Doolin Cave & Visitor Centre
Award-winning Show Cave Experience
The award winning Doolin Cave and visitor centre is located 4 kilometres outside the village of Doolin in the heart of the Burren in County Clare. Follow in the footsteps of the great explorers Brian Varley and JM Dickenson and re-live their 1952 adventure to discover the Great Stalactite in the cave’s main chamber. Estimated to weigh over ten tonnes and measure 23 feet in length, the Great Stalactite is a true wonder of nature.
Don’t miss your chance to view this spectacular heritage attraction. After finishing your tour go for a stroll on the farmyard nature trail or enjoy some coffee and cake in the onsite cafe. Tours depart daily on the hour from March to October from 10am to 5pm and Saturdays and Sundays in November from 11am to 4pm.
Opening Hours
Daily: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (Seasonal variations apply)
Note: Tours depart every hour on the hour. During the peak summer season, tours may run every 30 minutes. It is highly recommended to book online in advance to secure your preferred time slot, as group sizes are strictly limited for conservation purposes.
Call (0) 65 7075761 to Inquire
Note: To reach the Great Stalactite, visitors must descend (and eventually ascend) 125 steps. The tour is physically demanding and is not suitable for individuals with limited mobility or certain heart conditions.
What to expect at Doolin Cave
All you need to know before you go
Doolin Cave is a limestone cave system located in Doolin, County Clare, Ireland. It is also known as Poll an Ionain, which means “the hole of the birds” in Irish. The cave was discovered in 1952 by a local farmer named Jack McGann, who noticed his dog disappearing down a hole in the ground. After investigating, he discovered the cave system and eventually opened it to the public in 2006.
The main attraction of Doolin Cave is the Great Stalactite, which is one of the largest free-hanging stalactites in the world. The Great Stalactite is over 23 feet (7 meters) long and is estimated to be over 3000 years old. It was formed by the slow dripping of water and the gradual buildup of calcium carbonate over thousands of years.
Visitors to Doolin Cave can take a guided tour of the cave system, which lasts approximately 45 minutes. During the tour, visitors can learn about the geology of the cave, the history of its discovery, and the formation of the Great Stalactite. The cave is also home to a variety of other stalactites and stalagmites, as well as underground streams and waterfalls.
In addition to the cave tour, Doolin Cave also has a visitor center with exhibits on the geology and history of the area. There is also a café and gift shop on site. Doolin Cave is one of the most popular tourist attractions in County Clare and is well worth adding to your itinerary when planning to visit the other main attractions in the area such as the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren.
Contact
Phone: +353 (0)65 707 4444
Email: [email protected]
FAQs about Doolin Cave
What should I wear for the cave tour?
The cave remains at a constant temperature of approximately 11°C (52°F) year-round. It is recommended to wear a light jacket or sweater. Most importantly, wear sturdy, flat walking shoes as the 125 steps and cave floor can be damp or slippery.
Is the cave suitable for young children?
Yes, children are welcome and often find the “Indiana Jones” style descent very exciting. However, please be aware that strollers are not permitted in the cave due to the 125-step staircase. Parents must be confident that their children can manage the steps or be comfortable carrying them safely.
What is the Farmland Eco-Trail?
The eco-trail is a scenic walk around the surface of the cave, featuring rare-breed animals like Soay sheep, Pygmy goats, and various poultry. It offers fantastic views of the Atlantic and the Burren landscape, and access is included with your cave tour ticket.
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