County Clare Itinerary and Travel Planner 2024

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County Clare
is Amazing
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Your Itinerary and Trip Planner
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County Clare
Ireland
I Played
Ennis
This Fiddle's home is
County Clare
I Made
I Played
Famous
Ennis
This Fiddle's home is
County Clare
I Made
Famous
I Played
This Fiddle's home Ennis
County Clare
Ennis
This Fiddle's home is
County Clare
Ennis
County Clare
This Fiddle's home is
VisitClare.ie

R
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Itinerary and Trip Planner
Welcome to County Clare - the Home of Great Times
County Clare, despite its compact size of less than
130 km from end to end, encompasses all the
elements for an enchanting holiday experience in
Ireland. Our wonderful seascapes and landscapes
come together to create a natural backdrop
for a wide range of exciting adventures, all
complemented by the warmest of welcomes.
harmonising with the stunning
backdrops of our unique and varied
living landscapes. Let the vibrant
energy of County Clare awaken your
senses and create lasting memories.
We recommend bringing this
companion trip planner guide with
you as you explore Clare, allowing
A r a n I s l a n d s
it to serve as a helpful reference
throughout your journey. However,
due to space limitations, we encourage
you to visit www.VisitClare.ie for more
comprehensive information and
details.
Get ready to uncover the magic of
County Clare. The welcome awaits!
Within County Clare, you’ll discover a
wealth of captivating attractions and
activities. Prepare to be impressed
by the stunning coastal and lakeside
scenery, golden beaches, and the
world-renowned Burren and Cliffs of
Moher UNESCO Global Geopark.
Explore the rich historical sites, such
as Bunratty Castle, Scattery Island, Inis
Cealtra (Holy Island), the scenic Loop
Head Peninsula, and the captivating
Aran Islands. Immerse yourself in the
vibrant pulse of traditional Irish music
and dance, which can be found in
lively pubs and celebrated festivals
throughout the county. Embrace
the outdoors with invigorating
activities, ranging from breathtaking
coastal walks along the wild Atlantic
coastline to thrilling water sports on
the magnificent Lough Derg. Indulge
in unique craft shopping, savour
delicious local cuisine, and experience
the genuine warmth and hospitality of
County Clare.
Conveniently accessible through
Shannon International Airport, County
Clare welcomes visitors from around
the world with ease.
Using this Trip Planner
To ensure you make the most of your
visit, in this guide, we have divided
County Clare into five distinct areas for
your convenience: North, South, East,
and West Clare, as well as the vibrant
capital of Ennis. This trip planner acts
as a prompt, providing you with a
glimpse of what each area has to offer.
As you embark on your journey
through Clare, we invite you to
celebrate our creative vitality. Discover
Clare and immerse yourself in a
land that resonates with the history
of ancient stones. Experience the
deep-rooted traditions of our music,
EXPERIENCE
CLARE
IRELAND
ENNIS
Fly Shannon
Dublin
NORTH
ATLANTIC
OCEAN
L O O P H E A D
KILKEE
KILRUSH
S h a n n o n E s t u a r y
CLIFFS OF MOHER
DOOLIN
SPANISH
POINT
THE
B U RRE N
UNESCO Global Geopark
LISDOONVARNA
ENNISTYMON
LAHINCH
West
Clare
BALLYVAUGHAN
North
Clare
SHANNON
BUNRATTY
East
Clare
South
Clare
MOUNTSHANNON
KILLALOE
I am a fiddle. I am captivated by the soul-stirring landscapes
of County Clare. From the stunning Atlantic seascapes to
the mystic Burren, the tranquil Lough Derg, and the green
countryside, Clare’s diverse beauty inspires the melodies that
flow through my strings. Within these melodies, the stories of
the people and the echoes of the past come alive, creating a
tapestry of music that invites all to experience the enchantment
of County Clare.
