Exploring the Enchanting Landscapes of The Burren

Whispers of the Wild Atlantic

Today was a symphony of Ireland's raw beauty, echoing with the crash of waves and the hushed secrets of ancient caves. Leaving our cozy guesthouse, the air was crisp with the promise of adventure, a blend of anticipation and the ever-present scent of the sea. It’s days like these that remind me why Liam and I chose to escape the ordinary and immerse ourselves in the extraordinary.

Our first stop was the majestic Cliffs of Moher. October in the Burren brings a unique charm – the landscape is painted in hues of gold and amber, with the promise of migrating birds soaring overhead. As we drove, the countryside unfolded before us, a patchwork of green fields dotted with stone walls, the sky a canvas of shifting greys and blues. Liam, ever the navigator, kept us on course, his excitement building with every mile closer to the coast.

The Cliffs of Moher stood in their imposing glory, the wind whipping around us as we gazed out over the vast expanse of the Atlantic. The sheer scale of the cliffs is humbling, a testament to the power of nature. I spent a long time just watching the waves crash against the rocks below, the sound a constant roar that seemed to vibrate through my very being. It's a place where you can truly feel the wildness of Ireland, a place that demands respect and reverence. I managed to capture a few photographs, hoping to convey the immensity of the landscape, but a photograph can only ever be a pale imitation of the real thing. The crisp air, the salty spray, the sheer drop – these are things you have to experience to truly understand.


Experience the breathtaking views and diverse wildlife at the Cliffs of Moher, a must-visit scenic spot in Ireland's stunning west coast.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of moments, a quiet connection with the earth beneath our feet and the sky above our heads.

After the invigorating heights of the cliffs, we descended into the depths of Doolin Cave. This was an experience of a different kind, a journey into the heart of the Burren's geological wonders. The cave is home to one of the longest free-hanging stalactites in Europe, a breathtaking sight that took millions of years to form. The tour was fascinating, the guide sharing stories of the cave's discovery and the unique ecosystem it supports. It was surprisingly warm inside the cave, a welcome respite from the wind outside. Liam was particularly intrigued by the geology, peppering the guide with questions about the rock formations and the underground river that carved them. I found myself drawn to the silence of the cave, a stillness that felt ancient and profound. We even learned that Doolin Cave has welcomed new pygmy goats, Lucy, Oreo and Ginger, to their eco-trail this October.


Explore the stunning Doolin Cave in County Clare, home to the Great Stalactite and breathtaking geological formations, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Emerging from the depths, we were ready for a hearty lunch. We headed to Linnane's Lobster Bar in New Quay, a place recommended by several locals. The bar is built on a thatched cottage that is over 300 years old, and has great views of the bay. The reviews I'd read promised fresh seafood and a cozy atmosphere, and it didn't disappoint. We settled in by the window, watching the waves lap against the shore as we devoured a delicious lunch of poached salmon and lobster tail. The seafood was incredibly fresh, the flavors enhanced by the salty air and the stunning view. Liam, of course, had a pint of Guinness, declaring it the perfect accompaniment to the meal. It was the kind of place where you could easily spend an entire afternoon, lingering over good food and good company.


Experience exquisite seafood at Linnane's Lobster Bar in New Quay - where fresh ingredients meet stunning coastal views.

In the evening, we found ourselves drawn to the lively atmosphere of Gus O'Connor's Pub in Doolin. This pub is known for its traditional Irish music sessions, and it's easy to see why. The pub was packed, the air thick with the sound of fiddles, guitars, and laughter. We squeezed into a corner, ordered a couple of pints, and let the music wash over us. It was an authentic Irish experience, a celebration of culture and community. Liam, being Irish, was in his element, tapping his foot and singing along to the familiar tunes. I, on the other hand, was content to soak it all in, observing the faces around me and feeling the energy of the music.


Experience the essence of Irish culture at Gus O'Connor's Pub in Doolin, where hearty food meets lively traditional music in a welcoming atmosphere.

Before heading to Gus O'Connor's Pub, we had dinner at Anthony's at Doolin Inn. Being part of Doolin Inn, it is known for championing local flavors. I decided to have the beer battered fish and chips, and Liam got the rib-eye steak. We ended the night with the caramelised pineapple and lemon posset for dessert.


Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Anthony's at Doolin Inn, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in beautiful County Clare.

As we walked back to our guesthouse, the night air was filled with the echoes of music and laughter. The stars were out in full force, a dazzling display that seemed to mirror the magic of the day. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Burren National Park and visit the Poulnabrone Dolmen, eager to uncover more of this unique landscape's secrets. I am also hoping we can visit Hazel Mountain Chocolate.

Today was a reminder that travel is about more than just seeing new places; it's about experiencing new things, connecting with different cultures, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And as I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this enchanting corner of the world, with my favorite travel partner by my side.

The weather in the Burren in October is moderately chilly and slightly windy, with average highs of 56°F (13°C) to lows of 47°F (8°C). There is also a high chance of rain.

I’m also glad to have remembered to pack my rain jacket and hiking boots, but I do wish I hadn’t forgotten my portable phone charger and binoculars!