Limestone limelight

Mention the word “Burren” and a barren limestone landscape springs to mind. Scratch that – a barren moonscape springs to mind. But this National Park nestled in the middle of the Wild Atlantic Way isn’t as lifeless as you may think. Come April and May, the Burren blossoms into a unique rock garden, with millions of wildflowers bursting up through the clints and grykes. It’s an extraordinary sight, even more so when you consider the ancient seeds were borne from Alpine, Arctic and Mediterranean climates.

There’s a surprising amount to do in the Burren, too. Every May, the Burren in Bloom Festival celebrates the surrounding blossoms, shedding a light on the National Park’s formation. And even your gifts are sorted as the Burren is home to its very own perfumery.

Stars of the screen

When it comes to Hollywood, Clare’s Loop Head is no stranger to skywalkers and stargazers. While taking in the awesome sights of the Wild Atlantic Way, the cast and crew of Star Wars: Episode VIII captured the majestic atmosphere of this mighty cliff peninsula for movie lovers to enjoy for years to come.  

From the galaxy of Star Wars to the magical might of the Cliffs of Moher, reaching rugged heights of over 700 feet complete with panoramic views of the vast ocean below. This majestic UNESCO Global Geopark featured in Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince, setting the scene for the boy wizard’s hunt for horcruxes with his trusted headmaster, Professor Dumbledore. 

Sport central

From ocean lovers to putting champions, Clare offers an array of options.

Ever since surfing first exploded onto the Irish scene well over a decade ago, Lahinch has been the spiritual (and commercial) hub of surfing in Ireland. Venture south and you have the brown sugar sands at Spanish Point. Head north, and there’s the terracotta fringe of Fanore. Now all you need to do is get wet.

When it comes to clubs and rolling greens, Dr Martin Hawtree's famous links golf course in Doonbeg offers an 18-hole championship circuit. While Ennis Golf Club and Lahinch Golf Club are relaxing retreats perfect for the novice or expert golfer. 

Local hotspots

As well as the Atlantic Ocean, Clare borders Lough Derg and the River Shannon, where leafy villages like Mountshannon and Killaloe make a sweet stopover.

Boats from Doolin carry visitors to the Aran Islands offshore. In the pubs of Miltown Malbay, traditional music sessions wind up at precisely 11:30 pm (or not). Steven Spielberg is among the visitors to have chilled out in Ballyvaughan, and the angling is amazing off Black Head.

No matter where you visit, big screen stardom and outstanding views abound in the proud ‘Banner County’ of Clare.