ENNIS
O
L
G
U
G
D
H

North Clare: Nature’s Playground Awaits
CLIFFS OF MOHER
THE
B U RRE N
UNESCO Global Geopark
BALLYVAUGHAN
LISDOONVARNA
DOOLIN
ENNISTYMON
LAHINCH
Discover the enchanting beauty of
North Clare, where nature has
carved out a playground of endless
activities. From the captivating
Burren and Cliffs of Moher
UNESCO Global Geopark to the
stunning Wild Atlantic Way coastline,
this region offers a wealth of highlights
North
Clare
to explore. Here are ten must-see attractions and
experiences in North Clare:
1. Burren and Cliffs of Moher
Geopark: Immerse yourself in the
ancient wonders of the Burren and
Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global
Geopark, where neolithic tombs,
towering cliffs, golden beaches,
and relics of Clare’s ancient past
await.
2. Cliffs of Moher: Experience the
awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher,
Ireland’s most visited natural
attraction. Marvel at their grandeur
and enjoy panoramic views from
O’Brien’s Tower.
3. Explore Burren’s Underworld:
Delve into the depths of the
Burren’s underworld by visiting
the fascinating show caves of
Aillwee Cave and Doolin Cave,
where stunning formations and
underground wonders await.
At Aillwee, visit the Bird’s of
Prey Centre.
4. Golden Beaches: Soak up the
sun and enjoy the pristine sandy
beaches of Lahinch and Fanore,
both boasting Blue Flag status.
Whether you’re a swimmer or a
surfer, these coastal gems offer
endless enjoyment.
For more information on North Clare go to VisitClare.ie
or scan the QR Code
5. Doolin and the Aran Islands:
Embark on a boat trip from Doolin
to the Aran Islands, a cluster of
stunning islands steeped in Gaelic
culture and history. Explore ancient
forts, picturesque landscapes, and
immerse yourself in island life.
6. Traditional Music Delights:
Indulge in the vibrant music
scene of North Clare, where lively
traditional music sessions and
festivals can be found in villages
like Doolin, Ennistymon, Kilfenora,
and Lahinch. Let the melodies and
rhythms sweep you away.
7. Culinary Journey: Treat your taste
buds to the culinary delights of
North Clare. From charming cafés
to casual gastro pubs and fine
dining restaurants, you’ll discover
a world of exquisite flavours and
locally sourced ingredients.
8. Outdoor Adventures: Get
active and embrace the outdoor
adventures North Clare has to offer.
Surf the waves in Lahinch and
Fanore, kayak along the rugged
coastline, explore scenic walking
and cycling trails, try your hand at
fishing or golf at Lahinch, one of
the world’s finest link courses.
9. Captivating Gems: Explore the
ancient wonders of Poulnabrone
Dolmen and Caherconnell Fort,
where you’ll be transported back
in time to Ireland’s rich history.
Enjoy the Burren Perfumery, where
you can indulge in the aromatic
delights of handcrafted perfumes
inspired by the unique landscape
of the Burren.
10. Warm Hospitality: Immerse
yourself in the warm hospitality and
friendly atmosphere of North Clare.
Connect with the local community,
strike up conversations with the
locals, and let their stories and
traditions enrich your journey.
I am the Uilleann Pipes. Inspired by North Clare’s rugged
cliffs, rolling hills, and breathtaking beauty, I bring forth the
music that echoes the rich heritage and timeless traditions
of this captivating area. Through my haunting tunes, I tell
the stories of the land and its people, capturing the essence
of North Clare’s deep-rooted connection to its cultural
heritage.

West Clare: A Journey into Unspoilt Beauty
L O O P H E A D
KILKEE
SPANISH
POINT
KILRUSH
West
Clare
1. Explore the wonders of the
Loop Head Peninsula. Unveil
the captivating allure of the Loop
Head Peninsula, a slender finger of
land pointing towards the ocean,
offering panoramic cliff views,
aquatic activities, and serene
beauty spots. Don’t miss the iconic
Loop Head Lighthouse, standing
tall at the very tip, providing
amazing vistas.
2. Marvel at the spectacular
Atlantic coastal scenery along
the breathtaking Wild Atlantic Way,
as you journey along the West
Clare coast road. This picturesque
route features stunning landscapes.
