hert Garden was planted in 1999 and is free to visitors and open year round. The best time to visit is from May to September. Relax in the rose covered Tea Rooms with freshly baked delights and daily delicacies in a beautiful setting... We have been recommending the Burren Perfumery for over 27 years and it has never disappointed Guests.. we
highly recommend!!
Beaches
- Fanore
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Lahinch
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Spanish Point
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White Strand
Golf
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The Old Course (18 hole) Lahinch and the Castle Course (18 hole) Lahinch
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Doonbeg (18 hole)
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Ennis (18 hole)
Pitch & Putt
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Doolin
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Liscannor
Castles
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Newtown Castle, between Lisdoonvarna and Ballyvaughan
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Dysert O'Dea Castle outside Corofin
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Gleninagh Castle outside Ballyvaughan
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Dungaire Castle Kinvara
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Knappogue Castle Quin
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Bunratty Castle & Folk Park Bunratty
The Aran Islands
The Aran Islands are a must see when visiting the Burren and north Clare especially for avid walkers, discover scenic hikes or leisurely walks with fantastic views of the land and the ocean with three different islands to discover. Inis Mor ( Inishmore ), Inis Meain ( Inishmaan ) and Inis Oirr ( Inisheer ).
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Inis Mor is the largest and most popular of the islands. It has several historical sites from a round tower to Dun Aengus. Things to see : The seven churches, Inishmore seal colony, Kilmurvey beach, Teampall Bheanain and Dun Aonghasa.
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Inis Meain is the middle island with amazing landscape and is the least visited island a haven for those that want to get back to nature. Places to see : Cathaoir synge, Dun Fearbhai and Dun Crocbhur. Bunratty Castle & Folk Park Bunratty
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Inis Oirr is the smallest island and the closest to the Clare coast so great for walking or cycling, with a very similar landscape to the Burren. Beside the pier is a beautiful sandy beach, fishing boats and clear crystal turquoise water. The village is next to the beach surrounded by a small hill with a castle and fort at the top. A firm favourite with us! Things to see : The Plassey shipwreck, the old and new lighthouse, O'Briens castle, Teampall Chaomhan and Cnoc raithni.
Gardens to visit in Clare
Caherbridge Garden
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Caherbridge is a delightful award winning garden located in Fanore (H91 H66C ) on 2.5 acres surrounded by the unique Burren landscape. It was created by Carl Wright from what was once a dense hazel and blackthorn scrub. If you only visit one garden this is the one ! Open by appointment only +353657076225 email caherbridgegarden@gmail.com.
Doreen Drennan Art Studio & Garden
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Located a few miles outside Lisdoonvarna. It comprises a walled garden with raised limestone beds, a river walk garden, rolling lawns with shrub filled beds. The garden is open to visitors by appointment phone +353879303755 Email doreendrennart@gmail.com www.doreendrennan.com.
The Burren Perfumery Garden
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Dedicated to the beautiful flora of the Burren. The Burren Perfumery Organic Herb Garden was planted in 1999. Their intention is to provide their visitors with examples of native herbs and information on their traditional uses. The garden also contains a number of small, secluded areas where people can sit and relax in the quiet of the Burren.
Knappogue Castle & Gardens
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Knappogue castle and victorian styled walled gardens are located in Quin, with Rose Garden, restored walled garden including pergola, gazebo, rockery with fernery, shrubberies and pathways lined with herbaceous borders.
Vandeleur Walled Garden
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The Vandeleur garden, once the private garden of Kilrush House, ancestral home of the landed gentry Vandeleur family in the early 19th Century. Here you will find a horticultural medley of trees, flowers and plants that offers you a fascinating glimpse into the past combined with a beautiful, re-designed look for a new generation of garden lovers, www.vandeleurwalledgarden.com.
Bunratty Castle Gardens
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Gardens at Bunratty include a recently restored Regency walled garden and shrubbery, and the Folk Park vernacular gardens creating rural life in Ireland over 150 years ago. The Folk park showcases a seaside garden attached to a North Clare farmhouse, an Edwardian well-to-do garden at a doctor's residence and town house front gardens and less formal fruit and vegetable back gardens.
Bike Hire
Doolin Rent a bike
Doolin rent a bike have a wide selection of hight quality touring bikes and offer both one-way and round trip bike hire.
