The
Magnificent Cliffs of
Moher
One
of Europe's
outstanding coastal
features, where the
giant, rugged
coastline rises to
nearly 700 feet of
sheer cliff above the
Atlantic Ocean.O'Brien's
Tower, which was
constructed in the
early 19th century as
a viewing point for
Victorian tourists, is
located on Moher's
highest cliff. From
its exceptional
vantage position you
can view the Clare
coastline, the Aran
Islands and mountains
as far apart as Kerry
and Connemara.
Bunratty Folk Park,
recreates rural and urban life in 19th century Victorian Ireland.
There
is an extensive array of vernacular buildings; indicative of all
of the social strata from the poorest one roomed dwelling to
Bunratty House, a fine example of a Georgian residence for the
gentry. Traditional jobs and crafts are also represented, milling,
the forge, pottery, printing, baking, farming etc.
Costumed characters that recreate the traditions and lifestyle of
a bygone age animate the Folk Park. The characters include the
Bean a Ti (woman of the house), R.I.C. policeman, Schoolteacher,
Blacksmith and so on.
Bunratty Castle was to return to its former splendour when Viscount
Lord Gort purchased it in 1954. The extensive restoration work began in
1945 with the help of the Office of Public Works, the Irish Tourist
Board and Shannon Development. It was then opened to the public in 1960
as a National Monument and is open to visitors year round. It is the
most complete and authentically restored and furnished castle in Ireland
Bunratty Mediaeval BanquetBunratty Castle, was built in the 15th
century by the Earl of Thomond and stands on the banks of the Rathy
River. From here The Earl ruled over his Chiefdom and entertained
lavishly, in fact he was famous for his hospitality. Following this
tradition of hospitality, the world renowned Bunratty Medieval Banquet
is held twice nightly throughout theyear.
For over 40 years the Ladies of the Castle, aided and abetted by the
Earl's Butler, have welcomed guests from the four corners of the globe
to join them at The Earl's Banquet. The entertainment provided by the
superb Bunratty Singers is a fitting compliment to a four course meal, a
lively meal reception and of course good wine. We invite you to enjoy an
unforgettable evening in the splendour of this magnificent castle.
Aillwee Cave, Ballyvaughan.
Discovered by Jack McCann, a local farmer, in 1944, the 1000 feet long
cave is one of the oldest of the Burren Caves having formed millions of
years ago. Guided tours, lasting 30 minutes, allow you to observe
beautiful caverns, bridged chasms, underground waterfalls, weird mineral
formations and the hibernation chambers of brown bears which have been
extinct in Ireland for centuries.
Facilities include a restaurant, craft shop, information desk and
outside, 'The Hazelwood' crafts village. www.aillweecave.ie
Dún Guaire castle, Kinvara.
A 16th century castle that stands out prominently on the seashore. Named
after the 7th century King of Connaught, Guaire whose palace had
occupied the same site, the castle was built by the O'Hynes and later
passed into the hands of the O'Shaughnessy and then the Martyn clans. It
was sold to John Gogarty a poet and writer in 1924 who subsequenty sold
it to Lady Christabel Ampthill.
The castle is open to the public and hosts medieval banquets with
traditional Irish music and story telling.
Knappogue Castle, near Quin.
Originally a MacNamara stronghold, (built 1467). Restored in the 19th
century by Lord Dunboyne. The castle passed to the Land Commission in
the late 1920s and was re-sold in 1966. The new owner refurbished the
interior in 15th century style. The castle is open to visitors and
medieval banquets are served from March to October. Admission charge.
Burren Smokehouse, Lisdoonvarna. Burren Smokehouse produce
oak-smoked Irish Atlantic Salmon. The ancient tradition is explained in
their new visitors centre. Gourmet and Craft Shop. Audio-visual in
English, German, French and Italian.
Burren Exposure, Ballyvaughan.
castle passed to the Land Commission in the Located in the unique Burren,
this new visitors' centre provides visitors with an overview of the area
and its unique landscape, its rich human history and its famous flora.
Elaborate audio - visual presentation synchronised large scale slide
panoramas with soundscapes in 3 specially created environments.
