Hi everyone, Aidan here. County Clare is one of the most amazing places to visit in Ireland. With a plethora of beaches and coastal attractions, as well as stunning natural inland spots and quaint traditional towns, Clare is definitely a destination you don't want to miss out on. Have a look at our five favorite spots to visit in this enchanting county.
1. The Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher are undoubtedly Ireland’s most famous natural attraction, with more than a million visitors each year. They are a key stop along the Wild Atlantic Way and were given UNESCO Global Geo Park status in 2011. Stretching for 8km (5 miles) and reaching 214 metres (702 feet) at their highest peak, the Cliffs offer ot only breath-taking scenery, but are also home to rare coastal wildflowers such as the Sea Pink.
2. Bunratty Castle and Folk Village
Bunratty Folk Park is a delight for tourists. With more than thirty buildings in the village, recreations of nineteenth century rural farmhouses, village shops and streets give visitors a taste of what life was like in Ireland in the 1800s. The castle's history as a fortification site dates back to to Viking era, with its construction in stone occurring in the fourteenth or fifteenth centuries. It is famous for its medieval banquet, which have been running since 1963, and features a four course meal accompanied by the Bunratty Castle Entertainers providing music and singing.
3. The Burren
The Burren is another of Ireland's most renowned natural attractions. It is a truly unique natural landscape of glacial-era limestone, with cliffs and caves, fossils and rock formations. It is one of the very few places in the world that is simultaneously home to Alpine, Arctic, and Mediterranean plants. This is an experience that cannot be missed.
4. Father Ted's House
Father Ted is the most well-known television show from Ireland and is a BAFTA award-winning sitcom about three eccentric priests and their off-kilter housekeeper. Most of the exterior shots of the show were filmed in Clare, including the house that Fr. Ted, Fr. Dougal, Fr. Jack and Mrs. Doyle occupy on the fictional Craggy Island. You can even pre-book to have afternoon tea in the house! This is an essential stop for any Father Ted fans.
5. Scattery Island
For anyone who wants to experience a real religious site, Scattery Island is the perfect spot. The island was settled on by St Senan, who according to legend was sent there by an angel to find and banish the terrifying sea-monster known as the Cathach. The island is located just off the northern bank of the Shannon Estuary and is the site of a monastery from the sixth century, along with six church ruins. The monastery's round tower stands at 36 metres and is one of the tallest in Ireland.
With so many different things to offer, Clare is a definite must for anyone visiting Ireland. Here you'll find the perfect mix of traditional Irish charm, stunning natural attractions and coastal scenery. During your trip to the Emerald Isle, Clare is not to be missed!
Til next time,
Slán go Fóill,
Aidan
