Suggested full Day Itinerary
Ballyvaughan – Cliffs of Moher Experience – Doolin – Caherconnell Stone Fort or Aillwee Cave – Ballyvaughan
Ready to experience the best of the Burren and beyond in one unforgettable day? Set off from Ballyvaughan at 9:40 AM on the Burren & Cliffs Explorer Shuttle Bus and enjoy a seamless, car-free adventure along the Wild Atlantic Way. From the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher and the vibrant village of Doolin to your choice of cultural heritage at Caherconnell Stone Fort or natural exploration at Aillwee Cave, this curated itinerary offers something for every traveler. With spectacular scenery, rich history, and local charm at every stop, it’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the beauty of North Clare.
09:40 – Depart Ballyvaughan
Set off on your Burren adventure • Enjoy scenic views along the Wild Atlantic Way
11:10 – Arrive at Cliffs of Moher (1 hr 50 mins)
Take in breathtaking coastal views • Walk along the cliff paths • Visit the exhibition centre
13:00 – Take the BC1 bus to Doolin (20 mins)
Relax and enjoy the scenic coastal journey
13:20 – Lunch in Doolin (50 mins)
Enjoy lunch at one of the many local dining options • Choose from a selection of traditional pubs and cafés
14:10 – Depart Doolin on BC2 bus
Sit back and enjoy the journey through the Burren landscape
Choose either
Afternoon Option 1: Culture & Heritage
14:58 – Arrive at Caherconnell Stone Fort (2 hrs)
Explore this ancient ring fort • Learn about early Irish life • Enjoy sheepdog demonstrations
16:58 – Depart Caherconnell
17:20 – Arrive back in Ballyvaughan
Relax after an unforgettable day in the Burren
OR
Afternoon Option 2: Nature & Discovery
15:10 – Arrive at Aillwee Cave (2 hrs)
Explore the fascinating cave system • Visit the Birds of Prey Centre • Browse local artisan gifts
17:10 – Depart Aillwee Cave
17:20 – Arrive back in Ballyvaughan
Relax after an unforgettable day in the Burren
Traveling from Galway? Take the 350 bus route to arrive in Ballyvaughan for 8.01am. Stroll around and take in what this scenic costal village has to offer.
Heading back to Galway after an exciting day in the Burren? Catch the 19.15pm, route 350, bus from Ballyvaughan after an unforgettable meal dinner in one of the village’s pubs or restaurants.
Suggested full Day Itinerary
Ballyvaughan – Kilfenora – Doolin – Lisdoonvarna – Ballyvaughan
Looking to enjoy a relaxed and enriching day in the heart of the Burren? This thoughtfully planned trip begins in the coastal village of Ballyvaughan and brings you through two of the region’s most characterful towns, blending local heritage, food, and gentle exploration.
Start your morning in Kilfenora, where you can explore the engaging Burren Visitor Centre and unwind in its cosy tea rooms. From there, continue on to Lisdoonvarna, a town famous for its traditions and welcoming atmosphere. Visit the renowned Burren Smokehouse, enjoy a leisurely lunch, and follow the Lisdoonvarna Heritage Trail to discover historic spa wells, local stories, and hidden corners.
With the ease of the Burren and Cliffs Explorer connecting each stop, this day offers a perfect balance of culture, flavour, and scenic surroundings—returning you to Ballyvaughan by early evening feeling refreshed and inspired.
