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Guided Walks in The Burren
The Burrennaturally yours
Guided Walks
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Welcome to The Burren
Burren Guided Walks and Hikes
AdVenture Walks
Clare Farm Heritage Tours
Heart of Burren Walks
Mullaghmore Experience
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Accommodation
Dinning
The Burren an introduction
The Cliffs of Moher
Come, and discover the difference. Uncover magical caves, clints and grikes, hidden churches and sacred wells. From archaeology to adventure, from geology to botany, find the pristine beaches, the sculpted limestone mountains. Find yourself hiking, cycling, surfing, kayaking or caving.
Indulge in the finest local foods, or just sit back and absorb some great traditional music. Come to the wild and welcoming Burren in Co. Clare, West of Ireland and find everything you want.
Be amazed, be captivated, be free.
Welcome to The Burren the natural place to walk
The Burren & Cliffs of Moher has been awarded the UNESCO recognised Global and European
Geopark Network status not only for its geology of international importance, but also for its rich and unique biodiversity, its vast array of archaeological and historical
monuments and a culture rich in traditions.The region also has the all important partnerships that oversee conservation, education and the sustainable
growth of tourism.
For further information about the Geopark visit www.burrengeopark.ie or email [email protected]
The Burren an introduction
The Burren National Park is located in the southeastern corner of the
Burren and is approximately 1500 hectares in size. The Park land was bought by the Government for nature conservation and
public access. cliffs and Fen.
The Burren is one of the largest and most accessible Karst regions in the world. It is the only place on the planet that Arctic, Mediterranean and Alpine plants
grow side-by-side. It also has geological and historical wonders and a rich community of people full of passion and pride for this wonderful place.
On County Clare’s west coast rise the majestic Cliffs of Moher. Standing 214m at their highest point and stretching for 8km
along the Atlantic coastline.
The Aran Islands, Galway Bay, The Twelve Bens, the Maam Turk Mountains in Connemara and Loop Head to the south can all be
seen from the Cliffs. O’Brien’s Tower guards one prominent headland of these magnificent cliffs.
The Cliffs of Moher are home to one of the major colonies of cliff nesting seabirds in Ireland. The area was designated as a Special Protection Area (SPA) for Birds under the EU Birds
Directive in 1986 and as a Refuge for Fauna in 1988. Included within the designated site are the cliffs, the cliff-top maritime
grassland and heath, and a 200 metre zone of open water, directly in front of the cliffs to protect part of the birds’ feeding area.
The designation covers 200 hectares and highlights the area’s importance for wildlife.
Visit the unusual, underground Visitor Centre and be treated to the exciting Atlantic Edge display. This huge, domed cave
contains images, exhibits and displays that explore the different elements of the mighty cliffs, ocean, rock,
nature and man.
Also a gift shop, (stocking official Cliffs of Moher products, maps, guides, books and DVDs), visitor information and an
accommodation booking service.
The Cliffs of Moher
An experienced Cliffs of Moher Ranger will guide you along the cliff edge paths to view wildlife, geological features and traces of man over the centuries. According to the time of year you will see
protected species puffins, guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, chough, peregrine falcon, fulmar, shags and others. Observe the fascinating geology of the cliffs, including fabulous formations and
sumptuous stonework. You will also hear about the human story of the cliffs which dates back two thousand years.
The guided walk will last around 75 minutes. At the end of the walk you will be able to spend more time visiting the cliffs, O’Brien’s Tower and the Cliffs Exhibition Atlantic Edge. There is no limit to the length of
stay – we estimate that a total of 2.5-3 hours should be allowed for the visit.
Ticket includes admission to O’Brien’s Tower, the Cliffs Exhibition and unlimited duration parking as well as a copy of the Cliffs of Moher Seabird ID card to take away.
Guided Nature Walk at the Cliffs of Moher
065 7086141 [email protected] [email protected] www.cliffsofmoher.ie
About The Cliffs of Moher
Adventure 087 2244569 [email protected] www.stonehuts.wordpress.com
One of the most rewarding places to walk,
The Burren, fantastic scenery at every dip and
rise. A constant succession of rare and
exotic flowers, geological features,
fossils, a variety of walls and vvvvvvvvvvvancient monuments going back
millennia.
Christy is a fully qualified Mountain Leader, Rock Climbing Instructor and trained in mountain first aid.
