We are situated directly on the Wild Atlantic way (http://www.wildatlanticway.com), voted one of the 10 best road trips in the world by Condé Nast Traveller (www.wildatlanticway.com). Our house is 30 Kms from the renowned Cliffs of Moher (www.cliffsofmoher.ie), and 25 Kms from Doolin, famous for its traditional Irish music, where you can also take the ferry to the Aran Islands, three of the most unspoiled islands in the Atlantic. Other interesting places to visit, all less than an hour away, include the market town of Ennis, with its myriad lanes and local shops, or Ennistymon, with its renowned Cascade Falls and river walk, and Kilfenora with its collection of High Crosses dating back to the 12th century.
Ballyvaughan (1.2Kms) is one of the most vibrant villages in the Burren (https://discoverballyvaughan.com) with its supermarket and gift shop, coffee shops, hotel and restaurants. It is also a starting point on the the famous Burren Way (35 Kms of Green Road walking trail). Enjoy a leisurely coffee/brunch in the village before you sample some of the wonderful experiences the area has to offer - pristine beaches, water sports of all kinds, nature walks, foraging expeditions, cave visits, horse-riding, birds of prey exhibitions, archaeological wonders, pet farms and many more. Enjoy dinner in one of the local restaurants - all tastes catered for, including Italian, but especially local produce including seafood and fresh farm produce. If fine dining is your style, there are two Michelin-starred restaurants within 30 minute of our house (www.gregans.ie, www.wildhoneyinn.com).
Burren farmers have been farming sustainably for centuries. At the Saturday Farmers' Market, you can buy fresh local produce - from honey to Burren lamb and most things in between, have a coffee and cake, chat with the locals and enjoy the occasional Irish music session there. Try the legendary chowder for lunch at Monks Pub and Restaurant on the pier (www.monks.ie), or the homemade pasta at l'Arco in the main street (www.burrenrestaurant.ie). Shop for local vegetables, free-range eggs and other delicacies supplied daily at Annie’s Honesty Box near New Quay (15 minutes away). See “bean to bar” chocolate making at Hazel Mountain on the way (www.hazelmountainchocolate.com). Stock up on fresh shellfish from Martina’s nearby, or drop in to Linnane's Lobster Bar, recently featured in "John Torode's Ireland", for locally sourced lobster and other treats (www.linnanesbar.com).
For centuries, the Burren Region has been a centre for Celtic artists, poets and artisans. From traditional music to limestone caves to ocean kayaking, from golfing and fishing to prehistoric monuments and hill-trekking, Ireland's Burren Region has something for everyone. This plateau of North-West Clare is part of the UNESCO Burren Geosite, internationally famous for its beautiful limestone landscapes and the remarkable flora of the region as well as its rich archaeological heritage (www.burrengeopark.ie).
We are 70Kms from Shannon Airport (70-80 minutes by car), 190 Kms from Cork Airport (2.5 hrs) and 237 Kms from Dublin Airport (2.75 hrs).
A car is recommended for full exploration of this lovely part of County Clare. We can do a car swap (manual drive).