09:40 – Depart Ballyvaughan (40 mins)
Relax on the free shuttle bus as you leave Ballyvaughan • Enjoy scenic views of the Burren’s limestone landscape and coastline along the way
10:20 – Kilfenora: Visitor Centre & Tea Rooms (2 hrs 20 mins)
Arrive in Kilfenora and spend time at the Burren Visitor Centre • Discover the unique geology, wildlife, and heritage of the Burren through engaging exhibits • Take a relaxed break in the tea rooms with coffee, homemade treats, or a light snack
12:40 – Depart Kilfenora (15 mins)
Board the shuttle and enjoy a short journey through the Burren countryside
12:55 – Lisdoonvarna: Smokehouse, Lunch & Heritage Trail (3 hrs 30 mins)
Arrive in Lisdoonvarna • Visit the Burren Smokehouse to learn about traditional salmon smoking and sample local produce • Enjoy lunch in one of the town’s cosy restaurants or pubs • Follow the Lisdoonvarna Heritage Trail, taking in historic buildings, Victorian spa wells, and the town’s unique character at a relaxed pace. For more information see here
16:25 – Depart Lisdoonvarna (55 mins)
Sit back and relax on the shuttle journey back through the Burren landscape
17:20 – Arrive back in Ballyvaughan
Return to Ballyvaughan • Enjoy the rest of your evening at your leisure
Suggested Half Day Itinerary
Ballyvaughan – Aillwee Cave – Poulnabrone Dolmen – Ballyvaughan
Looking for a memorable half-day escape in the heart of the Burren? Hop on the Burren & Cliffs Explorer Shuttle Bus for a relaxed, car-free journey through one of Ireland’s most unique landscapes. Departing at 9:40 AM from the charming village of Ballyvaughan, this itinerary blends natural wonder with cultural discovery. From exploring the fascinating underground world of Aillwee Cave and witnessing thrilling birds of prey in flight to visiting the iconic Poulnabrone Dolmen, this experience offers a perfect snapshot of the Burren’s magic, all wrapped up in a smooth and scenic half-day trip.
09:40 – Depart Ballyvaughan (10 mins)
Relax on the short shuttle journey • Enjoy the early morning views of the Burren landscape
09:50 – Arrive at Aillwee Cave (10 mins)
Take in the surroundings while you wait for opening
10:00 – Explore Aillwee Cave (2hr 10 min)
Discover the fascinating underground caverns • Learn about the cave’s history and formations • Browse the shop or grab a quick coffee
11:30 – Birds of Prey Flying Display
Watch majestic birds in action • A memorable and unique experience in the Burren
12:10 – Depart Aillwee Cave (10 min)
Board the shuttle and enjoy more scenic views
12:20 – Stop at Poulnabrone Dolmen (30 min)
Visit this iconic ancient portal tomb • Take photos and soak in the atmosphere
12:50 – Return shuttle to Ballyvaughan (20 min)
Sit back and relax on the return journey
13:10 – Lunch in Ballyvaughan
Enjoy lunch at one of the many local dining options • Choose from cozy cafés, traditional pubs, or seafood restaurants
Ballyvaughan
In Ballyvaughan, the sea breeze carries the sound of conversation from harbourside cafés. Once a fishing village, it’s now a cultural hub with art galleries, local events, and one of the best farmers markets in the region. It’s a perfect base for exploring the coast and trails nearby.
Aillwee Burren Experience provides guided tours of the oldest cave in the Burren at 1.5 million years old. Once you emerge from underground, you can enjoy the wonders of the Birds of Prey Centre, home to one of Ireland’s largest and most varied collections of birds of prey. The nearby Poulnabrone Dolmen is the country’s oldest dated megalithic monument, while visitors to Caherconnell Stone Fort can experience the Burren’s living traditions and delve into the history of prehistoric Irish Bronze Age burial boulders and mounds, ancient Irish field systems and prehistoric dwelling sites. A short 10-minute drive east of Ballyvaughan is the 13th-century Cistercian monastery of Corcomroe Abbey, located close by.
If outdoor adventure and hiking is to your liking, then look no further than the 21km Fanore to Ballyvaughan walking trail or the 8km Ballyvaughan Wood Loop. Beachgoers also are spoiled for choice with the Bishops Quarter beach and the extensive sandy beach and dunes of the nearby Fanore Blue Flag beach. For water sports enthusiasts, Stand Up Paddleboarding is available in the calm waters of Ballyvaughan Bay.
Ballyvaughan is home to the Burren College of Art which hosts the largest gallery space in County Clare in renovated a Norman tower house, called Newtown Castle. The internationally recognised not-for-profit independent college specialising in undergraduate and graduate fine art education.
From April to September, Ballyvaughan hosts a weekly Farmers Market offering fresh seafood alongside some of the finest farm produce from around the Burren. Local artisan craft producers showcase their wares at the regular Craft Fair. Burren Distillers in Newtown offers tours of micro distillery in Newtown where you will learn how the company produces 150 casks of single estate whiskey annually.
