The Ultimate Guide to The Wild Atlantic Way in Clare (DETAILED)


Table of Contents

The cliffs of moher and poulnabrone in clare ireland

Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way is a scenic coastal route that spans over 2,500 km along the western seaboard of Ireland. The route passes through nine counties, including Clare, and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ireland, attracting millions of visitors every year. The rugged beauty and breathtaking landscapes of the Wild Atlantic Way are a must-see for anyone visiting Ireland. In this article, we will explore the highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way in Clare and give you a comprehensive guide to help you plan your journey.

A Brief History Of The Route

The Wild Atlantic Way is a scenic coastal route that was officially launched in 2014 as a way to drive tourism and highlight the stunning coastal scenery, unique cultural heritage and communities of the region.

In County Clare, the Wild Atlantic Way offers breathtaking views of the rugged Cliffs of Moher and the unique landscape of the Burren. The route also passes through historic fishing villages such as Doolin and Kilkee, providing a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the coastal communities.

Culturally, the Wild Atlantic Way holds significant importance as it passes through areas with strong connections to Ireland’s Celtic heritage, including the legendary stories and tales, which have been mentioned in Irish folklore for centuries. Additionally, the route showcases the traditional Irish music scene, which is a vital part of the country’s cultural identity and attracts visitors from around the world.

The Wild Atlantic Way offers a unique and immersive experience of the west coast of Ireland, showcasing its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and traditional communities.

A Few Things You Need To Know

When visiting County Clare in Ireland, it’s helpful to know the following:

  1. Best time to visit: Summer (June to August) is the busiest season, with mild weather and longer days.
  2. Getting around: Car rental is the most convenient way to get around, as public transportation is limited in rural areas.
  3. Accommodation: Book in advance, especially during peak season, as there is limited availability in popular areas.
  4. Weather: Ireland can be rainy and chilly, so pack accordingly.
  5. Cultural experiences: Take in traditional music sessions, visit historic sites, and sample the local cuisine.
  6. Respect the environment: Clare is known for its natural beauty, so please follow Leave No Trace principles.

Discovering the Beauty of Clare Along The Wild Atlantic Way

Clare is a county located in the west of Ireland and is part of the province of Munster. This area is renowned for its natural beauty, with rolling hills, scenic cliffs, and miles of pristine sandy beaches. The Clare element of the Wild Atlantic Way is 230 km long and takes in some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country. From the iconic Cliffs of Moher to the picturesque villages of Doolin and Lisdoonvarna, there is no shortage of breathtaking sights along the way.

Why You Need To Visit County Clare Ireland

the burren landscape clare ireland

County Clare in Ireland is known for its natural beauty, such as the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren. Its rich cultural heritage includes the Clonmacnoise Monastic Site and Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. If it’s music you want go to Clare, the region is known for its musical traditions, including the traditional Irish music scene in Ennis. There are many activities to do in the region including surfing at Lahinch Beach. And then there are so manyyyyy scenic drives, such as the Loop Head Peninsula and the coastal route from Fanore to Ballyvaughan.

What You Will Get From This Post

The purpose of this post on the ultimate guide to the Wild Atlantic Way in Clare is to provide a comprehensive and informative guide for visitors to this stunning region in Ireland. This article will cover all the must-see sights, experiences, and activities along the Wild Atlantic Way, as well as practical tips for getting around, where to stay, what to eat, and more.

It is a handy guide to serve as a one-stop resource for anyone planning a trip to Clare and help visitors make the most of their time in this stunning part of the world. The ultimate goal would be to inspire and inform visitors, making their trip to the Wild Atlantic Way in Clare an unforgettable experience.

