Walking Holidays & Outdoor Adventures in County Clare

Cliffs, Limestone Landscapes, and Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Edge

County Clare, set along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, is one of the country’s most dramatic walking destinations. Famous for the Cliffs of Moher and the otherworldly Burren, it’s a county where walking holidays and outdoor adventures reveal rugged coastlines, ancient stone landscapes, and traditional villages alive with music and culture.

Walking in Clare means following coastal paths high above the Atlantic, exploring limestone hills filled with rare wildflowers, and discovering prehistoric tombs and medieval ruins on quiet trails. With the Burren & Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark at its heart, Clare is both a natural wonder and a cultural treasure.

Trails & Routes

Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk – A 12-mile trail between Doolin and Liscannor, with some of Ireland’s most breathtaking cliff-edge views.
The Burren Way – A 123 km long-distance trail linking Lahinch to Corofin and Ballyvaughan, crossing the limestone uplands and the heart of the Burren.
Black Head & Fanore Loops – Shorter walks combining coastal views, limestone pavements, and traditional farming landscapes.
Loop Head Peninsula – A remote headland walk with sea cliffs, lighthouses, and abundant birdlife.
Shannon Estuary Trails – Easier riverside and heritage walks along Ireland’s longest river, linking quiet villages and historic sites.

Adventure Highlights

Cliffs of Moher – Ireland’s most iconic coastal cliffs.
The Burren – unique limestone karst with wildflowers and prehistoric monuments.
Poulnabrone Dolmen – one of Ireland’s most famous megalithic tombs.
Loop Head Peninsula – wild, windswept, and unspoiled.
Doolin – the traditional music capital of Clare and a gateway to the Aran Islands.
The Burren & Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark – a world-recognised landscape of geology and heritage.

Explore the Area

Ennis – Clare’s market town, rich in history and Irish music.
Doolin – lively and cultural, with ferry links to the Aran Islands.
Lahinch – a surf town and the start of the Burren Way.
Kilkee – coastal town with dramatic sea cliffs and bathing spots.
Ballyvaughan – a peaceful base for exploring the Burren.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best walking trails in County Clare?

The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk and the Burren Way are the most famous, while Black Head, Fanore, and Loop Head offer scenic day walks.

Is County Clare suitable for walking holidays?

Yes. Clare is one of Ireland’s top destinations for walking holidays, offering both challenging long-distance routes and shorter scenic loops.

What makes the Burren special for walkers?

The Burren’s limestone pavements, rare wildflowers, and prehistoric tombs create a unique walking landscape found nowhere else in Ireland.

When is the best time to walk in Clare?

May to September offers the mildest conditions and longest days. Spring is best for Burren wildflowers, while autumn provides quieter trails and dramatic Atlantic light.

Can I combine walking with other activities in Clare?

Yes. Clare is ideal for combining walking with surfing in Lahinch, boat trips to the Aran Islands, kayaking in the Shannon Estuary, or traditional music evenings in Doolin.