theBurren

ExplorEr

1

The Burren CodeSupport the principles of the Burren Code to help safeguard

this important landscape:

• Leave the limestone pavement as you find it*

• Preserve natural habitats and leave wildflowers

undisturbed

• Take care not to damage monuments, walls and buildings

• Respect landowners, their property and their livestock

• Park and camp in designated areas

• Leave no trace of your visit, take nothing but memories

* Limestone Pavement is listed as a “Priority Habitat” in the European Habitats Directive, 1992, and is protected by law.

Cód na BoirneTabhair tacaíocht do phrionsabail Chód na Boirne ar

mhaith leis an tírdhreach tábhachtach seo a chosaint

• Fág an cosán aolchloiche* mar a fhaigheann tú í

• Caomhnaigh na gnáthóga nádúrtha agus ná cuir isteach

ar bhláthanna fiáine*

• Bí cúramach agus ná déan dochar do shéadchomharthaí,

do bhallaí ná d’fhoirgnimh

• Bíodh meas agat ar úinéirí talún, ar a maoin agus ar a

mbeostoc

• Páirceáil agus campáil sna limistéir shonraithe

• Ná fág rian ar bith de do chuairt; ná tabhair leat ach

cuimhní

* Tá Cosán Aolchloiche liostaithe mar “Ghnáthóg Tosaíochta” i dTreoir Eorpach Gnáthóga, 1992, agus tá cosaint dlí aici.

2

The content of the Burren explorer is based on research and

submissions from dr. Carleton Jones, Brendan dunford,

Mary angela Keane, Paddy Maher, Liz Fitzpatrick, John doorty,

PJ Curtis, Tina o dwyer, Carol Glesson, eimer McCarthy and

natacha del Fiol.

Photography and images: Burrenbeo, Shannon development,

Clare Champion, Burren College of art, Burren Perfumery,

John Kelly Photography

Cartography: Walking and Cycling Trails by Shannon development

design: david rice at opticnerve.ie

editing: Siobain o’Brien

Proof reading: Margaret o’Brien

Produced by the Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark (Carol Gleeson)

and the Burren explorer Group (Frances Connole, orla Vaughan and

Fintan o’ donnell).

Published: april 2013

Version: 3

Printed by: d2 Print

To download a PdF of this booklet, visit www.burren.ie

discalimer: every care has been taken to be as comprehensive and

inclusive as possible in the compilation of the Buren explorer. Where

errors and omissions are brought to our attention, future editions of

the Burren explorer can be amended accordingly.

Please direct your comments and feedback to info@burren.ie

note on place name spelling: The official ordnance survey

place-name spelling, used on all signage and maps, is used in

the main text of this guide. Local spellings may be used in other

contexts, for example where business names use the local spelling.

3ConTenTS

introduction 4

Geology & Landscape 6

Geology—did you know? 8

archaeology & Landscape 10

historical Structures 12

historic Buildings Timeline 13

Flora of the Burren 14

Fauna of the Burren 16

agriculture & Land use 18

Burren Culture 20

Burren Folklore 22

Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark 24

Burren ecotourism 26

The Burren Food Trail 28

Walking in the Burren 30

Burren Walking & Cycling Trails 31

Burren Towns & Villages 47

Music, Festivals & events of the Burren 81

4 inTroduCTion

The Burren Land of the Fertile Rock

Fáilte go dtí An Bhoireann Welcome to the Burren

Your Burren Explorer will give you a taste of the history, local culture and traditions in the Burren, as well as comprehensive listings on what to do, eat, dining and details of many cultural festivals, events, live music sessions in the town and villages that make up this special karst region of North Clare.

From the traditional music events in spring and the Burren in Bloom festival in May, to the summer events like weekly Teach Cheoil traditional Irish concerts in Corofin and Ceili’s in Kilfenora. Even winter events such as Russell Music Weekend in Doolin and the Ballyvaughan Christmas Markets, the Burren is a place that is as beautiful and lively in winter as it is in spring, summer or autumn.

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The Burren has an extensive and varied selection of accommodation, including family-run bed & breakfasts where one can get a real taste of home cooking and inside information on the local culture and traditions of the area. Hotels, guesthouses, self-catering accommodation, as well as quality hostels, caravan and camping sites ensure that every type of traveller is catered for.

The great variety of places to eat and drink, from traditional pub food to restaurants and cafes, over 20 visitor attractions, spectacular scenery, beautiful beaches, outdoor activities to suit all capabilities, as well as an abundance of archaeological and historical sites of interest, will ensure that your visit to the Burren is as action-packed or as relaxing as you choose.

We hope that this Explorer will help you enjoy your holiday more and also help to protect this special environment, as well as contribute to the economic and social development of the people and cultures of the Burren.

Further information on the Burren can be obtained at any of the nine dedicated Burren information points in the region highlighted in the Burren Explorer Map.

6 GeoLoGy & LandSCaPe

340–317 million years ago during the Carboniferous Period, the Burren formed the floor of a shallow tropical sea, much like the modern-day Caribbean.

The warm, shallow tropical seas supported a prolific and diverse range of marine life, including corals and many types of shellfish. When the dead bodies of the marine life decayed, they created a limey mud. Over time and with deeper burial the limey mud compacted to form limestone rock, hence the limestone rock, which forms the present day Burren region, was born.

Limestone has a special relationship with water as it will dissolve very slowly in the presence of mildly acidic rainwater and melting ice. When this happens to a large exposed area of limestone what emerges is called a Karst geological region. When bare limestone mountains and hills become exposed to wind, rain and ice they become ‘karstified’.

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After millions of years of earthquake movements the limestone beds rose up from the tropical seas and surfaced to form mountains. The landscape of the Burren was then shaped by erosion and the smoothing movements of massive ice sheets, called glaciers. During the last great Ice Age, which ended 12,000 years ago, these glaciers moved from north to south across the Burren region.

The front of these glaciers behaved like massive bulldozers and when they finally melted away they left behind large boulders on the surface of the limestone called Erratics. Underground erosion by the melting ice water also created many caves, a feature which makes the Burren a popular place for subterranean explorers called speleologists.

This text was supplied by Paddy Maher, Ruan, Co. Clare.

8 GeoLoGy— did you KnoW?

Burren rock pavement is very rare and is specially protected

The bare limestone rock pavement of the Burren is dissected by “clint and gryke” structures. The grykes, formed by water dissolving away limestone along joints are the vertical fractures seen running through the solid limestone. The clints are the limestone blocks surrounded by these fractures. This Limestone pavement is protected by European legislation because of its international importance and, like the rare flowers, it is important that it is not disturbed or damaged.

Magical disappearing lakes

The disappearing lakes of the Burren are called Turloughs. These are seasonally dry karst lakes which form in hollows in the limestone. They fill and drain with water through a series of holes and cracks in the floor of the Turlough which are linked to cave systems. Some of these lakes can fill very quickly and they can be observed to shrink and swell in a matter of hours.

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The longest cave system in Ireland

A cave in the Burren called Poulnagollum is Ireland’s longest cave. It runs for over 15km and is 140 meters deep. It can be found on the eastern slopes of Slieve Elva Mountain, near the town of Lisdoonvarna.

The largest Stalactite in Europe

Discovered in 1952, the Great Stalactite at Pol na Ionain known today as Doolin Cave measures 6.54 metres (20 feet) in length. It is now recognised as being the longest stalactite in Europe.

This text was supplied by Paddy Maher, Geologist, Ruan, Co. Clare.

10 arChaeoLoGy & LandSCaPe

It’s believed that the first full-time inhabitants of the Burren were farmers who arrived around 3800 BC. The most visible remains of their former presence are the megalithic tombs they built, such as the portal tomb at Poulnabrone.

Throughout the era known as the Neolithic period (c. 4000–2400 BC), these farmers raised their herds on the gentle southern slopes of the Burren. The Burren was good to them, but we have evidence, including large-scale tree clearance, that by the end of the Neolithic period and into the Early Bronze Age (c. 2400–2000 BC), an increasing population may have put considerable pressure on the Burren’s resources.

The Burren contains eighty wedge tombs (all of which date to this period) and represents the densest concentration of tombs in Ireland (wedge tombs were the last type of megalithic tomb to be built).

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The unique environment of the Burren has also ensured that the much more ephemeral remains of these peoples’ farms and field walls are still visible as low grass-covered mounds over 4,000 years after they were built!

After this boom time in the Final Neolithic/Early Bronze Age, the population focus may have shifted off of the Burren and towards southeast Clare. The Burren was not completely abandoned however, and spectacular finds such as the large gold Gleninsheen gorge demonstrate the significant activity on the Burren in the Bronze Age (1500–600).

Pollen evidence for a regeneration of trees on the Burren during the subsequent Iron Age (600 BC–400 AD) indicates an even greater drop-off in farming and population that lasted until the Early Medieval period (400–1300 AD), when the trees were re-cleared and the population of the Burren increased once again.

The text was supplied by Dr. Carleton Jones, Archaeologist, National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG) and author of The Burren and the Aran Islands—Exploring the Archaeology.

12 hiSToriCaL STruCTureS

A journey through the historic Burren takes you to some of the best-preserved early medieval landscapes in Ireland. There are several great stone forts that functioned as tribal centers of ‘túatha’ or petty kingdoms.

From perhaps as early as the sixth century, early Christian followers began to establish themselves in monastic communities and hermitages and as many as nineteen churches of the Burren túatha can claim early Christianity ancestry.

Tower Houses were the strongholds of ruling families and their cadet branches in the Burren, namely the O’Brien’s and the O’Loughlins in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries.

Historic Burren is a place of continuity and change, and by the seventeenth century it had begun to reflect a new interest by the gentry class in more commodious living. This is perhaps best expressed in the addition in 1643 of a spacious, bright and heated fortified house to a fifteenth- century tower house and the development of walled pleasure gardens and parkland, at Lemaneagh.

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hiSToriC BuiLdinGS

TiMeLine

This text was supplied by Liz Fitzpatrick, Archaeologist, NUIG.

EARLY MEDIEVAL: 400–1300 AD

HIGH MEDIEVAL: 1100–1350

LATE MEDIEVAL: 1350–1550

EARLY MODERN: 1550–1700

the great stone forts and cashels of Caherballykinvarga, Cahercommaun, Cahermore, Caherconaill and early church sites—Oughtmama, Kilnaboy and Kilfenora

Kilfenora high crosses and cathedral, Cistercians abbey of Corcomroe

continuity of Caher tradition—Cahermacnaghten, Cahermore, development of tower houses Gleninagh, Ballynalackan, Newtown, Donnagore, modifications to parish churches Carron, Drumacreehy, Noughaval; dissolution of abbeys and churches

continuity of tower house and ringfort settlements; advent of fortified house architecture; dispossession of Burren Gaelic families and transplantation of families into Burren during Cromwellian Settlement

14 FLora oF The Burren

Solitary, austere, and yet strangely beautiful, the Burren is a place that makes your senses come alive. It is a fertile, fragile, plant-rich and sensitive landscape. Of all the natural history interests that are intermingled and interdependent on this limestone plateau, it is perhaps the plants and flowers which have caught the public imagination.

The total flora of the Burren is so rich it constitutes about three quarters of the flora of Ireland. However the lack of botanical training does not detract from the sheer joy of relishing the eternal rhythm of the ever changing floral seasons in this rich landscape.

The mystique of the Burren flora lays not so much in the frequency of rare species, but in the assemblage or co-habitation of certain plants and the locations they choose.

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These unique circumstances prevailing in the Buren are most strikingly demonstrated by the simultaneous occurrence of the Mediterranean orchid Neotinea Intacta (the Irish Orchid) and the artic alpine species Dryas octopetala (Mountain Avens).