With many years of experience leading and training in many mountain areas from Wicklow to The Mourns and Scotland and with trips to The Alps. Now resident in The Burren, Christy will
be happy to lead to you in the many varied areas to experience the magical landscape and the
treasures to be found in abundance, be it archaeological natural or just the majesty of the vistas.
About your Guide
Some of our past guests have described our walks as magical, special and treasured memories in the making. “We so liked the varied pace which was tuned to suit our group and its abilities.”
We agree because that’s what brought us to live in this place.
Adventure 087 2244569 [email protected] www.stonehuts.wordpress.com
This walk brings us through farmland, woodland, open ground and limestone pavement. On the walk we
encounter remains of ancient forts, tombs and many others.
Walks every Wednesday 10.30am to 4.30pmModerate pace
Some fitness required.
If you can walk a day in the city, you’re ok
Ancient Remains - full day walk
Walking with small scrambles onto terraces this walk will bring you to the heart of the Burren, passing over limestone plateaus into valleys and over
mountain tops.
Walks every Monday and Friday 10.30am to 4.30pm
Moderate to fast pace depending on groupReasonably fit and some level of agility
Scenery and Atmosphere - full day walk
Open all year round. Always small groups, Max 6, no Min.
Also half day walks, trail walks and half day climbs available.
We can cater for levels and capabilities.
A bit more info....
Burren Guided Walks and Hikes 065 7076100 [email protected] www.burrenguidedwalks.com
Our routes will include crossing the rugged limestone terrain and climbing some of the
Burrens best terraced hills.
At every turn, there will be stunning photographic
opportunities.
Mary Howard lives in Fanore, a coastal village on the north-western corner of the Burren with the Atlantic Ocean for her “front garden” and the stunning Blackhead mountain as her
“back garden”.
She is passionate about all aspects of the Burren.Mary has been involved in tourism for over 20 years. As owner
of the Carrigann Hotel in Lisdoonvarna, she successfully operated Burren Walking Holidays.
Since leaving the hotel business behind in 2006, she has been able to share her own knowledge and passion for the precious
and sensitive landscape of the Burren through Burren Guided Walks and Hikes.
About your Guide
Burren Guided Walks and Hikes 065 7076100 [email protected] www.burrenguidedwalks.com
This walk will take us up onto the rugged limestone terrain to a stone ringfort, climbing some of the Burren’s best terraces to the
hilltop burial cairn and finally on to Gleninagh mountain.
This walk will be taken at a medium pace and is suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness.
Duration 5 – 6 hours
Blackhead Mountain Hike
This spectacular walk takes us up onto the open limestone terrain to a ringfort. It includes archaeological sites, geological features, the unique and diverse flora of the Burren and much more. There are stunning coastal views with fantastic photographic
opportunities.
The walk is taken at a relaxed pace and is suitable for most levels of fitness. Duration 3 – 4 hours.
A Burren Walk Overlooking Galway Bay
Discover the wonderful, unique and diverse flora of the Burren. See the Artic, Alpine and Mediterranean flowers grow side by side. Mary will tell
of the medicinal uses and the old folklores attached to some of these plants.
This walk is taken at a leisurely pace and is suitable for most levels of fitness. Duration approx. 3 hours.
A Burren Wild Flower Ramble
Clare Farm Heritage Tours 065 7089944 [email protected] www.farmheritagetours.com
The farm tours are provided by the individual
landowners, who share their inherent wealth of knowledge
about local history, archaeology, landscape
heritage, geology, and farming practices (both old and new),
as well as innumerable anecdotes and tales about this unique place and its
people.
Six local farmers have come together to offer a selection of guided walking tours.
Hear folktales, local history and stories of the past. Discover the hidden secrets of the landscape and learn
how their unique farming systems have influenced how the distinctive Burren now looks. They practice a tried and true
tradition of farming dictated by the landscape and are passionate about their role in its conservation.
Between them their lands are home to more than 100 archaeological sites, now regarded as treasures of North Clare, and theirs is an invitation to walk the land with
someone who lives and breathes Burren culture, heritage and history.
About your GuidesA rare opportunity to meet directly with the farmer of the land and accompany him around his own living museum. You will hear a true story of passion, pride and place, which will explain a method
of farming upon which the very conservation and survival of the Burren depends.