Here Are A Few Tips For Travelling The Wild Atlantic Way In Clare, Ireland

kilkee cliffs county clare ireland
  1. Plan your route: The Wild Atlantic Way is a long and winding route, so it’s important to plan your journey in advance. Take the time to research the sights and attractions you want to see and map out your route accordingly.
  2. Allow plenty of time: While 230 km may seem like a short distance, the scenic nature of the Wild Atlantic Way means that it will take you longer to travel than you might expect. Allow plenty of time for each leg of your journey so you can enjoy the scenery and stops along the way.
  3. Pack for all weather: The weather in Clare can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack for all eventualities. Make sure you have appropriate clothing for sun, rain, and wind.
  4. Bring a camera: The scenery along the Wild Atlantic Way is breathtaking, so make sure you have a camera to capture the memories.
  5. Drive safely: The roads along the Wild Atlantic Way can be narrow and winding, so it’s important to drive safely and take your time. Be mindful of other drivers and take breaks when you need to.
  6. Stay in local accommodations: To fully immerse yourself in the Wild Atlantic Way experience, consider staying in local accommodations such as bed and breakfasts or traditional Irish cottages.
  7. Visit local attractions: The Wild Atlantic Way in Clare is home to many interesting attractions and landmarks. From historic sites to scenic vistas, there is something for everyone. Make sure you take the time to visit some of these during your journey.

When To Visit?

The best time to visit the Wild Atlantic Way in Clare depends on your personal preferences and what you hope to experience.

Summer (June to August) is a popular time to visit due to milder weather and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and sightseeing. This season is also when many festivals and events take place in the region.

Winter (December to February) can be chilly and damp, but it’s a quieter time of year with fewer crowds and lower prices. This season is ideal for those looking for a peaceful and cosy experience, such as exploring the countryside, cosying up by the fire in a traditional pub, or taking in the dramatic landscapes of the coast in a different light.

Ultimately, both summer and winter have their own unique charm and attractions in the Wild Atlantic Way, and the best time to visit depends on your personal preferences and travel style.

Getting There

Check out this useful map of the route from Loophead Light House, the whole way to Ballyvauaghhan, it covers the course in full.

map of the route for the wild atlantic way clare ireland

County Clare is located in the West of Ireland and is accessible by several roads:

M18: Connects Galway to Limerick and runs through County Clare, providing access to the major towns and attractions in the region.

N67: A scenic route that runs along the west coast of County Clare and provides access to the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren.

N18: Connects Ennis to Limerick and runs through County Clare, providing access to the towns of Ennis and Ennistymon.

R460: A regional road that runs along the west coast of County Clare and provides access to the villages and towns along the Wild Atlantic Way.

R471: A regional road that runs along the north coast of County Clare and provides access to the villages and towns along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Regardless of which road you take, you can expect scenic drives and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged Irish landscape.

Other Options

Getting to the Wild Atlantic Way in Clare can be done by:

  1. Flying: Shannon Airport is the closest airport to County Clare and has regular flights from major cities in Ireland and the UK. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle bus to your destination.
  2. Bus: Bus Éireann operates regular bus services from major cities in Ireland to County Clare.
  3. Train: The nearest train station is Ennis, which is connected to major cities in Ireland by rail. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to your destination.
  4. Driving: If you have your own car, you can drive to this area, this is the best option and you will really enjoy the scenic drives along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Regardless of how you get there, it’s highly recommended to have a rental car or use private transportation, as public transportation options are limited in rural areas.

Accommodation Options County Clare Ireland

Dromoland Castle hotel county clare ireland

County Clare in Ireland offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, including:

Hotels: From budget-friendly options to luxury establishments, there’s a wide range of hotels in County Clare to choose from.

B&Bs: Bed and Breakfasts are a popular option in County Clare and offer a warm and welcoming experience with a personal touch.

Hostels: Budget-friendly hostels are available in the larger towns and cities in County Clare.

Self-Catering: Self-catering options, such as holiday homes, cottages, and apartments, offer the convenience of having your own space and cooking facilities.

Campsites: There are several campsites in County Clare, offering a more rustic and outdoorsy experience.

Regardless of which option you choose, it’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, as availability can be limited in popular areas.

