The Burren
The name of the ‘Burren’ region is derived from the word ‘Boireann’, which means ‘rocky land’ in the Gaelic language, which is appropriate for this vast limestone plateau in northwest of County Clare. In 1640’s, a surveyor commissioned by Oliver Cromwell described the area as ‘a savage land, yielding neither water enough to drown a man, nor tree to hang him, nor soil enough to bury’.
The Burren National Park & Geopark flower
Although few trees grow in this rocky place, many other plants thrive. The Burren is a unique botanical environment in which Mediterranean and alpine plants rare to Ireland grow side by side. From May to August, an amazing array of flowers creates bright splashes of colour in this otherwise austere landscape.
Glaciation and wind and rain erosion have formed limestone pavements with deep crevices known as ‘grykes’. The porous rock is easily penetrated by rain water, which has gouged out an extensive cave system beneath the rocky plateau.
The Burren National Park and Geopark is a truly magnificent karst limestone area which has a combination of many unusual features which make it unique in Europe. Its geology, flora, fauna, caves, archaelology, and history set it apart as a place of great mystery and beauty. The Burren, together with the Cliffs of Moher was awarded UNESCO recognised Global Geopark status in 2011.
A place like no other
In an area measuring only 100 square miles you can find crystal clean rivers, ancient castles, peaceful lakes, sheer cliffs, magical caves, lush green valleys, bare rock mountains, green walking trails along with the many relics of ancient civilisation including round towers, portal dolmens, hidden churches and sacred wells. From geology to botany and from archaeology to outdoor adventure there is something for visitors of all ages. Pristine beaches with the backdrop of sculpted limestone mountains provide a wonderful setting for lovers of the outdoors. The Burren region is a mecca for those looking for some of the best hiking, cycling, surfing, kayaking or caving in the country.
There are many great towns and villages to visit while touring the Burren and the Cliffs of Moher. The area is home to a highly productive community of cottage industry food producers specialising in everything from smoked salmon, honey, jams and cheeses to name but a few. Why not take time to indulge in the best local foods, or stop in one of the many towns and villages to enjoy a great traditional music session.
Things to do in The Burren 🥾
- Explore the great chaos of rocks that is the Burren. Identify the grikes and clints, and marvel at the magnitude of this near-lunar landscape.
- Take a a guided or self-directed electric bike tour with Burren EBike Adventures for a fun day exploring the breathtaking Burren environment. Choose from a wide variety of itineraries to discover quiet country roads. Create your own route or select one of their expertly planned routes, which take in some of the most scenic view and interesting attractions.
- The Doolin area is popular with cavers. A little over 1km north of Roadford you’ll find Doolin Cave, which boasts an enormous stalactite that looks like a giant squid.
- Savour an evening in Vaughan’s Pub. Seafood, traditional foods and local produce feature on Vaughan’s appealing menu. The pub has a big reputation in Irish music circles. There’s music in the bar every night during the summer and on many nights the rest of the year also. The adjacent barn is the scene of terrific set-dancing sessions on Thursday and Sunday nights. Have a pint under the big tree out front.
The Burren: Video Guide
Map of The Burren, Co. Clare
Getting to The Burren
By bus, bike or car. Bus Eireann Route 350 provides a service from Galway to The Burren (Galway > Kinvara > Ballyvaughan > Lisdoonvarna > Doolin > Cliffs of Moher). Alternatively follow the N6 from Galway to Kilcolgan, and then the N67 to The Burren.
Free shuttle bus service for the Burren National Park 🚌
The National Parks and Wildlife Service provides free shuttle bus service for the Burren National Park during high season for visitors. From 1st May to the end of August each year, the service operates from the Burren National Park Information Point in Corofin to the trailhead at Gortlecka Cross near Kilnaboy in the National Park. The bus runs 14 times a day, seven days a week, with the first bus leaving Corofin at 9.30am and the last bus returning from the park at 5.15pm. This service provides a convenient and eco-friendly travel option to visitors wishing to explore the scenic way-marked walking trails found within the park, where parking is limited.
