Our Top 5 Experiences while in Doolin

1. Visit The Cliffs Of Moher

The spectacular Cliffs of Moher stretch for 8km and rise up to 214 meters above the Atlantic Ocean. The interpretive centre at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience is housed at the centre of the underground building where a huge domed cave contains interesting displays, exhibits and interactive experiences.

Guerin’s Path: There is a cheaper car park near the visitor centre (from Doolin, about 300 meters after the Cliffs of Moher visitor centre take the little road on your right until the end).

Also, the official Cliffs of Moher carpark is free after 7pm in Summer and free after 6pm in Winter as the interpretive centre closes for the night. It’s truly beautiful to watch the sunset up there!

By Sea - Cliffs of Moher Cruises

The Cliffs of Moher Cruise is a spectacular journey of discovery along the 8km shoreline below the world-famous cliffs, which tower over 214 meters above the sea. Cruises can be booked by contacting:

Doolin2Aran Ferries also have an office inside Hotel Doolin (in the complex with the glass roof) where you can buy tickets. You can also purchase them online. Please note that during peak summer months tickets can sell out on the day.

Doolin Cliff Walk: High Recommended

Doolin Cliff Walk, is an opportunity to experience the wild beauty of the coastal countryside. The route alone a paved path is an easy walk with the sound of the ocean in your ears. Time: about 3 hours.

You can also get a guided walk by a local farmer and walking enthusiast:
Pat Sweeney (starting and ending in Fisherstreet, Doolin)

Take the Doolin Park and Ride shuttle bus to the Cliffs and walk downhill all the back to Doolin, it takes about 2.5 hours. Doolin Cafe can prepare a picnic to take with you.

2. The Aran Islands

The Aran Islands are a group of three islands located between Doolin and Galway. The language spoken on the islands is principally Irish but English is also spoken. The islands are an extension of the Burren, so you can witness the same type of unique geology there.

Inis Oirr **Highly Recommended

This is the smallest island and typically Irish in every way. The views from any vantage point are amazing and if you fancy you can rent a bike or pony and trap to enjoy and enjoy! The old castle is on top of the island, a cool ship-wreck and if it is a clear day you can see the Cliffs of Moher. There are a few pubs on the island serving great pub grub and charm.

Inis Meain

This is the middle island. Inis Meáin has two notable stone forts on the island, it is the least visited but beautiful nonetheless.

Inis Mor

The largest of the Aran Islands, famous for its strong Irish culture and language. There is a school on the island where you can learn Irish. On Inis Mór you will see the seven churches of Aran (from the 5th century), the lighthouse and the Aran sweater market. This island is famous for the annual Ted Fest (Father Ted from the Channel 4 television sitcom). Rock climbing and sea-diving are becoming popular activities on the island.

There are two companies of ferries at Doolin Pier:

You can book by phone or obtain tickets at the tourist information desk in Hotel Doolin.

Include the cliff cruise that sails underneath the cliffs on you ticket – it is spectacular! You can do the cliff cruise on the way back from Inis Oirr.

3.The Burren (www.burren.ie)

The word “Burren comes from an Irish word “Boíreann” meaning a rocky place. This is an extremely appropriate name when you consider the lack of soil cover and the extent of exposed Limestone pavement. However, it has been referred to in the past as “Fertile Rock” due to the mixture of nutrient rich herb and floral species.

The Burren encompasses 360km squared of gently inclined plateau with a further 200km squared of lowland to the east of the plateau. The bare surfaces are fretted with hollows and channels where acidic rainwater has selectively dissolved the rock. An extreme example of these micro landforms occurs on the coast.

There are a lot of hikes and walks to do in the Burren with extraordinary views. You can find more information on the internet by searching Mullaghmore and Black Head. Information and maps can also be found in the tourist office or in the Burren Centre.