Budgeting

Budgeting for a trip to the Wild Atlantic Way in Clare can vary greatly depending on your travel style and the type of activities you plan to do. Here are some estimated costs to help you plan your budget:

  1. Accommodation: Prices range from 20-50 EUR for a hostel room to 100-300 EUR for a hotel room. Self-catering options can start from around 50 EUR per night.
  2. Food: A meal in a pub or restaurant can cost between 15-30 EUR, while a takeaway sandwich or fast food meal can cost around 3 (shop deli) to 10 EUR.
  3. Transportation: Renting a car for a week can cost around 50 to 200 EUR per day, while bus or train tickets can cost around 5-15 EUR for a single trip or a one-way trip.
  4. Activities: Entry to attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher can cost around 7.00 EUR per adult (save money by booking online), while outdoor activities such as surfing or horse riding can cost around 30-50 EUR per person
  5. Miscellaneous: Budget for any additional expenses such as souvenirs, drinks, or other personal expenses.

Keep in mind that these are rough estimates and actual costs can vary depending on your spending habits and the time of year you visit. It’s a good idea to bring a mix of cash and cards and to budget accordingly to ensure you have a comfortable and memorable trip to the Wild Atlantic Way in Clare.

Must-See Attractions In Clare Ireland

coastal area clare in ireland with waves and rocks

The Wild Atlantic Way Clare spans the entire west coast of Clare Ireland and is known for its stunning natural beauty and rugged coastline. Here are some of the top coastal areas to visit in the Wild Atlantic Way in Clare.

Coastal Areas and Beaches That Will Amaze You

These are just a few of the many stunning coastal areas to visit in the Wild Atlantic Way in Clare. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking views, outdoor activities, or charming villages, there’s something for everyone along this stunning stretch of coastline.

Kilkee Beach

A beautiful sandy beach with a variety of water sports activities, such as surfing, swimming, and kayaking.

The Loophead Peninsula

A rugged peninsula with breathtaking cliff-top walks, traditional fishing villages, and a lighthouse that offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Spanish Point

A charming coastal village with a sandy beach, historic ruins, and a golf course with panoramic views of the Atlantic.

Doolin Village And Pier

A traditional fishing village is known for its traditional music scene and Doolin Pier is a jumping-on-and-off point for ferry trips to the Aran Islands.

Lahinch Beach

A popular surfing spot with a beautiful sandy beach and a variety of restaurants and cafes.

The Coast Road

The coast road map from doolin to Fanore and Ballyvaughan county clare ireland

The coastal road from Doolin to Ballyvaughan in County Clare, Ireland is a scenic drive along the Wild Atlantic Way. The route takes you through some of the most beautiful and rugged coastlines in Ireland, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding countryside. The route is 29.4 km.

The Kilkee Cliffs

The Kilkee Cliffs are known for their stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline. The Kilkee Cliffs are a popular spot for walking and hiking, with several trails offering breathtaking views of the cliffs, the ocean, and the countryside.

Hags Head Road Scenic Drive

A rugged landscape with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline and the surrounding countryside, right next to the Cliffs of Moher.

Town and Villages To Take a Look At!

Lahinch town and Beach in clare ireland

Here are a few towns and villages to visit along the Wild Atlantic Way in County Clare, Ireland:

Lahinch

A popular seaside resort town with a long sandy beach, surf schools, and a range of restaurants and shops. Lahinch has some great pubs and restaurants to check out.

Doolin

A charming coastal village with a vibrant music scene and a variety of traditional pubs and restaurants.

Ballyvaughan

A picturesque village with a harbour, traditional pubs, and a variety of restaurants and cafes. Home to the Monks pub and restaurant, it’s a must-see if you like a pint with a view.

Kilfenora

A historic village with a rich cultural heritage, including the Kilfenora Ceili Band, a well-known traditional Irish music group.

Ennistymon

A charming market town with a lively atmosphere, street performers, and a variety of shops and restaurants.

Lisdoonvarna

A small town famous for its annual Matchmaking Festival, where thousands of people come to find love and enjoy traditional music and dance.

Spanish Point

A charming coastal village with a sandy beach, historic ruins, and a golf course with panoramic views of the Atlantic.

