Attractions of COUNTY CLARE
6 Day Planner
Sunday
Begin your week with an introduction to County Clare and the famous Burren by visiting The Burren Centre in Kilfenora. With all your new expertise, treat yourselves by visiting the amazing Aillwee Caves nearby, exploring the inner reaches of where ancient Irish bears used live. The Aillwee Centre also has a falconry, a tasteful gift shop and home-made cooking for all times of the day. On your way home make sure not to miss the famous Poulnabrone megalithic tomb.
Monday
Discover the local archaeology around Corofin by visiting the castle and Abbey of Dysert O’Dea and the medieval Monastery at Kilmacduagh with its Pisa-like leaning tower. For those wanting to trace any Irish roots, drop into Corofin’s own Genealogical centre www.clareroots.com in the old Church. There is also a charming pottery shop adjacent.
Tuesday
Brace yourselves for the spectacular Cliffs of Moher at the edge of the Atlantic www.cliffsofmoher.ie . There is an interpretative centre well worth visiting where they also do a good lunch. Next, drive down to the coastal village of Doolin, famous for its traditional Irish music, where you can enjoy a pint of Guinness in one of the local Pubs. Nearby you can explore another fascinating cave complex in Doolin . For intrepid travellers, this is also where you can get a ferry to the Aran Islands. On the way back pay a visit to the Burren Smoke house which will set off all your dinner senses.
Wednesday
A great fun day is in store for you all in southern County Clare. Make your way to the Craggaunowen Pre-historic park where you can experience the Irish Crannog, the Ring Fort, the Medieval Castle as well as the canvas ‘Brendan Boat’ which sailed across the Atlantic in the 1970, replicating the same journey which is said to have been made by St. Brendan a thousand years previously. A few kilometres away is your evening’s entertainment – Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. Book in advance to get your places at their Banquets inside the old Castle – a real medieval experience.
Thursday
The day of opposites! Enthral your senses at the enchanting Burren Perfumery and have a relaxing lunch in their lovely tea rooms. Those who would rather have their adrenaline senses activated may decide to head to the famous beaches of Lahinch and surf!; For golfers it is obviously the legendary links course at Lahinch that you must master on such a day.
Friday
We
think that this would be a great day to see the karst Burren landscape
by foot or bike. There are walking tours for all levels either
very near to Corofin or further towards the coast, near Fanore – the
choice is yours. Bikes can be rented in Ballyvaughan
Alternative Day - Lake Fishing
Inchiquin Lake is a beautiful lake to boat and fish in. If you just want to pleasure boat around the lake, picnic on the Rock Island or explore the ruins of Inchiquin Castle on a sunny day – it is a real treat to the senses.
If you want to fish for trout our advice is to seek the assistance of the local ghillie, who will be able to advise on the best fishing spots, tackles, rods etc. Please contact Toddy O’Loughlin on +353 (0)86 8814370 or his son Tommy O'Loughlin on +353 (0) 86 8779977.
Rates based on rental of boat, gear and ghillie:
- Half Day for 1 or two persons € 80
- Full Day for 1 or two persons € 130
Boats can be rented from O’Callaghan’s “Day Break” convenience store on Corofin main street for €30 a day – Tel.: 065 6827047