E-whizz
E-whizz offers guided and self guided electric bike tours in the Burren. So now you can explore the incredible history, landscape, wildflowers and folklore of the Burren on a bike,
regardless of your fitness levels.
Guided Cycling Tour
Burren Food & Wine
Offer an early bird cycling tour through the heart of the Burren with a local guide, at the end with a freshly prepared breakfast at Burren fine wine & food. Starts early in the morning at 7.30am normally when the roads are quieter. Burren Fine Wine & Food is located at the bottom of Corkscrew Hill about a 14 minute drive from us.
Cycling Routes
Enjoy cycling routes in the Burren with these routes and downloadable maps.
Downloadable map : 1
Downloadable Map: 2
Intractable cycling map: Here
Four cycle routes with varying distances from 18km to 47km. Each cycle offers wonderful views of the local countryside with stunning coastal panoramas. There are numerous stop-off points along the way with excellent restaurants, pubs and other facilities and services.
Loop 1:
Distance: 18 km
Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
Route: From Doolin South towards the Cliffs of Moher
Loop 2
Distance: 26/39 km
Time: 3 – 4 hours
Route: Visits the south west corner of North Clare taking in some a mazing coastal views
Loop 3
Distance: 43 km
Time: 4 – 4.5 hours
Route: Goes inland towards Kilfenora and the Burren region
Loop 4
Distance: 21/47 km
Time: 4.5 – 5 hours
Route: Goes north along the coast road with spectacular views of the Aran Islands
Guided Walks
Marie's Burren Experience Guided Walks
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Immerse yourself in the magic of the hidden Burren with Marie McGauran, a native qualified walking guide, who leads heritage, nature and spiritual walks in the Burren National Park
www.mullaghmore-burren.com
Cormac's Coast
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Cormac's Coast offers private guided walking tours with Cormac Mc Ginley a Marine biologist, Zoologist and ex. Cliffs of Moher ranger. These walks include The Cliffs of Moher, The Burren, the shoreline exploration walk and the fossil walk.
www.cormacscoast.com
Heart of the Burren Walks
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Critically acclaimed guided walking tours in one of the most distinctive landscapes the Burren by local expert guide and author Tony Kirby.
www.heartofburrenwalks.com
Doolin Cliff Walks
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Join Pat Sweeney local farmer and tour guide on a guided walk along the sea cliffs from Doolin village to the Cliffs of Moher visitor centre.
www.doolincliffwalk.com
Walk with Pius
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These guided walks enable the visitor to connect with the landscape, view limestone paving visit archaeological and sacred sites while enjoying the breath-taking scenery on offer throughout the Burren and Clare.
www.walkwithpius.com
Wild Kitchen - Wild Food Walks on land & seashore
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Enjoy wild food walks with Oonagh along Wild Atlantic Way and surrounding areas, sharing her knowledge and passion of all things wild. Discover many edible types of seaweed, flowers, herbs, berries, plants and fruit, walks include identification of plants, what to ear or not eat and what's in season.
www.wildkitchen.ie
Self Guided Walks
Black Head Loop
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Trailhead: Fanore Beach Car Park, Fanore, Co. Clare
Services: Fanore (1km) and Ballyvaughan (14km)
Dist/Time: 26km / 5hr-6hrs
Difficulty: Hard
Terrain: Green roads, tracks and mountain paths
To Suit: Higher than average level of fitness
Min. Gear: Sturdy walking boots, waterproofs, rucksack, fluid, snacks, mobile phone
Download map: Black Head Loop Walk Map
Ballyvaughan Wood Loop
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Trailhead: Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare
Services: Ballyvaughan village
Dist/Time: 8kn / 2hrs-2hrs 30 mins
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Surfaced roadway, green roads, tracks, cross country
To suit: Medium level of fitness
Min Gear: Trekking Shoes, waterproofs, fluid, snacks, mobile phone
Download map: Ballyvaughan Wood Loop Map
Caher Valley Loop
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Trailhead: Fanore Beach Carpark, Co. Clare
Services: Fanore, Co. Clare
Dist/Time: 14.5km/3-4hrs
Difficulty: Moderate
Terrain: Mix of minor roadways and green roads
To Suit: Medium level of fitness
Min. Gear: Sturdy walking boots, waterproofs, rucksack, fluid, snacks, mobile phone
Download map: Caher Valley Loop Walk Map
Carron Loop Walk
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Trailhead: Cassidy’s Pub, Carron Village, Co. Clare
Services: Carron, Corofin (12km), Ballyvaughan (15km), Co. Clare
Dist/Time: 9km/3-4hrs
Difficulty: Difficult
Terrain: Mix of minor roads, animal tracks and green lanes
To Suit: Higher than average levels of fitness
Min. Gear: Sturdy walking boots, waterproofs, rucksack, fluid, snacks, mobile phone
Download map: Carron Loop Walk Map
Carron Turlough Loop
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Trailhead: Opposite Cassidys Pub, Carran
Services: Services available seasonally at Carran, year round at Corrofin
Distance: 5Km
Time: 1-1.5hrs
Difficulty: Easy
Terrain: Short section of regional road, mostly minor country roads
To Suit: Medium levels of fitness, buggy friendly
Download map: Carron Turlough Loop Walk Map
Burren National Park
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Time: From 30mins to 3 hrs.
