TRAVEL IRELAND EXPLORE TRANSPORT COUNTY CLARE

County Clare

Cliffs of Moher County Clare

County Clare, located on the captivating west coast of Ireland, is a destination that will capture your heart and ignite your sense of adventure. Embrace the freedom to wander off the beaten path and immerse yourself in the authentic experiences that await.

As you step into County Clare, you'll be greeted by stunning vistas that showcase the region's rugged landscapes. From the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher, which majestically stand tall above the crashing Atlantic waves, to the unique karst terrain of the Burren, where ancient archaeological sites and rare flora create an otherworldly atmosphere, County Clare's natural wonders are a playground for exploration.

Close to the airport and the gateway to the county, Shannon is great for golf, river walks, shopping, food and nightlife. Hiring a boat and taking a week-long river cruise is the highlight for many people’s visit.

But it's not just the breathtaking scenery that makes County Clare special; it's the people who call this place home. The locals are known for their warm hospitality, rich storytelling traditions, and love for traditional Irish music. Take the opportunity to engage with the community, join in on a lively music session in a cozy pub, and let the spirit of the locals guide you on an unforgettable journey through their beloved county.

The Burren

The Burren (UNESCO)

The Burren National Park located in the Burren is an area of extensive rock and wild fauna. The area has extensive coverage of limestone, calcareous grassland, hazel scrub, lakes, and wild fauna. A trip to the Burren National Park is a must for the visitor to Clare

A natural wonderland, the Burren - Gaelic ‘Boireann’ meaning 'place of stone' – is a stunning yet wild landscape. Part of the Geopark, this area displays a variety of impressive karst features such as cave systems, dry valleys and sinkholes. Boasting 70% of Ireland’s native flora and over 2700 monuments, it also has the longest cave system in Ireland and the largest stalactite (7.3m) in Europe (Doolin Cave and Visitor Centre). Hike Mullaghmore mountain or follow one of the many trails on foot or bike and be captivated by the beauty around you

Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs of Moher (UNESCO)

Explore the world famous Cliffs of Moher, standing at 241m (702 feet) and stretching for 8km along the Atlantic. Enjoy the views across the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, and Maum Turk mountains in Connemara. Hike the 6km coastal trail to the highest point for spectacular views. Depending on the weather and time of year, you can go bird watching by boat on a Cliff Cruise – over 30,000 pairs of seabirds nest from March to July, including the Atlantic Puffin – or check out the Visitors Centre with its birds-eye view cinema experience. Music is an important feature here and you can regularly catch musicians playing in the open air.

Doolin County Clare

Known for its fabulous music, quaint town, spectacular walks and easy access to the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher (10kms along the coast), Doolin is a friendly and welcoming village year round. Despite its tiny size, there are a host of outstanding hotels and B&Bs to choose from; if you hire a car, this is the perfect base for exploring County Clare.

Aran Islands

Aran Islands

Inishmore boasts 50+ monuments of Christian, pre Christian and Celtic mythological heritage including the 14 acre ancient fort Dun Aonghasa – this island is also well known to cliff divers, surfers and hikers. Inishmaan is an authentic escape from the busy world, with less than 200 inhabitants and a strong arts culture. Inisheer is the smallest island, with a hill castle and fort, lighthouse and shipwrecks.

Polnabrone Dolmen

Polnabrone Dolmen

Caherconell: Step back in time and visit the Polnabrone Dolmen portal tomb, the oldest megalithic monument in the country and one of Ireland’s most iconic archaeological monuments. Then head to Caherconnell Fort – just 1km away in the heart of the Burren – before experiencing some impressive traditional Caherconnell Sheepdog demonstrations.

Ballyvaughan County Clare

Ballyvaughan

Ballyvaughan: An enchanting and picturesque village on the West Atlantic Coast, with a dramatic Burren backdrop, enjoy a host of walking, cycling, rock climbing and water sports, as well as a vibrant art and craft scene. The local and seasonal produce at the farmer’s market will delight any food lover, washed down with a local pint with some live traditional music.

Aillwee Cave & Birds of Prey Centre:

Aillwee Burren Experience

The only one of its kind in Ireland, explore the bridged chasms, weird formations and thunderous waterfall, before taking a hawk walk or watching a birds of prey demonstration. You can also watch cheese being made in the dairy, and try some samples; the tearoom is a great place to relax after all the adventure!

Lisdoonvarna

Lisdoonvarna

Three rivers run through this lovely village famous for its spa waters and match making festival, and no matter what your tastes, there’s plenty to do. Visit the Pump House and twin wells, talk a stroll through the spruce and beech Gragan woodland (Coill na nGragan - 8km north); you might spot a pine marten if you’re lucky. Enjoy live music in the local pubs and for local delicacies, visit the Burren Smokehouse for Smoked Salmon, Trout, Mackerel, and Cheese; there’s free parking and excellent facilities for the disabled – tastings highly recommended!

Bunratty Castle by Night

Bunratty Castle

The 15th century Bunratty Castle, Walled Gardens and Folk Park should be on the top of the list for visitors of all ages. Built in 1425, the castle restored in 1954 to its former medieval glory and now displays original furnishings, tapestries, and works of art from the period. Explore alone or join a guided tour, or for something really special, indulge in a medieval banquet. Held nightly and year round, the banquets are a feast for the senses. The Bunratty Walled Garden at Bunratty Folk Park are modelled on the original Regency period garden, refurbished in typical Victorian style. Admission is all year round from 9:00am- 5.30pm. Also make sure you explore the village, including a stop in famous McNamara’s pub!