Equally interesting species are the southern continental Helianthemum canum (Rock-rose), the alpine Gentiana Verna (Spring Gentian) and the northern—continental Potentilla Fruitcosa (Shrubby Cinquefoil).

The Burren with its high oceanic climate is never out of bloom, the plants rotate with the seasons be it ferns or moss in late autumn and winter, or the crescendo of the spring and summer flora in this exotic rock garden that runs riot with colour. Keeping in mind the climate, the effects of glaciation on the limestone, and the rotational grazing cycles, we can look at the flora of the Burren and its growth activity through a new lens, which will reveal a truly splendid natural rock garden in this quite special place.

This text was supplied by Mary Angela Keane, Historical Geographer, Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare and author of the book called “The Burren”.

16 Fauna oF The Burren

The fauna of the Burren is a frequently overlooked aspect of the area’s natural heritage. Feral goats, foxes and hares are the most common mammals encountered in the Burren uplands, with rabbits once common but now much less so.

One of the most renowned members of the Burren’s faunal community is the pine marten, not welcomed by many farmers who consider the ‘marten cat’ a leading predator of young lambs.

Woodmice and red squirrels are very common in hazel woodland. Other mammals found in the Burren include the badger, and the stoat.

Over seventy species of land snails have been recorded in the area, thanks to the abundance of shell-building calcium carbonate.

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Seven of Ireland’s native bat species are found in the Burren.

29 of Irelands 34 butterfly species are found, with two more or less limited to the area—the Pearl Bordered Fritillary and the Brown Hairsteak.

Of the many bird species found in the Burren perhaps the Skylark can be singled out as being especially representative of the area. It is a constant tuneful companion during the summer on the high ground, adding an extra dimension to the solitude and beauty of the place

This text was supplied by Burrenbeo, Kinvara, Co. Galway Visit www.burrenbeo.com for more information.

18 aGriCuLTure & Land uSe

To the surprise of many people, the Burren has supported a rich tradition of farming which spans almost six millennia. Pollen records and archaeological excavations suggest that Stone Age Burren farmers kept cattle, sheep, goats and grew cereals. To cultivate their land, these farmers gradually removed the existing pine hazel woodland, an act that would later contribute to the extensive loss of soil from the Burren, and the exposure of the skeletal ‘karst’ landscape we cherish today.

Generations of farmers have shaped the Burren in a very profound way by building megalithic tombs and giant stone cairns to bury their dead, churches to worship their god, circular forts to protect their livestock, and thousands of miles of stone walls to manage their herds. These structures today represent a stunning archaeological legacy.

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One unique surviving feature of Burren farming is the tradition of winterage. This system involves herding cattle onto the warm, dry Burren hills in winter when water and food are plentiful. ‘Outwintering’ livestock graze back rough grasses and scrub, allowing the Burren’s rich flora and fauna to prosper unhindered the following summer.

Today, only a few hundred farmers remain to uphold the Burren’s ancient farming traditions. Please respect these farmers, their livestock and property during your visit.

This text was supplied by Dr. Brendan Dunford, BurrenLife, Carron, Co. Clare, author of Farming and the Burren. Visit www.burrenlife.com for more information.

20 Burren CuLTure

Somewhere among great rocks on the scarce grass,

Birds cry, they cry their loneliness.

Even the sunlight can be lonely here,

Even hot noon is lonelyFrom W.B. Yeats play, The Dreaming of the Bones

Almost three hundred years before the poet W.B. Yeats set his play amid the broken tombs of Corcomroe Abbey in 1916, Oliver Cromwell’s son-in-law Henry Ireton who led a military attack on Clare (1649–52) described the Burren in a letter thus: “It is a country where there is not wood enough to hang a man, water enough to drown him, nor earth enough to bury him in which last is so scarce that the inhabitants steal it from one another.”

As inexplicable, exotic and unchanged in most ways as the Burren remains as a landscape, it has always provided for diverse and challenging artistic interpretation. Whether finding the loneliness and barrenness or the company and abundance of its desert-like landscape their inspiration, it seems inevitable that artists of all disciplines, especially visual artists, writers, craft workers, and musicians continue to be drawn to the Burren.

Many artists make their home here. Like no other place, the Burren and its people seem to allow for the artist to live an artistic life.

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But this is not just recent. In the 13th century the famous O’Daly family of poets conducted a bardic (poetic) school in Finnevarra (You can see a simple obelisk-like monument to them on the south side of the seashore). On the far shore, the Flaggy Shore, Seamus Heaney may have been revisiting their tradition in his poem, Postscript.

Traditional music remains the most accessible form of cultural expression in the Burren. As the late philosopher and Burren native John O’Donohue suggested, “The secret music of nature is concealed in stone.”

Enjoy the music in the many pub sessions and céilí (dances) you are likely to encounter in the villages and towns. You are certain to also find the work of locally based painters and craft workers in the many craft shops and galleries in the region. You will find that the cohesive response of the artist in the Burren, is one of protection and preservation.

This text was supplied by John Doorty, Ennistymon, Co. Clare, author of ‘A place called Doolin’.

22 Burren FoLKLore

Visitors to the Burren cannot but be enthralled by the many natural wonders of its craggy, limestone terrain and by the richness and glorious abundance of its flora and fauna. Yet underneath this stony outer physical world lies another world, an unseen, enchanted, timeless world of magic and mystery, of myth and of legend.

From this ‘other-world’ of the imagination sprang a brilliant tapestry of folk-tales, sagas and ghost stories, through which countless generations of Burren inhabitants down the centuries strove to give form and voice to their interpretation of a world beyond their physical world and of their dreams, imaginings and flights of fancy.

Many customs and rituals including Bealtaine (May) and Lunasa (August) Fires, Pattern Day celebrations, Pilgrimages to Sacred Places, visits to Holy Wells and healing men and women for various cures remain with us today. Here in the Burren one can still sense the hidden power and energy that shaped the inner lives of generations of its inhabitants.

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It is not too late to sense that special energy. To perhaps hear the clamour of warriors engaged in battle by their Great Stone Forts, or glimpse in the misty moonlight the Fairy Hosts dancing about their Raths and Tumuli. To glimpse a spectral sunken village in some haunted lake, to taste from one of the Seven Streams of Teeskagh, those rivers of milk that once flowed from the magic Cow of Glasgeivnagh Hill or to hear the Anvil of Lon the first smithy, ring out over the barren plains the high Burren around Mohernacartan (Lon’s Fort).

Or one could simply sit and listen to the magical fairy music that sings its melody still on the secret streams of the deep Burren, It tells the oldest story ever told. All we have to do is listen.

This text was supplied by PJ Curtis, author of ‘The Lightning Tree’, ‘The Music of Ghosts’, ‘Nothing to Worry About’ and ‘The Road of Souls’.

24 Burren & CLiFFS oF Moher GeoParK

The Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark is about people and organisations working together to ensure a cared-for landscape, a better-understood heritage, more sustainable tourism, a vibrant community and strengthened livelihoods.

Global Geopark status is a UNESCO-recognised award earned by unique regions worldwide. The status is awarded to special regions with outstanding geology and local culture – regions that support sustainable development, research, education and cultural heritage by working closely with local communities and agencies.

UNESCO and the Global Geoparks Network (GGN) develop common-sense quality standards and provide a useful structure for cooperation and exchange between Geoparks around the world.

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This is especially useful for regions that combine the preservation of their natural landscape into effective ways of achieving strong local economic development, usually through nature-friendly tourism.

The Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark aims to strengthen our local economy and support local communities by working together to create a sustainable tourism destination celebrated for high standards in visitor experience, conservation and learning.

For more information on the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark please visit www.burren.ie. Follow us on Facebook.

26 Burren eCoTouriSM

Burren Ecotourism represents a growing collective of local tourism-orientated organisations that have committed to the promotion of responsible travel to the Burren in a way that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people. The businesses represented by Burren Ecotourism offer a range of holiday and visitor options designed to cater for any and all visitors – from families to foodies, adrenaline junkies to slow strollers, there are multiple options for everyone. You will find opportunities to interact with the landscape through walking, cycling, climbing, painting, kayaking and more.

The Businesses represented by Burren Ecotourism have completed extensive ecotourism training. Most are independently certified and have subjected their environmental and ecotourism policies to external inspection and audit.

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Burren Ecotourism’s objective is to ensure that visitors have a fantastic holiday experience while also being assured that they have made minimal environmental impact and have helped contribute to the preservation of the Burren. This means that you can experience an array of extraordinary natural resources safe in the knowledge that these resources are being catered for.

This text was supplied by Burren Ecotourism. For more information visit www.burrenecotourism.com

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The fertile valleys of the Burren have long been known for their quality food produce, particularly for the production of beef and lamb thanks to a unique and ancient system of farming. In recent years, this food tradition has expanded through the emergence of many award-winning chef-led restaurants and high quality artisan food producers, as well as an increase in practising market gardeners and growers.

We invite you to join us and get involved in our Burren food story. We are passionate about our food, growing and producing it locally for you to enjoy. The Burren Food Trail is more than a listing of quality food establishments in the area – it aims to uncover for you the path that your food takes from field to plate. You can decide for yourself how to follow the trail – stop at every point or else dip in and out along the way, according to your taste, interest and location.

Make the most of your visit to the Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark by taking in one of the many special food events that are organised by members of Burren Ecotourism on a weekly basis throughout the year – what about a summer solstice twilight supper, a cosy evening of cheese, wine and story-telling, a kayaking picnic, a vegetarian harvest banquet.

The Burren Food TraiL

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The members of the Burren Food Trail are bound by their commitment to building a sustainable future for the region. Each of the featured restaurants offers a Burren Food Trail Signature Dish to savour. Each member has achieved recognised quality awards and standards, and has also signed up to the Burren Food Trail Customer Promise: you will find staff who are knowledgeable about the regional food story, menus which state the source of local produce, information on local food events and markets as well as a commitment to maximise the use of local ingredients in all prepared food.

THE BURREN FOOD TRAIL is a joint initiative of the Burren & Cliffs of Moher

Text supplied by The Burren Food Trail. For more information visit www.burrenecotourism.com/food

30 WaLKinG in The Burren

The Burren Way is a 123km linear walking train (including the East Burren Loop, the Carron Loop and links to Lisdoonvarna and Ballyvaughan) located in the Burren area of North Clare. The Way brings you inland from Lahinch on the Western side of Clare to Doolin on the coast of the Burren and via the town of Lisdoonvarna on to Ballyvaughan to the North, it then crosses the heartland of the Burren through the villages of Carron, and Corofin on the eastern side of the Burren. The Way follows a mix of mainly Green roads, pathways, old roadways and minor roads.

Just south of Corofin the route links with the Mid Clare Way and forms an attractive loop walk on the eastern side of the Burren. It is best accessed at one of the six key trailheads, which provide information map boards and car parks. These are located reasonably close to other services and facilities, such as shop, accommodation and restaurants. Please refer to the maps provided.

This text was supplied by Eimer McCarthy, Rural Recreation Officer with CLDC. For more information go to www.shannonregiontrails.ie

31Burren Walking & CyCling Trails

THE BURREN WAY 32

BLACK HEAD loop Walk 33

CARRON loop Walk 34

DROMORE WOOD loop Walk 35

BALLYvAUgHAN WOOD loop Walk 36

CAHER vALLEY loop Walk 37

TEMPLECRONAN loop Walk 38

LOUgH AvALLA FARM loop Walk 39

FANORE TO BALLYvAUgHAN Trek 40

CARRON TURLOUgH loop Walk 41

MULLAgHMORE loop Walk 42

WEsT CLARE Cycleway 43

DOLMEN Cycleway 44

THE BURREN Cycleway 45

DOOLiN CYCLE Hub 46

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DisTANCE123km

EsTiMATED TiME4 days. Each section represents approximately a half day’s walking

gRADEModerate to difficult

TO sUiTAverage Fitness, Casual Walkers

TERRAiNMix of green road, pathway, minor roadway, grassy/rocky track, with a steep climb and a steep descent

TRAiLHEADA number, all Indicated on map

THe BURREN WAY

Trailhead 4: Ballyvaghan The village of Ballyvaghan is located on the N67 and is 39km from Ennis.

