burren farm tour

Burren Farm Experience

• Attractions
• Educational
• Guided Walks

Co. Clare, Ireland,H91 PCY9

• Posted 4 years ago

Book your tour on the Burren Farm Experience here! We will bring you for a ride on our tractor trailer with comfy straw bales for seating through our almost 500 acre farm of mixed species-rich grassland. Passing livestock and many interesting historical remains. We will then take a hike 5km/8km through the National Park to majestic Lough Bunny Lake which is of global importance and the centre of a unique karstic wetland system.

You are joining a dynamic duo with husband and wife, Cathal is a 5th Generation farmer he has studied farming acquiring a Green Certificate in Agriculture and has been working on the land for over thirty years since he was a young child being taught his trade by his late father John. I’m Bronagh aka “the wife” recently completed a tour guiding course we are very passionate about this unique area of conservation. Together with our three daughters we are custodians of the land and en-devour to farm with conservation in mind. Farming is integral to the character and composition of the Burren. The ancient transhumance practice of winter grazing on the rough limestone grasslands has been proven to be critical to the health and diversity of the habitats and species therein.

BOOK NOW:  Burren Farm Experience

mobile: (00353) 086 399 04 40

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Burren Farm Experience

• Farming the land for 30 years. Studying agriculture and tourism.
• Professional tour guide

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Burren Farm Experience - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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• History and heritage
• Nature and wildlife
• Walking and hiking

Discover a region rich in history, archaeology and biodiversity along the rugged Atlantic coastline. Stroll through an authentic Irish beef farm with spectacular scenery in County Clare.

Step into wild open countryside covered in limestone terrain and alluvial woodland. Experience a tour that allows you to taste, feel, forage and walk through one of Ireland’s most unique landscapes.

Explore the geological and historical landmarks on a farm walk or help feed the calves at feeding time. After an enjoyable day in the great outdoors, enjoy a barbecue or charcuterie picnic.

• Enjoy magical views of the Burren Mountains and Lough Bunny.
• Take a guided farm tour on the tractor trailer while sitting on straw bales.
• See a diverse range of rare alpine and arctic flowers within the Burren National Park.
• Experience the thrill of feeding calves at feeding time.

When walking to the calcareous lake of Lough Bunny, look out for the historical ruins of the Boston and Skaghard Castles.

We recommend planning to spend 2 to 3 hours here.

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Enjoy the Burren Farm Experience

Boston , north clare.

Ireland’s authentic farm experience in the Burren, a designated UNESCO Special Conservation Area. Rich in heritage, biodiversity and beauty.

Join your hosts Cathal O’Rourke, a fifth-generation farmer and his wife Bronagh, a regional eco-tour guide and park ranger to explore their working family farm in the Burren. Be awe-inspired by dramatic lunar-like landscapes, ancient woodlands, archaeological sites, glistening lakes, and habitats teeming with wildlife and rare plant species unique to the region. Learn about the ancient farming practice of transhumance that helps conserve and protect the landscape. Try forest bathing in the ancient woodland and feast on rustic picnics or lunch with delicious local produce for a truly authentic Irish experience.

The Burren Farm Experience is set on almost 500 acres in Kylecreen, Boston, County Clare. It lies on the magnificent mid-west coast of Ireland and is not far from the Cliffs of Moher. With so much to explore, make it part of your Burren adventure!

Attraction Highlights

• Private and unique farmer-led personal experience
• Diverse landscape – Burren pavement UNESCO designated area
• Ancient Irish Rainforest
• Lush grassland cattle maintaining the landscape
• Spectacular scenery with views of The Burren mountains and Lough Bunny lake
• Warm Irish hospitality with local seasonal produce

Good To Know

Admission: Participation fees apply.

Open months : Open March to November.

Visit duration : 2 to 3 hours.

Suitability for younger children: Ideally suited.

Cool for kids Aged 2 upwards.

Rainy days : Mostly outdoor.

Dining/refreshments There is a marquee to serve food and also outdoor cooking.

Picnic facilities: All picnic requirements provided.

Toilet facilities: On-site

Accessibility: Partially wheelchair accessible, no accessible toilets.  

Assistance/guide dogs: Permitted.

Groups:  6

Parking: Free car parking and free coach parking on-site. 40 seater max, no large buses.