Check out www.burren.ie for the great trails. Mulloughmore has beautiful trails and my favorite is Lough Avalla Farm Loop. If you follow the loop towards the end you will see a charming local farm house that runs a small coffee & cake shop that runs off donations.

Burren College of Art Newtown Castle, Burren, Co. Clare

One of the highlights of the north end of the Burren is this world-renowned art college. Newtown Castle is sheltered on the east of Formoyle Hill. After making your way up a long driveway this neat yet formidable castle comes into view. Newtown castle was built in 1550 for the O’Brien family.

This lookout tower is really worth visiting. We are lucky the grounds are owned by the art college, and they welcome casual visitors. In the spring and summer time the tower is open during the day-time, often displaying its most recent art exhibit. The surrounding vistas of the north Burren are visible from the top showing magnificent views.

4. Doolin Cave or Ailwee Cave

Doolin Cave

Doolin Cave is one of Europe’s most compelling cave attractions. It is a truly authentic experience. “The Great Stalactite” is an opportunity to see one the largest free hanging stalactites anywhere in the world.

Ailwee Cave

Aillwee Cave, close to Doolin Cave offers the ‘Birds of Prey’ experience where you can see up close the ancient art of falconry and see hawks and owls up close. Both centres offer guided tours, on site features include a café, farm and gift shop.
Open daily from 10am – 5pm but check times for holidays and special performances.

5. The Burren Perfumery & Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory

These are two wonderful businesses in our region and well worth a visit if you fancy a nice drive. The coast road on route is beautiful with great photo opportunities.

The Burren Perfumery lets you visit a working factory, all products are organic and plant based. Enjoy the amazing herb garden and the tasty offerings in the charming café. At Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory, you can see how the chocolate is produced and find some great gift ideas. There is also a great coffee shop here with gluten free options located in Carron (approx. 35km drive from your holiday home).

Water Sports

Ollie's Surf Academy & Lahinch Surf Experience

The beautiful setting in Lahinch is perfect for surfing and learning more about this exciting sport. Ideal for the beginner or improver get coaching from Professional big wave surfer Ollie O’Flaherty. The coaching specializes on technique and taking out small group or one to one. Rentals also available. Booking essential.

Ben's Surf Clinic

Ben’s Surf Clinic is Ireland’s hard board surf school. With over 23 years coaching experience, the clinic runs fun surf coaching sessions for all levels. Groups are kept small, 6 per coach with a focus on water time.

Based right on the sea front of Lahinch, Ben’s is the only surf school on the west coast of Ireland to provide its own indoor changing facilities and coaching space. It has a full range of soft and hard boards for lessons and rental. The duration of a lesson is 2 hours in the water with coaching throughout.

All coaches are level 2/3 ISA surf coaches and Ben is one of three ‘International Surf Association Level 1 Coach’, an ISA surf tutor and a level 3 Coach (Surf Instructor Trainer).

Cycling

West Coast Cycle Tours

West Coast Cycle Tours is a fun and highly-recommended bike tour operator based in County Clare. They offer memorable one day tours for small adult groups while you make our way along the Wild Atlantic Way. The award winning West Coast Cycle tours are committed to providing you with a unique and unforgettable holiday experience where fun, laugh and adventure are guaranteed.

Wine, Dine Doolin & Surrounding Areas

Evening Service

There are 4 pubs in Doolin, they all have traditional Irish music during the summer months and on weekends year-round from 9.30pm. They all do a great job, each of them having it’s own character for you to enjoy.

McGanns *Recommended

This lively spot is home to traditional Irish music and great food. The staff are warm and friendly. The menu carries many fish choices and traditional options like steak and bacon and cabbage. Open 7 days a week from 10am in the summer months and 12 noon in the winter months.

McDermotts

McDermott’s Pub is a traditional Irish Pub open from 10am daily. Crab claws delicious steaks and traditional Irish Guinness stew are included in the menu made from locally sourced ingredients. Food is served from 1pm – 9.30pm. A kid’s menu and vegetarian option are also available.

