Family Adventure in The Burren: Exploring Ireland's Limestone Paradise

Finding Peace in The Burren's Beauty

Today was a day of gentle exploration and quiet contemplation, a welcome change of pace amidst our family adventure in The Burren. With James and Eglė by my side, I set out to discover the serene beauty of this unique corner of Ireland, a day dedicated to lighthouses, gardens, and the simple pleasures of good food and company.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Glas Restaurant. I must admit, as someone who didn't grow up as a vegetarian, I am always a bit cautious about vegetarian restaurants, but this one won me over. The atmosphere was so inviting , and the staff were incredibly friendly. Even James, who usually craves a bit of meat in the morning, thoroughly enjoyed his plant-based meal. We savored every bite, fueling up for the day's adventures ahead.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off towards Black Head Lighthouse, a beacon of hope perched on the rugged coastline. The drive itself was breathtaking, with panoramic views of the Atlantic stretching out before us. As we approached the lighthouse, the landscape became even more dramatic, with sheer cliffs and crashing waves adding to the sense of awe.


Experience the breathtaking views and rich maritime history at Black Head Lighthouse in Co. Clare, a scenic gem on Ireland’s west coast.

The beauty of a place lies not just in what you see, but in how it makes you feel.

The lighthouse itself was a sight to behold, its white tower standing tall against the backdrop of the vast ocean. We spent some time exploring the area, taking in the fresh sea air and marveling at the stunning scenery. Eglė, with her keen eye for photography, captured some amazing shots of the lighthouse and the surrounding coastline. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me as I gazed out at the endless horizon.

After our visit to Black Head Lighthouse, we drove to Caher Bridge Garden, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of The Burren. As we arrived, we were immediately struck by the garden's enchanting atmosphere, a harmonious blend of nature and artistry. Carl Wright, the owner and creator of this magical place, has truly created a sanctuary of beauty and tranquility.


Discover the enchanting Caher Bridge Garden in County Clare, a harmonious blend of nature and artistry amidst the stunning Burren landscape.

Wandering through the garden's winding paths, we discovered a diverse collection of plants, flowers, and trees, each carefully chosen to complement the natural landscape. The Caher River meandered through the garden, adding to the sense of serenity and peace. The iconic moongate, reflecting the arch of the bridge over the river, was a sight to behold, a testament to Carl's vision and creativity. I was particularly impressed by the way Carl has incorporated the surrounding wilderness into his garden, creating a seamless transition between the cultivated and the natural.

As we strolled through the garden, I couldn't help but reflect on my own love for gardening. Growing up in Kėdainiai, Lithuania, I spent countless hours tending to my grandmother's garden, learning about the importance of nurturing the earth and appreciating the beauty of nature. Although I now live in Toronto, I still try to find time to connect with the earth, foraging for mushrooms and berries in local parks and tending to my small balcony garden.

After our delightful visit to Caher Bridge Garden, we were ready for a late lunch. We drove to Doolin and enjoyed a wonderful meal at Riverside Bistro. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting , and the food was simply delicious. James and I both ordered the lamb shank, which was cooked to perfection. Eglė, always the adventurous one, opted for the seafood pasta, which she declared was the best she had ever tasted. The service was excellent, and we felt truly welcomed by the friendly staff.


Experience delightful dining at Riverside Bistro in Doolin, where local flavors meet warm hospitality amidst scenic County Clare.

As we savored our meal, we chatted about our plans for our final day in The Burren. Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Galway Clare Burren Trail ride at An Sibin Riding Centre, and afterwards visit Bothar nA hAillite. Before our final dinner at Hylands Burren Hotel, we'll also be stopping by The Burren Smokehouse to pick up some smoked salmon. I am particularly excited about the trail ride, as I have always loved horses and the outdoors. I can already imagine the feeling of freedom as we gallop through the Irish countryside, surrounded by stunning scenery. I am also looking forward to visiting The Burren Smokehouse, as I have heard great things about their smoked salmon.

After our lunch, we drove back to our guesthouse, feeling content and refreshed. We spent the rest of the afternoon relaxing and enjoying each other's company. As the sun began to set, we decided to have dinner at Burren Storehouse. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and the food was hearty and delicious. James and Eglė opted for the pizza, while I decided to try the fish and chips. We all thoroughly enjoyed our meals, and we left feeling satisfied and happy.


Discover authentic Irish cuisine at Burren Storehouse, where great food meets live music in Co. Clare's scenic landscape.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the beauty and tranquility of The Burren. This unique landscape has a way of soothing the soul and inspiring the spirit. I am so grateful to be able to share this experience with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. As a Lithuanian living in Canada, it is so special to explore the land of my husband's birth and see its unique beauty. I'm already looking forward to our final day in this enchanting corner of Ireland.

Tomorrow marks the end of our journey through The Burren, but I know that the memories we've made here will stay with us long after we've returned home. I am eager to explore more of Ireland in the future, perhaps venturing further afield to discover other hidden gems and cultural treasures.