Details are subject to change . It is always advisable to check the opening dates, times, prices, and other information on their website or directly with the attraction before visiting or booking. 

About Boston

Looking For Somewhere To Stay?

Irish : Boireann , meaning “great rock”

The burren region is internationally recognised for its distinctive landscape, captivating archaeological structures and biodiverse flora and fauna. the region spans roughly 1500 hectares on the mid-west coast of ireland in counties galway and clare..

Since the earliest Neolithic settlement in the Burren, farming has shaped the character and composition of the land. From early, mass tree clearance to the ancient practice of transhumance (winter grazing on the rough limestone grasslands and heaths) much of the Burren’s archaeological and geological heritage can be directly linked to the work of generations of farmers. Today, the land’s species and habitats rely on best practice, traditional farming methods for their health and diversity. Several hundred farm families continue to live and farm in the Burren despite the challenges posed in an era of efficiency-driven farming and the rough, unforgiving terrain. Crucially, they also hold the key to the region’s future through the application of their forefathers’ ancient pastoral traditions.

The earliest inhabitants of the Burren arrived in the Neolithic era sometime between 4,000 and 2,500BC, providing history buffs and archaeological enthusiasts with some of the world’s most intriguing evidence of early human settlements, from portal dolmen and wedge tombs to ring forts, castles and monastic sites. A Burren Farm Experience tour showcases the ruin of the region’s earliest thatched roof chapel, and an historic ring fort, a defensive settlement designed to protect against invading hordes and wild animals.

Book a Farm Tour

If you are not part of a group you can book a tour as an individual or as a family Monday-Friday online.

Burren Farm Experience Events

Forage on the Farm- Let’s go for a root!

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Private Group Walk in the Burren

Burren Farm Experience

• Farming the land for 30 years. Studying agriculture and tourism.
• Professional tour guide

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

BURREN FARM EXPERIENCE - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Experience our farm

Experience and learn about the landscape that nurtures the beef, with the Burren Farm Experience. Their guided walks will show you and let you explore the rich heritage, biodiversity and beauty of the Burren and the farm.

Bronagh and Cathal O’Rourke will share their knowledge of the Burren landscape and lifestyle; allowing you to taste, feel and walk through one of Ireland’s most raw and breathtaking lanscapes. Reconnect with nature as you discover the raw and harsh beauty of the Burren, renowned for its limestone pavement, flora and wildlife, as well as the native alluvial woodlands and lush grasslands.

Agricamping

Step into the Burren and into nature on our comfortable Agricamping site. Our comfortable Bell tents on the farm are an ideal holiday for all, perfect for nature lovers and families. With access to bathrooms, showers, and a cooking area. Our waterproof tents include one double bed and two single beds.

Walk, feel and taste the Burren with our bespoke tours suited for all ages and levels of fitness. We walk the grasslands and hazel groves and drive to the more remote areas of this beautiful 500-acre farm nestled in the Burren, UNESCO Geopark. We have a variety of tours to choose from and will create fully bespoke tours for groups, clubs and schools. Read more about each tour in our digital brochure.

Walk • Feel • Taste

Read our digital brochure.

Reconnect with nature and heritage, as you discover the raw and harsh beauty of the Burren, renowned for its limestone pavement, flora and wildlife, as well as the native alluvial woodland and lush grassland.

Find out more about the bespoke tours offered by the Burren Farm Experience. You will be guided by Cathal and Bronagh O’Rourke, who trace their family back over 200 years in the Burren.

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Burren Farm Experience: Meet Bronagh and Cathal O'Rourke

What is the Burren Farm Experience?

The Burren Farm Experience is a 500-acre family farm set in the heart of the Burren and is run by me and my husband, Cathal.

As 5th-generation dry beef farmers, our love for the area resonates in how we run our eco-tourism business and in our efforts to highlight the conservation of this rich and unique landscape.

Our goal is to inform visitors about rural life in County Clare and the sustainable farming methods that ensure the continued health and diversity of the Burren.

At the Burren Farm Experience, you can expect the best of Irish hospitality when you visit.

Can you give me some background as to how you started the Burren Farm Experience?

I was in corporate sales for many years and after we started a family, we decided it wasn’t working for us.

So I had my third daughter, did a tour guide course, and began looking at how to develop a great tourism offering on our farm in The Burren UNESCO designated Geopark in County Clare .

