Explore and Discover
Travellers to the Geopark soon realise that a memorable visit here is less about sightseeing and more about insight; less about a passive encounter and more about enthused interaction; less about listings and more about learning.
Visiting the Burren Geopark is an awe-inspiring and educational experience. In its stunning surrounds, you will find the longest cave system in Ireland, the largest stalactite in Europe, pristine beaches and sculpted limestone mountains. Uncover magical, meandering walkways, clints and grikes, the hidden churches and the sacred wells. Be amazed by some of the best-preserved early medieval forts and cashels in the country and a host of wild flora and fauna.
The Burren National Park is a gem at the heart of the Burren. While it falls within the area of the Geopark it is state-owned and managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) on behalf of the people of Ireland. The Burren National Park operate an Information Point in the nearby village of Corofin. A free bus shuttle service runs from the Burren National Park Information Point in Corofin to the trailhead at Gortlecka Cross, near Kilnaboy in the Burren National Park, daily from June to August, every 30 mins from 9.30am until 5pm. Due to lack of parking we strongly encourage using this option to visit the Burren National Park. For further information visit https://www.nationalparks.ie/burren/free-shuttle-bus-service-timetable/
Towns and Places to Explore
This small village is situated on the most easterly point of Ballyvaughan Bay in its own once oyster rich Pouldoody Bay. Find out more
Móinín an gCloigeann – the little bog of the skulls. Boston is a tiny village near the eastern edge of the Burren. To the south lies Lough Bunny, a calcareous lake of 480 acres and one of the deepest in the Burren. Find out more
An Carn – A heap of stones (to identify a chiefs grave). Carron village lies in the centre of the Burren overlooking the region’s largest Turlough. It is the only village in the high Burren and features the bare necessities of country life. Find out more
Only sixteen kilometres from Ireland’s attractive Atlantic coast, the village is the Southern Gateway to the famed Burren region. Find out more
Dubh Linn – The black pool. Doolin lies on the south-western extremity of the Burren and is internationally renowned as a centre of live Irish music, played in its many hugely popular pubs. It has a wide range of accommodation and good quality restaurants. Find out more
Ennistymon lies in the southern extremity of the Burren, and has a long history as a market town for the surrounding Burren community. Many of the shops retain their traditional shop fronts and doors. Find out more
The Caher River (the only river in the Burren to flow its entire course above ground) enters the sea here. Near the beach the site of an ancient house has been uncovered and excavated on the north bank. Find out more
Gort is a town founded on the settlements of former chieftains of the district. Gort is a now recognised heritage town; in the hinterland of Gort there is an amazing richness of historical places. Find out more
Kilfenora has it all…. the Pope as Bishop, a 10th Century Cathedral with 12th Century high crosses, the most famous céilí band in Ireland, the Burren Interpretative Centre, rare Ring Forts, Holywells, Castles, a 200 acre lake for trout fishing and boating, craft work, choice accommodation, good food, friendly people, dancing, fun and music sessions. Find out more
Killinaboy lies between Corrofin and Kilfenora. As you travel from the south you are greeted by the 11th century medieval Church and the remains of a round tower. Across the way is the former Post office which is currently the home of “X-PO”. Find out more
Lahinch village is a widely known seaside resort and is home to the world-famous Lahinch Golf Club. There is also a 1.6 km (1 mi) sandy beach at Lahinch. Lahinch has long been a popular destination for golfers, but in recent times, has also become a popular resort for surfing. Find out more
Lisdoonvarna is Irelands only Spa town. It lies on the southern edge of the Burren and became a popular health resort in the early nineteenth century thanks largely to its famous spa wells. Find out more
New Quay became the popular name for the village of Burrin after a new quay was built in the village in 1837. The area is rich in history with two late 18th century Martello towers. Find out more