Clare Farm Heritage Tours 065 7089944 [email protected] www.farmheritagetours.com
With Frank O’Grady you will see remains of a Neolithic settlement dating back to 3500bc, Be treated to the
Burren Flora, rare and beautiful Alpine and Mediterranean flowers growing beside each other, and catch a glimpse of the feral goats that wander wild and
free across acres of land.
Caherfadda Farm Walk
Pat McCormack is an entertaining story teller and rural philosopher of renown. Fr. Ted was filmed at their
family home. Pat is an experienced guide of his own farm and his wife Sheryl offers the Tea at Fr Ted’s, not
to be missed event!
Glanquin Farm Walk
Be guided along the unique limestone patterns close to the biggest Turlough in Europe, rich in examples of the rare
Burren Flora. Your guide Robert is a third generation farmer on this site, and is the owner with his wife of Cassidy’s pub and
restaurant in Carron.
Carron Farm Walk
Your guide Henry (Harry) Jeuken is an accredited organic farmer who uses
traditional methods maintaining the bio diversity and protecting this sensitive area. The organically farmed gardens and field systems are a joy to visit and Harry’s
enthusiasm is infectious.
Poulnalour Farm Walk
Walks approximately 2 hours.
We believe there is no such thing as bad weather just the wrong clothing! Walking gear essential.
Be guided by Pat Nagle and regaled with numerous tales and folklore. His farm leads to the top of Slieve Car-ron where you can view the amazing landscape carved by the retreating
glaciers 12.000 years ago.
Pollough Farm Walk
Michael Keellin has lots of interesting local facts and folklore to share as he guides you round his farmland. Visit a
12th century cross and prehistoric standing stone, see shoals of young
trout in the river Fergus and take in the wonderful views of this fabulous
landscape.
Roughan Farm walk
Heart of Burren Walks 065 6827707 info@heartofburrenwalks 087 2925487 www.heartofburrenwalks.com
Tailor made walks are available all year round.
They can last from one hour in length to half-day
to full day. The walks can take place
in the rugged interior of the National Park or along the
Burren’s spectacular coastline.
Please contact for further information
‘‘An excellent and information-packed guided tour of the Burren. It wasn’t just a tour; it was a complete emotional
experience. We’ve told everyone that if they go to Ireland, they must take your tour.’’
Patti Brassard, Maine USA
Tony Kirby was born in Limerick. He has also lived in Dublin and Bologna in the north
of Italy. In 2002 he moved to the Burren in County Clare where
he founded a small walking tourism enterprise which offers a wide variety of guided Burren walks.
He also currently works as a heritage education specialist conducting Burren classroom workshops and field trips for primary
school pupils.Tony’s first book is entitled: ‘The Burren and the Aran Islands A Walking Guide’. It was published in 2009
by The Collins Press. He has produced the short film West Cork set at
St Gobnait’s monastic site in Ballyvourney, County Cork. The film was launched in May 2012.
About your guide
Scheduled Guided Walks June July August
Highlights include limestone pavement, Arctic/Alpine/Mediterranean wildflower mélange, a king’s fort and a fascinating Medieval ecclesiastical site.
Duration – two hours approximately Easy walking
Meet at Burren Fine Wine and Foods, Corkscrew Hill Road, Ballyvaughan. Every Wednesday at 10 am. Walks take place as scheduled rain or shine! Added option – delicious two course lunch in Burren Food and Wine cafe
after the walk.
Rathborney Valley walk
Heart of Burren Walks 065 6827707 info@heartofburrenwalks 087 2925487 www.heartofburrenwalks.com
Highlights include limestone pavement, Arctic/Alpine/Mediterranean wildflower mix, turloughs (seasonal lakes) – all against the backdrop of the Burren’s limestone hills and
cairns (hilltop tombs).
Duration – two hours approximately. Easy walking
Meet at the Burren Centre, Kilfenora Every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 pm.
Walks take place as scheduled rain or shine!
Burren National Park walk
“Monks and Pilgrims in the Burren Landscape”.A half-day long walk at an easy pace with the high point
being the visit to a remarkable monastic site and pilgrimage station. Highlights will include a rich complex of penitential stations, holy wells, rare reliquary shrines
and an Early Medieval chapel with subsequent Romanesque ornamentation. The narrative will
focus on the golden age of Irish art (400-1100 AD), the story of pilgrimage in Ireland and the enduring
fascination of holy wells as places of public worship. Stone, soil, soul, saints, sinners, pilgrims, poetry,
penitents and purgatory feature!
