The Burren
The Burren Limestone formation spans over 1,800 hectares across Counties Galway and Clare, It is renowned for its unique landscape and flora. Its name, derived from the Irish word “boíreann” meaning “rocky place,” reflects the stark beauty of the limestone pavements. Known for its striking beauty, the region is a haven for biodiversity, home to a unique blend of Arctic, Alpine, and Mediterranean plant species. The Burren’s rich archaeological history includes megalithic tombs, ring forts, and churches.
Burren Village - Kinvara
The beautiful village of Kinvara – a gateway to the Burren! Kinvara is a stunning coastal village in County Galway, Ireland, known as the “Gateway to the Burren.” With its picturesque harbor, vibrant culture, and rich history, it’s a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the west of Ireland.
Burren Discovery Trail
The Burren Discovery Trail is a scenic route that takes visitors through one of Ireland’s most unique and fascinating landscapes. Stretching across County Clare and parts of County Galway, the Burren is famous for its vast limestone pavements, rare flora, ancient archaeological sites, and breathtaking coastal views.
Explore Further
This Burren Discovery Trail Map guides you through the stunning Burren region, showcasing unique limestone landscapes, ancient sites and rich biodiversity. check out the scenic routes, walking trails and key attractions!
Ailwee Burren Experience
Explore one of the oldest caves in Ireland, featuring bridged chasms, unique formations and a waterfall, as well as the remains of a European Brown Bear, dating from 10,500 to 4,500 years ago. Meet majestic eagles, owls, vultures and hawks at the Ailwee Birds of Prey Centre. Don’t forget to stop by the Farm Shop and try the Burren Gold Cheese, a certified GEO Food made with ingredients produced within the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark.
Galway City
Experience the vibrant charm of Galway City, a lively cultural hub on Ireland’s west coast. The “City of Tribes” lends medieval history with a dynamic arts scene, colourful streets, and a thriving food culture. Stroll through the Latin Quarter, visit the iconic Spanish Arch, or enjoy live traditional music in its many pubs. With festivals, markets, and a stunning waterfront, Galway offers something for everyone
Burren Perfumery
The Burren Perfumery is a family-run company dedicated to creating high-quality, small-batch perfumes and organic skincare products inspired by the unique landscape of the Burren. Visitors can watch perfumes being blended and bottled in the Perfume Room, see organic creams and balms handcrafted in the Blending Room, and explore the beautifully cultivated Organic Herb Garden. The rose-covered Tea Rooms offer homemade soups, fresh-baked breads, and organic treats.
Burren Visitor Centre
The Burren Visitor Centre, located in the historic village of Kilfenora, is a self-funded, not-for-profit community cooperative that has been run by the people of the Burren for over 50 years. As the licensed information point for the Burren and North Clare, it offers visitors expert guidance, maps, and discount vouchers. The centre is home to the immersive Burren Exhibition, which delves into the region’s unique landscapes, biodiversity, and ancient history. Visitors can also enjoy village tours, the Kilfenora Céilí Band Exhibition, local crafts, and homemade food in the charming tea rooms.
Caherconnell Fort and Sheepdog Demonstrations
Caherconnell Fort is a remarkably well-preserved 10th-century stone fort, offering a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s past. Visitors can witness Clare’s only sheepdog demonstration, where expert shepherds and their highly trained collies work in perfect harmony to herd sheep across the Burren landscape. After the show, enjoy meeting the friendly dogs and adorable baby lambs. Beyond the fort, scenic trails wind through classic Burren terrain, offering stunning views at every turn.
Hiking
The Burren offers some of Ireland’s most spectacular hiking trails, from the panoramic summit of Abbey Hill to the dramatic cliffs of Eagles Rock and the iconic limestone terraces of Mullaghmore. Walk through ancient landscapes, past megalithic tombs, rare wildflowers, and breathtaking views stretching to the Atlantic. Full directions to these hikes from Burren Nature Sanctuary can be found in our visitor booklet.
Doolin Cave
Discover the captivating beauty of Doolin Cave, where you can explore a magical limestone world, home to Europe’s largest stalactite, the Great Stalactite, standing at 7.3 metres. Take a journey down 125 steps into a 350-million-year-old landscape, then relax with hand-baked cakes in the café. Explore the Eco-Trail, and take home unique pottery as a lasting memory. Just 20 minutes from the Cliffs of Moher, Doolin Cave offers a truly unforgettable experience.
Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre
The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre is a unique eco-friendly facility, built into the hillside to blend seamlessly with the landscape. Inside, visitors can explore an interactive exhibition showcasing the cliffs’ geology, wildlife, and history, as well as the thrilling Ledge 4D Experience. The centre also features a café, gift shop, and visitor services, including guided tours and mobility assistance.
Dunguaire Castle
Dunguaire Castle, built in 1520 by the O’Hynes clan on the shores of Galway Bay, is a significant site in Ireland’s literary history. In the 1920s, it became a gathering place for literary figures like W.B. Yeats, Lady Gregory, and George Bernard Shaw during the Celtic Revival. Visitors can attended banquets held from April to October, showcasing local food and entertainment. Make sure to ask about the sponge baby while you’re there!
Doolin Ferry Co.
Doolin Ferry offers the fastest route to the Aran Islands, with trips ranging from 15 to 35 minutes. Visit Inis Oírr (Inisheer) in 15 minutes, Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) in 25, or Inis Mór (Inishmore) in just 35 minutes. Combine your journey with a scenic boat tour of the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s top attractions, and you may even spot some adorable puffins along the way!
Poulnabrone Wedge
Poulnabrone Wedge Tomb, located in the heart of the Burren, is one of Ireland’s most iconic megalithic monuments. Dating back over 5,000 years, this ancient burial site consists of massive limestone slabs forming a striking portal tomb. Surrounded by the Burren’s unique limestone landscape, this free to visit landmark is a must see during your Burren adventure!
Corcomroe Abbey
Corcomroe Abbey is an early 13th-century Cistercian monastery located in the north of the Burren region. Once known as “St. Mary of the Fertile Rock,” the abbey’s intricate stone carvings are among the finest in Ireland. The abbey constitutes as one of Ireland’s National Monuments and is free to visit by the public.