What was it about the farm itself that made it the perfect place to turn into a tourist attraction?

I think that sharing the knowledge and passion for the Burren landscape and lifestyle was the main reason for us going into tourism. And the kind of bespoke tours that we organize allows our visitors to taste, feel, and walk through one of Ireland's most raw and breathtaking landscapes, an area that is located on the beautiful Wild Atlantic Way .

Because our family has been in the Burren for over 200 years, the landscape has really shaped us and our lives. And as a result, we are happy to share our passion for the land, nature, and farming.

Visitors can reconnect with nature as they discover the raw and harsh beauty of the Burren, renowned for its limestone pavement, flora, and wildlife, as well as the native alluvial woodland and lush grassland.

What qualifications/experience do you both have as tourism ambassadors?

My husband is a qualified agricultural expert in farming, having farmed this land with his dad since childhood. He is also the holder of a Green Cert from An Teagasc, Ireland's Agriculture and Food Development Authority.

He works in cow marts locally and as a result, is very involved in the cattle industry. In addition, our farm is part of The Burren Programme .

I am a fully qualified Failte Ireland tourist guide and eco guide, as well as a forest bathing facilitator. I am currently training to be a ranger in The Burren National Park .

We are also members of the Burren Ecotourism Network , and I am currently doing a course in transformational travel experiences with TTC.

What kinds of experiences can people expect when they visit and what would you say are the most popular experiences with your visitors?

WELLNESS EVENTS /FOREST BATHING – this includes yoga by the lake, a rejuvenating experience, in addition to a hike and wild cooking on a fire pit.

ART CLASSES – an inspirational hour-long outdoor workshop that is led by an art expert.

WILD FOOD DINING – private dining with a personal chef; includes cooking over a fire pit with local ingredients.

WILD FORAGING HIKE – hike and forage seasonal plants with a foraging expert, and learn more about foraging itself.

SUNSET HIKE & OYSTER SHUCKING – enjoy a rejuvenating hike and watch the sun go down while feasting on oysters.

I know that in the past you have hosted events. Are you planning to do those again now that Covid restrictions have been lifted? If so, what events might be available soon?

At this time, we are only accepting bookings for private events.

What kinds of visitors does the Burren Experience attract?

We attract a lot of intergenerational family groups and specific groups who may be into nature/biodiversity/agriculture.

High-quality beef is also available at your farm? Is this popular among locals and is it possible to ship overseas?

Yes, our beef is a very important part of our business and the management of the land. We sell it online and at local farmers' markets. It is not available to ship overseas at the moment.

Does the Burren Farm Experience work with other tourism-related businesses in the Burren area?

Yes, we are part of a network called the Burren Ecotourism Network, a group of 75 local businesses. We try to collaborate when we can. In addition, we use all local foods as part of our experiences.

Are people surprised by the fact that given the nature of the land in the Burren, you and your husband have been able to successfully run a farm here?

Yes, that is true. However, because I am not from here I see it as a visitor would and can explain it to guests.

How can people book tours with you?

They can do so by contacting us on our website , and on social media, including our Facebook Page and on Instagram .

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Paths edging the Cliffs of Moher provide some of Ireland’s most spectacular views.

Road trip through the Irish countryside’s wild beauty

In the Burren, discover dramatic seaside cliffs, flower-adorned hills, and a feast of local produce.

Framed by its mighty Cliffs of Moher, the Burren region of western Ireland is a wonder of lunar landscapes, megalithic monuments, and beautiful botany. The 205-square-mile UNESCO Global Geopark is one of the only places in the world where arctic, alpine, and Mediterranean plants grow side by side. The name “Burren” derives from the Irish Gaelic for “stony place,” and the dramatic rocky setting has captivated creatives from Tolkien to Spielberg.

It’ll take hold of you too, especially if you follow this route in the spring, when wildflowers paint the hillsides in hues of pink, yellow, and blue. The narrow roads are more fit for cows than cars, so drive slowly and practice the traditional one-finger salute—index finger, that is—with oncoming locals.

The 55-mile route takes three days if driving at a leisurely pace—and stopping to smell the wildflowers.

