The Burren National Park Ireland a surreal landscape
The Burren County Clare Ireland is full of the myths and legends of Ireland. Discover the glorious The Burren together with the Cliffs of Moher was awarded UNESCO recognised Global Geopark status in 2011 and everyone needs to come and see the magic hidden inside this jaw-dropping landscape.
The name Burren means “great rock” Boireann is Irish Gaelic. The Burren County Clare covers between 250 square kilometres (97 sq mi) and 560 square kilometres (220 sq mi). The main area of the Burren circles the pretty villages of Lisdoonvarna, Ballyvaughan, Kilfenora, Tubber, Corofin, and down into Kinvara in Galway.
Part of the Burren forms the Burren National Park which is the smallest of Ireland’s six national parks. The full area of the Burren is encompassed by the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark. The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk from Doolin is a great place to stop overnight and walk to the Cliffs of Moher.
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What is the Burren famous for?
The Burren karst landscape is internationally famous for its moon-like landscape, the unusual combination of flora and fauna, wildflower meadows and woodland that grows within the karst rock and thousands of archaeological sites.
What is the Burren National Park?
The Burren National Park is situated on the southeastern side of the Burren, in north Co. Clare. To get to the park, from Corofin, take the R476 to Kilnaboy. In Kilnaboy, take the right turn (L1112) before the ruined church. The Burren is a karst landscape on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way which means it is an area of land made up of limestone.
Limestone is a soft rock that dissolves in water or in Ireland’s case rain and the Atlantic Ocean. A karst landscape is worn away from the top of the rocks or from underneath as in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula where the limestone is worn away to create cenotes or underground lakes. In the Burren, the karst has worn away to flat moon-like rocks with caves, underground streams, and the folds and cracks you see in the surfaces of the Burren.
A karst landscape is a lesson in geology as it contains dolines and poljes which are enclosed depressions, deep gorges, dry valleys, and disappearing lakes known as turloughs. These run alongside hundreds of kilometres of caves, drumlins, and moraines.
Visiting the Burren
The Burren Eco Tourism Network
The Burren Ecotourism Network has more than 70 members, which include well-known tourist attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher and the Ailwee Caves. Over the past decade, the project has been recognized extensively nationally and internationally for its pioneering approach to sustainable tourism development. For example, the network was awarded Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel for Community Tourism 2021.
The Great Stalactite – the Burren caves
The Burren is home to NW Europe’s longest stalactite – the 7m long ‘Great Stalactite’ in Doolin Cave. The Great Stalactite at 7.3 metres (23 feet) is the longest free-hanging stalactite in Europe.
The Ailwee Caves
One of the oldest caves in Ireland The Ailwee Caves are the best known of the many cave systems in the Burren. Glencurran cave near the village of Carran was recently excavated and turned up many finds from the Bronze age onwards. The caves can be found in the heart of the Burren about 40 minutes from Galway.
There is a tour of the Caves with an expert guide which takes around 30 minutes the tour encompasses chasms, a roaring waterfall, and a silent frozen one. You will see stalactites and stalagmites and even some extinct brown bear bones.
Slieve Carran Nature Reserve
The Slieve Carran Nature Reserve is a hidden gem nestled within the captivating landscape of the Burren. This pristine nature trail reserve is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of flora, fauna, and geological wonders. The highlight of Slieve Carran is undoubtedly its rich biodiversity, with rare and protected species calling this place home.
From the elusive pine marten and the majestic peregrine falcon to the delicate orchids and colorful butterflies, the reserve teems with life at every turn. The ethereal silence of the landscape adds to the mystique, allowing visitors to connect with nature on a profound level. Whether you’re an avid birder, a botany enthusiast, or simply seeking solace in the natural world, the Slieve Carran Nature Reserve offers an unforgettable experience that celebrates the beauty and resilience of Ireland’s wild places.
Hiking trails in the Burren National Park
Exploring the Burren Way
The Burren Way trailhead is a 114km walking route that takes in the best of what the Burren area has to offer, from the coast at Doolin to majestic wild-flower-decorated limestone terraces and from the remains left by the Neolithic inhabitants of the Burren to the rich heritage of early Christian churches and sites. The long views from the top of Mullaghmore, one of the easternmost Burren hills, are particularly spectacular in good weather.
Blackhead Looped walk
The Blackhead loop crosses through the Gleninagh Pass, and into Feenagh Valley along the shoulder of Cappanwalla mountain and it is a 15.2-mile loop trail. The walk encompasses some of the finest views of the Burren and the Atlantic to be found on the Wild Atlantic Way. The Murroghtoohy Viewpoint is found on the coast road between Ballyvaughan and Fanore a stunning spot for photos of the ocean and you may even catch some wild goats on film as well.
Mullaghmore Loop
The Mullaghmore Loop is a captivating trail nestled within the remarkable landscape of the Burren in County Clare, Ireland. This rocky place takes hikers on a journey through a diverse tapestry of ancient geological formations, lush flora, and panoramic vistas. As you start this hike, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of limestone pavements, karst terrains, and dramatic cliffs that overlook the shimmering Atlantic Ocean.
