County Clare Travel Guide

Cliffs, Castles & Coastal Drives
County Clare, part of the historic province of Munster, is located on Ireland’s west coast at the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way. The towering Cliffs of Moher may be the county’s star attraction, but you could spend your entire vacation here and still not run out of things to do.

Clare Top 5 Accommodations Clare Tours More County Clare Tips

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Bronze & Boru | Luxury Touring Through Ireland
Travel in comfort with a professional driver guide who’ll take you beyond the typical tourist trail. Bronze & Boru use luxury Mercedes vehicles providing comfortable transportation for 2–12 guests and craft personal touring experiences across Ireland.

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Top 5 Things to Do in County Dublin

O'Brien's Tower atop the Cliffs of Moher. Ireland travel tips

Cliffs of
Moher

#1 Natural Attraction
No visit to Clare is complete without standing atop these iconic cliffs. Go early or late to avoid the crowds – and consider walking a portion of the coastal trail for jaw-dropping views beyond the main visitor center.
TIP: Add on a Cliffs of Moher cruise for a complete experience!

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The Burren

Ireland's Lunar Landscape
This rocky landscape looks otherworldly- but it’s teeming with life. Explore wildflowers, ancient tombs, and winding stone walls.
Don't just pass through – plan a few days to explore and enjoy!
Tip: Don't just drive through the Burren – there are so many amazing spots to visit!

Kilkee &
Loop Head

Ireland's Quiet Peninsula
For crowd-free views with just as much drama, drive south to Kilkee and Loop Head. You’ll find rugged coastline, fewer people, and plenty of scenic pull-offs, perfect for a picnic or photo stop.
Tip: Take the day slow and allow time to fully enjoy this rural destination.

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Bunratty Castle & Folk Park

Ireland's Most Completely Restored Castle
Just off the main route between Limerick and Ennis, this restored 15th-century castle is one of Ireland’s most family-friendly stops. Historic characters, animals, and interactive experiences bring Irish history to life.
Tip: Plan at least 3 hours to enjoy everything!

Round tower and cathedral ruins on Scattery Island, County Clare, Ireland

Scattery Island

Clare's Monastic Surprise
Often overlooked, this monastic island off Kilrush offers a peaceful escape with round towers, ruined churches, and wild Atlantic views. Access is by boat- making it one of Clare’s most unexpected delights.
Tip: Prebooking is recommended and you can't be in a rush if you want to add this incredible spot to your itinerary.

Medieval Banquet set up in Knappogue Castle, County Clare. Private Ireland Castle Stay. Ireland castle vacation.

Best County Clare Tours

Explore County Clare with a guide or fun activity – these tours are top-rated and easy to fit into your itinerary.

Cliffs of Moher Hike from Doolin – Small group hike from Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher

​Cliffs of Moher 360​ – Cliffs of Moher hike followed by a Cliffs cruise

Sheepdog Demonstrations – watch sheepdogs at work before touring Caherconnell Stone Fort

Distillery Tour & Whiskey Tasting ​– experience Ireland's ancient whiskey making traditions and taste the ‘water of life'

Burren Electric Bike Tour – explore the Burren's lunar landscape on this guided tour

Pony Trekking – enjoy a 1-hour horseback ride through the Clare countryside with views of the Cliffs of Moher, Aran Islands & lunar landscape

​Cycle Loop Head​ – follow the 65km Loop Head Cycleway, enjoying Ireland's un-crowded peninsula.

Knappogue Castle Medieval Banquet – Available April – October (my personal favorite)

Bunratty Castle – ‘Skip the line' admission to the castle & folk park

Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquet – available year-round!

​Best of Ennis – a guided walk through Ireland's ‘Friendliest Town'

✨ Need help planning your time in County Clare – or beyond?✨
Check out my free Ireland itineraries for inspiration, tips, and easy-to-follow routes.

Accommodations

Doolin Inn Cafe, Doolin, County Clare, Ireland

Doolin Inn

My #1 spot to stay in Doolin.
Wonderful for couples + terrific family rooms.
Ground floor rooms available.
My favorite breakfast in Ireland.

Dromoland Castle

Treat yourself like royalty in County Clare's 5-star castle hotel.
On-site activities include falconry, archery, and horseback riding.
Pool & spa also available.

Temple Gate Hotel

In the heart of Ennis, Ireland's ‘Friendliest Town'.
Perfectly central for exploring County Clare.
Short walk to lively pubs.

Condo in Lahinch

Penthouse apartment with sea views (owned by some friends of mine). Perfect for a fun & relaxing stay in County Clare.
Self-Catering. No elevator.

Top County Clare Tips

Transportation Tips