Be sure to stop by the magnificent
Vandeleur Walled Garden and
Visitor Centre in Kilrush, a hidden
gem of natural beauty.
Embark on a remarkable
adventure through the
unspoilt beauty of West
Clare, where the Shannon
Estuary and the Atlantic Ocean
meet to create a landscape of
awe-inspiring cliffs, pristine beaches, and
endless natural wonders. Discover the highlights
that make this region truly remarkable:
3. Embark on a scenic drive or cycle
along the Shannon Estuary Way,
where the River Shannon merges
with the wild Atlantic, unveiling
delightful towns, picturesque
villages, and charming piers. Enjoy
the vibrant music scene, where
traditional tunes fill the air.
4. Encounter the famous Shannon
Dolphins on a boat trip from Kilrush
or Carrigaholt, and witness one of
Europe’s largest resident dolphin
populations in their natural habitat.
For more information on West Clare, go to VisitClare.ie
or scan the QR Code
5. Indulge in the serenity of West
Clare’s Blue Flag beaches like
Kilkee and Spanish Point, offering
pristine sands and crystal-clear
waters for family enjoyment and
relaxation. Whether it’s a day of
sunbathing, swimming, or building
sandcastles, these coastal havens
provide the perfect escape.
6. Immerse yourself in thrilling
water activities, from swimming
and windsurfing to aqua parks,
kayaking, rib adventures, and sea
angling, as you embrace the area’s
stunning aquatic playground.
7. Embark on exhilarating land
adventures, exploring scenic
walking trails, stunning cliff walks,
and teeing off at top golf courses
like Doonbeg and Spanish Point
links, Kilkee and Kilrush. Or,
enjoy horse riding through the
picturesque countryside.
8. Take a short boat trip to
Scattery Island, where a 6thcentury
monastic settlement and
rich history await your exploration.
Discover the fascinating remnants
of this ancient site.
9. Experience the warmth of West
Clare’s towns and villages, from
Carrigaholt’s seafood delights to
Doonbeg’s scenic charms, Kilkee’s
Blue Flag beach, Kilrush’s maritime
heritage, Miltown Malbay’s vibrant
music scene, including the Willie
Clancy Summer School and
Spanish Point’s sandy shores.
10. Savour the region’s local cuisine,
indulging in mouth-watering
seafood dishes made from the
freshest catch of the day. Let your
taste buds explore the flavours of
West Clare as you sample traditional
Irish dishes, visit charming cafes, and
dine at restaurants offering a taste of
the area’s culinary delights.
I am a tin whistle, and the enchanting landscapes of West
Clare infuse my notes with a touch of wildness and serenity.
The crashing waves, the rolling hills, and the warm embrace
of traditional music shape the melodies that resonate through
the air, inviting hearts to dance and souls to soar. With each
breath, I carry the essence of this remarkable area.

East Clare: Discover Lakeside Tranquillity and Activity
MOUNTSHANNON
East
Clare
KILLALOE
1. Experience the amazing
Lough Derg, the largest lake
on the River Shannon. Enjoy
sailing, windsurfing, canoeing,
kayaking, paddle-boarding, and
fishing. Don’t miss the blue-flag
lake beaches at Ballycuggeran
and Mountshannon, and the
exhilarating Aqua Park at
Ballycuggeran.
Welcome to East Clare. This
captivating area beckons with
its unspoilt beauty, inviting
visitors to immerse themselves in
a world of serene lakes, meandering
rivers, vibrant culture, and rich
musical heritage. Explore the
treasures of East Clare with these ten compelling
reasons to visit:
2. Choose to Cruise: Embark on a
tranquil one-hour boat tour with
Killaloe River Cruises and immerse
yourself in the serene beauty of
East Clare as you gracefully glide
along the majestic River Shannon
and picturesque Lough Derg.
3. Explore the legacy of Brian
Ború, Ireland’s great High King,
who ruled from his birthplace in
Killaloe, County Clare, from 1002
to 1014. Discover his impact, and
don’t miss the Brian Ború Festival
in Killaloe in July.