Fitz's Pub & Eatery in Hotel Doolin **Highly Recommended

Fitz’s Eatery is known for it’s wholesome food and is popular with both visitors and locals alike. Offering a calm and relaxed atmosphere you can enjoy your meal by an open fire whilst listening to some of the finest singers and musicians in nightly traditional Irish music sessions. Music starts each night at around 8pm.

O'Connors Pub

This traditional Irish Pub is the most famous of them all for its great food and music. Food is served from 10am – 9.30pm seven days a week. The traditional Irish music is excellent, attracting some of the best musicians from all over. At night it is well worth spending some time here during your visit to Doolin.

The Roadside Tavern **Highly Recommended

A traditional Irish pub, it is open from 10am. Kieran’s kitchen servers all fresh and locally sourced produce. Fish is all caught locally. Next door, take some time to browse The Burren Smokehouse, producers of award winning smoked salmon. Nightly, The Roadside Tavern has lively traditional music sessions starting at 9.30pm.

The Wild Honey Inn **Highly Recommended

This restaurant has just been awarded Ireland’s first Michelin Star Pub and it’s easy to see why after a visit. The Wild Honey Inn manages to combine refined bistro cooking, locally sourced fresh produce and the warmth of a local country pub setting. A visit here is a must. It is walk in only.

The Stonecutters Kitchen

This family run restaurant focus is on wholesome good food for all the family. Serving great traditional dishes the service is also excellent. There is a garden outside with a play area for children, weather permitting.

Ballinalacken Castle, Coast Road, Doolin

The Chef Michael Foley creates culinary delights by using the best local ingredients and dishes that are in season. Selections can include locally caught monkfish, veal and lamb. There is also an extensive wine list to accompany any dish. Open every day except Tuesday from 6.45 – 8.45pm. Booking essential.

Vaughan Anchor Inn

Denis Vaughan was awarded the title of ‘Seafood Chef of the Year’ by BIM Seafood circle. This restaurant serves some of the best seafood dishes in the area including choices like lobster and crab, Galway oysters and stir-fried prawns. Lunch is served from 12.30pm and dinner is served 6pm-9pm

Doolin Cafe *Recommended

Located beside McDermott’s Pub it is open from 9am – 6pm (closed on Tuesday). Here you will meet and enjoy Lorriane’s delicious homemade food. All ingredients are fresh and locally sourced. Eat in or out in this quaint setting, dishes include the perfect full Irish breakfast, quiches and a selection of salads and paninis. Closed mid-October - Mid-March.

Cliff Coast Coffee, Doolin Inn

Located on the way to the pier at the end of the Cliff walk. A continental breakfast is served from 8am-10am as well as pizzas, bagels and home baking during the day. A popular option is a take away picnic for your adventure. Open from 8am – 9pm. Free wi-fi.

The Ivy Cottage

This charming café is located in the heart of Doolin on Fisher Street. Enjoy fresh fish and hand cut chips every day until late. Try their homemade scones and sit in the beautiful tea garden and watch the world go by on Fisher Street. Open daily from 10am – 10pm.

The Doolin Cave Cafe

This café serves a selection of good sandwiches, quiches and salads as well as homemade baked goods, ideal with a break. Open daily from 10am – 5pm for tea, coffee and cakes. Lunch is served from 12pm – 5pm.

Some of the pubs in Doolin serve a Full Irish Breakfast from 10am (See listings above for pub food)

For Tea and Cakes

An Fear Gorta The Tea & Garden Rooms, Ballyvaughan *Recommended

Jane O’Donoghue and her team will welcome you to her Tea & Garden rooms in the heart of the Burren. Here they serve some healthy lunch options as well as amazing homemade cakes and pastries. On a fine day enjoy the amazing gardens outside. Open: Mid-April – Mid-October, daily 10am-5.30pm

Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory Bellharbour *Recommended

Although it is well signposted near north Clare’s famous Flaggy shore, John and Kasha Connolly’s charming little chocolate factory bakery and café comes as a welcome surprise. This charming setting is ideal for a break of wonderful gluten free baked goods and of course chocolate that is to die for!