1. First Bite: Ennistymon

Roughly 30 miles from Shannon Airport, the Cheese Press in Ennistymon is the best place to stock up on road trip provisions and sample delicious bites from the Burren Food Trail . The specialty grocery, opened in 2017 by Sinéad Ní Gháirbhith of the St. Tola goat cheese company, stocks more than 40 varieties of Irish cheese plus Burren-roasted Anam Coffee, organic veggies from Moy Hill Farm, sandwiches with house-baked sourdough, and local kombucha. Check the shop’s Facebook page for events such as tastings and yoga.

2. Tide Me Over: Lahinch

In this salt-swept town, Ben’s Surf Clinic has a knack for getting aspiring shredders comfortable in North Atlantic waves. Those who prefer land can forage for edible seaweed on walks with Wild Kitchen . After collecting sea lettuce, truffle-flavored pepper dulse, and nutrient-rich dillisk, you can taste them in dishes paired with elderflower “champagne.”

3. Sheer Beauty: Cliffs of Moher

Yes, there will be crowds, but this extraordinary escarpment is a must-see. Brave the tour buses to reach the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre , a concrete and stone edifice carved into a grassy headland. Displays themed around the local landscapes and culture fill the cavernous interior, while walkways lead to viewing platforms and the 19th-century O’Brien’s Tower, which marks the cliffs’ highest point (about 700 feet above the roiling sea). On a clear day, the vista extends from the puffin-peppered Great Sea Stack to the Gaelic-speaking Aran Islands. For more sights, explore the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk or take a boat trip with the Doolin Ferry Company .

4. String Section: Doolin

You know you’ve reached Doolin when you spot colorful sweater shops and perennial pubs such as McGann’s , McDermott’s , and O’Connor’s , where local music legends play. Check out Ekotree , a new design studio that puts a high-tech spin on traditional Irish knits.

Musicians play traditional Irish tunes at Gus O’Connor’s pub in Doolin.

5. Smokin’ Hot: Lisdoonvarna

On the drive in, crank up the Christy Moore tune “Lisdoonvarna.” Then head to Burren Smokehouse to taste the smoked salmon that’s fed three U.S. presidents. Park it for the night at Wild Honey Inn ; its gastropub earned a Michelin star in 2018.

6. Downright Divine: Kilfenora

The birthplace of one of Ireland’s oldest ceili dance bands, Kilfenora looks like it’s been petrified by the surrounding peat bogs. The gabled Kilfenora Cathedral is known for its high crosses, particularly the oversize Doorty Cross that depicts Saint Peter blessing Kilfenora’s upgrade from a monastic to a diocesan site in the 12th century. Agriculture’s also key here. Learn about it with Eva and Stephen Hegarty on a tour of their Burren Free Range Pork Farm , complete with samples of products made from the British Saddleback swine. A stay in the farm’s Burren Glamping trailer comes with a breakfast of thick-cut bacon, tender sausage, eggs, and toast with homemade jam.

A stone wall accents a bucolic Burren landscape near Kilfenora.

7. On the Scent: Carran

Tucked into the rocky highlands of the Carran, the Burren Perfumery distills the essence of the surrounding flora into small-batch fragrances, lotions, soaps, and candles. The newest perfume, launching in spring, incorporates meadowsweet and wild ivy, which visitors can smell in the flourishing herb garden out back. To get beneath the Burren’s stone surface, however, book a tour of the Slieve Carran Nature Reserve with Heart of Burren Walks . Enthusiastic guide Tony Kirby shares facts and legends about the Carran Turlough (a disappearing lake), Saint Colman’s Hermitage, ancient monuments, and the hardy wildflowers that manage to bloom from cracks in the limestone.

8. Ocean Bound: Bell Harbour

As you head back to the coast, turn into the 300-year-old family farm that houses Hazel Mountain Chocolate . A window into the kitchen lets visitors watch as the confections—infused with Burren honey, hazelnuts, elderberry, and seaweed—are handcrafted from bean to bar. Continue to the late 12th-century Corcomroe Abbey and the adjacent remains of an Iron Age hilltop fort. Then hunt for Julia’s Lobster Truck , which slings fish and chips, steamed mussels, and lobster rolls on weekends outside Daly’s bar.

Near Bell Harbour, find the ruins of 12th-century Corcomroe Abbey.