Kilkee

Kilkee is a seaside town located in County Clare. It is situated along the Wild Atlantic Way. Kilkee is known for its long sandy beach, sheltered bay, and water sports, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Fanore

Fanore is a small village located along the Wild Atlantic Way. It is known for its rugged coastline, sandy beach, and natural beauty, making it a popular destination.

Ennis

Ennis is a charming town with a vibrant cultural scene, including street musicians and traditional pubs.

Liscannor

Liscannor is a small village. It is situated on the west coast of Ireland, along the Wild Atlantic Way, and is known for its stunning cliffs, sandy beaches, and historical heritage.

Miltown Malbay

Miltown Malbay is a small town that is known for its traditional music, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Home to the Willie Clancy Festival each year, the town is hopping for this traditional Irish music festival.

These towns and villages offer a unique experience of the Wild Atlantic Way, with each offering its own unique history, culture, and character. Whether you’re looking for live music, scenic walks, or traditional Irish culture, these destinations have something for everyone.

Must-See Attractions And Visitor Centres

Bunratty castle in County Clare

Here are some of the must-see attractions and visitor centres in the Wild Atlantic Way, Clare.

Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience

One of Ireland’s most famous natural landmarks, the Cliffs of Moher offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Aran Islands. The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience is a state-of-the-art visitor centre that provides visitors with information, interactive exhibits, and stunning views of the cliffs.

Check out this virtual tour of the Cliffs here

Address – Liscannor.

Postcode – V95 KN9T

Entry Fee – 7.00 euros for adults and children under 12 years old FREE

Phone Number –  (065) 708 6141

Website Here

The Burren

A unique landscape of bare limestone pavements, cliffs, and caves that is home to a rich and diverse array of flora and fauna. The Burren is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. One of Ireland’s national parks you have to see to believe.

Entry Fee – FREE

Website Here

Alilwee Cave

An ancient underground cave system that is rich in geological, archaeological, and historical significance. Ailwee Cave is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in geology and natural history.

Address – Ballycahill, Ballyvaughan.

Entry Fee – 25.00 for adults and 15.00 for a child

Phone Number – (065) 707 7036

Website Here

Doolin Cave

Doolin Cave is near the village of Doolin. It is one of the largest cave systems in the region and is renowned for its stunning underground formations and rich geological and archaeological significance. Visitors to Doolin Cave can explore the cave system on guided tours, learning about the cave’s history, geology, and folklore. The cave is also home to the largest known colony of bats in Ireland, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Address – Doolin Cave, Craggycoradon East, Doolin.

Postcode – V95 R299

Entry Fee – 8.50 per adult and 47.00 euros for a family ticket

Phone Number –+353 (0)65 7075761

Website Here

The Bridges Of Ross

The Bridges of Ross is a series of arches and bridges carved into the cliffs along the coast by the Atlantic Ocean. The Bridges of Ross are renowned for their natural beauty and for the dramatic views they offer of the surrounding cliffs, ocean, and countryside. Visitors can take a stroll along the coastal path to see the bridges up close, or they can climb to the top of the cliffs for panoramic views of the area. The Bridges of Ross are a popular spot for photography, picnicking, and enjoying the peace and quiet of the Irish countryside.

Link to Address on Google Maps

Entry Fee – FREE

Craggaunowen

Craggaunowen is a historical park. It is a unique and educational destination that offers visitors a glimpse into Ireland’s past, with a focus on the way of life during the early medieval period. Visitors to Craggaunowen can explore several reconstructed dwellings, including a ring fort, a crannog, and a fulacht fiadh, which is a Bronze Age cooking site.

Address – Craggaunowen, Kilmurry.

Postcode – V95 AD7E

Entry Fee – 9.90 for adults and children from 4 to 18 8.00 euros

Phone Number – (061) 360 788

Website Here

Caherconnell Stone Fort

Caherconnell Stone Fort is a historic stone fort. It is one of the best-preserved stone forts in the country and is considered a prime example of the type of ring fort that was common in early medieval Ireland. Sheepdog Demonstrations are also held at Caherconnell and are a popular attraction for visitors. The demonstrations showcase the skills of highly trained sheepdogs and their handlers, who work together to herd sheep through a series of challenging obstacles.