The Mullaghmore Loop offers a moderate to challenging hiking experience, with its undulating pathways and occasional steep ascents. Along the way, you’ll encounter vibrant wildflowers, moss-covered rocks, and unique plant species that have adapted to the Burren’s peculiar environment. As you reach the summit of Mullaghmore Mountain, a breathtaking panorama unfolds before your eyes, revealing the vastness of this awe-inspiring region. The Mullaghmore Loop is not only a trail for outdoor enthusiasts but also a gateway to experiencing the raw beauty and geological wonders of the Burren, leaving a lasting impression on all who venture along its path.
Burren Farm Experience
Looking at the lunar landscape of the Burren you would be hard-pressed to understand how they farm here but farm they do. The wide valleys and uplands of the Burren hide fertile grasslands that are perfect grazing for beef and lamb.
Cathal O’Rourke, a fifth-generation farmer, and his wife Bronagh, a regional eco-tour guide, to a working family farm in the Burren. Learn about the ancient farming practice of transhumance which is the seasonal movement of livestock (such as sheep) between mountain and lowland pastures either under the care of herders or in company with the owners that help conserve and protect the landscape.
Turlough Mountain Cairns
Turlough Mountain contains several large stone mounds like those at Newgrange that are believed to be Neolithic. These cairns are found on Sliabhcarran, Turlough Mountain, and Blackhead on the northern edge of the Burren. The large cairn on Turlough Mountain is surrounded by a collection of some 160 round hut foundations, quite similar to those in Sligo.
Turlough Mountain has a large settlement site, possibly a stone-age village of some 100 huts. Not far east of the huts is a huge circular hillfort, which may also date from the Neolithic era.
Poulnabrone Dolmen
One of the most well-known of Ireland’s stone cairns Poulnabrone which means the “hole of sorrow” is one of the 10 dolmens that has been excavated and was found to contain the remains of 21 people.
Poulawack Cairn
Poulawack can be found to the north of Poulnabrone and was excavated in 1934. The burials at Poulawack date back over 2000 years.
Cahercumeen Stone Fort
Cahercumeen, a Bronze or Iron age stone fort can be seen near the centre of the Burren. Surrounding the fort are hut sites a medieval field systems and it is believed that the site was lived in until the 16th century.
Church Ruins & high crosses
One of three ruined churches can be found at Oughtmama on the edge of the Burren. There are also several early Christian sites in the area which include the Celtic high crosses at Kilfenora and you will often pass a holy well or a ruined church when walking the Burren.
Saint Tola’s Cross at Dysert O’Dea
Be careful when attempting to see the Saint Tola cross close up as there is often a bull present in the field. The easiest way to visit is from Dysert O’Dea Castle.
The east face of the cross is dominated by two high-relief figures. There is a depiction of the crucifixion, a Bishop who it is believed represents the founder of the monastery of St. Tola. The various carvings depict the founding of the Church, Danial in the Lion’s Den, and floral designs with an Adam and Eve Carving.
Dysert O’Dea Castle and Archaeology Centre
The Clare Archaeology Centre is located at the Castle and is surrounded by 25 original archaeological field monuments including St. Tola’s Cross. There is a gift shop and you can find really interesting day tours put on by the team here.
The authentically restored 15th-century Dysert O’Dea Castle was originally the stronghold of the O’Dea clan.
Dysert O’Dea Church
The church which stands on the site of an early Christian monastery dates mainly from the 12th century. Its most famous feature is the Romanesque Doorway. Near the church’s northwestern corner stands the remains of a Round Tower.
Lisdoonvarna & the Matchmaking Festival
Lisdoonvarna can be found on the southern edge of the Burren and in the nineteenth century it became a well-known health resort famous for its spa well water. It is also home to one of Europe’s largest matchmaking festivals.
The Lisdoonvarna Festival takes place over a period of one month and includes entertainment, singing, traditional music sessions, dancing, and lots of parties. Singles from 18 to 80 can take part in the daily matchmaking and meet the world-famous Willy Daly at the Matchmaker Bar.
Doolin
One of the most photographed and Instagrammed places in Ireland Doolin lies on the southwestern extremity of the Burren and is internationally renowned as a centre of live Irish music, played in its many hugely popular pubs. It is one of Ireland’s prettiest villages.
The Aran Islands
The Burren is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean and by Galway Bay, and the Aran Islands are a geological extension of the limestone hills that make up most of The Burren. The Aran Islands are located just off Connemara, Galway and Doolin. A true Irish experience awaits, locals, who speak Irish as well as English in a setting of Celtic churches of historical significance including the UNESCO World Heritage site Dun Aonghasa which is set on a dramatic 300 ft cliff edge.
Burren Food Trail
Launched by the Burren Ecotourism Network in partnership with the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark in 2013, the Burren Food Trail connects growers, producers, artisans, retailers, chefs, and restaurateurs who then work together to promote their destination as a whole.