Terrain: Can be uneven and quite steep in places.
These trails are not wheelchair accessible.
Green Arrow Route (Nature Trail)
Grade: Moderate
Distance: 2km
Time: 40 mins
Climb: 20m
Orange Route (Knockaunroe Turlough)
Grade: Moderate
Distance: 1.3km
Time: 30 mins
Climb: 20m
Green Route (Mullaghmor Return)
Grade: Very Difficult Remote/Upland
Distance: 4.3km
Time: 2hrs 20mins
Climb: 140m
Blue Route (Mullaghmor Loop)
Grade: Very Difficult Remote/Upland
Distance: 5.5km
Time: 2hrs 30mins
Climb: 140m
Red Route (Mullaghmor Traverse)
Grade: Very Difficult Remote/Upland
Distance: 5km
Time: 2hrs 40mins
Climb: 140m
Brown Route (Slieve Carran)
Grade: Moderate
Distance: 2.5km
Time: 1hr 30mins
Climb: 30m
Yellow Route (Slieve Carran)
Grade: Moderate
Distance: 2km
Time: 1hr
Climb: 20m
Download map: Burren National Park Walks Map
For further information please visit Burren National Park website
Burren Way
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Distance: 123km
Estimated Time: 5 days. Each section represents approximately a full days walking (Lehinch-Doolin/ Doolin Ballyvaugan/ Ballyvaughan Carran/ Carran-Corrofin/ Carran Tubber).
Grade: Moderate to difficult
To Suit: Average fitness, casual walkers
Minimum Gear: Sturdy walking boots, waterproofs. Rucksack, fluid, snacks, mobile phone.
Terrain: The Way follows a mix of green road, pathway, minor roadway, and grassy/rocky track, with an initial steep climb out of the Caher Valley and steep descent to Feenagh Valley.
Trailheads: Lahinch, Doolin, Lisdoonvarna, Ballyvaghan, Carran, Corrofin and Tubber
Trailhead 1 – Lahinch. Located on the coast, Lahinch is 3km west of Ennistymon on the N67.
Trailhead 2 – Doolin. Doolin village is located on the R479, off the N67, and 8km from the Cliffs of Moher.
Trailhead 3 – Lisdoonvarna. The town of Lisdoonvarna is located approximately 34km north of Ennis on the N67.
Trailhead 4 – Ballyvaughan. The village of Ballyvaughan is located on the N67 and is 39km from Ennis.
Trailhead 5 – Carran. The village of Carran is located between Ballyvaughan and Corrofin approximately 3km to the East of the R480.
Trailhead 6 – Corrofin. The village of Corrofin is located on the R476 between Ennis and Lisdoonvarna and is approximately 13km from Ennis.
Download map: Burren Way Map
Dromore Wood Loop
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6km Easy Ascent
35m Lane ways
Lakeshore and wooded tracks
Download map: Dromore Wood Loop Walk Map
Fanore to Ballyvaughan Trek
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A walk that’s mostly off road between Fanore and Ballyvaughan taking you on the old famine road around Blackhead.
Duration: 5-6 hrs
Suitable for: High levels of fitness
Access: Green roads, minor roadways, woodland tracks
Download map: Fanore to Ballyvaughan Trek Map
Ennistymon Historic Town Walk
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Download map: Ennistymon Historic Town Walk Map