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Doolin
Doolin

7 Charming Villages & Towns near Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher in Clare is one of the most beautiful and varied coastal routes in the world. Discover this part of the Island and stay in one of the many charming villages or towns in the area. Whether you’re a foodie, a lover of literature or a serious history buff, you’ll never be bored in Clare. 

We’ve put together a list of 7 charming villages and towns near the Cliffs of Moher Experience to explore with family and friends.

Rising slowly from Doolin village, the Cliffs of Moher ascend to over 700ft at O’Brien’s Tower and run along the coast of Clare for almost 14 kilometres, or 8 miles, boasting some of the most breath-taking scenery in Ireland.

Venture through the neighbouring towns of Corofin, Doolin, Ennis, Ennistymon, Lahinch, Liscannor and Lisdoonvarna.

Corofin
Inchiquin Lake, Corofin, Co Clare

Corofin

Corofin is a traditional village with a rich history, just 16 km/10 miles from County Clare’s attractive Atlantic Coast. In Irish, Corofin translates to “the white or foam-flecked ford”, an apt name that embodies its connection to the karst Burren landscape. The village is often referred to as the gateway to the incredible Burren region.

Corofin has many unique native floras due to its proximity to the Burren, as well as an arrangement of prehistoric tombs in the parish. Located on the River Fergus and close to Lake Inchiquin, Corofin is a legendary fishing spot.

In relation to walking, Corofin is a trailhead for the Burren Way national way-marked way. There are also two national loop walks in the Kilnaboy area, at Mullaghmore in the Burren National Park and nearby Lough Avalla Farm Walk. Another national loop walk can be found at the Dromore Nature Reserve in Ruan, 5 miles (7km) from Corofin.

Corofin is well known for its hospitality, traditional music, fishing, walking and drama society. The modern village has many tourist attractions and accommodation providers, as well as lots of restaurants and pubs that host regular traditional Irish music sessions.

Doonagore Castle, Doolin

Doolin

The colourful and welcoming village of Doolin boasts some of the most breath-taking scenery in Ireland.

Doolin is within easy distance from the Cliffs of Moher Experience and Aran Islands where ferries run daily taking adventures offshore. Get a fresh view of the cliffs and watch the sea birds nest on a cruise on the seas with Doolin Ferry Company.

Representing the heart and soul of Irish traditional music, this tiny village is internationally renowned as a centre of live Irish music, played in its many great pubs. Doolin hosts two annual music festivals, the Micho Russell Festival, and the Doolin Folk Festival. Both of which are embraced by the local community, who are proud to celebrate the history and culture of Irish Traditional music in Doolin.

There are a variety of excellent eateries, restaurants, and accommodation in Doolin. The homely and charming Doolin Inn can be found in the heart of Doolin. This modern country build offers the charm of a 4-star modern country house with the professional and seamless service of a hotel. Make a reservation to enjoy some live music while you dine in Anthony’s.

Irelands first carbon neutral hotel, Hotel Doolin has been rated and awarded as one of the Irish Independents Fab 50 places to stay. Consisting of a boutique-style hotel with 17 deluxe bedrooms, Glas Restaurant, Fitzpatrick’s Pub, Stonewall Café & Pizzeria and much more.

Ennis
Ennis Town

Ennis

Ennis is the capital town of County Clare, situated at the heart of the county on the River Fergus. It is a beautiful, picturesque town steeped in history going back to the Vikings in 970 AD. With its narrow, winding streets and historical buildings, Ennis is a rare example of a Gaelic medieval town. The town hosted a Franciscan monastery which was built in 1240, which was a place of learning, attracting hundreds of European students.

Today Ennis is a booming town with many modern influences. Ennis people are known for their friendly manner and community spirit, they take great pride in their town. Ennis was the first town in Ireland to be accredited with the prestigious International Purple Flag Award, a claim to be the Friendliest Town In Ireland and has won the national Tidy Towns competition numerous times.

