The Burren

Discover The Burren

The Burren is a truly unique region located in Country Clare, Ireland. A UNESCO heritage geopark that stretches across approximately 530 kilometers, this landscape is a testament to the rugged beauty of the west coast of Ireland, while the exceptional biodiversity, range of cultural and historical attractions along with show-stopping natural wonders, guarantee a spectacular trip.  

The intricate landscape is characterised by its rocky, windswept expanses of craggy grey limestone, giving this vast area a magical lunar-like appearance. These ancient limestone formations were shaped beneath the sea millions of years ago and were thrust upward by geological forces. Nature enthusiasts will love discovering Burren’s diverse ecosystems, as the unusual landscape supports both Arctic and Mediterranean plant species thriving side by side, despite the seemingly inhospitable conditions. Delicate wildflowers such as orchids and gentians dot the grey landscape with flecks of color during the summer months, while elusive birds such as the peregrine falcon can be seen in the area.  

One of the most impressive attractions in the country, The Cliffs of Moher, can be found in the Burren. These majestic sea cliffs rise 390ft out of the Atlantic Ocean and stretch for 14 kilometers. The cliffs are home to a wide variety of species, including puffins, goats, and deer, while the ocean surrounding them is inhabited by sea lions, minke whales, porpoises, dolphins, and basking sharks. The cliffs have inspired many of cinema’s greatest treasures, and have featured in ‘The Princess Bride,’ ‘Harry Potter and the Half-Blooded Prince,’ and ‘Leap Year’. Stop into the folksy, cave-like structure which houses the Visitor Centre, and check out the exhibition on the cliffs or enjoy the views from one of the center’s award-winning cafés. Continue appreciating the ancient natural beauty of the Burren at a tour of the Ailwee caves, the caves have been there for millions of years and contain the last bones of the last Irish brown bears. Head underground to Doolin caves to see the longest stalactite in the northern hemisphere. At the UNESCO global geopark, marvel at Flaggy Shore beach, which was mentioned in the works of Seamus Heaney and W.B. Yeats. If you’re after a sandy beach, head to the golden arc of Fanmore Beach nearby. Traverse the geopark at your own pace or get involved in the myriad of sports opportunities such as hiking, kayaking, and cycling

For a historical fix, visit the Poulnabrone Dolmen, a megalithic portal tomb that is the oldest dated megalithic monument in Ireland. Poulnabrone contains the classic elements of a portal tomb; three enormous vertical rocks which support a monumental capstone laid across the top. Poulnabrone is one of the only portal tombs in Ireland to have undergone archeological investigations, and the remains of 33 Neolithic people were found in the tomb. They were likely all members of an extremely elite group and were placed individually into the tomb over a 600-year period from 3800BC to 3200BC. They were found with artefacts such as jewelry, weapons, and pottery. 

Relax in one of The Burren’s surrounding towns. Doolin is famous for pubs filled with traditional music fans, playing lively tunes till the early hours. For award-winning gastronomical experiences, join the Burren food trail, an experiential initiative that highlights the incredible local restauranteurs and farmers. The trail won the European Destination of Excellence in 2015.