Visiting County Clare is a multi-sensory, hot and cold Irish experience. Firstly you have the wild, windswept beauty of the landscape and the desolate, dramatically pounding Atlantic coastline. Then you've the wonderful warmth of traditional Irish music, which doesn't just live on in County Clare, it flourishes in hundreds of different venues. There is a wide range of accommodation on offer and the best places to stay vary from bijou B&Bs to country house hotels.
Ennis is the regional capital, and a good place to stay to hear a lot of music - but then so is the smaller village of Doolin, unofficial world capital of Irish folk music! If you stay, or pass through Ennis, you might want to visit the famous friary.
County Clare is home of the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, on the edge of the strange, rocky landscape of the Burren. Despite the fact that nothing but grasses grow on this vast limestone sheet, the Burren has been inhabited since the building of the Pyramids. Some of Ireland's oldest monuments and archaeological treasure can be found here, including the Caherconnell stone ring fort and Poulnabrone Dolmen, a five and a half thousand year old burial chamber.
As well as being windswept and interesting, and musical and welcoming, Clare is also is a much appreciated backdrop for outdoor pursuits. In addition to all the walking and biking routes, there's golf courses, surfing, diving, kayaking, sailing, horse riding and both freshwater and saltwater fishing.
What Not To Miss
- Visit historic Bunratty and Knappogue Castles, the latter of which holds regular medieval banquets - a memorable experience!
- The 15th century Quin Abbey is a highly atmospheric spot and definitely worth the stop.
- Take the whole family to the reconstructed Bronze Age village by Craggaunowen castle, which is built in a typical ringfort style, complete with crannogs. The castle is also worth a look.
- If you're from around these parts, but a long time back, you'll want to be head to Corofin as this is where you'll find the Clare Heritage and Genealogical Research Centre.
- Hike around the scenic Cliffs of Moher at sunset and marvel at the breathtaking views.
Our pick of the best places to stay in County Clare are located near the Atlantic Coast, so all make great bases for exploring this wild and beautiful region.