Map

Burren Beauty Drive

The Burren region of Clare, pictured below, extends over 160 square kilometres. Mostly made up of bare, grey limestone rock, the weather has cracked and creviced the rock over time to produce amazing patterns on the land. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the quieter waters of Galway Bay, the Burren is a rock garden of extraordinary proportions. The drive will bring you through mountainous terrain, beautiful sea views and unspoilt valleys. Your route encircles the Burren, beginning at the ancient cathedral town of Kilfenora with its excellent Burren Interpretive Centre.

The road westward leads through the spa town of Lisdoonvarna. Signposts for Fanore and Black Head show the way to the coast. Stop anywhere and enjoy the Atlantic air and amazing landscape. When travelling around Black Head watch out for the little lighthouse below the road and the distant hills of Connemara across Galway Bay.

A few kilometres westward lies the charming coastal village of Ballyvaughan, a perfect spot to break your journey and to explore the Aillwee Cave. From Aillwee the road south will bring you past the ancient monuments of The Poulnabrone Dolmen and Caherconnell Stone Fort. You could also visit the delightful Burren Perfumery in Carran for an extra sensory experience. To the south of Poulnabrone the ruins of Lemaneh Castle stand by the roadside.

A right turn there would bring you back to Kilfenora completing the circuit. But the left turn sets you on the way to Ennis. Passing the beautiful Lough Inchiquin you come to Corofin where the Clare Heritage Centre offers a genealogical research service. Round off your trip in Ennis where you'll have your choice of accommodation and fine dining.

Burren Beauty Drive Downloadable Map

Editorial piece taken from the Irish Times newspaper on Wednesday 5th August 2009