Address – Caherconnell, Ballydoora, Carran.

Postcode – V95 YK31

Entry Fee – 14.00 for adults and 9.00 per child

Phone Number – +353 65 7089999

Website Here

Poulnabrone

Poulnabrone Dolmen is a prehistoric tomb located in County Clare. It is a portal tomb, which is a type of megalithic tomb that was common in Ireland during the Neolithic period. The tomb is made up of a large capstone supported by two upright stones, which are known as portal stones, and two smaller stones at either end. Poulnabrone Dolmen is FREE to visit and is one of the best-known and most well-preserved examples of its type, and is considered one of the most important prehistoric monuments in Ireland.

Link To Address on Google Maps

Entry Fee – FREE

Bunratty Castle And Folk Park

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park are two popular attractions located in Bunratty, Clare. Bunratty Castle is a well-preserved 15th-century castle that was once the seat of the powerful O’Brien clan. Visitors to the castle can explore its many rooms, including the Great Hall, which features a long dining table and an impressive fireplace and learn about its history and significance, as well as its role in medieval Ireland.

Address – Bunratty West, Bunratty.

Entry Fee – 10.00 for adults and 8.00 for a child from 4 years old to 18

Phone Number –  (061) 711 222

Website Here

Father Ted’s House

Father Ted’s House is a television-themed tourist attraction located in the town of Lackareagh, Cloon, Co. Clare. It is the house used as the exterior shot for Craggy Island Parochial House in the popular Irish sitcom “Father Ted”. Visitors can tour the house and see exhibits of memorabilia from the show (PAID TOURS). The attraction is popular with fans of the series and offers a unique opportunity to step into the world of the show.

Address – Lackareagh, Cloon.

Entry Fee – FREE

Saint Brigid’s Well

St. Brigid’s Well is a holy well located in Liscannor, very close to the Cliffs of Moher. It is dedicated to St. Brigid, the patron saint of Ireland and is believed by many to have healing properties. The well is a site of pilgrimage for Catholics and is visited by people seeking blessings and miracles. This holy site is FREE to visit.

Address – Ballymaclinaun Liscannor.

Entry Fee – FREE

Churches And Castles To Take In

Doonagore Castle clare ireland

Ennis Friary

Ennis Friary is a historic friary located in the town of Ennis. It was built in the 13th century by the Franciscan Order and is considered one of the best-preserved examples of medieval friaries in Ireland. The friary has a rich history, having been a centre of learning, worship, and hospitality for centuries, and it has played an important role in the religious, cultural, and social life of the region.

Dough Castle

Dough Castle is a well-preserved 15th-century tower house located in County Clare, Ireland. It has a very interesting past, but these days it’s not in great shape. It is a popular destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Newtown Castle

Newtown Castle is a 16th-century tower house located in County Clare. It has been turned into the Burren College of Art and Design, a renowned art and design institution that offers courses and workshops in a variety of creative disciplines. The castle was built in the 16th century by the O’Loughlin family and has been well-preserved over the years, with much of its original features still intact.

Knappogue

Knappogue Castle is a 15th-century tower house located in Clare. It is a well-preserved example of medieval architecture and is considered one of the finest examples of its kind in the country. The castle was built in 1467 by Sean MacNamara and has been passed down through several generations of the MacNamara family over the years

Saint John The Baptist Church

Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church is a historic church located in Ballyvaughan. The church is an important landmark in the local area and has a rich history, having been in use for over 150 years.

Noughaval Church

Noughaval Church is a historic church that dates back to the 12th century and is one of the oldest and best-preserved examples of Romanesque architecture in the country. The church is located in Kilfenora and is known for its impressive masonry, intricate carvings, and beautiful stained glass windows.

Doonagore Castle

Doonagore Castle is a historic castle located in the village of Doolin, County Clare, Ireland. The castle was built in the 16th century and was used as a residence by the O’Connor family for many years.