There is a range of places to eat and drink and stay in the town, including Gregan’s Castle, the Highlands Hotel, Monks, Burren Fine Food & Wine, The Oir House, The Soda Parlour and Travelling Spoon.
For more information on Ballyvaughan, click here.
Kilfenora
Burren Visitor Centre
The Burren Visitor Centre in the historic village of Kilfenora is the main North Clare information point for tourists and walkers, as well as the official ‘front door’ to the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark. Visitors and walkers can gain bespoke advice on what to see and how to get there, picking up useful maps and discount vouchers. The Centre also houses ‘The Burren Exhibition’, providing a fascinating insight into the Burren’s extraordinary landscapes, array of flora and wildlife, ancient forts, megalithic tombs – some older than Egypt’s pyramids – and to the history and culture of the people of the Burren, past and present. It is also home to the “Kilfenora Céilí Band Exhibition”, where you can learn about the unique music tradition of North Clare that has developed since the 1800s.
Vaughans Pub
Indulge in delectable homemade meals paired with fine beverages. The chefs at Vaughan’s Pub meticulously source fresh, local ingredients to craft culinary delights. Enjoy daily creations including the finest locally caught seafood, a testament to their commitment to exceptional dining. Vaughans also features occasional music including traditional Irish sessions.
Ted Tours
Ted Tours operates fully guided private tours of the Father Ted filming locations in County Clare. We visit many of the locations from the hit TV series. Ted Tours provides expert guides and fancy dress for those all-important photo opportunities. We also specialise in parties and special occasions, and our party tour is an ideal activity for all ages.
Kilfenora Cathedral and Crosses
Kilfenora is referred to as the smallest city in the world due to its 11th century Cathedral, built on the spot where St Fachtna established an abbey in the 6th century. The village is also called the ‘City of the Crosses’ due to its unique array of carved high crosses from the 9th and 10th century. A little-known quirk about the village is that it boasts two bishops. The Pope is the Catholic Bishop of Kilfenora under a Papal Dictate of 1883. There is a Church of Ireland bishop too, whose enthronement chair is one of the features of the Cathedral interior – largely unchanged since the 1800s – which is included in a “Village Tour” that can be booked at the Burren Visitor Centre.
E-Whizz
E-whizz offers guided electric bike tours of the Burren, starting in the village of Kilfenora. Join one of our small group tours, or book your own private group tour. Our top of the range electric bikes allow you to explore the Burren on a bike, regardless of your fitness levels, while visiting key historical sites such as Poulnabrone Dolmen. Our expert guides will ensure you miss nothing, interpreting the history, landscape, and wildflowers of the Burren, allowing you to relax and enjoy the ride.
For more information on Kilfenora, click here.
Lisdoonvarna
Burren Smokehouse
Burren Smokehouse offers a mini food trail which comprises of smoked salmon tastings, the showing of our smoking process, and an interactive journey through time following the legendary Salmon of Knowledge.
Doreen Drennan Art Studio
Doreen Drennan is a gifted seascape and landscape artist and an award-winning gardener based on the edge of the unspoilt Burren and within sight of the mighty Cliffs of Moher. Doreen’s passion for art and gardening is reflected in her home just outside the town of Lisdoonvarna where she has created an artist’s studio and gallery space for her artwork and surrounded this with a skilfully planted inspirational coastal garden with a measure of wildness.
The Roadside Tavern
The Roadside Tavern is a gastro-pub built in 1865, making it one of the oldest pubs in the Burren area. Since April 2022, it has been under new management by Peter Jackson, an award-winning chef specialising in seafood. The Roadside Tavern offers amazing food as well as beers from the Burren Brewery and is known for its traditional music sessions.
The Ritz Hotel, Bar and Restaurant
The Ritz is a family run hotel in the heart of Lisdoonvarna. Lisdoonvarna is a gateway town to The Burren and is an ideal base from which to explore the entire Clare and Galway regions. The Ritz is the perfect location in the centre of Lisdoonvarna to stay, eat, meet new friends old and new, and to have a great time. Whether you are here long term or just a flying visit, for the sights or looking for love during our Matchmaking Festival, The Ritz is the place to be. Our New Grill House Menu was recently launched and features steaks, chicken, fresh fish and much more.