Trailhead 5: Carron The village of Carron is located between Ballyvaghan 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.

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.

Black Head

Slieve Elva Slievecarran

LiscannorBay

Turlough HillAillweeCaves

Cliffs ofMoher

BurrenNational

Park

DromoreNatureReserve

Miltown Malbay

Ennistymon

Lisdoonvarna

Ennis

BallyvaughanFanore

Doolin

Bell HarbourKinvara

Killinaboy

CorrofinRuan

Kilfenora

Lahinch

Liscannor

InaghKilnamona

Noughaval

Carron

Tubber

1

2

3

4

5

6

0 5km 10km

33

AsCENT220m / 480m

DisTANCE26km

EsTiMATED TiME5–6hrs

gRADEHard

TO sUiTHigher than average level of fitness

TERRAiNGreen laneways, tracks, and mountain paths

TRAiLHEADFanore, Co Clare

BLACK HEADlOOP Walk

right to a metal gateway, joining a sand road. After 1.5km the road descends to join a surfaced road. After 1km at a 3-way junction, turn right.

C-D: Follow the purple arrows up a steep stony road. After crossing the top, the descent takes you down to join a surfaced road. Turn right and, almost immediately, left. Follow the roadway for 500m to a junction with a green road. Veer right and climb onto the shoulder of Slieve Elva and down to a surfaced road. Turn right.

D-A: Enjoy the descent toward the coastline for 3km. At a 3-way junction, turn right onto a sandy road. Taking care of traffic, walk along the main R477 for 200m to Fanore beach.

A-B: From the mapboard, exit the car park, turn left, follow the purple arrow. After 1km, at a junction with a sandy roadway, turn right. After 500m uphill, at a stone stile cross into a field and join the Green Road. After 5km, the loop leaves the road, turns right and uphill to join a well-worn path along a stone wall. Follow this path for 2km to reach a stone stile. Continue straight.

B-C: For the next 1km the path ascends steeply to a stone stile. Cross the stile, turn left, and follow the stone wall on your left for 500m to another stone stile. Follow the waymarkers carefully as the loop veers from the wall, swings

Black Head

Caher River

Slieve Elva

Gleninagh Mountain

Caher Valley

Murrooghtoohy

CoolsivaAghaglinny

Murroughkilly

Caherbannagh

Khyber Pass

Cap

pana

wal

laLiscoonera

Ballyelly

Coolmeen

FaunarooskaDerreen Poulacapple

CaherbullogDerrynavahagh

Formoyle

CaherFanoreBeach

Caherdoonfergus

Doughbranneen

Lighthouse

FanoreBridge

FaunarooskaCastle

Poll an Phúca

CathairFhiodhnaigh

LiosMac

Sioda

Cathair anArd Rios

FermoyleChapel

CaherValley

NatureReserve

Fanore

R47

7B

ally

vau

ghan

R477

Lisdoon

varna

ASTARTFINISH

B

C

D

0 0.5km 1km

34

AsCENT100m

DisTANCE9km

EsTiMATED TiME3–4hrs

gRADEHard

TO sUiTHigher than average levels of fitness

TERRAiNMinor roads, animal tracks and green lanes

TRAiLHEADCassidy’s Pub, Carron Village, Co. Clare OS Sheet 51, R278 988

CARRONlOOP Walk

C-D: The loop now joins a tractor trail and ascends onto the western shoulder of Termon. At the top of the ascent the loop joins a stone wall which is a feature of this beautiful landscape.

D-E: Keeping the long stone wall on your left, the loop crosses a number of smaller stone walls to reach the top of the Clab Valley and turns sharp right.

A-B: Leaving the trailhead at Cassidy’s Pub, follow the green (and purple) arrows downhill past the church and Primary School. The green arrows are for the shorter Templecronan Loop. After 600m, turn right onto a laneway towards Templecronan Church.

B-C: Follow the green and purple arrows to the end of the laneway where both loops enter a field via a stone stile. The two loops diverge here—follow the purple arrows as the loop turns left. (Note: You are quite close to the site of Templecronan Church here—if you visit it, remember to return to this junction.)

Glen of Clab

Knockans Mts

Rannagh East

Coskeam

Aghaglinny

243

Turloughs

Fahee

Crughwill

Termon

Tomb

Well

Well

Termon Cross

Carron

Ballyvaughan

Kilfenora

ASTARTFINISH

B

C

D

E

F

G

0 0.5km 1km

35

AsCENT30m

DisTANCE6km

EsTiMATED TiME1.5–2hrs

gRADEEasy

TO sUiTMedium level of fitness

TERRAiNLaneways, lakeshore and wooded tracks

TRAiLHEADDromore Wood, Ruan, Co Clare Map Ref: OS 58 R353863

DROMORE WOOD lOOP Walk

C-D: Shortly afterwards, the loop rejoins the Mid-Clare Way and wanders along the wooded edge of the reserve for almost 1km. The loop then leaves the Mid Clare Way again to follow the Castle Nature Trail (one of two established loop walks in the reserve).

D-E: This 1km section of the loop takes you onto the shore of Lough Garr and Dromore Lough - at the end of which you rejoin the Mid-Clare Way for the final section back to the trailhead.

E-A: The final 400m of the loop passes by the imposing O’Brien Castle and along a bridge/boardwalk to reach the trailhead.

A-B: From the car park follow the purple National Loop arrow along the tarred roadway back in the direction of the main vehicle entrance to the reserve. After 500m the loop swings right into woodland.

B-C: Emerging onto the tarred roadway again, the loop veers right continuing in the direction of the reserve entrance before turning left into woodland just before the same entrance. You will leave the Mid-Clare way here. After meandering through woodland - running parallel to the boundary wall - you exit the woodland and join a laneway where you turn left.

River Fergus

LoughGarr

DromoreWoodland

NatureReserve

DromoreLough

The CastleLough

46

O’Brien Castle

Ru

an

ASTARTFINISH

B

C

D

E

0 0.5km

36

DisTANCE8km

EsTiMATED TiME2–2.5hrs

gRADEEasy

TO sUiTMedium level of fitness

TERRAiNSurfaced roadway, green roads, tracks, cross country

TRAiLHEADBallyvaughan, Co. Clare

BALLYvAUgHAN WOODlOOP Walk

C-D: Now follow the roadway for approximately 2km to reach a T-junction where you turn left. Pass through a gateway and join a green road. Follow this green road for approximately 300m to exit at a double gate. Continue straight as the green roadway changes to a surfaced roadway and eventually reaches a T-junstion where you turn left on to a minor surfaced road.

D-A: After approximately 400m on this surfaced road you join the N67 Galway road where you turn left for the last trek back through the village of Ballyvaghan to the trailhead.

A-B: From the trailhead , follow the various purple arrows across a series of stone stiles and wooden sections to exit into a field which takes you on to a surfaced roadway where the loop turns.

B-C: Follow the surfaced roadway for approximately 300m to reach the Main N67—turn left, and almost immediately, turn right onto a minor road. Follow this road to its conclusion at a metal gate into a field. Cross the stile and follow the purple arrows across the fields, and through a path cut through a wooden area, and sandy roadways to exit close to the entrance to Aillwee Cave where you turn left.

Lisnanard

NewtownKnocknagreagh

BallyvaughanBay

AillweeBallycahill

Dangan

Tenarussa

LoughRask

TheWood

Aillwee CavesVisitorCentre

NewtownCastle

Ballyvaughan

ASTARTFINISH

B

C

D

R477Fanore

N67Galway

N67

Lisd

oon

varn

a

0 0.5km 1km

37

AsCENT300m/340m

DisTANCE14km

EsTiMATED TiME3.5–4hrs

gRADEModerate

TO sUiTMedium level of fitness

TERRAiNMinor roads and green roadways

TRAiLHEADFanore Beach Car Park, Co Clare

CAHER vALLEYlOOP Walk

C-D: Having turned left, follow the red and purple arrows along the roadway for 500m to reach a Y-junction where you veer right onto a grassy and climb onto the shoulder of Slieve Elva and down to reach a surfaced road at Ballelly. Turn right (and downhill) here.

D-A: Enjoy the descent toward the coastline for 3km and reach a 3-way junction where you turn right onto a sandy roadway which joins the R477 at Fanore National School. Be mindful of traffic as you walk along the main R477 for 200m and re-enter Fanore beach carpark.

A-B: From the mapboard at Fanore Beach, exit the car park, turn left following the red arrow. Follow the road for approximately 500m to reach a minor road. Turn right (leaving the longer Black Head Loop as you do).

B-C: Follow this minor road past St. Patrick’s Church (on your right) and with the Caher River running on your left. This river has the distinction of being the only one in the Burren to remain over ground! Follow the red arrows for approx 4km to reach a junction with a roadway on your right at Fermoyle. Turn right here.

Caher River

Slieve Elva

Gleninagh Mountain

Caher Valley

Caherbannagh

Khyber Pass

Liscoonera

Ballyelly

Coolmeen

Faunarooska

Caherbullog

Formoyle

CaherFanoreBeach

FanoreBridge

FaunarooskaCastle

Poll an Phúca

FermoyleChapel

CaherValley

NatureReserve

FanoreR477

Lisdoon

varna

ASTARTFINISH

B

C

D

0 0.5km 1km

38

AsCENT150m/40m

DisTANCE5km

EsTiMATED TiME1.5–2hrs

gRADEEasy

TO sUiTMedium level of fitness

TERRAiNMinor roads, sandy tracks, green lanes

TRAiLHEADCassidys Pub/Restaurant, Carron Village, Co Clare

TEMPLECRONANlOOP Walk

Continue to follow the green arrows as the loop takes you past Tobair Chronain (a Holy Well), through a field, and joins a walled roadway where you turn left.

C-A: Toward the end of the roadway you enter a ‘stone’ field, rejoin the Carron Loop, and exit onto a surfaced road near a small Research Station. Turn right here and follow the road for a short distance to reach an old laneway on your left. Turn left onto the laneway and follow the green and purple arrows back to the trailhead.

A-B: Leaving the trailhead at Cassidy’s Pub, follow the green (and purple) arrows downhill past the church and Primary School. The purple arrows are for the longer Carron Loop. After 600m, turn right onto a laneway towards Templecronan Church. At the end of the laneway, the loop enters a field via a stile and the loops diverge here. The Carron Loop (purple arrows) turns left – but you veer right.

B-C: Follow a well worn track to a stile. Cross it and turn right and follow the green arrows to Temlecronan Church. The loop exits the back of the church grounds and joins a sandy track.

Cast

letow

n Rive

r

Crughwill

Poulmoneen

ClogbaunBridge

ResearchStation

TermonCross

TobarChrónáin

TeampallChrónáin

CarronAn Carn

A

STARTFINISH

B

C

0 0.5km

39

AsCENT150m/120m

DisTANCE6km

EsTiMATED TiME2.5–3hrs

gRADEHard (typical underfoot Burren terrain)

TO sUiTAll levels of fitness

TERRAiNMinor roads, farm tracks and laneways, open Burren ground

TRAiLHEADMullaghmore Crossroads, Burren National Park, Co Clare

LOUgH AvALLA FARMlOOP Walk

and following the line of high ‘cliffs’ (on your left) as the loop takes you on a tour through a mix of stone fields, scrub and pastures. After the jetty, turn left.