The Burren Food Trail has also led to the emergence of a new food festival, the Burren Food Fayre which is part of the Burren Winterage Weekend. This festival is a celebration of local food by local people and includes events such as cookery demos, book launches, competitions, foraging walks, and much more.
Some of the Burren Food Trail Members are Ballyvaughan Farmers Market, Burren Brewery, Burren Fine Wine and Foods, Burren Free Range Pork Farm, Burren Gold Cheese at Aillwee Cave, Burren Smokehouse, St Tola Goat Farm, Wild Kitchen, Market House Ennistymon, and more.
Traditional Irish food 25 of the most popular Irish dishes
St. Tola Goat Cheese
St. Tola cheeses are handmade cheeses, to which no additives or preservatives have been added. Our cheeses are like living organisms and as they mature they become more distinctive in flavour.
The Burren Brewery
In spring 2011, Peter Curtin embarked on a new endeavour: He set up the Burren Brewery in the Roadside Tavern in Lisdoonvarna. The building, which in 1865 started off as a pub, then was expanded into a bakery, now also harbours a micro-brewery under its roof. At the same time, it is an eatery and a renowned music venue for traditional and contemporary music.
All the hard work and the quality of his beers were officially recognized by the Lonely Planet, when in May 2017, very timely just before the first Craft Beer and Street Food Festival, the well-known and renowned travel guide published a Global Craft Beer Guide. The Burren Brewery is one of only three Irish Craft Breweries listed in the guide!
Ailwee Cheese & Fudge Shop
Definitely, a hidden gem The Farmshop at Aillwee allows you to watch the Burren Gold Cheese being made. This is a Gouda-style cheese and a member of the team will walk you through the cheese-making process and tell you the story of the cheese being made here.
You should also treat yourself to some of the homemade fudge it is to die for. You can also take home some unique honey produced by the native Irish Black bee that sips nectar from the Burren’s wildflowers.
Burren Perfumery
The Burren Perfumery is a small-scale family business using locally produced herbs and ingredients. The Organic Herb Garden was planted in 1999 and is used for both the products and to teach visitors traditional Irish uses of the locally grown herbs and florals grown in the Burren.
Pick up some of the incredible personal products made here from the wonderful perfumes to the organic creams and lotions you won’t be disappointed. You can also relax in the Tea Rooms where you will see a selection of organic scones, cakes, and lunches all made with locally grown or made products and ingredients.
The Burren Smokehouse
If you love your smoked salmon you have to make a stop at the Burren Smokehouse tasting room. It’s just a short drive from the Cliffs of Moher and it is here you can learn the secrets of salmon smoking and get to taste it and buy some to take or send home.
Traditions & Culture of the Burren
With its long-standing ancient traditions as a centre of learning the Burren shelters the remains of Cahermacnaughten and the ancient Brehon Law School. Today this school would have been considered a Yale or Harvard and in Ireland, it was that up until the 17th century.
The ancient school owned one of the largest collections of early Irish legal texts the most famous of which the Egerton MS 88 is held in the British Museum. Egerton MS 88 was produced by the family O’Davorens who were lawyers in Cormcomroe, Clare. The manuscript was created between 1564 and 1569 and it is a collection of medieval Irish legal texts.
The Burren is where the Four Masters came for the seal of approval from the ollaimhe (historians) at their Kilkeedy School, and where the Bardic School of Ó Dálaigh in Finavarra was held.
Under the old Brehon system of society, such was the respect for learning that the ollamh or professor, held equal rank to a king or bishop.
The Burren and the Great Famine
Clare was badly scarred by the Great Irish Famine of the mid-nineteenth century and almost 50,000 people died of the famine combined with disease. Nearly 40,000 of those died in the workhouses with the Ennistymon being the most notorious. The workhouse was torn down and only a ruined ugly chapel remains on the site.
Another 40,000 fled Clare to Cobh ending up on the coffin ships headed to the New World.
Where to stay in the Burren
The choice of accommodation largely depends on your travel plans and preferences. Galway, being the closest major city, is a popular option for many visitors. However, some travelers opt for accommodations in other nearby cities such as Limerick, Shannon, or Ennis, depending on their intended direction of travel and desired experiences.
The Farm House – Lisdoonvarna
Ballinsheen House
Situated in the town of Lisdoonvarna,
The rooms include a flat-screen TV, radio alarm clock, bottled mineral water, and tea and coffee-making facilities. The en suite bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and a hairdryer.
In the mornings, the family-run Ballinsheen House serves cooked breakfast alongside a buffet of cereal, yogurt, fruits, and bread. The menu includes a full Irish breakfast, a local farmhouse cheese plate, and smoked salmon from the Burren region.
Rathbaun Hotel
The Burren is a unique and fascinating region that offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re interested in exploring its rich history, taking in its stunning natural beauty, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll through its ancient landscapes, there’s something here for everyone. So if you’re looking for a truly memorable adventure that will leave you with lasting memories and a new appreciation for Ireland’s natural wonders, be sure to put the Burren on your list of must-visit destinations. With so much to see and do here, it’s no wonder this remarkable region has captured the hearts of travellers from around the world!
Have you been to the Burren yet?
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