Adventure Activities

golf course in ireland

County Clare offers a range of outdoor and adventure activities for tourists and visitors, including lots of things to keep you busy like surfing, rock climbing, fishing and much more.

Catch A Few Waves and Go Surfing

There are several surf schools in Clare that offer lessons and equipment rentals for visitors to learn and enjoy surfing in the Wild Atlantic Way.

Some popular options include:

  • Lahinch Surf School
  • Spanish Point Surf School
  • Clare Surf Experience, Lahinch
  • Aloha Surf School, Fanore
  • White Strand Surf School, Whitestrand
  • Nevsail Watersports & Adventures, Kilkee

Try Some Kayaking

Explore the stunning coast of Clare by kayak and enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Kayaking is a popular adventure activity along the Wild Atlantic Way. Visitors can enjoy kayaking along the scenic coastlines, coves, and islands in the area.

Some popular options for kayaking tours and rentals include:

  • Nevsail Watersports & Adventures, Kilkee
  • Clare Kayak hire, Lahinch

Check their websites for tour options, pricing, and booking information.

Rock Climbing

The cliffs and sea stacks of County Clare offer some of the best rock climbing in Ireland, with routes suitable for all skill levels.

There are several companies that offer rock climbing services along the Wild Atlantic Way. Some popular options include:

Get Out And About With Some Hiking And Walking

view-of-the-burren-in clare ireland

Take a walk along the scenic trails in the Burren region, check out the famous Coastal Walk from the Cliffs of Moher to Doolin walkway, and enjoy breathtaking views of the countryside and coastline.

Three are several popular hiking and walking trails, to check out

  1. The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk – a scenic trail along the coast with stunning views of the cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean.
  2. The Burren Way – a long-distance walking trail through the unique landscape of the Burren.
  3. The Loop Head Peninsula – a coastal walk that takes you along cliffs and through quaint villages.

Some Amazing Burren Walking Trails

The Burren offers several popular walking trails, including:

  1. The Burren Way – a long-distance walking trail that takes you through the unique landscape of the amazing National Park and its diverse flora and fauna.
  2. The Black Head Loop Walk – a scenic trail along the coast with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Aran Islands.
  3. The Fanore Beach Walk – a leisurely walk along the sandy beach of Fanore and through nearby dunes and countryside.
  4. The Ballyvaughan Loop Walk – is a moderate walk that takes you through the village of Ballyvaughan and the surrounding countryside.

Before embarking on any hike, it’s important to plan ahead, check the weather and trail conditions, and bring the necessary supplies.

Local Businesses Proving Hiking And Walking Trails

1 – Heart of the Burren Walks

2 – The Burren Outdoor Education Centre,  bell Habour, Killnaboy

Head Into the Atlantic Ocean With Some Scuba Diving

Scuba diving in County Clare can offer a unique and exciting underwater experience. The region is known for its clear waters, abundant marine life, and diverse underwater environments, including caves, shipwrecks, and reef systems. Before scuba diving, it’s important to have proper training, check local regulations and conditions, and always dive with a buddy and within your limits.

Local Businesses Proving Scuba Diving Activities

  1. Kilkee Sub Aqua Club
  2. OceanLife Dive Centre

Catch A Few Mackerel Doing A Bit of Fishing

cliffs in munster ireland with the ocean in view

The region offers several opportunities for saltwater fishing.

Some popular options include:

  1. The Atlantic Ocean – offers deep-sea fishing opportunities for species such as mackerel, cod, and whiting.
  2. The Aran Islands – a group of islands located off the coast of County Clare, known for their rich fishing grounds and abundant marine life.
  3. The Kilkee coastline and West Clare – offer shore and boat fishing opportunities for species such as bass, cod, and wrasse.

When Fishing in the Wild Atlantic Way route, it’s recommended to book with a local guide or fishing company for a more enjoyable and successful fishing experience.