C-A: Continue to follow the purple arrows as you are taken uphill again for one last glimpse of this spectacular location – and the farm that lies tucked within. After 300m you rejoin the farm laneway at the gate to the Holy Well.

This time follow the laneway back to the sandy roadway, turn and enjoy the 1km back to the trailhead.

A-B: From the mapboard at the trailhead follow the purple arrows along the sandy roadway. After 1 km you reach a junction with a farm laneway on your right. Turn right. Follow this laneway for 500m to reach a metal gate and, almost immediately a small wooden gate on your left with a sign to a holy well. Turn left here.

B-C: From here, the waymarking changes from tall black post to standing stone slabs. Follow them as the loop passes the Holy Well and takes you from a tree-lined path into rocky Burren landscape. Ascend to reach a stone cairn before sweeping right

Glasgeivnagh Hill

Poulnalour

Lough Avalla

Farm

Jetty

HolyWell

MullaghmoreCrossroad

St. Patrick’s Well

A

STARTFINISH

B

C

0 0.5km

40

DisTANCE21km

EsTiMATED TiME5 – 6hrs

gRADEDifficult to Hard

TO sUiTHigh levels of fitness

TERRAiNGreen roads, minor roadways, woodland tracks

TRAiLHEADCar Park Fanore Beach

FANORE TOBALLYvAUgHAN Trek

and swings right to reach a metal gate joining a sand roadway along the shoulder of Cappanawalla. After 1.5km the sand roadway descends to join a surfaced road. After 1km you reach a 3-way junction. Continue straight.

C-A: Follow the brown arrows for 5Km to reach the N67. At this junction and 300m later watch for a stone stile on your left. Turn left through the stile.

D-A: Follow the boundary of a field. Then follow the woodland track to reach a minor roadway at the Community Pitch. Follow the road on your left past the Primary School and join the N67 at the bridge. Turn right for the short trek to Ballyvaghan.

A-B: From the mapboard at Fanore Beach, exit the car park, turn left following the brown arrow. After 1km turn right at the junction with a sandy road. After 500m uphill, cross a stone stile into a field, joining the Green Road. After 5km, the loop turns right, uphill to join a path along a stone wall. Follow this wall for over 2km to reach a stone stile and metal gate (on your left). Continue straight.

B-C: For 1km the path ascends steeply to a stone stile at Gleninagh Pass. Cross the stile, turn left, and follow the stone wall on your left for 500m to another stile. Follow the waymarkers carefully as the loop veers right from the wall,

Black Head

Caher River

Gle

nina

gh

Slieve Elva

Gleninagh Mountain

Caher Valley

Murrooghtoohy

CoolsivaAghaglinny

Murroughkilly

Caherbannagh

Khyber PassCappanawalla

Ballyelly

Coolmeen

Faunarooska Poulacapple

Caherbullog

Derrynavahagh

Formoyle

CaherFanoreBeach

Caherdoonfergus

Doughbranneen

Lighthouse

FanoreBridge

FaunarooskaCastle

Poll an Phúca

AillweeCaves

RathborneyChurch

GreganChurch

CathairFhiodhnaigh

Lios MacSioda

Lios MacTaidgh

Lios nagCat

NewtownCastle

Lios na Ard

Cathair Mór

Cathair anArd Rios

FermoyleChapel

CaherValley

NatureReserve

Fanore

Ballyvaughan

N67

N67 R480

R477

Lisdoon

varna

A FINISHSTART

B

CD

0 1km 2km

41

DisTANCE5km

EsTiMATED TiME1-1.5hrs

gRADEEasy

TERRAiNShort section of regional road, mostly minor country roads

TO sUiTMedium levels of fitness, buggy friendly

TRAiLHEADOpposite Cassidys Pub, Carron

C-D: At the t junction, with Carron National School on your left, take the left turn for a short climb on a pedestrian footpath back to the trailhead opposite Cassidy’s pub.

A-B: With Cassidy’s pub at your back, travel left passing Clare’s Rock Hostel on your right. The loops turns left, along a windy road to a junction, where you turn left again. This straight flat road takes you along the shores of the Turlough on your left, with mountainous farmland on your right.

B-C: At the next junction, turn left and follow this road to the cross signposted Burren Perfumery. Keep left, and you will pass the National University of Ireland Galway field research station on your right.

CARRON TURLOUgHlOOP Walk

Cas

tleto

wn Rive

r

Crughwill

Castletown

Tullycommon

Turlough

Turlough(Seasonal Lake)

ResearchStation

Fairy FortHostelB&B

CahersavaunCillín

Fulacht Fia

cave

Poulmoneen

Clogbaun BridgeCarronAn Carn

ASTARTFINISH

B

C

D

EF

o 0.5km 1km

42

DisTANCE5.5Km

EsTiMATED TiME2.5hrs

gRADEVery difficult

TO sUiTHigh fitness levels

TERRAiNRemote/upland

TRAiLHEADat lay by on the right at Gortlecka Crossroads, near Mullaghmore, in the Burren National Park, Co. Clare. GR: R 304 945

MULLAgHMORElOOP Walk

From the trailhead, follow the Blue arrows which take you right from the trailhead, and then left across the Crag road, through a stile and to the shores of a little lake and around the mountain.

Mullagh

mor

e

Glasgeivnagh Hill

Lackareagh

Glenroe

Gortlecka

Aglish

Knockaunroe

Rinnamona

Glenquin

197

CoolreashLough

LoughGealáin

Loch Dá Éan

Slieve Roe

LoughAvalla

St. Patrick’s WellTemplepatrickCorreen Friary

MullaghmoreCrossroad

Killnaboy

Killn

aboy

STARTFINISH

0 0.5km 1km

43

TRAFFiC:Busy out of Shannon Airport to Ennis. Light along the coast road towards Killadysart - Killimer - Kilkee - Lahinch

TERRAiN:Relatively flat with occasional short climbs alond the route

TO sUiT:Suitable for people of medium levels of fitness.

MiNiMUM gEAR:Helmet, bike, mobile phone, fluid, snacks, waterproofs and a rucksack.

TRAiLHEADs:The cycleway starts and ends at Killimer.

sERviCEs:Killimer, Kilrush, Kilkee, Miltown Malbay and Lahinch.

DisTANCE:70km

TiME:Approximately 1.5 - 2 days

DiFFiCULTY:Moderate to Difficult

West ClareCycleway

0 5km 10km

44

TERRAiN:Hilly, low gears recommended. Experience the Burren countryside at its best.

TRAFFiC:Generally light except during mid tourist season.

TO sUiT:Suitable for people of medium levels of fitness.

MiNiMUM gEAR:Helmet, bike, mobile phone, fluid, snacks, waterproofs and a rucksack.

TRAiLHEADs:The cycleway starts and ends in Lisdoonvarna.

sERviCEs:Lisdoonvarna, Kilfenora and Ballyvaughan.

DisTANCE:45km

TiME:Approximately 1 day

DiFFiCULTY:Moderate to difficult

DolmenCycleway

0 5km 10km

45

TERRAiN:Hilly, low gears recommended. Breathtaking scenery with a mix of coastal and inland routes.

TO sUiT:Suitable for people of medium levels of fitness.

MiNiMUM gEAR:Helmet, bike, mobile phone, fluid, snacks, waterproofs and a rucksack.

TRAiLHEADs:The cycleway starts/ends at Lisdoonvarna

sERviCEs:Lisdoonvarna, Lahinch, Ballyvaughan and Doolin

DisTANCE:69km

TiME:Approximately 1.5 days

DiFFiCULTY:Moderate to difficult

TRAFFiC:Generally light but can get busy during peak holiday season.

The BurrenCycleway

0 5km 10km

46

LOOP 1is the shortest tour (18KM – takes 1.30-2.00 hours), it goes from Doolin south towards the Cliffs of Moher.

LOOP 2(26/39KM, takes 3 to 4 hours) visits the south west corner of North Clare taking in some amazing coastal views.

LOOP 3(43 KM, takes 4 to 4.30 hours) guides cyclists inland towards Kilfenora and the Burren Region.

LOOP 4(21/47KM, takes 4.30 to 5 hours) takes cyclist north from Doolin along the coast road with spectacular views of the Aran Islands.

The North Clare Cycle Network, with the town of Doolin – centre of traditional Irish Music in Clare – as its hub, offers four new cycle routes varying in distance from 18km to 47km with numerous shorter alternatives. Each cycle offers wonderful views of the local countryside with stunning coastal panoramas. There are numerous stop-off points along with the routes with excellent restaurants, pubs and other facilities and services.

DoolinCycle Hub

0 5km

47Burren Towns and Villages

BallyVaughan, Baile ua Bheacháin 48 BellharBour, Bealaclugga 50 BosTon, Móinín na gCloigeann 51 Carron, an Carn 52 Corofin, Coradh finne 54 Crusheen, Croisín 56 doolin, dubh linn 57 ennisTyMon, inis díomáin 60 fanore, fán Ór 62 gorT, an gort 64 Kilfenora, Cill fhionnurach 66 KilnaBoy, Cill inghine Baoith 68 Kilshanny, Cill seanaigh 69 KinVara, Cinn Mhara 70 lahinCh, an leacht 72 lisCannor, lios uí Chonchubair 74 lisdoonVarna, lios dún Bhearna 76 new Quay, an Ché nua 78 ruan, an ruán 79 TuBBer, Tobar 80

48 BallyVaughan Baile ua Bheacháin

O’Beahan’s residence

Nestled on the southern shore of Galway Bay against a backdrop of the majestic Burren hills, Ballyvaughan is one of the most beautiful and popular villages in the Burren. It draws large numbers of visitors every summer to enjoy its range of pubs, hotels, shops, restaurants and craft workshops. Once a sleepy port, Ballyvaughan’s recent

revival owes much to its excellent location, which is very convenient for exploring the fascinating surrounding Burren countryside. With stunning views of the Burren hills and Galway Bay, Ballyvaughan is home to the famous Ailwee Caves and the Burren College of Art. For further information visit www.ballyvaughanireland.com

Things to Do Newtown Castle +353 65 707 7200

Burren Cycling club +353 86 2579682

Burren Hill Walks +353 65 707 7168

Ailwee Caves +353 65 707 7036Ballyvaughan / Fanore Walking Club

+353 87 777 9714

Ben Rock Climbing Clinic +353 86 844 8622

Crafts and Local ProduceBallyvaughan Farmers’ MarketThe Gallery at Burren College of Art

+353 65 707 7200

Quinn’s Craftshop +353 65 707 7052

Clareville House Kitchen Garden +353 86 803 8477Celtic Caprine Creations - Handmade Goat Milk Soap

