Burren Nature Sanctuary

Immerse yourself in nature in Galway 🍃

Burren Nature Sanctuary near Kinvara in County Galway is a captivating visitor attraction that offers a rich, immersive experience of the unique Burren landscape. Nestled on a 50-acre organic site known as Cloonasee—or the “meadow of the fairies”—the sanctuary unfolds across shattered limestone pavements, wildflower meadows alive with seasonal orchids, ancient hazel and ash woodlands, and a rare tidal “disappearing lake” that vanishes into limestone caverns with the ebb and flow of the tides.

At the heart of the sanctuary lies the Botany Bubble, which showcases the National Collection of Burren flora, where alpine, Mediterranean, Arctic, and tropical plants thrive alongside native wildflowers in season.

What to expect

You’ll encounter charming features such as fairy houses hidden in the woodland, an interpretive audio walking guide, and engaging signage that brings the geological history—including fossils from ancient tropical seas—to life.

Visitors also enjoy interacting with friendly farm animals—goats, pigs, donkeys, alpacas, llamas, and more—and can even book a whimsical fairy pig walk with Emilia, accompanied by boutique experiences like picnics or Prosecco to elevate the stroll.

The sanctuary delivers something for all ages—a tranquil nature walk, educational discovery, playful farmyard fun, and a welcoming café and gift shop where you can relax and savour local flavors.

With free parking, family-friendly facilities, and walking distance from Kinvara village along the scenic Wild Atlantic Way, it’s a delightful stop whether you’re traveling from Galway or en route to the Cliffs of Moher.

About the Nature Sanctuary

Burren Nature Sanctuary offers a fun day out for all the family amongst the scenic surroundings of The Burren limestone landscape. The sanctuary is primarily an interpretive centre for the flora and fauna of the Burren, however there are many other activities to enjoy including an exciting zip wire ride, adventure playground, indoor soft play area with wavy slide for younger visitors along with a Burren flower nature walk and disappearing lake walk. There is also an artisan cafe and farm shop along with a Burren info point with hiking routes to plan your trip around the Burren and locations of rare or unusual plants in flower.

Contact

[email protected]