4. Cast your line and go fishing in
East Clare’s 40 lakes, including
Lough Derg, which boasts
abundant stocks of pike, bream,
tench, roach, and more. Enjoy the
tranquillity of nature as you wait
for the perfect catch.
For more information on East Clare, go to VisitClare.ie
or scan the QR Code
5. Delve into East Clare’s intriguing
history and visit sites that bring
the past to life. Explore St Flannan’s
Cathedral and Oratory in Killaloe,
marvel at St Cronan’s 10th Church,
Ireland’s oldest church in continuous
use.
6. Indulge your senses in East Clare’s
local cuisine. Savour the flavours of
locally sourced ingredients prepared
by skilled chefs. Discover charming
cafes, cosy pubs, and elegant
restaurants that offer a true taste of
Clare.
7. Explore the charming towns
and villages that dot the East
Clare landscape. Discover the
twin towns of Killaloe and Ballina,
with their picturesque setting on the
banks of the River Shannon. Visit
Mountshannon, a lakeside village
offering a range of amenities and a
gateway to Inis Cealtra (Holy Island).
8. Immerse yourself in the vibrant
tradition of East Clare’s traditional
music. From lively pub sessions to
wonderful festivals like the Feakle
Festival, the melodies of fiddles, tin
whistles, bodhráns, and accordions
will fill the air. Join in and let the
rhythm of the jigs and reels sweep
you off your feet.
9. Indulge in a spot of craft
shopping in charming towns
and villages. Discover unique
handmade treasures, intricate
ceramics, beautiful textiles, handmade
chocolates and other locally
crafted goods.
10. Discover diverse walking trails
along Lough Derg or venture into
the rolling countryside and enjoy
short loop walks, such as the 12
O’Clock Hills, Ballycuggeran,
Flagmount or Woodpark Loop
Walks. For a more challenging
walking adventure, explore sections
of the Lough Derg and East Clare
Way, two long-distance trails.
I am a bodhrán, echoing the vibrant rhythms of East Clare. I am
inspired by the spirited energy that permeates this enchanting
area. From the lively trad sessions in the cosy pubs of Feakle to
the joyful céilís in Tulla, the music pulsates with the heartbeat of
the land. The rolling hills, shimmering Lough Derg, and the River
Shannon provide a captivating backdrop that fuels my beats,
creating an irresistible urge that will have you tapping your feet
and joining in the celebration.

South Clare: Rich in History and Beauty
BUNRATTY
South
Clare
1. Immerse yourself in the rich
history of the acclaimed 15th
century iconic Bunratty Castle,
Ireland’s most complete and
authentic medieval castle, step
back in time as you explore its
majestic halls adorned with
furnishings and tapestries that
evoke the spirit of a bygone era.
Experience the allure of
South Clare, a region that
entices visitors with its
enchanting charm. From
the remarkable Bunratty
Castle to the lively traditional music sessions that
echo through its charming towns, South Clare offers
a wealth of delightful attractions and experiences.
Discover ten reasons to explore the rich history,
landscapes, and vibrant culture of the area.
2. Discover Bunratty Folk Park,
in the shadow of the castle, where
you can experience village life
in 19th century Ireland. Wander
through the recreated village
streets and interact with the village
characters. By night, experience the
lively ‘Ceili in the Kitchen’ dinner
and entertainment show.
3. Indulge in a medieval banquet
at either Bunratty or Knappogue
Castle. Experience the hospitality,
entertainment, and timeless
atmosphere of medieval Ireland
while enjoying a feast of fine food
and captivating performances.
For more information on South Clare go to VisitClare.ie
or scan the QR Code
4. Test your skills at two top-class
golf courses: Dromoland Castle Golf
and Country Club, nestled within a
450-acre estate, and Shannon Golf
Club, known for its challenging layout
and wonderful views of the Shannon
Estuary.
5. Drive or cycle along the
picturesque Shannon Estuary Way,
where the serene Shannon meets
the wild Atlantic. Discover delightful
towns, charming villages, and
picturesque piers along the route.
