Exploring the Enchanting Landscapes of The Burren

Underground Wonders and Ancient Forts

Today, Liam and I dove headfirst into the heart of The Burren, exploring its hidden depths and ancient traditions. It was a day of contrasts, from the cool, mysterious caverns beneath the earth to the windswept fields where sheepdogs showcased their incredible skills. The Burren continues to surprise and enchant us at every turn.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Sheedy's Boutique Hotel & Restaurant. I savored their famous organic porridge with Baileys, while Liam opted for the full Irish breakfast. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. Sheedy's is such a charming place; I can see why it gets so many rave reviews. The staff are incredibly welcoming, and the food is simply outstanding.


Discover unparalleled comfort and exceptional cuisine at Sheedy's Boutique Hotel & Restaurant in Lisdoonvarna, County Clare.

Our first stop was the Aillwee Burren Experience, home to one of Ireland's most fascinating caves. As someone who grew up surrounded by the forests and lakes of Norway, I've always been drawn to the mysteries hidden beneath the surface of the earth. The Aillwee Cave did not disappoint.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich heritage of the Burren at the Aillwee Burren Experience, a must-see tourist attraction in Co. Clare.

The guided tour took us deep into the heart of the mountain, through chambers filled with weird and wonderful formations. Our guide was knowledgeable and enthusiastic, sharing stories of the cave's geology and history. It was fascinating to learn how the cave was discovered in the 1940s when a man's dog ran in after a rabbit. The cave is huge! The air was cool and damp, and the silence was broken only by the sound of dripping water. We saw the skeleton of the Aillwee Caves bear and walked past underground waterfalls and a rushing river. It felt like stepping into another world. I was able to take some great photos, even though it was dark.

The land is a book, and each chapter is a different adventure.

After emerging from the depths of Aillwee Cave, we were ready for some fresh air and sunshine. Luckily, the Aillwee Burren Experience also includes a Birds of Prey Centre. We watched a dynamic flying display set against the dramatic Burren landscape. It's amazing to see these birds up close and learn about their conservation. The center is involved in an initiative to help save three species of vultures from extinction. As someone passionate about wildlife conservation, I found this particularly inspiring.

Before leaving Aillwee, we stopped by the Aillwee Cave Farmshop. I couldn't resist sampling some of the Burren Gold Cheese, fudge, and local honey. It's wonderful to see traditional, sustainable farmhouse methods still being used to create such delicious products. We picked up a few treats to take back to our cozy guesthouse.

Next on our itinerary was Caherconnell Stone Fort & Sheepdog Demonstrations. This was an experience Liam was particularly excited about, given his Irish heritage. Caherconnell is a unique Irish ring fort that dates back to the 10th century. It's the only fort in the Burren that has been scientifically excavated and developed for tourism.


Explore the breathtaking Caherconnell Stone Fort, where history meets tradition through sheepdog demonstrations in the stunning Burren landscape.

We took a guided tour of the fort, learning about its history and significance. Our guide was entertaining and knowledgeable, bringing the traditions and heritage of Caherconnell to life. It's amazing to think that this site was inhabited up to the late 16th century.

But the highlight of Caherconnell was undoubtedly the sheepdog demonstration. John, the current farmer, has been training sheepdogs for over 50 years, continuing a strong tradition at Caherconnell. We watched in amazement as Lee, Lynn, Rose, and Jess, the border collies, worked individually and as a team to guide the sheep. The shepherd used whistles and voice commands to direct the dogs, showcasing a symbiotic relationship built on trust and skill. It was incredible to witness their focus and tenacity. I got some wonderful photos of the dogs in action. After the demonstration, we even got to pet the dogs and cuddle some baby lambs! What a treat!

For lunch, we stopped at Russell's Seafood Bar in Doolin. The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with a cozy open fire. We started with Kelly's Oysters, served simply on a bed of seaweed with mignonette and homemade brown bread. They were incredibly fresh! Liam enjoyed the Russell's Signature Fish 'n' Chips. The service was excellent, and the staff were very friendly. It's no wonder Russell's is so popular.


Experience exceptional seafood dining at Russells Seafood Bar in Doolin – where local flavors meet traditional Irish hospitality.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to experience some local Irish pub culture. We headed to McGann's Pub in Doolin. The pub had a lively atmosphere, with traditional Irish music playing. We enjoyed a pint of Guinness and soaked in the sounds of Ireland. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring The Burren.


Discover the heart of Irish culture at McGann's Pub in Doolin, where live music, hearty food, and warm hospitality await.

For dinner, we opted for O'Donohues Pub. The staff were friendly and engaging, and the food was delicious. I had the seafood chowder, which was amazing! Liam chose the smash burgers, which he said were fantastic. The pub had a great atmosphere, and we enjoyed listening to live traditional music.


Experience traditional Irish culture at O'Donohues Pub in Craggagh - where hearty meals meet vibrant music in a cozy setting.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit The Burren Wildflower Relocation Project and Caher Bridge Garden. I'm looking forward to seeing the unique flora of The Burren and learning more about the efforts to protect it. We also plan to stop by Quinn's Craftshop for some souvenirs. And of course, we'll be trying out some more local restaurants! I hear Vaughan's on the Prom is a must-visit.

Before I sign off, I wanted to mention that I learned that the Burren Winterage Weekend is coming up from October 24th to 26th. This festival celebrates the Burren's farming tradition of Winterage, with a wide range of farming, heritage, cultural, and family events. It sounds like a wonderful way to experience the local culture and learn more about the unique farming practices of the area. If you're planning a trip to The Burren in late October, I highly recommend checking it out!

I am so glad we came to visit The Burren! The Burren is truly a magical place, full of hidden wonders and ancient traditions. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.