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The Burren

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The Burren, a UNESCO Global Geopark is a unique and alluring landscape with outstanding geological heritage, rich fertile valleys, vibrant villages and thriving communities that offer some truly inspiring food, heritage and activity experiences. 

 

Whatever your interest, from archaeology to adventure, from geology to botany, there is something in the Burren that will stop you in your tracks. The best way to explore the Geopark is to take the time to sensitively wander – by foot or on bicycle. Get up close to nature. Immerse yourself in rich heritage. Discover the local culture.

 

In the stunning surrounds of the Geopark you will find the longest cave system in Ireland, the largest stalactite in Europe, the Burren National Park, the Carron Nature Reserve and a host of wild flora and fauna waiting to be discovered. On a visit to the region you are invited get immersed in all that is the Burren. Bring the whole family and cycle, hike, kayak, climb, explore and discover fascinating landmarks and important geological sites all over the Burren, above ground and below. 

 

The Burren has a rich food culture and is the perfect location for foodies who want to follow the path their food takes from farm to fork. The Burren Food Trail offers a way to uncover the history of the region through its food. The trail and its weekly food series offer the chance to explore the unique and ancient farming system of the Burren, to meet the producers, hear their stories and to dine in award-winning Chef-lead restaurants.


The Burren

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Top things to do

in The Burren 

The Burren Food Trail

Follow your nose, and your stomach, on the Burren Food Trail – tasting local produce and delicious dishes served up by our many chef-led restaurants, farmers markets and local producers.  Celebrate our foodie festivals with the Slow Food Clare in May and The Burren Food Fayre and Winterage Festival in October.

 

The Burren Food Trail
©Burrengeopark

Walking

Grab your walking boots and explore one of the Geopark Heritage Trails, looped walks or way marked trails. Go with a Guide and discover the Burren's archaeological, geological and botanical wealth. Hear stories and folklore that will unlock the secrets of this extraordinary landscape.

 

alking in the Burren
©Burrengeopark

Explore the Music

Pick up a whistle or a fiddle and give us a tune! Traditional Irish music is very much alive and kicking in the Burren! There is music played every night in little villages and towns throughout the region – with Doolin as the hub, it’s a great place to stop and enjoy a few tunes!

 

Explore the Music - The Burren
©Burrengeopark

Delve into a cave

Delve underground and into Doolin Cave, home to the longest free hanging stalactite in the Northern hemisphere. Take in the magnificent Birds of Prey Centre at the Ailwee Caves, before heading underground into their famous show cave. If your feeling more adventurous you can explore the underground stream ways of the Burren on a caving outing.

 

Doolin Cave
©Burrengeopark

Discover the Rocks

Discover the beating heart of the Wild Atlantic Way and follow the Coast Road from Doolin to Ballyvaughan – the limestone pavements, erratics and alpine flowers will take your breath away. Climb Mullaghmore mountain, the centre of the Burren National Park, and be captivated by the beauty around you.

 

The Rocks - Burren Geopark
©Burrengeopark

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