12 Top Tourist Places to See in County Clare

County Clare, located on Ireland’s stunning west coast, offers visitors a wealth of natural wonders, historic sites, and cultural attractions. From dramatic sea cliffs to ancient monuments, this picturesque county has something for every traveler. Here are 12 of the top tourist places you won’t want to miss when exploring the beauty and heritage of County Clare:

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most iconic and popular natural attractions. Here are some key facts about this stunning coastal landmark:
Location and Geography
The Cliffs of Moher are located on the southwestern edge of the Burren region in County Clare, Ireland. They stretch for about 14 kilometers (9 miles) along the Atlantic coast. At their highest point, the cliffs rise 214 meters (702 feet) above the Atlantic Ocean.

Geological Features

The cliffs were formed over 300 million years ago during the Upper Carboniferous period.
They consist mainly of beds of Namurian shale and sandstone.
The rock layers visible in the cliffs provide a record of ancient river delta deposits.

Wildlife and Ecology

The Cliffs of Moher are home to one of the largest seabird colonies in Ireland.
Over 20 species of seabirds can be observed, including Atlantic puffins, razorbills, kittiwakes, and guillemots.
The area is designated as a Special Protection Area for birds and wildlife.

Tourism and Visitor Experience

The Cliffs of Moher attract over 1.5 million visitors per year.
Key viewing points include O’Brien’s Tower, built in 1835.
A visitor center provides exhibits and information about the cliffs’ geology, wildlife, and cultural significance.
The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk offers a 20km trail with panoramic views.

Cultural Significance

The cliffs feature in Irish folklore and legends, including tales of the mythical hag Mal.
They have appeared in several films, including “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” and “The Princess Bride”.

Conservation and Sustainability

The Cliffs of Moher are part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark.
Efforts are made to protect the cliffs’ ecology and manage tourism sustainably.
The Cliffs of Moher offer visitors a chance to experience breathtaking natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and a glimpse into Ireland’s geological past and cultural heritage. Whether viewed from the cliff-top trails or from boats below, they provide an unforgettable encounter with the raw power and majesty of Ireland’s Atlantic coastline.

The Burren is a unique and fascinating landscape located in County Clare, Ireland. Here are some key points about this remarkable region:

Geological Features

The Burren is a karst landscape formed from limestone rock that was created around 350 million years ago in a tropical sea near the equator.
It covers approximately 530 square kilometers of exposed limestone pavement.
The landscape was shaped by glacial activity during the last Ice Age, which ended around 15,000 years ago.
It’s characterized by bare limestone pavements, caves, cliffs, and underground rivers.

Flora and Fauna

Despite its rocky appearance, the Burren hosts an incredibly diverse array of plant life, including Arctic, Alpine, and Mediterranean species growing side-by-side.
Over 70% of Ireland’s native plant species can be found in the Burren.
The area is home to unique wildlife, including various bird species and insects.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The Burren has been inhabited for over 6,000 years and contains numerous archaeological sites.
Notable prehistoric monuments include the Poulnabrone Dolmen, a portal tomb dating back over 5,800 years.
The area has a rich tradition of farming, including the ancient practice of “Winterage” where cattle graze the hills in winter.

Conservation and Tourism

Part of the area is protected as Burren National Park, established in 1991.
The Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark was established in 2011 to promote sustainable tourism and conservation.
Various walking trails, caves, and visitor centers allow tourists to explore and learn about the unique landscape.

Unique Features

The Burren is home to Europe’s largest turlough (seasonal lake).
It’s considered a “glaciokarst” region, combining features of both glacial and karst landscapes.
The word “Burren” comes from the Irish “Boireann” meaning “rocky place”.

The Burren offers visitors a chance to experience a truly unique landscape, rich in natural beauty, biodiversity, and cultural heritage. Its limestone pavements, diverse flora, archaeological sites, and stunning coastal views make it one of Ireland’s most compelling destinations for nature lovers, geologists, botanists, and history enthusiasts alike.