Known as the ‘Boutique capital of Ireland’, Ennis is an excellent spot for shopping. Its quaint narrow streets are lined with beautiful clothing, gift, cosmetic and artisan food stores. Some of the finest hotels in the country can also be found in and around Ennis, like Hotel Woodstock Ennis one of the most popular family friendly hotels in Co. Clare.

Ennistymon
Falls Hotel & Spa

Ennistymon

The scenic natural beauty is the pathway for tourists travelling to the likes of Lahinch and the Cliffs of Moher Experience. The River Cullenagh cascades over the rocks, almost like a waterfall effect, this is the oldest part of town. The town is easily accessible with all amenities within walking distance.

Enjoy a meal at the Market House Ennistymon, where you’ll find a large range of hot gourmet sandwiches, fresh pastries, gourmet salads, home-cooked meats and more.

The Falls Hotel & Spa is located in the heart of this market town in an 18th-century mansion. The 140-bedroomed hotel was recently refurbished and guests can enjoy relaxing in the spa, an indoor pool and fitness centre during their stay.

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Lahinch

Lahinch

Lahinch is enjoyed by both locals and tourists and is one of Ireland’s most popular destinations during the Summer. It is nestled at the head of Liscannor Bay, beside 2 km of golden beach sand that wraps around Liscannor bay.

Both clean and safe to swim at, lifeguards roam the beach in peak season. Lahinch has also earned its reputation as a top ‘surf centre’ with surf schools open all year round, as well as sailing, swimming, kite surfing and more.

There are also plenty of options for accommodation and dining in the area. Enjoy a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants dotted along the seaside. Randaddys,

Vaughans, O’ Looneys and Danny Macs just to name a few.

The Lahinch Coast Hotel offers a four-star experience, newly renovated, accustomed with a leisure centre and swimming pool.

Liscannor Bay

Liscannor

Liscannor is a magnificent coastal village on the west coast of County Clare and is situated at the end of Liscannor Bay, with the Cliffs of Moher just 4km/2.5 miles from the village.

One of the most renowned aspects of Liscannor, is its beautiful and distinctive flagstone called Liscannor Stone. The stone is a popular choice for houses, walls, flooring, paving and roofs.

Angling is very popular along the prom and bay, and for the kids, Moher Hill Open Farm and Leisure Park offers hours of fun. They can interact with animals like alpacas, emus, highland cows, ostrich and much more. When making your way to the Cliffs of Moher Experience, visit Rock Shop boasting a display of fossils, gemstones and crystals all sourced within Ireland.

Spend the night at the Cliffs of Moher Hotel, found within the village of Liscannor. Hosting live music every night, the pub within the hotel sources a selection of craft beers, and a range of Irish whiskeys that cater for all guests. Its the perfect way to end your visit to the Cliffs of Moher Experience.

Burren Smokehouse 23
Burren Smokehouse

Lisdoonvarna

The Aille River flows through Lisdoonvarna. Rich in minerals like magnesia, iodine and iron, Lisdoonvarna water is known for its curative properties. The first bath-house was built in 1875 and by 1895 over 20,000 visitors were visiting the Victorian Spa Wells for their therapeutic mineral waters annually.

Lisdoonvarna also hosts Europe’s largest matchmaking festival each year. Attracting up to 60,000 tourists and locals every September. The festival carries on a long standing Irish tradition that’s as old as time.

On your visit, the Burren Smokehouse is a must see. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the Smokehouse and explore how they make their internationally renowned smoked fish, including a close-up look at a kiln and smokebox and more.

Ballinsheen House and Gardens is the perfect place to stay upon your visit to the small town. Take a stroll through the gardens and admire the architecture of the main house surrounding the gardens.

Or stay at Sheedy’s Hotel, its the perfect spot to enjoy all that the Burren has to offer and is located just 15km from the Cliffs of Moher Experience. This hotel is owned and managed by the Sheedy family, who pride themselves in offering a warm welcome, traditional hospitality and delicious cuisine.