Music

The pubs in Doolin offer traditional music nightly during the summer months and on weekends year-round, beginning at 9.30pm. Fitzpatrick’s music at Doolin Hotel starts earlier at 8pm.

The Traditional Music Shop

Magnetic Music Shop

These shops in Doolin sell all types of cassettes, CD’s as well as music and songbooks and instruments

Doolin Music House

Christy Barry and his partner Sheila open up their atmospheric home to visitors so they can experience local Irish music in the relaxed surroundings of their home. This is a chance to experience a traditional session around an open fire. Reservation recommended by phoning +353 (0)86 824 1085

Family Day Suggestions

Moher Hill Pet Farm & Leisure Centre

There is a local playground about 400m to the right as you leave the lodges. Perfect for a day out is Moher Hill Pet Farm & Leisure centre that has indoor and outdoor activities and play areas for children. It is located in Ballysteen, Liscannor

Lahinch Leisure World

Lahinch is also great for kids, it has a great beach, water sports and playground. Lahinch SeaWorld & Leisure Centre has both a large and kiddies pool.

Burren Nature Sanctuary, Kinvara, County Galway

Set on 50 acres of organic farm, the Burren Nature Sanctuary is a special place to experience the unique and diverse Burren landscape and botany. The ‘Botany Bubble’ houses the National Collection of Burren flora in season. Explore the nature trail through Burren habitats of shattered limestone, ancient woodland and a unique disappearing lake. Discover a wildflower meadow and fairy houses in the hazel wood where you will meet friendly goats, pigs and donkeys! There is more to explore in the adventure playground and indoor Nature Quest play area. Connect with yourself and each other as you enjoy the peace and tranquility of this ancient landscape. There is also a good café on site for after activity bites.

Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Bunratty, County Clare

Bunratty Castle is the most complete and authentic medieval castle in Ireland. Built in 1425 it was restored in 1954 to its former splendor. It now contains many 15th & 16th century furnishings and works of art which capture medieval life perfectly.

Walk back in time in the day and enjoy the Bunratty Folk Park. Stroll through this unique old village complete with an old post office, school and doctor’s office and many houses. The folk park includes a petting zoo with farm animals and is hugely popular. In the evening enjoy a medieval banquet in one of the most accurately restored castles in Ireland. The evening is complete with medieval performers who sing, dance and entertain you all evening.

Spend the morning in the folk park and choose another evening to experience the banquet in the castle.

7 Days in Doolin

Day 1

Begin with a stroll around the unique fishing village of Doolin. Follow up with a quick five-minute coastal drive bringing you to the world famous Cliffs of Moher that cover up to 8km of coast. The Cliffs of Moher also house an indoor interpretive centre with an interactive exhibition and on-site café.

For the second part of the day why not visit one of the world class caves – both Doolin and Aillwee caves are close by. On your return call in to Fitzpatrick’s Bar for some bar food and famous traditional Irish music.

Day 2

Aran Islands

Have an early start and head down to Doolin pier to take a ferry to the amazing Aran Islands and see Irish life from an unspoiled point of view. Enjoy a tour of the island by bicycle or pony and trap and have a day trip to remember! Take the Cliffs of Moher cruise on your return to experience the cliffs and sea life close up. Tickets can be purchased with Doolin2Aran Ferries or at the desk in Hotel Dolin where daily schedules are available.

Day 3

The Burren Region Burren.ie

The Burren Region can be seen on a loop drive that is simply magnificent. On this drive stop off and experience an array of unique wild flowers, archelogy and natural landscape. The landscape is a stark formation of grey contrasting at every turn with the sky, nearby sea views and the hills of Doolin. Hiking trails and walks can be done alone or in organized groups with a local guide.

