Activities in the Area

You are choosing the best possible location in the West of Ireland. There are lots of things to see and do in the near neighbourhood, experiencing the country as well as cultural events and extensive sports facilities. County Clare is a land of ancient castles and diverse landscapes, of uncrowded byways and fascinating sightseeing, from quiet lakes to vast, sandy beaches and the eerie landscape of 'The Burren', making this region the best to suit everyone.

LAHINCH (6 miles): This lovely seaside resort has a lot to offer. Stretching around one of the longest sand beaches in Ireland it also has a fantastic Seaworld Aquarium and leisure centre with swimming pool and two championship golf courses: 18 holes 6,696 yards Par 72 - Old Course; 18 holes 5,620 yards Par 70 - Castle Course.

CLIFFS OF MOHER (6 miles): Some call it the biggest tourist attraction in Europe! Rising 650 ft out of the Atlantic Ocean and extending for 5 miles, the sheer rock face of the Cliffs is an awesome sight. The layers of black shale and sandstone provide sheltered ledges where seabirds nest precariously. Some of the best views are from the Victorian viewpoint at O'Brien's Tower.

DOOLIN (6 miles): The mecca for Irish music, pubs and celtic craft. Here leaves the ferry to the Aran Islands.

The three ARAN ISLANDS lie in the entrance to the Galway Bay. Jaunting cars, minibus tours and bicycles for hire await you on the bustling pier of Inishmore, the largest island, as you arrive. The nearby Heritage Centre will explain a way of life that is fast disappearing. You will still see people dressed in the distinctive knitwear that is the island's most famous export. Here the film "Man of Aran" came into existence. Visiting Dun Angus, an ancient hillfort, is a must.

KILFENORA (2.5 miles): The smallest diocesan of Ireland with its cathedral and famous highcrosses. Nearby, Lickeen Lake, is an insider tip for every passionate freshwater angler. Have a look into the Burren Exhibition Centre with its fabulous display.

THE BURREN: This limestone plateau is a geological and natural phenomenon. Glaciation, wind and rain have combined to form the limestone pavement in whose cracks rare plants flourish where others cannot survive. The area is dotted with prehistoric dolmens, ringforts, early Christian churches in ruins and other ancient monuments. Beneath the ground is a network of caves, one of which - the Ailwee Cave - is open to the public and provides a fascinating tour.

LISCANNOR (6 miles): Famous among deep-sea anglers. Step on board one of the boats and explore the waters of Galway Bay. You may see blue sharks, basking whales, dolphins or even killer whales.

LISDOONVARNA (3 miles): Founded at the discovery of its sulphur, iron and magnesium rich spa wells this town is home to welcoming restaurants and some excellent traditional pubs. Give yourself a treat in a sulphur bath, have a massage, wax treatment or sauna in old-fashioned Victorian surroundings. Lisdoonvarna is also a great place for "the crack" as the tradition of match making continues, especially during the Matchmaker Festival held each September, attracting people from all over the world!

ENNISTYMON (6 miles): Well known for its very attractive shop-fronts, which date from the late 19th century, this busy town is the nearest shopping centre. Don't forget to have a look at the cascades of the River Inagh near the town square.

The above merely starts you off in your expoloration of the many things to be seen in this area. Within 10 miles there are also many sports' facilities including pony trekking, surfing, diving, abseiling, caving, pitch & putt, cycling, tennis, and of course hundreds of miles of most scenic walking routes.