6. Uncover the hidden gem of
Craggaunowen, where a crannog
(lake dwelling) offers a glimpse into
the ancient Celtic way of life. Explore
the ringfort, delve into the souterrain,
and marvel at Craggaunowen Castle.
7. Delve into the mysteries of the
Late Bronze Age as you wander
through the impressive remains of
Mooghaun Hillfort, an enduring
testament to Ireland’s prehistoric
past. Or, immerse yourself in the
tranquil ambience of Quin Abbey, a
magnificent 15th-century Franciscan
abbey, and stroll amidst its preserved
ruins.
8. Explore a variety of gift shops
and boutiques at Bunratty Castle,
Bunratty Woollen Mills, Ballycasey
Craft Centre, Ballymorris Pottery,
Shannon Town Centre, and more.
9. Embark on scenic walks in
South Clare, including the
picturesque Shannon Estuary
Loop near Shannon Town. Visit
the Shannon Aviation Museum in
Shannon to discover the history of
aviation in the region.
10. Immerse yourself in the vibrant
traditional music scene that
permeates South Clare. Experience
lively sessions in local pubs and
cultural events, including the
renowned Durty Nelly’s in Bunratty,
where the captivating tunes of
traditional Irish music fill the air.
As a timeless harp resonating in the soul of South Clare, I
draw inspiration from the picturesque landscapes and ancient
heritage that surround me. From the lush green fields to the
tranquil shores of the Shannon Estuary, every gentle breeze
whispers melodies into my strings. When I take my place
within the storied walls of Bunratty Castle, the enchanting
melodies of the harp weave through the air, adding to the
mesmerising ambience of the castle’s Medieval Banquets.

Everyone loves Ennis, County Clare’s Capital Town
Ennis, Clare’s picturesque and historic
market town, invites you to step back
in time and immerse yourself in its
ENNIS
rich heritage. Dating back to the 13th
century, Ennis is the capital of Clare
and exudes charm with its narrow
lanes, bow-ways and historical monuments.
Designated Ireland’s friendliest town, here are
10 things to do in Ennis and nearby:
1. Explore Ennis Friary: Discover
ancient Ennis Friary, a medieval
Franciscan friary founded in
the 13th century. Marvel at the
intricate stonework and soak in the
atmosphere of this historic site.
2. Take a Guided Walking Tour:
Embark on an enchanting
walking tour of Ennis, guided
by knowledgeable locals who
will unveil the town’s fascinating
history and lead you to notable
heritage sites and hidden gems.
3. Visit Clare Museum: Journey
through 6,000 years of County
Clare’s history at the Clare Museum.
Discover authentic artefacts and
audio-visual presentations that
bring the county’s history to life.
4. Experience Music and Cultural
Entertainment: Visit glór, the
flagship arts and entertainment
venue, for a diverse program
featuring local and international
artists. Enjoy traditional Irish céilí
dances and music sessions at Cois
na hAbhna, or join the lively trad
sessions in the character-filled
pubs.
For more information on Ennis, go to VisitClare.ie
or scan the QR Code
5. Discover Shopping Treasures:
Ennis, officially known as Ireland’s
friendliest place, boasts excellent
shopping options. Stroll along
its charming streets and explore
boutique fashion shops and craft
outlets, where you can find unique
treasures to take home.
6. Enjoy Culinary Delights: Indulge
in a culinary adventure. Ennis offers
a wide range of dining options,
from casual eateries to formal
restaurants. Sample Irish, European,
and Asian cuisine while enjoying
warm hospitality.
7. Explore the Outdoors: Embrace
the natural beauty surrounding
Ennis. Engage in outdoor activities
such as golfing at Ennis or
Woodstock golf courses, horse
riding, and enjoying the lush John
O’Sullivan Park with its woodland
and parkland. Water enthusiasts
can also indulge in water sports at
Ballyalla Lake.
8. Enjoy Festivals and Events:
Ennis hosts a variety of festivals
and events throughout the year.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere
and celebration of music, arts,
culture, and heritage that make
these events truly special.