Local Facilities
Lisdoonvarna is not only a gateway to the Burren but also a welcoming, family-friendly destination with a range of outdoor and community facilities to enjoy. The town features a well-maintained playground and community park, offering a safe and enjoyable space for children to play and families to relax. Surrounded by the unique landscape of North Clare, these amenities provide the perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon or a picnic stop while exploring the area.
Visitors can also discover the town’s heritage trail, which offers an engaging way to learn about Lisdoonvarna’s rich history, including its Victorian spa heritage and famous matchmaking tradition. For those interested in staying active, the town boasts excellent sports facilities, including pitches and recreational areas that cater to both locals and visitors. Whether you are travelling with family or simply looking to experience the local community spirit, Lisdoonvarna offers something for everyone.
Doolin
Doolin offers a diverse and welcoming food and drink scene, catering to a wide range of tastes and experiences. Visitors can enjoy everything from traditional restaurant dining featuring fresh, locally sourced seafood and classic Irish dishes, to more casual options such as artisan cafés, takeaways, and traditional pubs. Whether you’re seeking a relaxed pub meal or a more refined dining experience, Doolin provides a variety of high-quality options in a charming setting
The award-winning Doolin Cave and visitor centre is home to the Great Stalactite. At 7.3 metres (23 feet), it is the longest free-hanging stalactite in Europe and suspends from the Cave’s ceiling like a gigantic chandelier. Visitors can experience a fully-guided tour of the Cave.
Wild Atlantic Seaweed Baths transformed old whiskey barrels into baths. With an amazing heating system warming water to 50 degrees the ten barrels on site are always nice and cosy. Relax for an hour in the warm water with activated seaweed that is full of minerals good for sore muscles, your skin and overall health. On site, there is also two cold plunges and a cold shower for anyone to use. Aswell as a 6 person wood fired Sauna. During the summer months there is an amazing coffee shop ‘the Rocket House’ open for toasties, pastries and coffee.
The Aran Islands are a top destination in the West of Ireland. From winding stone wall boreens and beaches lined with fishing boats to the craic of the island pubs. Sail with Doolin Ferries, and you can escape to a place lost in time when you take a trip to Aran. When you arrive at Aran, you instantly feel like you’ve been taken back to Ireland of old. Gaelic (Irish) is the main language spoken on these islands today. Though most islanders also speak English, Irish is still the preferred language by far.
Doolin Pitch and Putt is an 18 hole links course which was established in 1995. It is located on the road between Fisher Street and Doolin Pier, 5 minutes from the village. With a backdrop of The Cliffs of Moher, The Aran Islands and Doonagore Castle what better way to spend an hour or two with friends or family
Cliffs of Moher Experience
O’Brien’s Tower
O’Brien’s Tower was built on the Cliffs of Moher in 1835 by local landlord and MP Sir Cornelius O’Brien as an observation tower for the English tourists who frequented the cliffs at the time! From this vantage point on a clear day, you can see the Aran Islands and the Twelve Bens of Connemara across Galway Bay.
Dining at the Cliffs
There are great dining options available in the Visitor Centre at the Cliffs of Moher Experience. On the ground floor, is the Puffins Nest Café, while the Cliffs View Café can be found on the first floor.
Shopping at the Cliffs of Moher
Explore the brilliant shopping opportunities at the Cliffs of Moher Experience. The Craft & Gift Store, located in the Visitor Centre showcases a variety of local and artisan crafts! Craftworkers’ Street features a range of unique shops including, Irish T-Shirts, Nua, Gifts of Moher, Moher Music Shop, O’Dálaigh Jewellers and Clifftops.
App & Audio Guide
The Cliffs of Moher App & Audio Tour is your essential guide to the Cliffs of Moher Experience. With audio tracks from the locals, information on all aspects of the Cliffs and maps, you will have everything you need to know to make your trip to the Cliffs of Moher Experience memorable.