9. Fish and Scripts: Flaggy Shore

If you miss the seafood truck, you can still get your fill of local scallops, crab, lobster, and gigas oysters on the waterfront at Linnane’s Bar , located in a centuries-old former cottage-pub-post office. A sweet spot for dessert is Café Linnalla Ice Cream . The most westerly ice cream parlor in Europe scoops creative flavors, from foraged blackberry to Baileys Irish Cream with sea salt to wild sea buckthorn (which tastes surprisingly like peach). Take your cone on a walk to the owners’ eighth-generation dairy farm, which supplies milk for the ice cream. Then amble out to the fossil-strewn Flaggy Shore, described by poet Seamus Heaney in “Postscript” as a place that can “catch the heart off guard and blow it open.”

10. Artists’ Retreat: Ballyvaughan

As twilight falls, settle in at Gregans Castle Hotel , a luxe hideaway frequented by Heaney as well as J.R.R. Tolkien and Steven Spielberg. In the rooms—named after local wildflowers, places, and people—antique furnishings sit beside family heirlooms and modern art. Tolkien fans should book the Martyn Suite, the former home’s kitchen, where the owner, Frank Martyn, and the author gathered for drinks in the 1950s. For an end-of-the-road splurge, indulge in the restaurant’s nine-course tasting menu, which features Irish delicacies such as spring lamb, rich cheeses, plump cherries, and wild mushrooms. Raise a glass of wine to the craic (good times), and say, “Slainte!”

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8 Burren Walks Worth Conquering (A Guide To Our Favourite Burren Walking Trails)

By Author Andy Revell

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

The various Burren walks are some of my favourite things to do in Clare .

If you’re not familiar with it, the Burren is one of Ireland’s most naturally beautiful, and unique regions.

It truly feels out of this world at times, with incredible scenery and an almost mystical atmosphere, no doubt linked to its ancient history.

For me, one of the best ways to really experience the Burren is to explore it on foot and, in the guide below, you’ll find my favourite Burren walks. 

Some quick need-to-knows about the various Burren walks

Photo by Pavel_Voitukovic (Shutterstock)

Before we look at the various Burren walking trails, there are a few, quick, need-to-knows to be aware of. Pay particular attention to the safety notice.

1. Location

Each of the following walks will take you across the Burren , a vast area of unique natural beauty in northwest County Clare .

The Burren covers a vast area of ever-changing scenery. With proximity to both mountains and ocean, the weather is extremely changeable. What starts as a sunny day in the Burren can soon turn into a storm, so be sure to plan ahead and do your research before attempting any of the Burren walks below.

3. An area of immense natural beauty

Covering an area of around 130 sq kilometres, the Burren is home to a vast and varied landscape, characterized by huge slabs of rock known as Karst. The following Burren walking trails take in Atlantic coastlines, moody mountains, ancient forests, bogs, and huge swathes of grassland. 

Our favourite Burren walks

Photo by DorSteffen (Shutterstock)

The first section of this guide tackles our favourite Burren walks, such as the Black Head Loop and the brilliant Ballyvaughan Wood Loop.

The Burren walking trails below vary in length, terrain and difficulty. I’ll stop yammering on – dive on in!

1. The Black Head Loop

Photo by MNStudio (Shutterstock)

• Where it starts: Fanore Beach
• Where it finishes: Fanore Beach
• Length: 26 km (480 m ascent)
• Difficulty level: Moderate/strenuous
• Walk type: Loop (7 hours)
• Map of the walk: See it here

This is one of the tougher Burren walking trails, but a rewarding one, and it’s really well-signed. Covering 26 km of rocky terrain, with several peaks to mount, it requires a decent level of fitness. But the incredible views and fields of wildflowers along the way are well worth the effort. 

Starting along the coast path, you can enjoy gazing out over Galway Bay and the Aran Islands . Next you come across Gleninagh mountain. Following the green lane ways can be tricky at times, as the path narrows and is slightly overgrown. 

The rocky terrain can be hard-going as you climb up the mountain, but the scenery on the top is a superb reward. From there it’s into the Caher Valley, sauntering up and down rolling hills, surrounded by a stunning backdrop, before meandering back to Fanore for a well-deserved pint.