Look for Mullaghmore Mountain, it is beautiful with 3 different trails to the top it is worth the 1-hour trek to the top! There is lots to explore in the Burren. Located in the heart of Carron, is The Burren Perfumery Shop. Visitor are encouraged to watch a free audio-visual presentation and encouraged to enjoy a wander of the shop and adjoining garden. Browse the workshop and have a chat with the staff where everything is made on site with ingredients from The Burren. In the summer time the organic Tea Room is open and serves delicious lunches and homemade cakes.

Day 4

Sea Cliff Walk to the Cliffs of Moher

Doolin Cliff Walk is a fantastic walk from Fisher Street in Doolin Village, along the sea cliffs leading to the Cliffs of Tip Enjoy a coffee and well-earned slice of cake half way at the Cliff Interpretive Centre Moher. Follow the trailed route along the coast and above the cliffs. Green fields of cows and sheep lead the way on one side and the pounding waves of the Atlantic Ocean on the other. This is the best way to experience the stunning rural beauty of the countryside in this part of Clare. This walk takes about 4-5 hours and starts and ends in Fisher Street Doolin. If you wish to cut this walk by half, take the Doolin Park and ride bus to the top of the Cliffs of Moher and walk downhill from there. The timetable is available from:

Day 5

While you are on the Wild Atlantic Way surrounded by the ocean why not spend some time at one of the many beaches. The beautiful blue flag beach at Fanore is a must. It is just a 15-minute drive north. To get to Fanore Beach use an access road off the R477 to the beach. You will see a caravan park is located adjacent to the dunes and you can park here. For the more adventurous enjoy a surf just 8km away at Lahinch loved for being a surfer’s paradise, children’s lessons are also available.

Indoor swimming at Lahinch SeaWorld provides lot of indoor children’s activities, for times check their website:

Scuba Diving at Doolin Pier

Surfing in Lahinch & Fanore

Spot Dusty the Dolphin

Dusty the bottle nose dolphin first appeared at Doolin pier in 2011 and spends a lot of time there. Dusty can be seen splashing about following the boats and at the end of the slipway with swimmers. Dusty is a female dolphin and is believed to be about 12-14 years old. She is about 10ft long. Catch a glimpse of her here!

Day 6

Galway Day Trip

Spot Galway across the water from Clare – then drive it! A day trip to Galway and even a little further to Connemara is not to be missed. You will be amazed what you can see on your day trip – from a cultural city to wild and stirring scenery and historic sites. Galway is as Irish as Ireland gets. Galway is the proud stronghold of Irish culture and language with winding medieval streets lined with pubs where you will hear everything from traditional music to indie rock.

A drive through Connemara ensures you will see the pony and stone walls it’s so famous for! Travel a little further to the port town of Clifden to reach Kylemore Abbey. This is one of Ireland’s great buildings. The magical castellated grey facade sits on a lake against a mountain backdrop. Spend some hours there and walk the grounds and Victorian walled garden.

Day 7

A Golf or Relaxation Day at the Falls Hotel Ennistymon

County Clare is a golfer’s dream and you are ideally located to access the many golfing treasures. Ennistymon has a championship course, if this is too challenging the town boasts an 18-hole links pitch and putt course.

At nearby Lahinch Golf Club just a 15-minute drive away choose from one of two superb golf courses here. The links championship course and the 18-hole castle course certainly won’t disappoint you. Booking essential phone +353 (0)65 708 1003 A 45-minute drive from Doolin Village Lodges is the Greg Norman designed Doonbeg Golf Club. Recently renamed to Trump International Golf Links, this course offers spectacular golfing in an amazing setting.

On you way home stop into The Pipers Chair, a local gift shop full of great keepsakes to remind you of your time in County Clare. The River Spa at the Falls Hotel offers over 50 treatments in this luxurious spa. After your treatment have a swim and enjoy lunch pool side. Booking essential