The Emerald Isle is home to many hidden – and unhidden – gems and yet sadly not many travellers get further than the warm embrace of Dublin. And who can blame them?
It’s one of the best cities in Europe. Yet, there is much more to Ireland and for a while now we’ve been researching things to do on the west coast of Ireland.
What keeps coming up is that County Clare may be the place to go and here are my top reasons why.
1. Bunratty Castle
Bunratty Castle is an impressively preserved medieval fortress that was originally built in 1425. Extensive restoration in the 1950s brought the castle back to life and it is now open to visitors to explore and to also visit Bunratty Folk Park which has a recreated village depicting life in the 19th century. Stay close by at the Bunratty Castle Hotel, Ireland.
2. Surfing
The west coast of Ireland has long been a “must-go” destination for surfers from all over the world. In many ways it’s a true test of how serious a surf bum you really are if you when you look forward to heading into the shockingly cold Atlantic in October to catch some of the unexpectedly tall waves that crash along County Clare’s beaches. Sound like fun? You can find surf schools at Lahinch ready to teach you how to surf.
3. Ennis
County Clare regional capital and largest town is Ennis and from here you can easily do most of the things on this list. The town has therefore grown to accommodate hotels for all budgets, restaurants from all corners of the globe and lots of local attractions including cosy Irish pubs and tearooms.
4. Cliffs of Moher
County Clare’s most popular and recognisable tourist attraction is the dramatic sight of the Cliffs of Moher. Distinguished by the jagged limestone cliffs and sweeping green grass that rolls over the top, the Cliffs of Moher offer some wonderful views at sunset and on a clear day you can see out to the Aran Islands.
5. Dolphin watching at Carrigaholt
Even dolphins feel drawn to the shores of Ireland and surely that has nothing to do with the taste of Guinness? Carrigaholt is a pretty and quaint Irish coastal village where you can set off on dolphin spotting adventures and toast successful sightings with cups of tea or something stronger afterwards.
6. The puffins at Loop Head
Further along the Cliffs of Moher is Loops Head, a dramatic cliff that juts out into the Atlantic and is home to a huge puffin colony. There are many other species of birds to be found here too so don’t forget your binoculars.
7. Fishing at Aillroe Shore
What do you mean I don’t look like an angler? Well, that’s because I’m not but if I was going to take up this increasingly popular sport, I would do so at Aillroe Shore. This grey and moody beach offers some of the best catching opportunities when the tide floods in.
8. Spanish Point
So-called because it was where the bodies of Spanish sailors were washed up on to dry land after the Spanish Armada sank, Spanish Point now offers locals and visitors a peaceful and remote place to escape from it all, complete with dramatic views of the Atlantic.
For more articles like this view my Ireland travel guide.