9. Experience Gaelic Games:
Catch a thrilling match of hurling
or football at Cusack Park, where
Clare’s teams showcase their skills
during the spring and summer
months. Immerse yourself in the
passion of Ireland’s national sports.
10. Discover Nearby Attractions:
Ennis serves as a perfect starting
point to explore County Clare. With
Ennis as your base, take advantage
of its central location and embark
on day trips to nearby attractions
like the Bunratty Castle and Folk
Park, the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren,
Loop Head Peninsula, and Lough
Derg.
I am a Squeezebox, also known as an Accordion.
I draw inspiration from the rich cultural heritage, lively
music sessions, and vibrant atmosphere of Ennis. The
spirited traditions of Irish music and dance, and the warmth
of the local community all influence the joyous melodies
that resonate from my keys.

10 Tips for Planning Your Visit to County Clare
1
Take your time and
stay awhile in County
Clare. Don’t try to
rush through Ireland;
instead, spend some
quality time exploring
the magic of Clare
and its numerous
attractions.
2
If arriving by air,
Shannon International
Airport is the easiest
gateway to County Clare.
It offers pre-clearance and
is much easier to move
through with direct flights
from the U.K., Europe,
and North America. Most
car rental companies are
conveniently located at the
airport.
3
County Clare is wellconnected
by road
and rail, making it easily
accessible from any part
of Ireland. Drive times
from major cities like
Dublin, Cork, Galway, and
Limerick are short and
range from one hour to
less than three hours.
4
Within County Clare,
everything is within
reach. For example,
driving from the capital
town of Ennis to the Wild
Atlantic Way coastline
or Ireland’s Hidden
Heartlands takes circa 30
minutes, allowing you to
explore Clare without long
travel times.
5 6
There is no wrong time
to visit Clare. Summer
months offer warmer
weather and longer days,
while autumn and spring
bring beautiful colours and
fewer crowds. Winter is a
great value season, offering
stunning landscapes and
cosy accommodations.
County Clare enjoys
a mild climate, but
weather changes
are common. Bring
layered clothing to
adapt to our changing
conditions.
7
Clare offers a wide
range of attractions,
including the famous
Cliffs of Moher, the unique
Burren, Lough Derg, Loop
Head Peninsula, Bunratty
Castle and Folk Park, and
more. However, while
exploring the highlights,
don’t be afraid to get lost
and discover hidden gems
throughout the county.
8
We are loved
by foodies! Food
enthusiasts will be
delighted with the
diverse and high-quality
culinary offerings in
County Clare. From
seafood to vegetarian
options, there is
something for everyone
to enjoy.
For more information on Clare, go to VisitClare.ie
or scan the QR Code
9
Accommodation
options in Clare
cater to all
preferences and
budgets, ranging
from luxury castles
and lakeside and
seaside hotels to
quirky glamping
pods and holiday
homes.
Plan Your Visit with www.VisitClare.ie,
10
Your Ultimate Resource for County Clare
Trip Planning
County Clare is an
excellent destination
for remote working
and workcations,
with a network of
DigiClare Hubs providing
flexible workspaces and
facilities to support your
productivity while enjoying
the beauty of the county.
When it comes to planning
your trip to County Clare,
there’s no better tool than
VisitClare.ie. This allinclusive
website provides
a wealth of information
on attractions, activities,
dining options, upcoming events, and a diverse selection
of accommodations. But what also sets it apart is the
innovative “Show Nearby” map feature. Simply input
your desired destination in Clare, and the map will display
all the nearby attractions, activities, and dining options
within your specified distance parameters.
TIP: Make sure to explore the ‘highlights’, the ‘great ideas’
and the event sections for additional inspiration.
See www. VisitClare.ie
1 2

Ennis
The
Burren
Brilliant
activities
County
Clare is
Amazing...
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see, do and enjoy?
Golden
beaches
Amazing
attractions
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Lough
Derg
Great
walks
Fab
food
Loop
Head
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