Day 3: The West Awaits

Into the West, today we are heading for Bunratty Castle and folk park and the spectacular west coast of Ireland to visit the world-famous cliffs of Moher. We’ll break up the journey with our first stop at Bunratty Castle and Folkpark, Bunratty castle is the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in Ireland. Built in 1425 it was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendor and now contains mainly 15th and 16th-century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art, which capture the mood of those times. Within the grounds of Bunratty Castle is Bunratty Folk Park where 19th century life is vividly recreated. Set on 26 acres, the impressive park features over 30 buildings in a ‘living’ village and rural setting. The famous Durty Nelly’s Pub and The Blarney Woolen Mills shop is next door, we can enjoy light refreshments and have a look around the shop before heading on to the Cliffs of Moher.

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s top Visitor attractions and designated UNESCO Geo Park. The Cliffs are 214m high at the highest point and range for 8 kilometres over the Atlantic Ocean on the western seaboard of County Clare. O’Brien’s Tower stands proudly on a headland of the majestic Cliffs. From the Cliffs, one can see the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, as well as The Twelve Pins, the Maum Turk Mountains in Connemara and Loop Head to the South. There are long walks along the cliffs ideal for stretching the legs and panoramic views out over the Atlantic Ocean.