Pilgrimage walks
Mullaghmore Experience 086 8219441 [email protected] www.mullaghmore-burren.com
Accommodation in the Burren National Park is also offered by Marie, for those who want to enrich and deepen their experience.
Burren Cottage, stunningly situated, literally on the doorstep of Mullaghmore
Mountain, presents a comfortable, self-catering
option and the perfect base for walking in the National Park, be it invigorating or
relaxing!
John Muir once wrote;‘In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks’
Marie McGauran lives in the heart of the Burren. With Mullaghmore mountain on one side, and a lake on the other
she is perfectly placed to give visitors the full Burren experience.
Mullaghmore Experience guided walks take in some of the more remote and beautiful parts of the Mountain within the
Burren National Park. The walks are very much one of engagement and include insight and interpretation on the historical and spiritual landmarks as well as the botany,
geology, and farming of the area. Marie’s love and passion for her local area is enhanced by the in-depth knowledge she gained during the completion of an
honours degree in Heritage Studies.
About your guide
Mullaghmore Experience 086 8219441 [email protected] www.mullaghmore-burren.com
This exhilarating walk in the Burren National Park will explore natural settings that can only be reached on foot. You will be led up
into the mountains, where you will be rewarded with some magnificent views of the surrounding countryside and gain insight into
the flora, fauna and archaeological remnants of our past.The walk finishes with a tour of the family farm where we can
encounter the many farm animals including midget the Shetland pony.
Then its tea and homemade scones in Nonie’s kitchen.
approximately 4 hoursLively pace, suitable for all ages
Walking promotes the health of mind, body and spirit. Allow your spirit to soar and venture with us into a land of
wilderness and beauty. This walk offers you a personal journey inspired by the writings of the poet and philosopher
John O’ Donohue.The walk is at a leisurely pace and takes us to St Coleman’s Hermitage a place of solitude. It provides the opportunity to
experience nature and the wilderness while having quiet time for reflection & healing.
approximately 3 hoursLeisurely pace, suitable for all ages
Walk Within - a spiritual walk
An informational and heritage walk of the Burren.
Experience its wilderness and gain insight into the past generations who farmed this landscape and where the legacies of
our forefathers unfold.Walk the Famine road
Lie on the Leaba clochmor (stone bed)See The old Homestead of Hermit Mick and his goats
approximately 3 hours Steady pace, suitable for all ages
Stories & Stones
The terrain for walks can be uneven and rugged so
suitable footwear is recommended.
The duration of the walks are approximately 3-4
hours (half day). Full day walks can be arranged by
appointment.
Tea and homemade scones are provides after
all walks.
The Mullaghmore Experience
Boghill Centre, Kilfenora
The perfect place to relax and unwindA secluded venue offering B&B in private, single and twin rooms and group accommodation.
[email protected] 065 7074644 boghill.com
Gregans Castle Hotel, Ballyvaughan A luxurious verdant haven amid the rugged unspoilt beauty of the Burren. Choose from individually and exquisitely decorated Classic and Superior rooms or Junior and Premier Suits. [email protected] 065 7077005 gregans.ie
Clare’s Rock Hostel, Carron
Ensuite rooms for groups, couples and families in a clean comfortable environment.
[email protected] 065 7089129 claresrock.com
Hotel Doolin, Main St
Our fabulous and carefully deigned guestrooms enjoy plenty of space and comfort for that perfect stay.
[email protected] 0657074111hoteldoolin.ie
Corofin Hostel & Camping, Main St A sheltered family-run business offering the nearest camping facility to the Burren National Park. Group rates and caters for half and full board. [email protected] 065 6837683 corofincamping.com
Kilfenora Hostel, Main St
We pride ourselves in our family service.All bedrooms are en-suite and range from accommodating 2 – 10 guests. [email protected] 065 7088908 kilfenorahostel.com
Accommodation in The Burren
Meadowfield Guesthouse, Ballyvaughan Purpose built B&B with a large garden.All bedrooms en-suite, centrally heated, tastefully decorated and warm and quiet.
[email protected] 065 7077083 meadowfield.net
Sheedy’s Country House Hotel, Lisdoonvarna
A 300 year old familly run Hotel.All 11 rooms and suites have been individually designed and comfort is guaranteed.