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into medieval Irish history and 19th century rural life. Here are the key highlights:

Bunratty Castle

Built in 1425, it’s considered the most complete and authentic medieval castle in Ireland.
The current structure is the last of four castles built on this strategic site overlooking the Shannon Estuary.
Restored in the 1960s and furnished with Lord Gort’s collection of medieval furniture and artifacts.
Features include the Great Hall, dungeons, and four towers with spiral staircases.
Visitors can explore the castle interior and get a sense of 15th-16th century life.

Folk Park

Spans 26 acres and features over 30 buildings in a recreated 19th century village setting.
Includes rural farmhouses, village shops, and streets furnished as they would have appeared in the 1800s.
Demonstrates various aspects of Irish rural and village life based on social standing and wealth.
Highlights include the village street with colorful storefronts, a pet farm, and traditional farmhouses.

Visitor Experiences

Medieval banquets are held nightly in the castle’s Great Hall, featuring period entertainment and food.
The Folk Park offers interactive experiences like traditional music sessions and demonstrations of rural life.
Special events and reenactments are held throughout the year.
There’s a café and gift shops on site selling traditional crafts and souvenirs.

Historical Significance

The site has been occupied since 970 AD, initially as a Viking trading camp.
It changed hands many times between Norman, English and Irish control over the centuries.
The castle played a role in various conflicts, including the Irish Confederate Wars of the 1640s.

Location and Access

Located in County Clare, near Shannon Airport.
Open year-round, with extended hours during peak tourist season.
Popular stop for tourists exploring Ireland’s west coast and Wild Atlantic Way.

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park offers an immersive, family-friendly experience that brings Irish history to life through its well-preserved castle and recreated 19th century village. It’s an excellent introduction to Irish culture and heritage for visitors of all ages.

Loop Head Peninsula

Loop Head Peninsula, located at the western tip of County Clare, Ireland, is a captivating destination that offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and diverse activities. Here are some highlights of this remarkable area:
Natural Beauty

Dramatic Cliffs and Seascapes: The peninsula is renowned for its stunning cliffs and turbulent seascapes. The Loop Head Drive offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Shannon Estuary, with scenic stops along the way.
Wildlife: The area is a haven for birdwatchers and marine life enthusiasts. It hosts a large colony of seabirds, and the waters are home to around 160 bottlenose dolphins, which can be seen on Dolphinwatch boat trips from Carrigaholt.
Flora: The headland is bright with wildflowers such as pink thrift, yellow vetch, and white campion, adding to its picturesque charm.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Loop Head Lighthouse: This iconic lighthouse, dating back to 1854, stands at the tip of the peninsula. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about its history and enjoy breathtaking views from the balcony.
World War II Relics: The large “E-I-R-E” sign on the clifftop is a relic from World War II, used to alert pilots that they were entering neutral airspace.
Star Wars Filming Location: Loop Head was one of the filming locations for “Star Wars: The Last Jedi,” adding a touch of cinematic allure to the area.
Activities and Experiences
Outdoor Adventures: The peninsula offers a range of activities, including sea angling, kayaking, coasteering, and scuba diving. Jacques Cousteau once declared it the best diving spot in Europe.
Walking and Cycling: There are numerous walking trails, including the Loop Head Heritage Trail, and a 65km cycleway that offers gentle terrain and stunning coastal views.
Local Cuisine: Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and local produce, with options ranging from casual dining to more refined culinary experiences.
Awards and Recognition
European Destination of Excellence: Loop Head has been recognized for its sustainable tourism practices, earning accolades such as the European Destination of Excellence Award in aquatic tourism.
Best Place to Holiday in Ireland: In 2013, Loop Head was named the “Best Place to Holiday in Ireland” by The Irish Times.
Loop Head Peninsula is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. Its dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, historical landmarks, and outdoor activities make it a perfect spot for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike.