2. Ballyvaughan Wood Loop

• Where it starts: Ballyvaughan town
• Where it finishes: Ballyvaughan town
• Length: 8 km
• Difficulty level: Moderate
• Walk type: Loop (2 hours)

Ballyvaughan is a beautiful little town, famous as a fishing port, and the Victorian capital of County Clare. If you’re staying in town, this is a fantastic little walk to enjoy on a warm day, offering a peek at the mysterious landscape of the Burren.

Starting at the seafront, the trail takes you into the surrounding farmlands, where you’ll see vivid fields of green, divided up by ancient dry stone walls.

There’s also no shortage of cows and horses, so it’s ideal for animal lovers. About midway through the walk you’ll come across the epic Aillwee Caves , which is well worth checking out if you have time!

From here, the trail loops back to Ballyvaughan, taking in fields strewn with the limestone slabs that the Burren is famous for. The scenery on this section is absolutely fantastic!

If you’re in search of short Burren walking trails that pack a punch scenery wise, the Ballyvaughan Wood Loop is worth considering.

3. Caher Valley Loop

Photo by mark_gusev (Shutterstock)

• Length: 14.5 km (300 m ascent)
• Walk type: Loop (3 to 4 hours)

This is a superb walk that takes in a lot of what the Burren has to offer, despite being relatively short. Starting at the Fanore Beach car park, the first section of the walk follows a quiet rural road towards the River Caher. The scenery around the river is absolutely beautiful, and amazingly tranquil.

From here you begin to climb up the valley, on a stunning green lane — arguably the highlight of the walk. It gets pretty steep, but once you crest the hill you’ll be glad you made the effort. The top of the hill features the famous Burren limestone paving, worn down and rugged over the centuries.

Walking on, ocean views open up before you, showcasing the Aran Islands and the glimmering Galway Bay. Before you know it, the route turns downwards, and as you head back down towards the beach on a hot day, the blue sea begins to look increasingly inviting!

4. Carron Loop Walk

• Where it starts: Cassidys Pub, Carron village
• Where it finishes: Cassidys Pub, Carron village
• Length: 9 km (100 m ascent)
• Difficulty level: Strenuous
• Walk type: Loop (4 hours)

Carron, or sometimes called Carran, is a charming little village in the heart of the Burren, making it the ideal base camp for exploring the area. This looped walk can get pretty tough at times, but for the most part it’s an enjoyable stroll that takes in the amazing scenery of the Burren.

Following narrow rural roads and animal tracks, the route begins to climb up a pretty hefty hill. Vibrant green fields and farms line the first portion of the route, before the famous limestone slabs begin to poke out of the ground.

Leaving the farms behind, the scenery becomes wilder as you ascend the hill, with huge rocky sections to navigate. From the summit you’ll enjoy fantastic views over Clab Valley, before making your way down and heading back into the village for a pint and a meal at Cassidys!

More brilliant Burren walking trails

Photo by luca_photo (Shutterstock)

As you’ve probably gathered at this stage, there are plenty of Burren walking routes that you can head off on.

Now that we have our favourites out of the way, it’s time to look at some other brilliant Burren walks that are worth doing.

1. Carron Turlough Loop

Photo by Gabriela Insuratelu (Shutterstock)

• Length: 5 km 
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Walk type: Loop (1 and a half hours)

If you’re looking for some shorter Burren walking trails, this is a good choice, and offers an entirely different experience depending on when you’re visiting.

A Turlough is a seasonal lake, meaning it typically runs dry during the summer months. The turlough on this walk is in fact the largest in Europe.

Following various rural roads, the walk takes you through the mountainous farmlands that the Burren is renowned for. Dry stone walls divide lush green fields from rocky slopes, ensuring a nice mix of scenery and plenty of photo opportunities.

When the turlough is full, it offers an amazing contrast from the green fields surrounding it, while the rocky hills provide an awesome backdrop.

As it dries out, small ‘islands’ appear, until it becomes a damp and boggy hollow in the ground. A truly wonderful walk to enjoy in every season. 

2. The Burren Way

• Where it starts: Lahinch town
• Where it finishes: Corofin village
• Length: 114 km (540 m ascent)
• Difficulty level: Moderate 
• Walk type: Linear (5-days)

The Burren Way is a big one and the king of all Burren walks. The 5-day trek showcases the best of the Burren’s varied scenery. Along the way, you’ll encounter no end of amazing attractions, ancient monuments, and stunning landscapes.