Companies Proving Fishing Trips

  1. Fishing Adventures, West Clare
  2. Carrigaholt Sea Angling, Carrigaholt
  3. Angles Paradise, Crusheen

Try Some Horseriding

Explore the countryside of County Clare on horseback and experience the natural beauty of the region from a unique perspective.

Companies Proving Horseriding

1 – Carmen’s Riding School, Kilkee

2 – Mountain View Horse Riding Centre, Lisdoonvarana

Play A Few Rounds Of Golf

golf-course in ireland with the ocean in view

The region is home to many golf courses, including the famous Lahinch Golf Club, which is considered one of the best links courses in the world. These courses offer a range of challenging layouts and scenic views along the rugged coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way.

  1. Doonbeg Golf Club
  2. Lahinch Golf Club
  3. Spanish Point Golf Club
  4. Kilkee Golf Club

Food And Dining Along The Route

There are several dining options along the Wild Atlantic Way in County Clare, including local pubs, restaurants, and cafes serving traditional Irish cuisine and seafood dishes.

Traditional Irish Foods

Traditional Irish cuisine revolves around hearty and filling meals such as stews and potatoes. Popular traditional dishes include Dublin coddle, a pork sausage and bacon dish that is slow-cooked in an onion gravy. Colcannon is mashed potatoes combined with butter, cabbage, onions and sometimes ham. Boxty is a potato pancake served fried or baked. Then there’s Irish stew made from readily available ingredients like potatoes, onions, carrots, celery and lamb, beef or mutton. Its popularity comes from the fact that it can easily be prepared with minimal effort and tastes delicious.

You can try some tasty shepherd’s pie topped with mashed potatoes. Comfort foods such as Irish soda bread and porter cake (a dense, sweetened barmbrack) are enjoyed by locals. alike. Ireland is renowned for its great food and fresh produce.

Best Restaurants In Clare

irish beef stew in a bowl

If you’re looking for a top-notch food experience you are in luck because the restaurants below won’t disappoint.

The Falls Hotel

The Falls Hotel in Ennistymon is the place for you. Featuring traditional Irish dishes along with some more modern takes on Irish favourites The Falls Hotel offers a cosy atmosphere in which to enjoy a delicious meal. The scrumptious seafood chowder and lamb stew are especially enjoyable and will leave you wanting more.

Gregans Castle Hotel

No discussion of the best restaurants in County Clare would be complete without mentioning Gregans Castle Hotel. This upscale establishment offers an array of mouthwatering dishes, each hand-crafted with local ingredients and flavours. Dishes like the roasted pheasant with red cabbage and chestnut puree and the pork fillet with colcannon mash and whiskey will have you drooling. With its attentive staff and picturesque setting, Gregans Castle Hotel is definitely one of the most sought-after restaurants in County Clare.

The Strand Seafood Bistro

The Strand Seafood Bistro in Kilkee is another delightful dining experience. Considered by many to be the best seafood restaurant in all of Ireland, The Strand Seafood Bistro specializes in seafood dishes such as mussels, crab cakes, and homemade seafood chowder. In addition to its seafood dishes, the restaurant also serves up delicious desserts and an extensive selection of wines to pair with your meal.

The Best Seafood Restaurants

Visitors to this amazing coastal route will love the seafood dishes on offer, such as fish and chips, fresh lobster and seafood chowder. With some amazing takes on prawn cocktail, and different types of smoked salmon dishes. These dishes often feature local, sustainably-sourced seafood, which adds to County Clare’s reputation for delicious, eco-friendly cuisine.

  1. The Monks, Ballyvaughan
  2. The Burren Smokehouse Restaurant, Lisdoonvarna
  3. Vaughan’s Pubs and Restaurant, Liscannor
  4. Linnane’s Bar, New Quay
  5. The Long Dock, Pub and Restaurant, Carrigaholt

A Little Gem The Burren Smokehouse!!

If you’re looking for something a bit special, The Burren Smokehouse in Lisdoonvarna should be on your list. This gem specializes in smoked fish and other smoked seafood products, ranging from salmon and trout. You can purchase some pre-packed smoked seafood.