Doolin Cave

Doolin Cave, located near the village of Doolin in County Clare, Ireland, is a remarkable natural attraction known for its stunning geological features and rich history. Here are the key highlights of Doolin Cave:

The Great Stalactite

One of the Longest Free-Hanging Stalactites: The cave is home to the Great Stalactite, one of the world’s longest free-hanging stalactites. Measuring approximately 7.3 meters (24 feet) in length and weighing around 10 tonnes, it is the longest stalactite accessible to the public in Europe.
Formation: The stalactite formed over hundreds of thousands of years from the deposition of calcite by dripping water. It continues to grow, albeit very slowly, with an average growth rate of about 10cm per 1,000 years.

Historical Discovery

Discovery: The cave was discovered in 1952 by two students, J.M. Dickenson and Brian Varley, who were exploring the Burren area. They uncovered the cave by following a stream that disappeared into the ground, eventually leading them to the chamber housing the Great Stalactite.
Development: In the early 2000s, the cave was developed as a show cave, despite initial controversy regarding environmental concerns. It officially opened to the public in 2006, with a visitor center added in 2010.
Visitor Experience
Guided Tours: Visitors can take fully guided tours that delve 200 feet underground through a series of passages and pathways, culminating in the awe-inspiring sight of the Great Stalactite.
Eco Trail: Above ground, the Doolin Cave Eco Trail offers a 1km looped path featuring indigenous flora and fauna, providing a scenic complement to the underground experience.
Doolin Cave Pottery: The visitor center includes a gift shop selling unique pottery made from glacial clay found within the cave. Each piece is crafted by resident artist Caireann Browne and reflects the textures of the cave’s formations.

Additional Attractions

Farmyard Nature Trail: Surrounding the visitor center, this trail offers views of Ballinalacken Castle and includes a fairy village created by local school children.
Café: The on-site café, Wild at the Cave, provides light refreshments, making it a pleasant spot to relax before or after the tour.
Awards and Recognition
Ecotourism: Doolin Cave has received multiple awards for its commitment to sustainable tourism, including the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence and a Gold Award in the Best for Natural Heritage Tourism category.

Doolin Cave offers a unique and educational experience, showcasing one of nature’s most impressive formations and providing a memorable adventure both below and above ground. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Burren and County Clare.

Aillwee Cave, located in the heart of the Burren region in County Clare, Ireland, is one of the oldest and most fascinating cave systems in the country. Here are the key highlights of Aillwee Cave:

Geological and Historical Significance

Formation: The cave was formed by water flowing through cracks in the limestone hill over a million years ago. It features an underground river, a waterfall, and impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
Discovery: Aillwee Cave was discovered in 1944 by a local farmer named Jack McGann, who followed his dog into the cave. However, it wasn’t until 1973 that the cave was fully explored and mapped.
Bear Bones: The cave contains the remains of brown bears, believed to be over 10,000 years old, suggesting that it may have been one of the last refuges for bears in Ireland.

Visitor Experience

Guided Tours: Tours of Aillwee Cave last about 30-45 minutes and take visitors through a series of passages, showcasing the cave’s geological formations, underground river, and waterfall. The knowledgeable guides provide insights into the cave’s history and geology.
Accessibility: The cave is well-lit and accessible, making it suitable for visitors of all ages. The tour includes walking over bridged chasms and viewing the frozen waterfall and bear remains.
Birds of Prey Centre
Interactive Displays: The Birds of Prey Centre at Aillwee Cave offers daily flying displays featuring various raptor species, including eagles, falcons, hawks, and owls. These displays are both educational and entertaining.
Hawk Walks: Visitors can book a private guided Hawk Walk, where they can handle and fly hawks under the supervision of an experienced falconer. This unique experience provides a deeper understanding of these magnificent birds.

Additional Attractions

Farm Shop: The Aillwee Burren Experience includes a farm shop where visitors can watch traditional cheese-making methods and sample award-winning Burren Gold Cheese. The shop also offers a variety of local artisan food products and homemade fudge.
Woodland Walk: The site features an accessible, self-guided biodiversity walk through an eight-acre woodland, showcasing the native flora and fauna of the Burren region.
Location and Access
Scenic Views: Perched high on the Burren mountainside, Aillwee Cave offers spectacular views of Galway Bay and the surrounding limestone landscape.
Proximity: The cave is located near the town of Ballyvaughan, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the Burren and the Wild Atlantic Way.

