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

A Day of Ancient Echoes and Modern Flavors

Today was a beautiful blend of history and gastronomy, a perfect encapsulation of what makes traveling so enriching. We ventured into the past, explored ancient strongholds, and then indulged in the present with some delightful Irish cuisine. It was a day where the echoes of the past harmonized beautifully with the vibrant tastes of today, creating memories that I know we'll cherish for years to come.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Fox's of Kinvara. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of a traditional Irish breakfast was the perfect start to our explorations. I opted for the classic scones with jam and cream, while James went for the full Irish breakfast, complete with sausages, bacon, and black pudding. Eglė, ever the adventurous one, chose the beet salad. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service made it a memorable start to the day. It reminded me of the warm hospitality I experienced growing up in Kėdainiai, Lithuania, where a hearty breakfast was always a family affair.


Discover authentic Irish flavors at Fox's of Kinvara – where local ingredients meet warm hospitality in the heart of Galway.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to explore Dunguaire Castle, a 16th-century tower house that stands proudly on the shores of Galway Bay. The castle is just a short drive from Kinvara, and as we approached, its imposing silhouette against the backdrop of the bay was truly breathtaking.


Discover Ireland's rich medieval past at Dunguaire Castle, a breathtaking site on the shores of Galway Bay, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.

We learned that the castle was built by the O'Hynes clan around 1520. Over the centuries, it has passed through the hands of various owners, including Oliver St. John Gogarty, a famous poet and surgeon, who restored it in the early 20th century and made it a gathering place for literary figures like W.B. Yeats and George Bernard Shaw. It felt surreal to walk through the same halls where such brilliant minds once convened. Eglė was fascinated by the stories of medieval banquets held at the castle and the legends of King Guaire, the legendary king of Connacht, after whom the castle was named.

“History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.”

The views from the top of the castle tower were simply stunning. Galway Bay stretched out before us, its waters sparkling in the sunlight. I could almost imagine what it must have been like to stand guard here centuries ago, watching for invaders. James, ever the software engineer, was impressed by the castle's defensive architecture, pointing out the strategic placement of the walls and towers. I couldn't help but think of my own background and how structures like this one have stood the test of time, just like the traditions and values I carry with me from Lithuania.

After immersing ourselves in the history of Dunguaire Castle, we drove to Dysert O'Dea Castle and Archaeology Centre. This castle, located near Corofin, offered a different perspective on Irish history. While Dunguaire was perched on the coast, Dysert O'Dea was nestled inland, surrounded by lush green fields and ancient monuments.


Explore the historical charm of Dysert O'Dea Castle, a captivating landmark with stunning views and archaeological treasures in County Clare.

Dysert O'Dea Castle dates back to 1480 and was built by Diarmuid O'Dea, Lord of Cineal Fearmaic. The castle has been restored and now houses an archaeology center with exhibits on local history and artifacts. We explored the castle's interior, climbing the narrow spiral staircase to reach the top. Each floor had a unique collection of artifacts, providing a fascinating glimpse into the past. Eglė was particularly interested in the audio-visual presentation, which was available in both English and German.

The archaeology center also features a 4-kilometer trail with 25 monuments, including a 12th-century high cross, a holy well, and the remains of a round tower. We decided to take a short walk along the trail, enjoying the beautiful scenery and learning about the area's rich history. I found myself reflecting on how history is not just about grand battles and famous figures, but also about the everyday lives of ordinary people.

By lunchtime, we were ready for a bite to eat. We headed back to Kinvara and settled in at Connollys bar and Restaurant. This establishment, steeped in history and local charm, was the perfect spot to refuel after our morning of castle explorations. Connollys has been a fixture in Kinvara since 1908, and it's known for its traditional Irish music and delicious food.


Experience authentic Irish cuisine with stunning views at Connollys Bar and Restaurant in Kinvarra.

We sat in the comfortable upstairs area and enjoyed a delightful lunch. James ordered the seafood chowder, which was packed with fresh seafood and vegetables. Eglė opted for the prawns pil pil served with garlic bread, while I decided on a simple but satisfying ham sandwich. The portions were generous, and the food was delicious.

In the evening, we decided to treat ourselves to a special dinner at Oar Restaurant & Rooms in Doolin. Although it was a bit of a drive, the promise of fine dining in a rustic setting was too tempting to resist. Oar Restaurant has been recognized by Michelin since 2021, and it's known for its creative dishes made with local produce.


Experience exquisite dining at Oar Restaurant & Rooms in County Clare, where local flavors meet stunning views in an unforgettable culinary journey.

The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm and friendly atmosphere. We started with the beef tartare and the summer salad. For our main courses, James chose the Hereford prime rib eye, while I opted for the black sole. Eglė, always up for trying new things, went for the vegetarian dish of the evening. The food was exquisite, each dish a work of art. The flavors were complex and perfectly balanced, and the presentation was impeccable. It was a truly memorable dining experience, one that reminded me of the culinary artistry I've come to appreciate through trying new recipes from around the world.

As we savored our meal, we talked about our plans for tomorrow. We're heading to Mooghaun Hill Fort and Slieve Carran - Eagles Rock [nextDay]. I'm particularly excited about visiting Slieve Carran, as I've heard it offers breathtaking views of the Burren landscape [nextDay]. We might even stop by Fitz's Pub for a nightcap [nextDay].

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel. It's not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new cultures, learning about history, and creating lasting memories with my family. And of course, indulging in delicious food along the way. As we drove back to our guesthouse, I felt grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful corner of Ireland and to share these experiences with my loved ones. I am also excited about our adventures that await us tomorrow.

There's a concert by Matt Benson in Kinvara tonight, and also live Irish music at Connolly's but we are all so tired that we'll have to give them a miss. Perhaps we can listen to some traditional Irish music another night.