[email protected] 065 7074026 sheedys.com
O’Neill’s Town Home, Lisdoonvarna
3 star premises in the family for over 100 years. Welcoming atmosphere and comfortable accommodation with home cooked breakfast.
burrenpaintingcentre.com 065 7074208 [email protected]
Trildoon House, Doolin
The bedrooms are comfortably furnished with King size and Queen size beds and with great attention to detail. All rooms en-suite.
[email protected] 065 7074870 trildoonhouse.com
Rockyview Farmhouse, Fanore
5 en-suite bedrooms and guest lounge/con-servatory. Home grown produce - artificial fertilizer, herbicide and pesticide free – prepared for home cooked breakfast . Special diets catered for.
[email protected] 065 7076103 rockyviewfarmhouse.com
Wild Honey Inn, Lisdoonvarna
En-suite bedrooms with views of surrounding countryside.Also 8 double/twin rooms and 6 family rooms. Food served in our restaurant.
[email protected] 065 7074300wildhoneyinn.com
Accommodation in The Burren
Afternoon Tea at Father Ted’sThe original parochial house – a must for Fr. Ted’s fans! Enjoy a fine selection of organic home produce, wide selection of teas and great craic. [email protected] 087 9214694 fathertedshouse.comPre-booking required
Cassidy’s Pub & Restaurant, CarronVaried menu including seafood & Italian, childrens menu and gluten free options also available. Ingredients sourced locally where possible. Traditional Irish Music every weekend during the summer.
[email protected] 0657089109 cassidyspub.com
Burren Fine Wine and Food, Ballyvaughan Specialise in Summer lunches, quality wines, gourmet hampers and corporate gifts.Tasty lunches with healthy options, food combing options and mouth watering desserts. [email protected] 065 7077046 burrenwine.ie
Food served daily Apr to Oct 6-8.30pm (9 on Saturdays).Feb, Mar & Nov - weekends. Please see website for full details.
Gregans Castle Hotel, BallyvaughanA luxurious verdant haven amid the rugged unspoilt beauty of the Burren. Non Residents are welcome for lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. Multiple award winning restaurant.
[email protected] 065 7077005 gregans.ie
Burren Tea Rooms, Kilfenora Traditional home-cooked food. Enjoy excellent home-made fare, choice, excellent value and the highest quality produce.
[email protected] 065 7088030theburrencentre.ie
Kilshanny House, KilshannyFriendly, relaxed, welcoming atmosphere in family run pub offering delicious home cooked food and a great pint! Enjoy traditional Irish music on weekends and impromptu sessions can start anytime!
065 7071660 [email protected]
Dining in The Burren
Restaurant and bar open from 6.30pm, last food order at 8.45pm. Special Value Early bird Menu served from 6.30 – 7.15pm.
Sheedy’s Country House Hotel, Lisdoonvarna Choose from A La Carte dinner menu in Restaurant where ambiance is friendly and informal or Bar menu where you can relax by open turf fire! Freshly cooked food with locally sourced ingredients were possible and home grown vegetables.
[email protected] 065 7074026 sheedys.com
Open all year.
The Roadside Tavern, LisdoonvarnaWhere the food, the friendly atmosphere, music and craic all combine to make a great drinking & dinning experience. Award winning food menu featuring traditional Irish dishes and smoked fish from award winning Bur-ren Smokehouse. Finest stouts, ales, lagers, wines, spirits and our own micro brewery.
[email protected] 065 7074084roadsidetavern.ie
Open all year.Food served from 12-4pm and 6-9pm
Wild Honey Inn, Lisdoonvarna Freshly cooked food served in relaxed atmosphere. Emphasis on wild, free-range, seasonal & local, with a ‘Modern Bistro Style’ with ribeye steaks, rare-breed pork, local lamb, organic salads and cheeses, fresh local fish and shellfish, smoked salmon and wild game.
[email protected] 065 7074300wildhoneyinn.com
Burren Ecotourism’s objective is to ensure that an exciting and memorable holiday experience is had by all who visit the area, which in turn supports
sustainability and conservation efforts in the local community.
The business network prides itself on providing genuine and authentic
experiences for all who come to the Burren.
Each operator has, or is in the process, of having, visitor experiences independently certified. This assures you that when you support such businesses,
you are supporting environmentally-conscious operators who are committed to long-term sustainability and conservation of the Burren.
Certification
Burren Ecotourism
[email protected] 065 702295www.burrenecotourism.com
Dining in The Burren