Awards and Recognition

Europa Nostra Prize: The access building for Aillwee Cave has been awarded the Europa Nostra prize for its architectural design and contribution to heritage conservation.
Sustainable Tourism: The Aillwee Burren Experience is committed to sustainable tourism practices, contributing to the conservation of the Burren’s unique environment.

Aillwee Cave is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in geology, history, and nature. Its combination of underground wonders, interactive bird displays, and local culinary delights make it a unique and enriching experience for all visitors.

Poulnabrone Dolmen is one of Ireland’s most iconic and significant prehistoric monuments. Here are the key points about this remarkable Neolithic portal tomb:

Location and Age

• Located in the Burren region of County Clare, Ireland
• Dates back to the Neolithic period, approximately 4200-2900 BC
• It is the oldest dated megalithic monument in Ireland.

Structure and Design

• Classified as a portal tomb or dolmen
• Consists of a large capstone (about 4 meters long) supported by two portal stones and a backstone
• The chamber is surrounded by a low cairn of stones
• Originally, the structure would have been covered with soil and topped by a cairn.

Archaeological Significance

• Excavated in 1986 and 1988 by archaeologist Ann Lynch,
• Remains of at least 33 individuals were found, including adults and children.
• Radiocarbon dating suggests the tomb was used for burials over a 600-year period (3800-3200 BC).
• Various artifacts were discovered, including stone tools, pottery, and jewelry.

Insights into Neolithic Life

• Analysis of the remains revealed information about health, diet, and lifestyle of Neolithic people.
• Evidence of hard physical labor and relatively short lifespans was found.
• Signs of violence were present on some remains, including a flint arrowhead embedded in a hip bone.

Cultural and Tourism Importance

• One of the most photographed archaeological sites in Ireland.
• A popular tourist attraction, second only to the Cliffs of Moher in the Burren region.
• Provides valuable insights into Neolithic burial practices and social structures.

Conservation

• The site is a National Monument in state care since 1985.
• Managed by the Office of Public Works.
• A visitor center and parking facilities have been added to accommodate tourists while preserving the site.

Poulnabrone Dolmen stands as a testament to the engineering skills and cultural practices of Ireland’s Neolithic inhabitants, offering a window into life over 5,000 years ago. Its enduring presence in the stark Burren landscape continues to captivate visitors and researchers alike.

Kilkee Beach is one of Ireland’s most popular and picturesque coastal destinations. Here are the key highlights of this beautiful Blue Flag beach:

Location and Features

• Located in the horseshoe-shaped Moore Bay in County Clare, on Ireland’s west coast.
• Part of the Wild Atlantic Way coastal route.
• A crescent-shaped sandy beach stretching about 1.5 km long.
• Protected by the Duggerna Reef, making it one of the safest bathing spots on Ireland’s west coast.

Activities and Attractions

• Swimming and bathing (lifeguards on duty during peak season).
• Water sports including surfing, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
• Scuba diving (considered one of the best diving spots in Europe).
• Cliff walks offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Rock pooling in the famous Pollock Holes at low tide.
• Beach activities like sunbathing and building sandcastles.

Facilities and Amenities

• Several public car parks available near the beach.
• Public toilets and disabled facilities.
• Cafes, restaurants, and shops in the nearby town of Kilkee.
• Kilkee Waterworld, an indoor water park, for rainy day entertainment.

Historical and Cultural Significance

• Popular tourist destination since Victorian times.
• Attracted famous visitors like Charlotte Bronte and Alfred Lord Tennyson.
• Home to a statue of actor Richard Harris, unveiled by Russell Crowe.

Environmental Recognition

• Holds Blue Flag status, indicating high environmental and quality standards.
• Part of a Special Protection Area for birds and wildlife.