The first sections stick largely to the Atlantic coast, walking along the epic Cliffs of Moher as the wild Atlantic crashes 200 metres below. Through seaside towns and fishing villages, you’ll follow a variety of tracks and paths, skirting mountains and covering swathes of rocky fields and plains.

As you head inland, you’ll discover the amazing farmlands and forests, before meandering into the heart of the Burren. Huge slabs of limestone rise from the ground, covering entire meadows, with just wildflowers poking through.

Ancient ring forts, exciting caves, and castles galore await you, along with a warm welcome in the various towns and villages you’ll stop at along the way.

3. Dromore Wood Loop

• Where it starts: Dromore Wood car park
• Where it finishes: Dromore Wood car park
• Length: 6 km

This is a fantastic walk that takes in a rich variety of different landscapes along the 6 km route. From ancient woodlands to skirting the shores of Lough Dromore and Lough Garr, before the scenery opens up into pastures and meadows. It’s extremely well-marked and a great choice for all the family.

Along the way, you’ll stumble across the ruins of Dromore Castle and other ancient buildings to explore and marvel at. From the trailhead at Dromore Wood car park, there are a number of other walks to enjoy, many of which are shorter, which can be great for those with young children.

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the way, as the area is home to a diverse array of creatures and birds.

4. Fanore to Ballyvaughan Trek

• Length: 21 km (350 m ascent)
• Walk type: Linear (5 to 6 hours)

This is a superb linear walk that follows a looping green lane around Black Head, before arriving in the charming fishing town of Ballyvaughan. It features a steep climb to the top of the pass at Gleninagh mountain, before leveling out and heading into ancient woodlands.

Along the way you can expect fantastic views across Galway Bay and the Aran Islands , but also get up close and personal with the famous Burren limestone slabs.

The trails are mostly off-road, allowing for a peaceful and relaxing experience. Just be aware that when the wind gets up, it can be pretty hard going up there!

This is another of the Burren walking trails that ends in Ballyvaughan, where you have plenty of options for accommodation, dinner, and a pint or 2. There’s a regular bus from Ballyvaughan to Fanore, so if you’re staying in either, it’s easy enough to do the walk and get a bus back, or vice versa.

Things to do in the Burren if you don’t fancy walking

Photo by Remizov (shutterstock)

You don’t have to be an avid walker to enjoy all that the Burren has to offer. In fact, there’s a whole treasure trove of things to see and do, and you don’t need to do one of the Burren walking trails above to experience the area at its best.

Some of our favourites include the amazing Aillwee Caves — it’s an incredible experience to explore them, and there’s a great visitor centre and farm there too.

The Burren is awash with ancient sites as well, including numerous ring forts and tombs, including the impressive Poulnabrone Dolmen .

Of course, the Cliffs of Moher are a must, and while you’re in the area, check out Doolin Cave . There are plenty of things to do in Doolin , too, like Doonagore Castle , the brilliant Doolin Cliff walk and lots more.

FAQs about the different walks in the Burren

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from which Burren walks are the easiest to which take in the best scenery.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best Burren walks?

The Black Head Loop, the Carron Loop Walk, the Caher Valley Loop and the Ballyvaughan Wood Loop are four Burren walks that are hard to beat.

What Burren walking trails are the best for a short stroll?

The Carron Turlough Loop (1.5 hours), the Ballyvaughan Wood Loop (2 hours) and the Dromore Wood Loop (2 hours) are some of the shorter Burren walks that are well worth doing.

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• Preplanned tours
• Daytrips out of Moscow
• Themed tours
• Customized tours
• St. Petersburg

Moscow Metro

The Moscow Metro Tour is included in most guided tours’ itineraries. Opened in 1935, under Stalin’s regime, the metro was not only meant to solve transport problems, but also was hailed as “a people’s palace”. Every station you will see during your Moscow metro tour looks like a palace room. There are bright paintings, mosaics, stained glass, bronze statues… Our Moscow metro tour includes the most impressive stations best architects and designers worked at - Ploshchad Revolutsii, Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya, Kievskaya, Novoslobodskaya and some others.

What is the kremlin in russia?

The guide will not only help you navigate the metro, but will also provide you with fascinating background tales for the images you see and a history of each station.

