The Bottom Line
Nobody visits the Burren for its exciting modern attractions - the bizarre landscape, mainly located in County Clare (though extending just about into County Galway)
itself is the attraction here and all attractions are decidedly old. A
bleak, scarred limestone plateau that is often (falsely) compared to the
moon's surface, with few plants growing and only the occasional sheep
navigating the crevices for another lump of grass. Covering a vast
stretch of land south of Galway Bay and running right to the shoreline, the inhospitable Burren is one of the top attractions you should see in Ireland. But try to avoid the busy summer season to experience the desolation.
Pros
- One of the world's weirdest landscapes.
- Several prehistoric monuments.
- Close to Galway City and Cliffs of Moher, ideal for a combined day trip.
Cons
- Roads can become very full in summer.
Description
- Bizarre landscape created by rain eroding a limestone plateau.
- Unique ecosystem plays host to unusual plants.
- Prehistoric monuments and cathedral town of Kilfenora represent long human habitation.
Guide Review - The Burren (County Clare)
When
you think of stunning landscapes, most people would prefer green, lush
areas with colorful plants and wildlife. In the Burren (the Irish word
literally means "bleak area") you get 40 shades of grey with only a bit
of green thrown in. And this is exactly what makes the Burren so
stunning - and strangely attractive.
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There are only a few roads
crossing the limestone plateau and in summer literally thousands of cars
and tour buses crawl along these roads. If you have the chance, come at
another time. With only a few hardy sheep about the Burren is best
experienced in small company or alone. Park the car at a convenient spot
and walk a few hundred careful steps away from the road, negotiating
fissures and the odd loose rock. Then look around you and experience the
sensation of being the first explorer on another planet.
But the
Burren has more to offer than loneliness. Several ancient monuments are
signposted, with the Poulnabrone Dolmen being the most spectacular of
them all. Other graves and a stone-age fort are nearby. Driving through
the Burren and finding a proper space to park has long been regarded as a
nightmare - this aspect has greatly improved in recent years and you
will be able to stop without risking damage to nature or your car.
Drivers should, however, bear in mind that there are no services on the
Burren and even mobile phone coverage can be patchy - check fuel and
headlights before you go, at least.
Between Poulnabrone and the
picturesque Black Head lighthouse you'll find Aillwee Cave, one of
Ireland's few showcaves. Tours explore the Burren "from below" here, and
a very good farm shop is justly famed for its cheese. Or make your way
to Kilfenora. This tiny town boasts a very small cathedral, high crosses
and the interesting "Burren Centre". Here you will learn that the
Burren is not as lifeless as it may seem, both flora and fauna are worth
a second, closer look.
Again a note regarding preparation -
should you wish to explore the Burren with your rental car, make sure to
have a tank full of gas before setting out. It might also be a good
idea to combine the trip with a visit to the Cliffs of Moher. Both can be easily done in a single day and go hand-in-glove.