+353 65 707 7980

Clare Celtic Clocks +353 65 707 7939

Glan Aran Handknits +353 21 4822304

Burren Gold cheese +353 65 707 7036Leueen’s Wild Flower Studio and Gallery

+353 65 7078955

Transport C&T Hackney +353 87 698 7470

Mary & Oliver Mc Namara +353 87 288 0634

Puncture Repairs & Taxi service +353 65 707 7290

Useful Numbers Ballyvaughan Gardai ( Police) +353 65 707 7002

Medical Centre +353 65 707 7035

Service Station +353 65 707 7204

St John the Baptist Church

The Launderette ‘+353 65 7077061

Post Office +353 65 707 6131

Tourist Office +353 65 707 7464

Recycling: Opposite Holiday Cottages

glass bottles/jars;Beverage Cans

Places to StayGregans Castle Hotel +353 65 707 7005

Rusheen Lodge +353 65 707 7092

Hylands Burren Hotel +353 65 707 7037

Drumcreehy House +353 65 707 7377

Dolmen Lodge +353 65 707 7202

Burren View +353 65 708 3083

Ballyvaughan Lodge +353 65 707 7292

Loughrask Lodge +353 65 707 7151

Cappabhaile House +353 65 707 7260

Gentian Villa +353 65 707 7042

Logues Lodge +353 65 707 7003

Oceanville B&B +353 65 707 7051

Burren Walking Lodge +353 65 707 7037

The Creggs +353 65 707 7234

Meadowfield Guesthouse +353 65 707 7083Monks Seafood Restaurant and Pub

+353 65 707 7059

Molls Self Catering Cottage +353 66 979 2184

Ballyvaughan Cottages +353 87 2428161

Ray’s Country Cottages +353 65 707 7071

West Coast holidays.ie +353 61 335 799Burren Wee Cottages & Bungalow

+353 65 707 7031

Rent an Irish Cottage +353 61 411 109

Trident holiday homes +353 1 201 8440

Imagine Ireland +353 65 689 1106

Places To Eat Burren Fine Wine and Food 353 87 763 3241

Gregans Castle Hotel +353 65 707 7005

Aggies Coffee Shop 353 65 707 7052Hylands Burren Bar and Restaurant

+353 65 707 7037

L’Arco Italian Restaurant +353 65 708 3900 Food of the Arts Café, Burren College of Art

+353 65 707 7200

An Fulacht Fia +353 65 707 7300The Soda Parlour and Coffee House

Tea & Garden Rooms+353 65 7077157+353 85 7261315

Monks Seafood Restaurant and Pub

+353 65 7077059

Aillwee Cave tea Room +353 65 707 7036

Logues Bar and Lounge +353 65 707 7003

Pizza Cabin +353 87 428 7701

50

The mouth of the bell or rocks

Bellharbour has a rich ecclesiastical history. The ruins of the Cistercian Corcomroe Abbey and the ruins of three early Christian churches of Oughtmama are located in this area. Its many holiday homes attract large numbers of visitors to the Burren each year. Bellharbour is home to the famous concertina player and composer Chris Droney.

BellharBourBealaclugga

Places to stayRent an Irish Cottage +353 61 411109

Places to EatDaly’s Bar +353 65 707 8048

Things to doCorcomroe AbbeyBurren Outdoor Education Centre

+353 65 707 8066

Burren Wild Tours +353 87 877 9565

51BosTonMóinín na gCloigeann

The little bog of the skulls.

Boston is a tiny village near the eastern edge of the Burren. To the south lies Lough Bunny, a calcareous lake of 480 acres and one of the deepest in the Burren. It contains a wide variety of wildfowl and plants. Turloughmore is situated about two miles from Boston Church, and was famous for its racecourse and fair day in the 18th century. The ruins of Cluain Dubhain, or Boston Castle and Skaghard Castle are close to the village. Today the ruins of the castle are a reminder of the past sieges endured by its previous occupants.

Places to stayEiri Na Greine Self catering +353 86 821 9441

Hogans Irish cottages +44 1 244 500 501

Things to doCloondooan Castle Ruins

Skaghard Castle Ruins

52 Carronan Carn

A heap of stones (to identify a chieftain’s grave)

Carron village lies in the centre of the Burren overlooking the region’s largest Turlough. It is the only village in the high burren and features the bare necessities of country life - a church, school, Pub and Restaurant  (Cassidy’s Croi na Boirne).

Carron is also the birthplace to Michael Cusack, founder of the Gaelic Athletics Association (GAA), whose original homestead has been fully restored and a contemporary visitor centre developed. Carran is a walkers paradise, with three nationally recognised walking trails, and a choice of accommodation (B&B, self catering and hostel) it is also home to the (nearby) Burren Perfumery, Cusack’s Centre and Caherconnell Fort.

Places to StayClare’s Rock Hostel +353 65 708 9129

Maghouhy House +353 65 708 9136

Jones Self Catering +353 65 708 9129

Places to EatCassidy’s Pub +353 65 708 9109Burren Perfumery Organic Tea Rooms

+353 65 708 9102

Things to doFather Ted’s House (Glanquin House)

+353 87 921 4694

Clare Farm Heritage Tours +353 65 708 9944The Burren Perfumery and Floral Centre

+353 65 708 9102

Michael Cusack Centre +353 65 708 9944

AdVenture Burren 353 87 224 4569

Poulnabrone Dolmen Burren Outdoor Education Centre

+353 65 707 8066

Burren Wild Tours +353 87 877 9565

Useful NumbersSaint Columba Church +353 65 707 8026

Recycling: Opposite Graveyardglass bottles/jars;

Beverage Cans

54 CorofinCoradh finne

The weir of Finnia (an ancient fording place on the river Fergus)

Corofin is a village steeped in folklore, music, song and dance. Known locally as the

Angler’s Paradise, Corofin lies on the south-eastern edge of the Burren, a few miles south of the Burren National Park.

Corofin’s reputation amongst anglers is due to its proximity to Lough Inchiquin and other lakes, which offers excellent coarse and game fishing.

Corofin is also home to the Clare Heritage Centre, which offers an insight into Irish life in the 1800’s, and the Genealogical Centre, which caters for visitors wishing to trace their Irish roots.

For more information visit www.corofin.org

Things To DoHenry Golf Tours +353 65 683 7613The Clare Heritage and Genealogical Centre

+353 65 683 7955

Dysert O Dea Castle and Archaeology Centre

+353 65 6837401

The Farmyard +353 65 679 8030

Burren Experience Guided Walks +353 86 821 9441

Burren Life Balance Retreats +353 65 682 7749

Corofin Acupuncture +353 86 174 1345

Fishing Information & Boat Hire +353 65 6837 675

Crafts and Local ProduceThe Pottery Shop +353 65 683 7020

Useful NumbersLibrary +353 65 683 7219

St Brigid’s Church +353 65 683 7178

Medical Centre +353 65 683 7604

Public Library +353 65 683 7219

Lakefield Service Station +353 65 683 7366

Rocheford Pharmacy +353 65 682 7932Corofin Acupuncture & Sports Injury Cllinic

+353 86 174 1345

Post Office +35 65 682 7662

Garda Station (Police) +353 65 683 7622

Tierneys Bros Service Station +353 65 683 7686

Recycling: Gort Roadglass bottles/jars;

Beverage Cans

Places to StayCorofin Camping and Hostel +353 65 683 7683

Corofin Country House +353 65 683 7791

Kincora B&B +353 65 683 7001

Lakefield Lodge +353 65 6837 675

Marian Darcy B&B +353 65 682 7757

Eiri na Greine - self catering +353 86 8219441

Ballyportry Castle+353 1 660 9038

+353 87 205 9957Shamrock & Heather +353 65 683 7061

Ceol Na Coillte Cottage+353 65 708 8132 +353 87 8364780

Imagine Ireland +353 65 6891 106

Inchiquinn Country House +353 86 823 1675

Curraghkyle House +353 65 683 7876

Places to EatCambells Bar at Inchiquinn Inn +353 65 683 7713Bofey Quinn’s Bar and Restaurant

+353 65 683 7321

56

TransportO’Connor Cabs +353 87 9840 184

Useful NumbersSt Cronan (Catholic Church) +353 65 682 7113

Garda Station +353 65 682 7122

Service Station +353 65 682 7117

Post Office +353 65 682 7196

Recycling: O’Malley’s Shop nearby Tulla Road

glass bottles/jars;Beverage Cans

The little cross

A village on the Galway / Ennis road, north of Inchicronan Lough. On an island in the lough are the ruins of an Augustinian abbey founded by the O’Briens. (Inchicronan means ‘St Crónán’s Island’.) The area around Crusheen has a number of monuments (wedge tombs, ruined castles, churches). There are also several small local lakes suitable for the coarse angler. The village has a particularly pleasant thatched pub, Fogartys, with two open fires. Visit www.crusheen.com or www.crusheenns.com for further information.

CrusheenCroisín

Places to StayAn Ti Glas self catering

+353 85 705 6561 +353 87 645 4120

Places to EatThe Ballyline Bar and Restaurant +353 65 682 7549

Things to DoCrusheen Singer’s Session +353 65 682 7322

Crafts and Local ProduceIrish Cottage Candles +353 65 682 7128

57

The dark pool

Doolin lies on the south-western extremity of the Burren and is internationally renowned as a centre for live Irish music, played in its many hugely popular pubs. It has a wide range of accommodation, and good quality restaurants.

Popular all year round, most of the activity in the village focuses on the original areas of ‘Fisherstreet’ and “Roadford”. Doolin is an excellent base for exploring the Cliffs of Moher, Doolin Cave (Poll an Ionain) as well as the Burren and its Atlantic coastline. Doolin is also popular as the departure point for the Aran Islands Ferry, and Cliffs of Moher Cruises. For more information visit www.doolin-tourism.com

