About Burren Ecotourism Network
The Burren – Darina Allen launches Ireland’s Newest Ecotourism Destination
The Burren Ecotourism Network was officially launched by Darina Allen on 3rd March in Gregans Castle Hotel, Balllyvaughan. Over the last few years, a group of eighteen dedicated tourism businesses have been going through a rigorous training and assessment programme to be certified as one of only two ecotourism destinations in Ireland. Their vision is that establishing ecotourism in the Burren will ensure the sustainable development of its communities, environment and heritage.
The Network is offering visitors opportunities to engage with the protected landscape of the Burren in a manner which is sustainable both in terms of the environment as well as the community. Accommodation, food, farming, outdoor activities, culture and heritage are all part of the Network, which has woven together all the elements that make the area attractive to visitors looking for authentic tourism experiences. Tourism businesses involved in the network are committed to local produce, conservation and the community, as well as to continuing high standards in sustainability.
Each business offers a unique ecotourism experience, one such example being an Afternoon Tea and Farm Walk, “For ‘Father Ted’ and ‘Mrs. Doyle’ fans a visit to Father Ted's parochial house for afternoon tea is a must. Enjoy a fine selection of organic home produce and wide selection of teas by appointment only. The lady of the house is Cheryl and her husband Pat McCormack, is a story teller and rural philosopher of renown. “There are 26 Experiences in all on offer and each can be tailored to suit the individual or group.
Burren Drive
Description
The Burren region of Clare, pictured below, extends over 160 square kilometres. Mostly made up of bare, grey limestone rock, the weather has cracked and creviced the rock over time to produce amazing patterns on the land. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the quieter waters of Galway Bay, the Burren is a rock garden of extraordinary proportions. The drive will bring you through mountainous terrain, beautiful sea views and unspoilt valleys. Your route encircles the Burren, beginning at the ancient cathedral town of Kilfenora with its excellent Burren Interpretive Centre.
The road westward leads through the spa town of Lisdoonvarna. Signposts for Fanore and Black Head show the way to the coast. Stop anywhere and enjoy the Atlantic air and amazing landscape. When travelling around Black Head watch out for the little lighthouse below the road and the distant hills of Connemara across Galway Bay.
A few kilometres westward lies the charming coastal village of Ballyvaughan, a perfect spot to break your journey and to explore the Aillwee Cave. From Aillwee the road south will bring you past the ancient monuments of The Poulnabrone Dolmen and Caherconnell Stone Fort. You could also visit the delightful Burren Perfumery in Carran for an extra sensory experience. To the south of Poulnabrone the ruins of Lemaneh Castle stand by the roadside.
A right turn there would bring you back to Kilfenora completing the circuit. But the left turn sets you on the way to Ennis. Passing the beautiful Lough Inchiquin you come to Corofin where the Clare Heritage Centre offers a genealogical research service. Round off your trip in Ennis where you'll have your choice of accommodation and fine dining.
Burren Coaches
Description
Our business was established in 1975 as Farrell Coaches by Tommy Farrell to service a rural locality in the Burren, Co. Clare. Tommy developed the business to provide transport for incoming tourists as well as those in the Clare and Galway local towns and villages. The enjoyment Dad derived from meeting, pleasing and moving the local and the visitor alike developed into an ethos which remains part of Burren Coaches today, giving rise to our motto - 'our service will move you!'
Burren Way (walk)
Description
The Burren Way is a 123km linear walking trail (including East Burren Loop and links to Lisdoonvarna and Ballyvaughan) located in the Burren area of North Clare. The Way brings you inland from Lahinch on the Western side of the Burren to Doolin on the coast and via the town of Lisdoonvarna on to Ballyvaughan to the north. It then crosses the heartland of the Burren through the villages of Carran, and Corrofin on the eastern side of the Burren. The Way follows a mix of mainly Green Roads, pathway, old roadway and minor roads. Just south of Corrofin the route links with the Mid Clare Way and forms an attractive loop walk on the eastern side of the Burren.
Directions to the Burren Way Trailheads
The Burren Way is best accessed at one of six key trailheads, which provide information map boards and car parking. These are located reasonably close to other services and facilities, such as shops, accommodation, restaurants and public transport. The trailheads are located as follows:
Trailhead 1 – Lahinch
Located on the coast, Lahinch is 3km west of Ennistymon on the N67.
Trailhead 2 – Doolin
Doolin village is located on the R479, off the N67, and 8km from the Cliffs of Moher.
Trailhead 3 – Lisdoonvarna
The town of Lisdoonvarna is located approximately 34km north of Ennis on the N67.
Trailhead 4 – Ballyvaughan
The village of Ballyvaughan is located on the N67 and is 39km from Ennis.
Trailhead 5 – Carran
The village of Carran is located between Ballyvaughan and Corrofin approximately 3km to the East of the R480.
Trailhead 6 – Corrofin
The village of Corrofin is located on the R476 between Ennis and Lisdoonvarna and is approximately 13km from Ennis.
Clare's Atlantic Coastline Drive
Description
A north to south route along Clare's Atlantic coastline is a memorable journey.
Travel south along the spectacular road that hugs the coastline around Black Head and watch the Atlantic rollers break on the beach in Fanore. Take time to enjoy the cream of Irish traditional music in Doolin village. Stand on the Cliffs of Moher, pictured below, world renowned for their scale and beauty and gaze at the ocean below. Enjoy the panoramic views of the Aran Islands and the Atlantic Coast.
Continue south to eat ice cream on the sheltered golden sands of Lahinch and Spanish Point, named in memory of the wreck of Spanish Armada ships in 1588 and finish your journey in the lively seaside town of Kilkee.
This route can also begin and end in Ennis heading first for Ballyvaughan and returning from Kilkee.
Deelin House
Description
Traditional farmhouse located on an elevated site. Situated in the heart of the Burren 7 miles from Ballyvaughan. Ideal for visiting places of historical and archeological interest. Mountain climbing, canoeing and caving. Mixed farming. Tea/Coffee on arrival.
