Explore County Clare: Your Perfect Gateway to Ireland

Begin your journey westward toward County Clare and to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park set on 26 acres of unspoilt Clare countryside, featuring over 30 buildings in a ‘living’ village and rural setting.

After enjoying your morning, head to Craggaunowen Castle & Crannóg. Can you imagine what life was like for people in the Bronze Age? At Craggaunowen Castle & Crannóg, you will experience the resilience and fortitude of these early bronze age settlers.

Begin your journey through charming towns and villages towards the beautiful Loop Head Lighthouse Attendant’s Cottage where you will spend two nights. Along the way, stop at Keating’s Bar and Restaurant for delicious, fresh meal before retiring for the evening.

Wake up to the sounds of the wild Atlantic waves on Loop Head before getting ready for the day. Enjoy a guided tour of the iconic Loop Head Lighthouse with a knowledgeable local expert before exploring the area on foot.

Make your way towards the charming town of Kilrush where you will find the beautiful Vandeleur Walled Garden & Visitor Centre. Explore the beautifully restored Victorian walled garden and enjoy lunch in the Brambles Woodland Café.

Head to Kilkee to enjoy the Kilkee Cliff Walk, a less crowded yet stunning coastal trail. Have dinner at Hickie’s Bar or another local restaurant in Kilkee before heading back to the Attendant’s Cottage for your second night’s stay.

Make your way to Moher Cottage, a charming family-run shop and café located near the Cliffs of Moher Experience. Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee and homemade treats while browsing unique Irish crafts and gifts, perfect for a relaxing start to the day.

Visit the Cliffs of Moher Experience as you spend the afternoon exploring one of Ireland’s most iconic natural landmarks, taking in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the dramatic cliffs.

Arrival in Dublin or Shannon Airport & Bunratty Castle: Arrive at Dublin Airport, begin your journey westward toward County Clare (approx. 2.5 hours to Bunratty). Did you know Shannon Airport is in Clare and is only 16 minutes (14km)  from Bunratty Castle & Folk Park

Afternoon: Stop at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park for an engaging introduction to Irish history. Wander through the 15th-century castle and explore the charming folk park with traditional thatched cottages and craft demonstrations.

Continue your drive to the Attendant’s Cottage on Loop Head Peninsula (approx. 1.5 hours). Settle in and unwind with breathtaking coastal views. Dinner: Relax with a quiet meal at your cottage or explore a nearby local pub.

Begin your day by exploring the spectacular Loop Head Peninsula. Visit the iconic Loop Head Lighthouse, enjoy the rugged beauty of the sea cliffs, and take in panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Stroll along the coastal paths and keep an eye out for wildlife, including dolphins and seabirds.

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Drive to Vandeleur Walled Garden and Visitor Centre in Kilrush (approx. 45 minutes). Enjoy a delightful lunch in the garden café, featuring locally sourced, freshly prepared dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the beautifully restored 19th-century gardens.

Visit the Cliffs of Moher Experience (approx. 1.5 hours from Kilrush). Arriving in the evening provides a quieter, more serene atmosphere to explore this world-famous landmark. Take in the breathtaking views as the sun sets over the Atlantic, and enjoy the interactive exhibits in the visitor center.

Begin your day with a visit to the Kilbaha Gallery on the Loop Head Peninsula. Browse its beautiful collection of Irish art, crafts, and gifts created by local artists. Enjoy a relaxed morning exploring the gallery and its charming surroundings.

Arrive at Craggaunowen by 3:30 PM. Explore this fascinating open-air museum, which recreates ancient Irish life with crannógs, ring forts, and the legendary Brendan Boat. Wander the grounds and immerse yourself in the stories of Ireland’s past.

Depart for Bunratty Castle (approx. 25 minutes). Arrive in time for the Medieval Banquet, which begins at 5:00 PM. Step back in time as you enjoy a royal feast accompanied by lively entertainment, traditional Irish music, and storytelling in a historic castle setting.

Spend your final morning exploring the Loop Head Peninsula. Take a leisurely drive to admire its picturesque peninsula, sea cliffs, and wildlife.

Lunch: Enjoy a farewell meal at one of the charming cafes in the region.

Visit Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, a medieval castle and living history village.

Attend a medieval banquet at Bunratty Castle (pre-book) for a unique dining and entertainment experience.

Drive to Craggaunowen (approx. 20 minutes). Explore the reconstructed ancient dwellings and historical exhibits, including the Brendan Boat, to connect with Ireland’s fascinating past

Continue to Ennis and explore the narrow medieval streets, a vibrant market town.

Arrive at The Attendant’s Cottage at Loop Head Lighthouse, settle into your accommodation and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Begin your day at Kilbaha Gallery, a short drive from the Loop Head Lighthouse. Explore the local art and crafts and enjoy a relaxing coffee or snack at the gallery café

Drive to Vandeleur Walled Garden and Visitor Centre in Kilrush (approx. 45 minutes). Wander through the beautifully restored 19th-century gardens

Return to The Attendant’s Cottage (approx. 20 minutes). Spend your evening relaxing with a home-cooked meal or head to Keatings for dinner.

Drive to The Burren National Park (approx. 1.5 hours from Loop Head), a fascinating landscape of 36,000 hectares located in North Clare, and the finest example of a glaciated karst landscape in Europe.

Visit the Burren Visitor Centre, which provides insight into the area’s natural and cultural history. Enjoy the historic Kilfenora Cathedral with its beautiful high crosses.

Drive to the Cliffs of Moher Experience for an evening visit (approx. 25 minutes from the Burren). Prebook your tickets online to save 45%

Head to Kilkee to enjoy the Kilkee Cliff Walk, a less crowded yet stunning coastal trail. Have lunch at Hickie’s Bar or another local café in Kilkee.

Drive to Kilrush and take a ferry to Scattery Island, an uninhabited monastic settlement with a round tower and ancient churches.

Return to your accommodation at Loop Head for your final night. Dine in or visit a nearby pub for a cosy meal.

Drive to Spanish Point, a discovery point on the Wild Atlantic Way and is one of nine International Blue Flag beaches in County Clare, for a stroll along the seaside. Grab breakfast in a local café and soak in the atmosphere.

Journey to the Design Bank in Miltown Malbay, a collective of Clare Creatives. Meet local makers, artists, musicians and more! You might even get lucky and stumble in upon a live traditional music session.

Return to Spanish Point for a delicious dinner at the Armada Hotel, renowned for its stunning oceanfront location. Indulge in a delicious meal at one of their restaurants, where locally sourced seafood and Irish specialities take centre stage.

Discover the enchanting Bridges of Ross. Once a trio of natural sea arches, now a single remaining marvel, the Bridges of Ross offer breathtaking views of the wild Atlantic Ocean. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this hidden gem is a must-see!

Venture to the beautiful town of Ennis, an excellent spot for shopping. Its quaint narrow streets are lined with beautiful clothing, gift, cosmetic and artisan food stores. Wander through the charming streets, grab a bite to eat and pick up some local gifts.

Return to the Attendant’s Cottage for your final evening on Loop Head. Relax and unwind as you prepare for your flight the following day, and enjoy the solitude of Loop Head Peninsula.