And there some stories to be told during the Moscow metro tour! The deepest station - Park Pobedy - is 84 metres under the ground with the world longest escalator of 140 meters. Parts of the so-called Metro-2, a secret strategic system of underground tunnels, was used for its construction.

During the Second World War the metro itself became a strategic asset: it was turned into the city's biggest bomb-shelter and one of the stations even became a library. 217 children were born here in 1941-1942! The metro is the most effective means of transport in the capital.

There are almost 200 stations 196 at the moment and trains run every 90 seconds! The guide of your Moscow metro tour can explain to you how to buy tickets and find your way if you plan to get around by yourself.

Moscow Metro Tour

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Description

Moscow metro private tours.

• 2-hour tour $87:  10 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with hotel pick-up and drop-off
• 3-hour tour $137:  20 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with Russian lunch in beautifully-decorated Metro Diner + hotel pick-up and drop off. 
• Metro pass is included in the price of both tours.

Highlight of Metro Tour

• Visit 10 must-see stations of Moscow metro on 2-hr tour and 20 Metro stations on 3-hr tour, including grand Komsomolskaya station with its distinctive Baroque décor, aristocratic Mayakovskaya station with Soviet mosaics, legendary Revolution Square station with 72 bronze sculptures and more!
• Explore Museum of Moscow Metro and learn a ton of technical and historical facts;
• Listen to the secrets about the Metro-2, a secret line supposedly used by the government and KGB;
• Experience a selection of most striking features of Moscow Metro hidden from most tourists and even locals;
• Discover the underground treasure of Russian Soviet past – from mosaics to bronzes, paintings, marble arches, stained glass and even paleontological elements;
• Learn fun stories and myths about Coffee Ring, Zodiac signs of Moscow Metro and more;
• Admire Soviet-era architecture of pre- and post- World War II perious;
• Enjoy panoramic views of Sparrow Hills from Luzhniki Metro Bridge – MetroMost, the only station of Moscow Metro located over water and the highest station above ground level;
• If lucky, catch a unique «Aquarelle Train» – a wheeled picture gallery, brightly painted with images of peony, chrysanthemums, daisies, sunflowers and each car unit is unique;
• Become an expert at navigating the legendary Moscow Metro system;
• Have fun time with a very friendly local;
• + Atmospheric Metro lunch in Moscow’s the only Metro Diner (included in a 3-hr tour)

Hotel Pick-up

Metro stations:.

Komsomolskaya

Novoslobodskaya

Prospekt Mira

Belorusskaya

Mayakovskaya

Novokuznetskaya

Revolution Square

Sparrow Hills

+ for 3-hour tour

Victory Park

Slavic Boulevard

Vystavochnaya

Dostoevskaya

Elektrozavodskaya

Partizanskaya

Museum of Moscow Metro

• Drop-off  at your hotel, Novodevichy Convent, Sparrow Hills or any place you wish
• + Russian lunch  in Metro Diner with artistic metro-style interior for 3-hour tour

Fun facts from our Moscow Metro Tours:

From the very first days of its existence, the Moscow Metro was the object of civil defense, used as a bomb shelter, and designed as a defense for a possible attack on the Soviet Union.

At a depth of 50 to 120 meters lies the second, the coded system of Metro-2 of Moscow subway, which is equipped with everything you need, from food storage to the nuclear button.

According to some sources, the total length of Metro-2 reaches over 150 kilometers.

The Museum was opened on Sportivnaya metro station on November 6, 1967. It features the most interesting models of trains and stations.

Coffee Ring

The first scheme of Moscow Metro looked like a bunch of separate lines. Listen to a myth about Joseph Stalin and the main brown line of Moscow Metro.

Zodiac Metro

According to some astrologers, each of the 12 stops of the Moscow Ring Line corresponds to a particular sign of the zodiac and divides the city into astrological sector.

Astrologers believe that being in a particular zadiac sector of Moscow for a long time, you attract certain energy and events into your life.

Paleontological finds 

Red marble walls of some of the Metro stations hide in themselves petrified inhabitants of ancient seas. Try and find some!

• Every day each car in  Moscow metro passes  more than 600 km, which is the distance from Moscow to St. Petersburg.
• Moscow subway system is the  5th in the intensity  of use (after the subways of Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai).
• The interval in the movement of trains in rush hour is  90 seconds .

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow tour.
• + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility during the walking tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

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