Nearby Attractions

• Kilkee Cliff Walk, offering panoramic views of the coastline.
• Loop Head Peninsula and Lighthouse.
• The Burren region, known for its unique landscape and biodiversity.

Kilkee Beach offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, safe swimming conditions, and a range of activities, making it an ideal destination for families, water sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.

Ennis Friary

Ennis Friary is a significant historical and architectural site located in the town of Ennis, County Clare, Ireland. Here are the key points about this remarkable medieval monument:

History and Founding

• Founded in the mid-13th century by the O’Brien dynasty, rulers of Thomond.
• Grew rapidly, housing 350 friars and a renowned school of 600 pupils by 1375.
• Continued to function for a time after the suppression of monasteries in the 16th century.
• Handed over to the Church of Ireland in the early 17th century.
• Fell into ruin after a new Church of Ireland building was constructed in the late 19th century.

Architecture and Features

Contains exceptional 15th and 16th-century sculptures carved in local limestone.
Notable sculptures include:

• St. Francis displaying the stigmata.
• Christ with bound hands on an arch between the nave and transept.
• Impressive sacristy with a ribbed, barrel-vaulted ceiling.
• Beautiful east window with five lancets illuminating the chancel.
• Gothic bell tower, likely added in the 15th century.

Current Status and Visitor Information

• Now a ruined structure but open to the public as a National Monument.
• Managed by the Office of Public Works since the late 19th century.
• Formally returned to the Franciscan Order in 1969, though still state property.

Admission fees: Adult €5.00, Group/Senior €4.00, Child/Student €3.00, Family €13.00.
Open daily from March 15 to November 3, 2024 (10:00 – 18:00, last admission 17:15).

Visitor Experience

• Guided tours available.
• Exhibits stone carvings in the now-roofed nave.
• Part of the range houses a restaurant called “The Cloister”.
• Located in the center of Ennis town, easily accessible.
• Can be viewed in about an hour.

Ennis Friary offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s medieval religious and architectural heritage, with its impressive sculptures, Gothic features, and rich history making it a must-see attraction for those interested in Irish history and culture.

Scattery Island

Scattery Island, also known as Inis Cathaigh in Irish, is a fascinating historical site located in the Shannon Estuary off the coast of County Clare, Ireland. Here are the key highlights of this remarkable island:

Historical Significance

• Founded as a monastic settlement by St. Senan in the 6th century.
• Served as an important ecclesiastical center in early Christian Ireland.
• Suffered Viking raids in the 9th and 10th centuries.
• Captured by Brian Boru from Norse control in 977 AD.
• Continued as a significant religious site through medieval times.

Key Features and Attractions

• Ruined monastery with 6th-century origins.
• Round tower (one of the tallest in Ireland at 36 meters).
• Remains of several medieval churches and oratories.
• 19th-century lighthouse.
• Napoleonic-era artillery battery.
• Abandoned village with cottages from the last inhabitants.
• Rich biodiversity and wildlife, including bird species.

Visitor Experience

• Accessible by ferry from Kilrush Marina (20-minute journey).
• Guided tours available explaining the island’s history and monuments.
• Visitor center with exhibits on the island’s past.
• Walking trails to explore the island’s natural beauty.
• Opportunity to see diverse flora and fauna.

Cultural Significance

• Associated with legends of St. Senan, including his battle with the Cathach monster.
• Last inhabited Irish island on the west coast to be abandoned (1979).
• Preserves a snapshot of traditional island life in Ireland.

Practical Information

• Managed by the Office of Public Works.
• Open to visitors seasonally (typically May to September).
• No permanent residents, but facilities for day visitors/
• Visitors advised to bring food and water, wear suitable footwear.

Scattery Island offers a unique blend of early Christian heritage, medieval history, and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination for those interested in Irish history, archaeology, and ecology.