doolindubh linn

Doonmacfelim house +353 87 125 0303

St Anthony’s B&B +353 65 707 4357

Doll’s Cottage +353 86 609 5233

Lane lodge B&B +353 65 707 4747

Rainbow Hostel +353 65 707 4900

Dunroman house +353 65 707 4774

Suantrai House +353 65 707 4896

Fisherman’s Rest +353 65 707 4673

Roadford House +353 65 707 5050

Half Door B&B +353 65 707 5959

Pairc Lodge +353 65 707 4752O’Connor’s Riverside Caravan & Camping Park

+353 65 707 4498

Nagle’s Doolin Camping & Caravan Park

+353 65 707 4458

Trident Holiday Homes +353 1 201 8440

Westcoast Holidays +353 61 335 799

Doolin Coastal Cottages +353 65 707 4115

Cliff View +353 65 707 4209

The Wishing Well +353 65 707 4723

Quality Holiday Homes +353 21 477 7384

Doolin Cottages +353 65 707 4187

Atlantic View Cottage +353 65 682 8282

Dream Ireland Holiday Homes +353 64 66 41170

Doolin Haven +353 65 707 4413

Hogans Cottages+353 1 244 500

501Aran View House & Apartments +353 65 707 4061

The Cliffhouse +1 345 947 0892

Fuschia Cottage +353 65 707 5050

Go Ireland 1850 66 8668

Doolin Sunset +353 87 623 4869

Whitethorn Lodge +353 65 707 5050

Ireland at Home +353 404 64608

Ballyvara House +353 87 230 7151

Doolin Holiday Village +353 87 2239638

Places to StayTrildoon House +353 65 707 4870

Hotel Doolin +353 65 707 4111

Tir Gan Ean Hotel +353 65 707 5726

Ballinalacken Castle+353 65 707 4025 +353 86 361 3719

Aran View House Hotel +353 65 707 4420

Rainbow Hostel +353 65 707 4415

Doolin Hostel +353 65 707 4421

Flanagans Village Hostel +353 65 707 4564

Fisherstreet House Hostel +353 65 707 4421

Aille River Hostel +353 65 707 4260

Cullinan’s GuestHouse +353 65 707 4183

O’Connor’s Farmhouse +353 65 707 4498

Doonagore Farmhouse +353 65 707 4170

Riverdale Farmhouse +353 65 707 4257

Emohruo Farmhouse B&B +353 65 707 4171

Dubhlinn House +353 65 707 4770

Doolin Activity Lodge +353 65 707 4888

Ashbrook Lodge +353 65 707 4100

Churchfield B&B +353 65 707 4209

Daly’s House +353 65 707 4242

Danaher’s Doolin View B&B+353 65 707 5875 +353 86 172 8667

Doolin Cottage B&B +353 65 707 4762

Glasha Meadows B&B +353 65 707 4443

Atlantic Sunset +353 65 707 4080

Harbour View +353 65 707 4154

Horseshoe House +353 65 707 4006

Killilagh House +353 65 707 4392

Nellie Dee’s +353 65 707 4020

Ramblers Rest +353 65 707 4401

Riverfield House +353 65 707 4113

Sea View House +353 87 2679617

Toomullin House +353 65 707 4723

Seascape B&B +353 65 707 4451

Twin Peaks +353 65 707 5777

Riverside Cottage +353 65 707 1167

Crafts and Local ProduceCeltic Jewellery +353 65 707 4638

Magnetic Music Shop +353 65 707 4988

The Traditional Music Shop +35365 707 4407

Doolin Dinghy +353 65 707 4449

Doolin Craft and Food Fair

The Clare Jam Company +353 65 707 4778

Morrison Art Gallery +353 65 707 5646

The Doolin Pantry +353 65 707 5646

Brian Hackett Jewellery +353 87 282 5616

Useful NumbersAran View Service Station +353 65 707 5991

Tourist Information +353 65 707 5646

Church of the Holy Rosary +353 65 707 4142

Recycling: Behind McDermott’s Bar

Beverage Cans;glass bottles/jars

Places to EatStone Cutters Kitchen +353 65 707 5962

Roadford House Restaurant +353 65 707 5050

McGann’s Pub +353 65 707 4133

McDermott’s Pub +353 65 707 4328

Magnetic Music Café +353 65 707 4988

Hotel Doolin +353 65 707 4111

O’Connors Pub +353 65 707 4168

Bruach Na Haille +353 65 707 4120

Fabiolas Patisserie +353 86 660 2582

The Doolin Café +353 65 707 4795

Cullinans Restaurant +353 65 707 4183

Ballinalacken Castle Restaurant+353 65 707 4025 +353 86 361 3719

Aran view House Hotel +353 65 707 4420

Doolin Cave Tea Rooms +353 65 707 5761

An tOilean Restaurant +353 65 707 5726

Doolin Deli Café +353 65 707 4633

Things to DoNorth Clare Sea Kayaking +353 85 119 5489

Bicycle Hire at Rainbow Hostel +353 65 707 4415

Doolin Pitch and Putt +353 65 707 4289O’Brien line & Doolin ferry cruises

+353 65 707 5555

Doolin Cave & Visitor Centre +353 65 707 5761

The Doolin Garden +353 87 914 7725

Bicycle hire at Doolin Deli Shop +353 87 656 9837

Doolin2Aran Ferries +353 65 707 5949

Doolin ferries +353 65 707 4455

60

River meadow

Ennistymon lies in the southern extremity of the Burren, and has a long history as a market town for the surrounding Burren community. It is a lively and bustling town, with the majority of the businesses still family-owned and run.

Many of the shops retain their traditional shopfronts and doors. The narrow street near

the bridge over the Cullenagh River is the oldest part of the town. A little below the bridge, the river rushes over an extensive ridge of rocks resulting in beautiful cascades. For more information visit http://www.irelandmidwest.com/clare/towns/Ennistymon.html

ennisTyMoninis díomáin

Crafts and Local ProduceCourthouse Gallery & Studio +353 65 707 1630

West Clare Gallery

Mount callan Farmhouse cheese +353 65 707 2008

Ennistymon Farmer’s Market

Useful NumbersPublic Library +353 65 707 1245

Ennistymon Medical Centre +353 65 707 1207

Mc Grotty’s Pharmacy +353 65 707 1043

O’Dwyers Pharmacy +353 65 707 1990

Currans Pharmacy +353 65 707 2400

Dentist +353 65 707 1207

Garda (police) +353 65 707 2180

Post office +353 65 707 1001

Kath Cleans +353 65 707 1093

O’Dea’s Service Station +353 65 707 1021

Malones Service Station +353 65 707 2839

M&M Auto Repairs +353 64 707 1616

Health Centre +353 65 707 1143

Our Lady & Saint Michael +353 65 707 1063

Burren Vet’s +353 65 7071155

Recycling: Ennis road

Plastic MineralBottles; Plastic

glass bottles/jars;Beverage Cans

Places to StayFalls Hotel +35 65 707 1004

Station House +353 65 707 1149

Grovemount House +353 65 707 1431

Hillbrook Farm +353 65 707 1164

Pairc an Fhia +353 65 707 1134

Sunset B&B +353 65 707 1527

Falls hotel Self Catering +353 65 707 1004

Byrnes Accommodation +353 65 707 1080

Places to EatBlue Frog Cafe

Byrnes Restaurant +353 65 707 1080

Falls Hotel Bar & Restaurant +353 65 707 1004

Oh La La - French Créperie +353 65 707 2500

An Teach Bia +353 87 786 3815

Franco Fast Food +353 65 707 1244

Pitstop Pizzeria +353 65 707 2399

Things to DoWillie Daly Horse Riding +353 65 707 1385Falls Hotel Spa and Leisure Centre

+353 65 707 0937

Ennistymon Historic Town Walk +353 65 682 8366

TransportABBA CABS +353 86 606 6996

The Taxi Company +353 65 707 5000

62

The Golden Slope

The village of Fanore lies along the western edge of the Burren, affording spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and Aran Islands. The village is thought to be one of the longest in Ireland, though most of the daytime activity centers around its spectacular beach and sand dune system. At night, O’Donoghue’s pub and Vasco provides sustenance to the weary traveler. The Caher River runs through Fanore, dividing the beach, and this is the only Burren river to run along the surface from its source to the sea.

fanorefán Ór

Things to do Aloha Surf School +353 87 213 3996

Caher Bridge Garden +353 65 707 6225

Fanore blue flag beach

Burren Guided Walks & Hikes +353 65 707 6100

Vasco eco adventure +353 65 707 6020Ballyvaughan Fanore walking club

+353 87 777 9714

Crafts and Local ProducePeregringo +353 65 707 6980

Useful Numbers Crannagh Post Office +353 65 707 6131

Saint Patrick’s Church +353 65 707 7045

Recycling: Fanore BeachBeverage Cans;

glass bottles/jars

Places to StayRockyview Farmhouse +353 65 707 6103

Seacoast Lodge +353 65 707 6250

Annaly House +353 65 707 6154

Donour Lodge +353 65 707 6001

Orchid House +35365 707 6975

Crumlin Lodge +353 65 707 6166Mc Cormack’s Caravan & Camping park

+353 65 707 6115

Fanore holiday cottages +353 65 707 6164

Holiday Homes of Ireland +353 87 241 0959

Imagine Ireland ‘+353 65 689 1106

Places To Eat Vasco Dine, Wine & Deli +353 65 707 6020

O’Donohue’s pub +353 65 707 6119

64 gorTan gort

The field

Gort is in south Co. Galway, on the eastern extremity of the Burren. It is a designated heritage town, as it has some of the finest examples of traditional shop-fronts in Ireland.

A busy town, Gort is well served with banks, supermarkets and services. It is a popular destination for visitors also as it lies close to the famous Coole Park (Nature Reserve and Heritage Centre), formerly the home of Lady Gregory and cradle of the Irish literary revival, and Thoor Ballylee (formerly the home of the poet W. B. Yeats). The round tower of Kilmacduagh lies a few miles west. For further information visit www.gortonline.com and www.galwayeast.com/wayfinding

Things to do Gort Golf Club +353 91 632 244

Coole Park + visitor Centre +353 91 631804

Thoor Ballylee – Yeats Museum +353 91 631 436

Kilmacduagh Monastery Gregory Museum & Milleninium Park

+353 91 632346

Gort Heritage Centre +353 91 630 237

Gort School of Arts and Crafts +353 91 637 382

Crafts and Local ProduceMichael Kennedy Ceramics +353 91 632 245

Transport Gort Cabs +353 91 630 900

Sheilas Cabs +353 86 878 5241

Useful Numbers Emerald Dry Cleaners +353 91 631 703

Keehan Cleaners +353 91 632 453

Service Station +353 91 632 070

Howleys Service Station +353 91 631 335

Quinn’s Pharmacy +353 91 631 272

Gilmartin’s Pharmacy Ltd +353 91 631 236

Daly’s Pharmacy +353 91 630 330

Post office +353 91 631 028

Ballyhugh Veterinary Clinic+353 91 631 725

+353 87 265 2715Animal Health Centre +353 91 632 748

Garda Station (police) +353 91 636 400Saint Colman Church (Roman Catholic)

+353 91 631 220

Public Library +353 91 631 224

Gort Medical Centre +353 91 632 311

Gort Health Centre +353 91 631 325

Dr Tony Noonan-Dentist +353 91 631 276

Behind SupervaluBeverage Cans,

glass bottles, Jars

Places to StaySullivans Royal Hotel +353 91 631 257

Lady Gregory Hotel +353 91 632 333

Woodlands B&B +353 91 637 372

Naomh Colman B&B +353 91 631 849

Ealamar B&B+353 91 631 572

+353 87 917 1037

Suaimhneas B&B +353 91 633 878

+353 86 824 4136Laurels B&B +353 91 630 584

Woodley House B&B +353 91 63102

Imagine Ireland +353 65 689 1106

Go Ireland1850 668 668

+353 66 9791804

Coole lodge+353 91 631 267

+353 87 237 2695Ireland at home +353 404 64608

Hogans Cottages +44 1244 500 501

Lough Cutra Castle & Cottage +353 86 222 9184

Places To Eat Sullivans Royal Hotel +353 91 631 257

O’Grady’s Bar and Restaurant +353 91 631 096

Lady Gregory Hotel +353 91 632 333

Gallery Café +353 91 630 630

Khaja Indian Restaurant +353 91 630 896

Kettle of Fish & Chips +353 91 630 300

Main Chef Chinese Take Away +353 91 632 226

Supermac’s fast food +353 91 630 896

66

Church of the fertile hillside

Kilfenora has it all…. the Pope as Bishop, a 10th Century Cathedral with 12th Century high crosses, the most famous ceili band in Ireland, the Burren Interpretative Centre, rare Ring Forts, Holywells, Castles, a 200-acre lake for trout fishing and boating and Fr. Ted’s local Vaughan’s Pub. A choice of accommodation, good food, friendly people, Irish dancing, fun and music nightly. All you have to do is visit Kilfenora and it will all be shared with you. Visit www.kilfenoraclare.com for further information.

KilfenoraCill fhionnurach

Things to DoVaughans Barn Set Dancing +353 65 708 8004

The Burren Centre +353 65 708 8030

Boghill Centre +353 65 707 4644

Burren Tours+353 65 708 8931 +353 87 6855 491

Caherconnell Fort and Sheep Dog Demonstration

+353 65 708 9999

Kilfenora Cathedral and Crosses

Lickeen Lake (fishing) +353 65 708 8098

Burren National Park Walk+353 65 682 7707 +35387 292 5487

E-Whizz Electric Bikes +353 87 627 7000

Crafts and Local ProduceBurren Free Range Pork +353 86 8815 974

Airmid soap +353 86 867 4320

TransportGrab a cab +353 87 318 3702

Kilfenora cabs +353 87 778 1835

Useful NumbersPost Office +353 65 708 8180Connole’s garage & Service Station

+353 65 708 8008

St Fachanan +353 65 708 8006

E-Whizz Electric Bikes +353 87 627 7000

Recycling: Across from Linnane’s Pub

Beverage Cans;glass bottles/jars

Places to StayKilfenora Hostel +353 65 708 8908

Boghill Centre +353 65 707 4644

Kilcarragh House B&B+353 65 708 8042 +353 86 608 2830

Burren Forest Manor B&B +353 65 707 4053

Maire Rua+353 65 708 8139 +353 87 969 7546

Fair Green Cottage +353 65 708 8040

Go Ireland1850 668 668

+353 66 9791804Burren Farm Cottages +353 65 708 8061Ballynagowan (Smithstown Castle)

+61 749 387 753

Murphys B&B +353 65 708 8040

Places to EatVaughan’s Pub +353 65 708 8004

Linnane’s Bar +353 65 708 8157

Burren Centre Tea Rooms +353 65 708 8030Caherconnell Mountain Haven café

+353 65 708 9999

68

Things To DoClare farm Heritage Tours +353 65 708 9944

Heart of Burren Walks+353 65 682 7707 +35387 292 5487

Medieval Church

Leamaneh Castle

Father Ted’s House Farm Walk +353 87 921 4694

Useful NumbersSt Joseph’s Church +353 65 683 7178

O’Donoghues Auto Repairs +353 65 682 7842

KilnaBoyCill inghine Baoith

The church of the daughter of Baoith

Kilnaboy lies between Corofin and Kilfenora. As you travel from the south you are greeted by the remains of its 11th century medieval

church and round tower. Across the way is the former Post office which is currently the home of “X-PO”, which has been re-opened as a Community and cultural centre for the Parish of Kilnaboy. Mullaghmore lies a few miles to the east of Kilnaboy village while at Roughan Hill can be found a

replica of the World famous Tau Cross. Castles in this parish include Leamaneh which was the home of the infamous Maire Rua as well as Inchiquin castle. The Parish of Kilnaboy has over 300 items of antiquity alone and is a favourite place for both the Botinist and Burren rambler alike.