Clare Abbey

Clare Abbey

Historically important, visit Clare Abbey beside the River Fergus; it was founded in 1189 and the first, largest and most important Augustinian house in the county. A lovely free exhibition telling the story of Clare over a period of 6,000 years via artefacts and audio-visual presentations can be found at Clare Museum. The 13th century Ennis Abbey and Ennis friary are also worth a look, and for some modern arts and theatre, visit Glor; it also houses excellent gallery space. There are also walking tours available around the town.

Craggaunowen Pre-Historic Park

Pre-Historic Park

Easy to reach by hire car from Limerick and Ennis, head to Craggaunowen, Ireland’s original award winning Pre-Historic Park, for a fascinating insight into how the Celts lived in 4th and 5th century Ireland. Visit reconstructed homes and see how early farmers kept animals and protected themselves from enemy clans and invaders. Craggaunowen includes a Ring Fort, woods with goats, soy sheep and wild boar, and the ‘Brendan Boat’ – a leather hulled boat built by Tim Severin who sailed across the Atlantic re-enacting the voyage of St. Brendan. Craggaunowen Castle, on a crag overlooking the lake is lovingly restored to its Medieval glory and offers stunning views of the countryside.. Magical Knappogue Castle and walled garden is also worth a visit; located just outside Quin Village, it’s 15 miles from Shannon Airport.

Kilkee County Clare

Drive the Loop Head Peninsula

An area of outstanding natural beauty, from the tip of Loop Head to Ross Beach and Bridge, you can watch whales and dolphins from the coast, as well as nesting sea birds and seals on land. Kilkee is a 19th century town with an Architectural Conservation Area, built around a horseshoe shaped bay and a kilometre of blue flag golden sand. Visit the Duggerna Reef (‘the Pollock Holes’) that shelter the bay and for some rockpool exploration when the tide is out. Kilbaha, the most westerly village on the peninsula, boasts stunning views over Kerry Head and the Brandon Mountains and the River Shannon.

A picturesque fishing village, Carrigaholt is at the mouth of the River Moyata, and boasts two working harbours, a pier with local fishing boats and a sandy beach. The waters here are home to the largest group of resident bottle nose dolphns so a boat trip is a must! In Querrin, try the Eco-campsite where you can enjoy a camp fire in native woodland or an outdoor sauna under the stars.

Kilrush County Clare

Kilrush

Located on the banks of the River Shannon, Kilrush is a charming town that offers a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and a vibrant community. Begin your exploration by taking a leisurely stroll along the Marina, where you can admire the boats bobbing on the water and enjoy picturesque views of the river. Visit the Vandeleur Walled Garden, a beautifully restored Victorian garden featuring rare plants, colourful flowers, and peaceful pathways.

From Kilrush, embark on a boat trip to Scattery Island, a small, uninhabited island with a rich history. Explore the well-preserved ruins of a sixth-century monastic settlement, where you can marvel at the round tower, ancient churches, and the unique beehive huts. Take a guided tour or wander around at your own pace, soaking in the serene atmosphere and imagining the lives of the monks who once inhabited this sacred place.

Ennistymon Waterfall

Ennistymon

On the river Cullenagh, this colourful village combines natural beauty with old world charm and excellent shopping. Visit the cascades, the Sunday food and craft fair, and the An Gorta Mór memorial that commemorates victims of the famine.

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County Clare

Clare Map
Car Hire

Car Hire

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Accommodation in Clare

See & Do in Clare

  • Clare Beaches Beaches
    Some of the best beaches in Ireland are in County Clare.
  • Clare Castles &  Heritage Castles & Heritage
    Castles, forts and heritage sites in County Clare.
  • Clare Golf Courses Clare Golf Courses
    Top 10 golf courses in County Clare, with link to the official sites.
  • Clare Horse Riding Horse Riding
    Details of horse riding schools, where you can hire horses in County Clare
  • Clare Parks & Gardens Clare Parks & Gardens
    So many Parks & Gardens to choose from in County Clare.
  • Clare Pubs Pubs
    Best Pubs in County Clare for music and craic.
  • Clare Restaurants Clare Restaurants
    Discover the Best Restaurants in County Clare.
  • Clare Visitor Attractions Visitor Attractions
    Most popular Visitor Attractions in County Clare.
  • Clare Walks Walks
    Loop walks, forest walks, way marked walks, and beach walks.

Wild Atlantic Way

Wild Atlantic Way

Getting Around Clare

  • Ireland Car Hire Car Hire
    Compare car hire companies in Ireland in seconds to get the best deals.
  • Ireland Bus & Coach Bus & Coach
    Bus & Coach services in Ireland with links to timetables
  • Ferry to Ireland Ferry to Ireland
    Details of the Ferry service to and from Ireland.
  • Irish Airports Irish Airports
    Airports in Ireland include, Dublin, Shannon, Cork, Kerry, Belfast
  • Ireland Taxis Taxi
    Taxi companies to pre-book your taxi journey in Ireland.
  • Trains in Ireland Trains
    Details of train service in Ireland including Lucas and the Dart.