There are lots of towns and villages to explore in County Clare so we had to make a return trip to fit in some more places to explore. We were not disappointed.
Lisdoonvarna
We briefly stopped off in Lisdoonvarna on our travels. A hidden gem that you should not miss in Lisdoonvarna is the Burren Smokehouse https://www.burrensmokehouse.com/ where you will get an opportunity to learn about the smoking process and taste the product. You also get the opportunity to buy the organic salmon and their other products and other small producer products so stock up on your way home. They also sell online in case you cannot visit them.
Doolin
We visited this village as we had heard it was well known for the traditional music sessions in the local pubs as well as the beautiful drives in the area and the landscape of the small fields surrounded by stone walls.
This is another great place to visit for a weekend and base yourself.
A windy day in Doolin (photo A Kavanagh)
Doolin cave
We stumbled upon this activity by following a sign from the village of Doolin and we were delighted to find this family run gem.
The day we visited there was only a small crowd (unlike Ailwee which was packed on our last visit so they definitely are a big attraction) and so we got to take our time and got superb views of the great Stalactite which as we learned from our knowledgeable guide is 23 feet and we understand is the longest free hanging stalactite in Europe. https://doolincave.ie/
Stalactite Doolin Cave, image from www.doolincave.ie
Ailwee cave
This is another place worth a visit and I visited here before I stumbled upon the Doolin cave. Get here early as it can get very busy. This is a well laid out facility with lots to see and information available. Tip wear a rain coat and sturdy shoes and be prepared for the water especially if it has rained or is raining while you visit. https://www.aillweecave.ie/
The Burren
Spectacular scenery that is definitely worth experiencing.
We got to see the magnificent limestone landscape when its plants and wildflowers were on full display and we got sunshine while visiting.
We parked up and sauntered around for hours appreciating the peace and beauty of the region.
The Burren Perfumery https://burrenperfumery.com/ was just a beautiful experience. You get to wander around the grounds. It is a small gem of a business in a unique location that makes unique cosmetics and perfumes inspired by the area and the landscape. There is a shop onsite if you want to get some gifts or to treat yourself. They also sell online.
Before you leave make sure to pop into the onsite café for great health food too or a sweet treat if that is what take your fancy.
With our shopping bags and big smiles we happily headed for home.
Main Photo by Leslie Cross on Unsplash
