Location
Local Attractions
In the heartland of Clare, Ireland – The Ritz in Lisdoonvarna is your perfect base from where you can explore all that our magnificent county offers.
Marvel at the Cliffs of Moher
Wild and rugged Ireland just doesn’t get any better than the mighty Cliffs of Moher – a natural wonder that welcomes more than one million visitors every year. Formed between 313 and 326 million years ago, the Cliffs rise to 702 feet at their highest point and span 8 kms. Their sheer scale, beauty and drama mean they welcome more than one million visitors every year.
From the Cliffs you’ll be treated to the most incredible views of the Aran Islands in Galway Bay, the Maumturks and Twelve Pins mountain ranges to the north in Galway, and Loop Head to the south.
Take time to enjoy an unforgettable cliff-top walk: more adventurous visitors will enjoy the full Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk that connects Liscannor and Doolin and takes around 4.5 hours to complete. The Cliffs are a special protected area (SPA), with over 20 species of seabirds, including Falcons, Kittiwakes and Puffins. Nature lovers will be fascinated by the wealth of fauna and some rare flora. You should also be sure to spend time in the award-winning Visitor Experience Centre, with fascinating exhibitions that bring the Cliffs to life. And why not take in the Cliffs from another angle – by taking a wonderful 1- hour boat trip from Doolin Pier, giving you the full 360-degree Cliff experience.
Explore the Beauty of the Burren
Perhaps nowhere will put time in perspective more than experiencing the Burren – a dramatic Karst limestone landscape that dates back 350 million years ago and is around 1500 hectares in size.
If you’re a keen walker, the Burren is paradise found and you’ll love discovering the history, geography and natural beauty of this haunting landscape. Nature lovers are treated to a huge array of wildflowers which are indigenous to the glacial landscape, along with plenty of wildlife. You can also get a taste of rural Ireland of the past as the area is dotted with old homesteads, a famine road and many monuments. There are several walking tours lead by locals who grew up here and who share their in-depth knowledge and love for the land.
Make sure to take in one of the highlights of the Burren: the Poulnabrone Dolmen is a fascinating portal tomb that dates to the Neolithic period.
Rock-climbing, hill-walking and cycling can all be enjoyed in the Burren. Discover the fun of an electric bike or choose from a selection of guided and self-guided tours. – you can even hire an electric bike and enjoy a guided
Embrace the
Romantic Aran Islands
A short ferry ride away lies the three Aran Islands – Inis Mór, Inis Meain and Inis Oirr, home of the famous Aran sweaters and a traditional Irish way of life. Inis Mór is a place of natural beauty, and it’s a real pleasure to take a horse and cart ride across the island, discovering the many ancient Christian, pre Christian and Celtic mythological monuments as you go. Inis Meain offers a real escape from the modern world and a chance to really get up close and personal with the Irish Cultural tradition. Inis Oirr is the smallest of the islands and has a distinct charm – with its classical fishing village, fishing boats and white sandy beach. The island also has a traditional music bar and arts centre.
Have Family Fun Days
A trip to the incredible Aillwee Caves is a must – a fascinating underground world of waterfalls, stalactites, beautiful caverns and strange formations. You’ll also see the hibernation chambers of Ireland’s long extinct brown bears.
Right next door is the fascinating Birds of Prey Centre – home to one of the largest and most varied collections of Birds of Prey in Ireland, including Eagles, Falcons, Hawks, Owls and Vultures. There are daily flying displays giving you the opportunity to see these beautiful birds in action.
Everyone will love a trip to Moher Hill Farm – a 14- acre open farm that lets children of all ages learn about their favourite animals and have the best fun! The farm also has in-door and out-door go-karts, a ball pool, miniature golf course, play area and bouncing castle.
And for something really different – take a boat trip from Kilrush marina or Carrigaholt for some quality dolphin watching.
Get Active
Rock-climbing, hill-walking, sea kayaking, horse-riding – it’s all here. We’re here to help you with all the information and contact details you need to arrange your activities.
Fish for the Best
Clare is home to some of the best fishing in Ireland, with the lakes of the River Fergus the top of every angler’s list. There is excellent angling for all species of coarse fish on the River Shannon and on its largest lake, Lough Derg, while the area also offers premium sea fishing – from Black Head to Liscannor and Lahinch.
Have a Foodie Feast
The Burren offers a tantalising array of locally-farmed and produced foods – from the famous cheese of St Tola Goat Farm to the Burren Smokehouse and Hazel Mountain Chocolate. Visit them all and enjoy! There are also several Food Trails, including the Market Garden Trail, Farm to Fork Trail and Taste of the Ocean Trail, while a popular Slow Food Festival is held in the Burren annually.
Love the History
There’s a wealth of historical gems all around Clare – from castles and ruins to ancient round towers. Make sure the Martello Tower, Kilfenora Cathedral, Dysert O’Dea Castle and the Ennis Friary are all on your list.
Hit The Beach
We’re proud to offer you some of Ireland’s best Blue Flag beach beauties – including Lahinch, Spanish Point, Fanore and White Strand.