Their food is world-renowned and they deliver to lots of countries via the website.

Food Tours and Trails

smoke salmon on a rack

Food tours have become increasingly popular among travellers looking for an immersive culinary experience. Whether you’re looking for modern fusion or traditional Irish cuisine. This region has something for everyone. From farm-to-table cooking classes to some of the best seafood in the world, the variety and quality of County Clare’s food are among the best that Ireland has to offer.

The Burren Food Trail offers a variety of cuisines, from traditional Irish to different types of interesting international specialities and experiences. The trail offers 4 different options designed to showcase the unique cuisine of the county, giving you the opportunity to sample local cheeses, smoked salmon and seafood chowder. There are also opportunities to sample some of Ireland’s famous craft beers and Irish whiskey

From visiting local farms to learning about the foraging techniques of traditional Irish families. County Clare has something for you, and a food tour is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Recap and Final Thoughts

3 x pints of guinness on a table

There is sooooooooooooo much to see, The Wild Atlantic Way in Clare is a must-see location when visiting the region and Ireland in general.

Here’s my list of must-see attractions and activities.

The Burren is one of the most impressive natural wonders of the country. A unique limestone region, The Burren offers unique opportunities for exploration.

The Cliffs of Moher is an iconic landscape that stands 214 meters above the sea and offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the islands of Inishmore and Inishmaan.

A visit would not be complete without visiting Poulnabrone dolmen, an amazing piece of Irish history.

For those looking for something special, a trip along the coast road from Doolin and into the Burren and onto Ballyvaughan is a must-see.

A visit to The Doonagore castle is a must for any fan of history. Situated just outside Doolin, the castle dates back centuries and tells a few mad stories about the Spanish Armada.

For something a bit more upbeat, a trip to one of the many walking trails in the Burren region like the Black Head Loop Walk is highly recommended.

A visit to County Clare would not be complete without a stop at County Clare’s renowned music venues, pubs and eateries. Its traditional music scene is renowned throughout the country, and you must visit Gus O Connors in Doolin for food and drinks or maybe just drinks, it depends I suppose!!!

Finally, why not start planning your trip from your homeland, if you need any help with that, please contact me on social media or by email (allthingsirelandinfo@gmail.com). I will put together a full professional travel itinerary for a small fee for you! It’s important to make the most of your trip to Ireland, and by getting a really good itinerary put together you can make the most of your holiday in Ireland and take in all the attractions and sites want to, making it an unforgettable trip to the Emerald Isle.

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Go Raibh Maith Agat

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Check out some more of my articles below!

Cliffs of Moher Guide

Irish History Explained

A Brief History of Guinness

The Troubles in Northern Ireland Explained

Ireland Travel Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Wild Atlantic Way?

The coastal route is a stunning 2,500 km coastal route that spans from Donegal to Cork, along the western coast of Ireland. This breathtaking journey showcases the rugged beauty of Ireland and its stunning surroundings, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.

What are the top attractions in Wild Atlantic Way, Clare?

  1. Cliffs of Moher
  2. The Burren
  3. Kilkee Beach
  4. Doolin Village
  5. Lahinch Golf Course
  6. Poulnabrone Dolmen

What is the best way to experience Wild Atlantic Way, Clare?

The best way to experience Wild Atlantic Way Clare is to take your time and travel at a leisurely pace, taking in the stunning scenery and stopping at the many villages and attractions along the way. Renting a car is the best option, as it allows you to take your time and explore the region at your own pace. Alternatively, there are also guided tours available, offering an expert-led experience of the Wild Atlantic Way.

What are the accommodation options in Wild Atlantic Way, Clare?

There are many accommodation options available in Wild Atlantic Way Clare, from luxury 5-star hotels to B&Bs and self-catering cottages or camping and glamping. No matter your budget or preferences, there is something for everybody making The Wild Atlantic Way Clare a truly accessible destination for all visitors.

John C

Hey, my name is John Conway and I love travelling around Ireland. I have a passion for All Things Ireland. I love the Emerald Isle! I love Guinness and green fields!

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