Places to StayFergus View Guesthouse +353 65 683 7606

Inchiquin View +353 65 683 7731

Burren House+353 65 683 7143 +353 86 376 0892

Tigh Eamoin +353 65 683 7606

Lakeside Cottages +353 65 683 7734

Places to EatFather Ted’s House (Glanquin House)

+353 87 921 4694

Crafts and Local ProduceThe Herbal Hub +353 86 8899 168

69

The Church of Senan

“The Lovely Green Vales of Kilshanny” lie on the southern fringe of the Burren. They are home to historical sites such as the Abbey of St. Mary and St. Augustine, the Carn Connachtach (a Bronze age burial site), Smithstown Castle and holy wells dedicated to St. Augustine, St. Senan, St. Cravan and Iníne Baoith. The small village features a church, a school, a pub and a community hall.

It is also home to the popular Kilshanny cheese.

KilshannyCill seanaigh

Places to StayGrove Cottage +353 65 707 4397

Places to EatKilshanny House +353 65 707 1660

Useful NumbersSt Augustine’s Catholic Church +353 65 707 4142

70 KinVaraCinn Mhara

The head of the sea

Kinvara is a popular fishing village which has a long tradition of trading by the sea with the people of Connemara. This legacy is celebrated in the village every August when the Cruinniú na mBád (Gathering of the Boats) festival takes place.

Kinvara also hosts the Cuckoo Festival every May. Famous for its music sessions which occur spontaneously in any one of the 10 pubs in the village. It is also

home to Dunguaire Castle and the Burrenbeo Centre. Visit www.kinvara.com for further information.

Crafts and Local ProduceKinvara Farmers market

Christopher Banahan - portrait artist

+353 91 638 922+353 87 298 1237

Frank Sanford Paintings+353 91 638 275

+353 87 258 1158Ronnie Graham - Irish Bog Wood Sculpture

+353 91 637 515 +353 86 0753 531

New Line Studios+353 91 637 558

‘+353 85 120 0309Kinvara Smoked Salmon Ltd +353 91 637 489

Murphys Store +353 91 637 760

My Hand Crafted Jewellery +353 91 635 777

The Secret garden+353 91 847 818

+353 86 333 4026

TransportDove Chauffeur Drive

+353 91 637 676 / +353 87 570 933

JF Cabs +353 87 660 8551

Kinvara Cabs +353 87 055 3393

Useful NumbersThe Washing Well - launderette & dry cleaners

+353 91 638 773

Kinvara Pharmacy +353 91 637 397

Bicycles Repair +353 91 638 587

Kinvara Vetinary Clinic +353 91 637 293

Mick O’Hara (veterinary) +353 87 256 2774

Ruth Mitchell (veterinary)+353 86 201 0802

+353 91 638 532Post Office +353 91 637 101

Kinvara Clinic +353 91 637 123

Market Square Surgery +353 91 638702

Garda Station (police) +353 91 637 102

St.Colman’s Church +353 91 637 154

St Joseph +353 91 637 154

Topaz Service Station +353 91 637 135

Great Gas Service Station +353 91 637 629Mobile Tyre Aware - Mobile Tyre Service

+353 87 352 2920

Recycling: Near Esso Service Station

Beverage Cans,glass bottles, Jars

Places to StayMerriman Hotel +353 91 638 222

Doorus House Youth Hostel +353 91 637 512

The Conneely’s Guesthouse +353 91 637 206

Clareview House +353 91 637 170

Dunguaire House B&B +353 91 638 251

Mountain View B&B+353 91 637 275

+353 87 249 0648Villa Maria B&B +353 91 638 117

The Arches B&B +353 91 637 127

+353 87 978 6217Breacan Cottage B&B +353 91 638 266

Dungory B&B +353 91 638 728

+353 87 260 2228Fallons B&B +353 91 638 088

Kinvara Guesthouse +353 91 638 562

+87 743 8310Kinvara Inn B&B +353 91 638 135

Mountscribe House B&B +353 91 637 378

Aira Lodge B&B +353 86 0649 545Burren Yoga and Meditation Centre

+353 87 923 4669

Kinvara holidays +353 87 961 4287

Go Ireland 1850 668 668

Tigh Cluide Isidore +353 86 825 3582

Kinvara Holiday Breaks+353 91 637 275

+353 87 249 0648

Fuchsia B&B +353 91 637 265

+353 87 136 1544The Meadow +353 91 637 245

Places to EatDunguaire Castle Banquet +353 61 360 788

The Pier Head Bar & Restaurant +353 91 638 188

The Merriman Hotel Bar +353 91 638 222

Keogh’s bar +353 91 637 145

Tide Full Inn +353 91 637 400

The Gentian Restaurant +353 91 637 934

Strawberry Hedgehog Cafe +353 91 638 129

Things To DoIrish seaweed Treatment +353 91 637 760

Burrenbeo trust +353 91 638096

Dunguaire Castle +353 61 360 788Burren yoga and Meditation Centre

+353 87 923 4669

72

from Leacht Uí Chonchubair, or O’Connor’s Cairn

A traditional family seaside town, with a large inviting golden sandy beach, world

famous links golf course and spectacular water sports, particularly surfing.

Good accommodation and varied entertainment are some of the attractions that make it an ideal holiday location.

It is also an excellent base for fishing, walking, cycling and pony trekking.

Visit www.lahinchfailte.com for further information.

lahinChan leacht

The Claremont Bar +353 65 708 1007Sancta Maria Hotel and Restaurant

+353 65 708 1041

The Emperor Chinese Restaurant +353 65 708 2760

The Blue Cove Restaurant +353 65 708 1626

Kettlers Restaurant +353 65 708 2681

Pearl Garden Chinese Restaurant +353 65 708 6857

Basmati Restaurant +353 65 708 6944

Things To DoOcean Scene Surf School +353 65 708 1108

Lahinch Bikes +353 86 844 8622

Lahinch Seaworld +353 65 708 1900

Lahinch Surf School +353 87 960 9667

Lahinch Golf Club +353 65 708 1003

Lahinch Golf & Leisure Hotel +353 65 708 1100

Green Room Surf School+353 65 708 2771 +353 87 983 3018

Bens Surf Clinic +353 86 844 8622

Ben Rock Climbing Clinic +35386 844 8622

Clare Kayak Hire +353 85 1485 856

Lahinch Surf Experience +353 85 1155 743

Crafts and Local ProduceKenny’s Lahinch Art Gallery +353 65 708 1400

Morrison Art Gallery+353 65 708 2839 +353 87 241 8810

Celtic T-Shirts+353 65 707 1436 +353 86 0700 640

Outdoor Market at Seaworld +353 65 708 1900

TransportHartigans Cabs +353 86 278 3937

Tom & Sue Garrihy +353 86 251 6173

Useful NumbersGarda Station (police) +353 65 708 1222

Post office +353 65 708 1001Church of The Immaculate conception

+353 65 707 1063

Clancy Garage & Service Station +353 65 708 1241

Dr Mc Govern +353 65 708 1442

Medical Centre +353 65 708 1234

Tourist Office +353 65 708 2082

Pharmacy +353 65 708 1999

Recycling: Lahinch Promenadeglass bottles/jars;

Beverage Cans

2 Ocean View, Caravan Parkglass bottles/jars;

Beverage Cans

Places to StayVaughan Lodge +35365 708 1111

The Shamrock Inn +353 65 708 1700

Sancta Maria Hotel +353 65 708 1041

Lahinch Hostel +353 65 708 1040

Craglea Lodge+353 65 708 1450 +353 87 687 1988

The Atlantic Hotel +353 65 708 1049

Cois Farraige +353 65 708 1580

Mulcarr House +353 65 7081123

Moher View +353 65 708 1206

Castleview Lodge B&B +353 65 708 1648

Tudor Lodge +353 65 708 1270

Moy House +353 65 708 2800

Lahinch Lodge +353 65 708 1242

Westcoast Lodge +353 65 708 2000

Ocean View Park Camping +353 65 708 1626

Lahinch Golf & Leisure Hotel +353 65 708 1100

The Siding B&B+353 65 707 2437 +353 86 849 4916

Rail Road View +353 65 708 1055

Baymor House B&B +353 65 708 1298

Cliff Walk B&B +353 65 708 1602

Dun Na Ri +353 65 708 1737

Slaney House +353 65 708 1165

Crag Shore B&B+353 65 708 2017 +353 87 137 3409

Dream Ireland +353 64 6641 839

Self Catering Holiday Homes +353 65 682 1519

West Coast Holidays +353 61 335 799

Go Ireland 1850 668 668

Lahinch Holidays +353 65 707 1145

Places to EatVaughan Lodge Restaurant +353 65 708 1111

Lahinch Golf & Leisure Hotel +353 65 708 1100

Randaddys Restaurant & Café +353 65 708 1900

Barrtra seafood Restaraunt +353 65 708 1280

The Atlantic Restaraunt and Bar +353 65 708 1049The Shamrock Inn Bar & Restaurant

+353 65 708 1700

The Cornerstone Bar +353 65 708 1277

Danny Mac’s +353 65 708 1020

Kenny’s Bar +353 65 708 1433

O Looney’s Bar +353 65 708 1414

Waves Restaurant +353 65 708 1414

The Spinnaker Bar +353 65 708 1933

Joe’s Café +353 65 708 6113

74

O’ Connor’s Ring Fort

The name Liscannor is synonymous in Ireland with stone: numerous small quarries, usually worked by the farmer who owns the land, abound in the area. Liscannor is the closest town to the famous Cliffs of Moher, which are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe, and it was the birth-place of John P. Holland (1841-1914), who is credited with inventing the submarine as a means of warfare. Liscannor has its own share of field monuments in the vicinity to interest the archaeologist, such as the 15th century Kilmacrehy church and, in particular, a fine example of a holy well (St. Brigid’s Well) which as a place of significance possibly dates back to pre-Christian times. It has some excellent pubs serving fresh seafood from local fishermen.

lisCannorlios uí Chonchubair

Places to EatPuffins Nest Café +353 65 708 6141

Logues Liscannor Hotel +353 65 708 6000

Cliff of Moher Hotel +353 65 708 6770

Vaughans Anchor Inn +353 65 708 1548

Joseph McHugh’s Bar +353 65 708 1163

Bay fish & Chips +353 83 112 3351

Zephyr Wine Bar & Restaurant +353 65 708 1732

Egans Bar +353 65 708 1430

The Rock Shop Tea Room +353 65 708 1930

Things To DoMoher Hill Open Farm

+353 65 708 1071 +353 65 708 6867

Cliffs of Moher & Visitor Centre +353 65 708 6141Guided Nature Walk at The Cliffs of Moher