Where to stay 🛌
The Burren has a wide choice of cosy and friendly places to stay including small hotels, hostels, self-catering holiday homes, guesthouses and B&B’s.
Follow the coast 🌊
The Burren is surrounded by beautiful coastal towns. Don’t miss Ballyvaughan and Kinvara if you are travelling north, and The Aran Islands, and Doolin, if you are travelling south.
The Burren FAQS
How to travel by bus from Galway, Limerick, and Dublin to The Burren?
- From Galway:
- Bus Eireann Route 350 operates between Galway and The Burren, serving key areas like Kinvara, Ballyvaughan, and Lisdoonvarna.
- The bus runs several times daily and stops at major attractions like the Cliffs of Moher, close to The Burren.
- Depart from Galway Bus Station; the journey takes about 1–1.5 hours to reach The Burren region.
- From Limerick:
- Take a Bus Eireann Route 343 to Ennis.
- From Ennis, connect to Route 350, which travels to The Burren, including towns like Lisdoonvarna and Ballyvaughan.
- Travel time from Limerick to The Burren (with the transfer) is around 2–2.5 hours.
- From Dublin:
- Take a Bus Eireann Expressway Route X12 or X20 to Galway or Limerick.
- From Galway, use Route 350; from Limerick, follow the Limerick-Ennis-Route 350 connection described above.
- Alternatively, consider a direct coach tour from Dublin to The Burren, often including the Cliffs of Moher.
Tips:
- Check the Bus Eireann schedule for seasonal variations, especially for Route 350.
- Purchase tickets online or at bus stations for convenience.
- Bring suitable walking shoes if you plan to explore The Burren’s unique limestone terrain.
Is there a free shuttle bus service to The Burren National Park, and how does it operate?
- Service Details:
- Runs 14 times daily between Corofin and The Burren National Park.
- The first bus departs from the Information Point in Corofin at 9:30 AM, and the last return bus from the park leaves at 5:15 PM.
- The service is free of charge and designed to provide easy access to the park’s walking trails.
- Availability:
- Operates daily from the beginning of May to the end of August.
Tips for Visitors:
- Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak tourist season.
- The shuttle is an eco-friendly way to explore the park while minimizing your impact on its unique environment.
What are the top attractions in The Burren?
- The Burren National Park: Discover iconic karst limestone terrain on scenic walking trails teeming with rare orchids, alpine plants, and wildlife like foxes and pine martens. A free shuttle bus from Corofin operates May–August for easy trailhead access.
- Poulnabrone Dolmen: Step back 5,000 years at this awe-inspiring Neolithic portal tomb, offering a glimpse into ancient burial practices. Visit early for serene views and stunning photos.
- Aillwee Cave and Birds of Prey Centre: Explore captivating underground caverns adorned with stalactites and waterfalls. Enjoy thrilling falconry displays featuring hawks and owls—perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
- The Cliffs of Moher: Marvel at breathtaking sea cliffs with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and Aran Islands. A must-see for visitors to The Burren region.
- Burren Perfumery: Immerse yourself in nature at this artisan perfumery creating fragrances inspired by local flora. Relax with herbal teas in the tea rooms and stroll through serene wildflower gardens.
- Caherconnell Stone Fort: Explore a well-preserved ancient ring fort and enjoy live sheepdog demonstrations. A unique blend of history and culture for the whole family.
- Fanore Beach: Experience tranquility at this sandy beach, ideal for walks, picnics, and surfing. Enjoy breathtaking views where The Burren meets the Atlantic, especially at sunset.
- Kilfenora and the Burren Centre: Delve into The Burren’s geology, history, and culture at this gateway village, home to the historic Kilfenora Cathedral and iconic high crosses.
- Ballyvaughan Village: A charming harbor village offering scenic views, cozy cafes, and art galleries. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing meal amidst Burren beauty.
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