Clare Things to see and do
Cliffs Of Moher
One of Ireland’s most visited natural attractions, at 702ft/ 219.5m above the crashing Atlantic swells, it’s not hard to see why. With a superb visitor centre, an invigorating coastal walking route and beautiful birdlife, the Cliffs of Moher’s hefty 8km breadth delivers at every turn.
Poulnabrone Dolmen
One of the most memorable spots in the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark, sitting high on a limestone plateau you’ll find the ancient Poulnabrone Dolmen. This portal tomb is one of Ireland’s most recognisable archaeological sites and is the oldest megalithic monument in the country.
The Burren
Ticking all the boxes as an historical, geomorphic, geological and archaeological wonder, the intriguing stony karst landscape of the Burren is a marvel to roam, cycle, spot unique flora and fauna on and even follow a food trail over. At its UNESCO-recognised geopark, discover the longest cave system in Ireland, the largest stalactite in Europe and plenty more.
Scattery Island
A small monastic settlement a few kilometres from the Kilrush shore, Scattery Island boasts a still-functioning lighthouse, six ancient church ruins and one of the highest round towers (120ft/ 36.5m) in the country. An historic island, Scattery has seen its fair share of invasions and has plenty of far-fetched legends and tales to tell.
Aillwee & Doolin Caves
At the Aillwee Cave, take a tour of this stony underworld of winding passages, chasms, strange rock formations and waterfalls. While at Doolin Cave with its famous Great Stalactite, head 200ft underground to go an astonishing 350 million years back in time.
Loop Head & Lighthouse
On the Loop Head Peninsula, right on the very western edge of Clare, you’ll find this pristine lighthouse, with views that unravel all the way to the Cliffs of Moher. Head to the top of the lighthouse to take it all in from a 90-metre height and keep an eye out for the 160+ dolphins that call these waters home.
Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
Bunratty Castle was graciously restored in the 1960’s and is furnished by Lord Gort’s magnificent collection of medieval furnishings. The 19th Century Folk Park features over 30 buildings in a ‘living’ village setting. Children love interacting with their farm animals and exploring the Fairy Trail. Experience their nightly Medieval Banquet with the World Famous Bunratty Singers. https://www.bunrattycastle.ie/
Craggaunowen
Ireland’s award winning Pre-historic Park. Explore the roots of the people, animals and artefacts of our Celtic ancestors of over 1,000 years ago. Experience Craggaunowen Castle, explore the ‘Brendan Boat’, the boat in which Tim Severin sailed from Ireland to the United States and see how Celts made their homes on a Crannóg. Open April to October. https://www.craggaunowen.ie