Craggaunowen

Craggaunowen is a fascinating archaeological open-air museum located in County Clare, Ireland. Here are the key highlights of this unique attraction:

Historical Significance

• Founded as an archaeological open-air museum by John Hunt in the 1960s.
• Named after the 16th-century Craggaunowen Castle, which is a centerpiece of the site.
• Showcases reconstructions of ancient Irish dwellings and artifacts from prehistoric to early Christian periods.

Key Features and Attractions

Craggaunowen Castle

• Built around 1550 by John MacSioda MacNamara.
• Restored in the 1960s by John Hunt.
• Now houses medieval artifacts and offers panoramic views.

Crannog

• Reconstruction of an artificial island dwelling from the Iron Age.
• Demonstrates how ancient Irish people lived on lakes for protection.

Ring Fort

• Reproduction of a 4th-5th century farmer’s house.
• Includes a souterrain (underground chamber) used for storage and refuge.

Brendan Boat

• Hide boat used by Tim Severin in 1976-77 to recreate St. Brendan’s legendary voyage to America.
• Bronze Age and Celtic Exhibits.
• Reconstructions of ancient cooking sites (fulacht fia).
• Demonstrations of Celtic farming and crafting techniques.

Wildlife

Home to rare animal breeds like wild boar and Soay sheep.

Visitor Experience

• Guided tours available with costumed animators bringing history to life.
• Interactive displays and demonstrations of ancient crafts and lifestyles.
• Walking trails through wooded grounds.
• Educational programs for school groups.

Practical Information

• Located near Quin village, about 10km east of Ennis.
• Open seasonally, typically from Easter to late August/early September.
• Admission fees apply, with family and group rates available.
• On-site facilities include a tearoom and gift shop.

Craggaunowen offers visitors a unique “Living Past Experience,” allowing them to step back in time and explore Ireland’s rich prehistoric and early Christian heritage in an engaging, hands-on environment.

Father Ted’s House, officially known as Glanquin Farmhouse, is an iconic location for fans of the beloved Irish sitcom Father Ted. Here are the key details about this famous site:

Location and Access

Location: Glanquin Farmhouse is situated in Lackareagh, County Clare, Ireland.
Coordinates: The exact coordinates are 53°00’35.1″N 9°01’48.2″W.
Access: The house is on private property, and visitors are not allowed to enter the house or grounds. It is important to respect the privacy of the owners and the local community.

Visiting Tips

Parking: There is no designated parking at Father Ted’s House. Visitors are advised to arrive early to find a safe place to pull up and take photos from a distance without blocking gates or driveways.
Respect: As the house is a private residence, it’s crucial to respect the property and the surrounding area. Avoid trespassing and be mindful of local residents.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Television Fame: The house served as the exterior filming location for the Parochial House in the sitcom Father Ted, which aired from 1995 to 1998. The show follows the misadventures of three Catholic priests and their housekeeper on the fictional Craggy Island.
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Cultural Impact: Father Ted has a cult following and is considered one of the best comedies ever made. The house remains a nostalgic pilgrimage site for fans of the series.

Nearby Attractions

Cliffs of Moher: A 40-minute drive away, offering stunning coastal views.
Doolin: A 33-minute drive, known for its traditional Irish music and proximity to the Aran Islands.
Poulnabrone Dolmen: A 20-minute drive, an ancient portal tomb in the Burren region.
Aillwee Cave: A 29-minute drive, featuring underground tours and a Birds of Prey Centre.
Additional Information
Afternoon Tea: Previously, visitors could book afternoon tea at the house, but this is no longer available as of 2021.
Filming Locations: Other filming locations for Father Ted include Vaughan’s Pub in Kilfenora and various sites in the Burren and County Clare.
Father Ted’s House remains a cherished landmark for fans of the show, offering a glimpse into the world of Craggy Island. While access is limited, the journey to see this iconic farmhouse is a memorable experience for many visitors.

From iconic natural landmarks to medieval castles, prehistoric tombs to scenic coastal villages, these 12 attractions showcase the diverse appeal of County Clare. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, history and archaeology, or simply soaking in the wild beauty of the Irish landscape, Clare offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. Let’s explore these top places that make County Clare such a captivating destination.