+353 65 708 6142

St Brigid’s Well +353 65 708 6141

Sandfield House Pitch & Putt+353 65 708 1603 +353 87 232 1076

O’Callaghan Angling & Cruising+353 65 682 1374 +353 86 152 7755

The Liscannor Ferry Company+353 65 6822 915 +353 87 245 3239

The Rock Shop +353 65 708 1930

TransportLiscannor Cabs +353 65 708 1783

Useful NumbersSt Bridgit Church +353 65 708 1248

Places to StayMoher Lodge B&B +353 65 708 1269

Logues Liscannor Hotel +353 65 708 6000

Cliff of Moher Hotel +353 65 708 6770

Castleview Farmhouse +353 65 708 1590

Harbour Sunset Farm +353 65 708 1039

Sea Haven B&B +353 65 708 1385

Cliff View Lodge +353 86 328 5494

Atlantic View B&B +353 65 708 1214

Carrig House B&B +353 65 708 1260

Vaughan Anchor Inn +353 65 708 1548

Imagine Ireland +353 65 689 1106

Hogans Cottage +44 1244 500 501

Trident Holiday Homes +353 1 2018 440

Rent an Irish Cottage +353 61 411 109

Go Ireland 1850 668 668

Ireland at home +353 404 64608

76

The lios at the fort by the gap

Lisdoonvarna is Ireland’s only Spa town. It lies on the southern edge of the Burren and became a popular health resort in the early

nineteenth century thanks largely to its famous spa wells. The Spa’s therapeutic mineral waters contain magnesia, iodine and iron. It is famous also for its September Festival - one of Europe’s largest singles matchmaking festivals. It is an excellent base for exploring the Burren and sampling the famous music and craic of North Clare. It is also home to the Burren Smokehouse as well as numerous award-winning restaurants, hotels and pubs.

lisdoonVarnalios dún Bhearna

Places to EatWild Honey Inn +353 65 707 4300

Sheedy’s Hotel and Restaurant +353 65 707 4026

The Royal Spa Hotel +353 65 707 4288

The Roadside Tavern +353 65 707 4084

Ravine Hotel +353 65 707 4043

Rathbaun Hotel +353 65 707 4009

Irish Arms Bar +353 65 707 4207Imperial Hotel & Matchmaker Bar

+353 65 707 4042

The Golden China Chinese Restaurant

+353 65 707 4944

Lynchs Hotel +353 65 707 4010

The Ritz +353 65 707 4018

Burren Castle Hotel +353 65 707 4344

King Thomond Hotel +353 65 707 444

Hydro Hotel +353 65 707 4005

Things To DoThe Burren Smokehouse +353 65 707 4432

Burren Painting Centre +353 65 707 4208

Bingo +353 86 222 2290

Spa Wells Health Centre +353 65 707 4023Mountain View Horse Riding Centre

+353 85 845 2300

Crafts and Local ProduceBurren Smokehouse +353 65 707 4432

Doreen Drennan Art Studio +353 87 930 3755Anam Mhictíre - Ilsa Thielan Photography

+353 65 7074244

TransportABBA Cabs +353 86 606 6996

Mick Johnston Cabs +353 86 606 6797

Murphy’s Cab +353 87 950 1218

Peter Mooney Coaches+353 65 7074663 +353 87 2069019

Useful NumbersMedical Centre +353 65 707 4184

The Burren Pharmacy +353 65 707 4104

Post Office +353 65 707 4110

Garda Station ( police) +353 65 707 4222

Library +353 65 707 4029

Burke’s Service Station +353 65 707 4022David Flanagan Motor Repairs & Service Station

+353 65 707 4109

Church of Corpus Christi +353 65 707 4142

Gregg’s Laundry +353 86 334 5690

Recycling: Town Centre Car ParkBeverage Cans;

glass bottles/jars

Places to StaySheedys Hotel and Restaurant +353 65 707 4026

O’Neills Town Home +353 65 707 4208

Burren Castle Hotel +353 65 707 4344

King Thomond Hotel +353 65 707 444

Royal Spa Hotel +353 65 707 4288

Ravine Hotel +353 65 707 4043

Rathbaun Hotel +353 65 707 4009

Lynchs Hotel +353 65 707 4010

Irish Arms +353 65 707 4207

Imperial Hotel +353 65 707 4042

Hydro Hotel +353 65 707 4005

Wild Honey Inn +353 65 707 4300

The Ritz +353 65 707 4018

The Burren Hostel (Sleepzone) +353 65 707 4036

Lisdoon Lodge +353 65 707 5849

Greenlawn Lodge +353 65 707 4861

Burren Breeze +353 65 707 4263

Crosswinds +353 65 707 4469

Gowlaun B&B+353 65 707 4369 +353 87 2959897

Slieve Elva Farmhouse +353 65 707 4318

Roncalli B&B +353 65 707 4115

St Judes B&B +353 65 707 4108

Ballinsheen House +353 65 707 4806

Woodhaven B&B +353 65 707 4017

Caherleigh House +353 65 707 4543

Cannville House B&B +353 65 707 5785

Fernhill Farmhouse +353 65 707 4040

Atlantic View B&B +353 65 707 4434

Holly Anna’s B&B +353 65 707 5714

O’Loughlin’s B&B +353 65 707 4038

Lisdoonvarna Holiday Cottages +353 65 6891 614

Dream Ireland +353 64 664 1839

Go Ireland 1850 668 668

78

Crafts and Local ProduceBurren Craft shop +353 65 707 4309

Linalla Ice Cream +353 65 707 8167

The Russell Gallery +353 65 7078 186

Useful NumbersSt Patrick Church +353 65 707 8026

new Quayan Ché nua

New Quay became the popular name for the village of Burrin after a new quay was built in the village in 1837. Aughinish Island, directly across the channel from the quay is part of the parish of New Quay but to reach it one must travel into Co. Galway. Both The flaggy Shore and Lough Murree are rich wildlife habitats; Lough Murree being a freshwater lake within metres of the sea. The Flaggy

Shore is celebrated in a poem by Seamus Heaney. The area is rich in history with two Martello towers; one on Finavarra Point and one on Aughinish island. Nowadays the village is

a favourite stopping place for visitors, hoping to sample delicious seafood at Linnane’s Seafood bar and visit the Russell Art Gallery.

Places to StayMount Vernon B&B +353 65 707 8126

Rhodesia Lodge +353 65 707 8127

Places to EatCafé Linnalla

+353 65 707 8167 +353 87 785 7569

Linnane’s Lobster Bar +353 65 707 8120

Things To DoThe Russell Gallery +353 65 7078 185

79

The Alder

Ruan is a small village, and was the first stop on the old West Clare Railway which was operational until 1961. Situated close to Dromore Lake and Woodlands (covering close on 1,000 acres), the area has a rich historical and archaeological heritage.

Dromore is renowned for its diversity of flora and fauna. The five lakes of Dromore are one of the country’s prime fishing areas. The wood is a wildlife sanctuary and the animals of the forest include badgers, pine martens, squirrels and foxes. Two self-guiding nature trails of approximately one hour exist within the woodland, starting at the main car park. An Information Centre opens from June to September.

Visit www.clarelibrary.ie/eolas/coclare/places/ruaninterest.htm for further information.

ruanan ruán

Things To DoDromore Woodland nature reserve

+353 65 682 2711

Useful NumbersSt Mary’s Church +353 65 682 8638

Dalcassian Service Station +353 65 683 7741

Post Office +353 65 683 7636

Tubber Roadglass bottles/jars;

Beverage Cans

80

Well

Tubber, or Tobar, meaning Well in Irish, is a small scenic village located on the edge of the Burren. Tubber enjoys varied landscape, history and tranquility and has much to offer

the visitor who is looking to get away from it all. An ideal base for discovering the famous flowers of the Burren and it is a birdwatcher’s and angler’s paradise.

Visit www.tubberparish.com or www.tubberns.com for further information

TuBBerTobar

Places to StayBunnahow Lodge

+353 91 633 130 +353 87 3177 573

Rockforest Lakeside Cottage +353 91 633 217

Crafts and Local ProduceBurren Jewellery +353 91 633 217

81Music, Festivals & events oF the Burren

February horse racing, Memorial Weekend,

traditional Festival

March half Marathon & 10K, cycling challenge,

5 Mile run, easter egg hunt, easter Bunny

april 10 Mile run, Music Festival

May Bloom Festival, literary Weekend, tolkien

symposium, triathlon, the Festival of Finn, Writers

Weekend, Father ted Festival, Fleadh na gcuach,

the cuckoo Festival, slow Food Festival

June summer Festival, cycling, law school,

Folk Festival, north West clare show

July Marathon challenge, triathlon,

agricultural show

august annual exhibition, irish craft Beers & Food

Festival, traditional Boat Festival

septeMber Walking Festival, lady Gregory autumn

Gathering, Match Making Festival

OctOber Festival of traditional Music, Food Fayre,

Winterage Festival

DeceMber christmas Markets, santa’s Worshop

82 a taste oF the Burren Festivals and events

easter egg hunt in the aillwee cave, Ballyvaughan

easter Bunny at Moher hill Farm, liscannor

russel Memorial Weekend, doolin

sonny Murphy Memorial 10 Mile run, Kilnaboy

Burren tolkien symposium, Ballyvaughan

lough cutra castle triathlon, Gort

Burren cycling club, an Post tour de Burren, Ballyvaughan

stephen roche atlantic challenge, lahinch

cliffs of Moher 5 Miler, liscannor

the Festival of Finn, corofin

doolin Writers Weekend and short story competition

Burren law school, Ballyvaughan

doolin Folk Festival, hotel doolin, doolin

corofin traditional Festival, corofin

Music Festival, april/May, Kilfenora

Father ted festival, Kilfenora

Fleadh na gcuach, the cuckoo Festival, Kinvara

slow Food Festival, lisdoonvarna

north West clare show, ennistymon

January

February

March

april

May

June

Point to Point horse races, Bellharbour

Burren in Bloom Festival, Ballyvaughan

dylan thomas literary Weekend, ennistymon

Feile an tsamhraidh (Burren summer Festival), May/June, Ballyvaughan

Kinvara rock & road half Marathon & 10K, Kinvara

83

July

august

september

October

november

December

clare Burren Marathon challenge, Ballyvaughan

Burren annual exhibition, Burren college of art, Ballyvaughan

Burren Peaks Walking Festival, Ballyvaughan

christmas Markets various places

doolin irish craft Beers & Food Festival – hotel doolin, doolin

lady Gregory autumn Gathering – coole Park, Gort

cooley collins Festival of traditional Music, Gort

santa’s Worshop at ailwee cave, Ballyvaughan

Winterage Festival, Kilfenora, carron, lisdoonvarna, tubber,and the Burren national Park

Match Making Festival, lisdoonvarna

tri the Burren, Ballyvaughan

north clare agricultural show, corofin

cruinniu na mBad-traditional Boat Festival, Kinvara

Food Fayre, lisdoonvarna

Belfast

DublinGalway

Ennis

Burren andCliffs of Moher

GeoparkLimerick

ShannonAirport Cork

Public transport

download the app

Public Transport to and around the Burren

Bus Eireann +353 6824177 www.buseireann.ie

Irish Rail 1850 366222 www.irishrail.ie

Clare Accessible Transport +353 61 924375 www.catconnects.ie

Download the new Burren Geopark APP for up to date information on all Transport Options and Tourist Information. Discounts available for those using sustainable modes of transport!

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