Route Overview

Where is the Burren Way trail?

The Burren Way is located in Co. Clare on the southwest coast of Ireland. It takes in the best of what the Burren area has to offer – from the rugged coastline overlooking the Atlantic Ocean to prehistoric monuments and majestic limestone terraces. Our longest tours cover the full Burren Way trail, traversing 120km (75 miles) across this magical and unique landscape.

The word ‘Burren’ comes from ‘Boireann’, or stony district, and refers to an area of spectacular terraced limestone hills and hidden valleys that form the northern part of County Clare. With an area of 130 square kilometres (50 square miles), it is one of the largest karst limestone landscapes in Europe.

Why choose the Burren Way trail?

The Burren Way comprises all of the best qualities of the Burren, from its dramatic cliffs to its majestic wild-flower-decorated-limestone terraces. Admire the unique area’s flora and fauna while watching the Atlantic waves crash against the iconic Cliffs of Moher, rearing more than 200 metres vertically out of the sea. Enhancing the already majestic surroundings are hundreds of miles of rambling stone walls and a unique density of well-preserved monuments. Buildings ranging from the Neolithic era to the early Christian period remain a rich treasure trove for history buffs, while the rare wildflowers add to the Burren’s quirky charm.

Best time to visit? Busiest periods etc.

For the best experience on the Burren Way trail the summer months are an ideal time to visit, as attractions and places to eat will have better opening hours and the weather will be more desirable. In general, the trail isn’t the busiest walking trail but the Cliffs of Moher are an extremely popular bus and day trip tourist destination, so you can expect larger amounts of footfall around the visitor centre section of the cliffs.

How long does it take to walk?

Depending on your fitness level and preferred pace you can complete the route in a varied number of days. This also depends on how many photos of stunning natural beauty you like to take while hiking! Many walkers will complete the full route in between 4 to 5 walking days.

Hillwalk Tours offers two different levels of difficulty on the Burren Way Trail; Moderate and Challenging (on a lot of our trails we also offer a gentle option). Within these levels, you can choose between 5 to 8-day hiking tours completing either the full route or part of it.

Moderate: With an Average hiking distance of 18km (11 miles) per day and an average hiking time of 4-6 hours per day, this option will give you plenty of time to feel into the land, enjoy the landscape, take some photos, and enjoy some culture and food along the way.

Challenging: With an Average hiking distance of 23-26km (14-16 miles) per day and an average hiking time of 5-7 hours per day, this level will suit people who are used to some regular exercise or who have done some previous hiking. There might be more walking in a day but there should still be time for photos and to relax over lunch.

Table of Contents / Quick Links

Best time for walking the Burren Way (seasons, HWT season Oct-Mar, daylight etc.)

The west coast of Ireland has a mild, but changeable, climate all year and is not noted for any extreme weather conditions. There is rainfall throughout the year, but is light overall. However, due to it being a coastal county, Clare does tend to be wetter than the average as it is prone to the full force of Atlantic storms particularly in the late autumn.

When hiking in Ireland, walkers can expect to experience all four seasons in one day, so come prepared! However, that said, each season does bring it’s own set of characteristics.

Spring (March, April, and May)

Average temperature: 5 °C – 13 °C

Although cooler than the Summer months, there can often be less rain during Springtime.

Summer (June, July, and August)

Average temperature: 12 °C – 19 °C

Summer is the warmest time to visit the west coast, but there are typically no extremes and all sorts of conditions can still be experienced.

Autumn (September, October, and November)

Average temperature: 7°C – 14 °C

In the autumn as the climate cools down, and the daylight hours start to shorten, it can be cloudy and windy. The day light hours in November can be quite short, which is why Hillwalk Tours do not offer tours along the trail for this month.

Winter (December, January, and February)

Average temperature: 3 °C – 9 °C

The Hillwalk Tours Walking season runs from March to October each year so you will not be able to book with us during these months. If you do decide to walk at this time of year it is worth noting that it will be colder than normal, there will be near Nordic levels of daylight, and there could be frost and ice, so take care!

Tour Route

Types of Trails

Depending on your level of fitness and your own personal preference, our Burren Way trail comes in two options; Moderate and Challenging levels. Because the limestone surface affords excellent drainage most of the route is on dry or rocky tracks and you will rarely get your boots muddy, but can sometimes be hard underfoot. The total aggregate ascent is approximately 1,500m (4,920ft) over the entire route and there are only a few short, steeper climbs involved. Overall the trail is relatively flat and easy to manage. The exception is the hike around Black Head, which is, in places, a little more challenging and can also be a little overgrown at certain times of the year.

Moderate Hikes

The moderate option of this trail covers 18km or 11 miles per day, with the average hiking time being 4-6 hours per day. This moderate level is for walkers of a decent level of fitness who would like to fit more walking in to each day while still having plenty of down time to enjoy the sights and culture.

Challenging Hikes

The other option for this trail is the moderate hike, which averages 23-26km or 14-16 miles in distance each day, with the average hiking time being 5-7 hours per day. This challenging level is for walkers of a high level of fitness who would like to set off in the morning without stopping until they reach their destination.

Hillwalk route notes & location to location stages

Liscannor or Lahinch – Doolin

It is hard not to get excited about this first day of walking the Burren Way. On our longer challenging tour, you will start your hike from the seaside town of Lahinch, and stroll along the beach towards Liscannor. From Liscannor, you will follow coastal tracks overlooking Liscannor Bay, before the trail leads up to the southern end of the world famous Cliffs of Moher. From here, you have breath-taking views as the cliffs rise vertically more than 200m from the sea. The walk then continues for 10km along the cliffs on one of the most spectacular coastal paths in Europe until you come to the small village of Doolin, renowned for live Irish music.

Doolin – Fanore

Today you have the opportunity to visit Doolin Cave and the Great Stalactite before making your way through the quiet farm lands near Lisdoonvarna. After a gentle climb up the side of Slieve Elva you can enjoy great views of the Atlantic coast and towards the Aran Islands. You’ll end this day near the beautiful beach of Fanore from where a short transfer will bring you back to your accommodation in Doolin.

Black Head Loop

In the morning you will be transferred back to Fanore where an ancient ‘Green Road’ brings you to lonely Black Head with splendid views over Galway Bay. The route continues on a narrow trail along cliffs before it joins an old Mass Path, leading into the fertile Gleninagh Valley.  After passing an impressive Celtic stone fort, you descend towards the Caher River and return to Fanore past a deserted village and through the ‘Khyber Pass’. A short transfer will return you to your accommodation in Doolin. 

Overall this stage can be challenging in comparison to the previous days hiking.

Fanore – Ballyvaughan

Transfer to Fanore in the morning where, from the hills above Fanore, you can enjoy some last views across the Atlantic before crossing the shoulder of Slieve Elva towards the Caher Valley. Another ridge brings you into the fertile Rathborney River Valley. After passing the 16th century Newtown Castle you cross through fields and woodland before arriving in Ballyvaughan, your stop for the night.

Ballyvaughan – Carran

After crossing through a mystical limestone landscape, you’ll suddenly find yourself in an Irish bog. But don’t fear, you will soon be walking between stone walled fields and passing ancient Celtic monuments. You’ll also have the chance to visit sheep dog demonstrations and a 6,000 year old dolmen before making your way to the largest seasonal lake in north-west Europe.

Carran – Corofin

This walk has very few climbs and might be one of the most relaxing days of your holiday. From Carran the trail takes you above the Castletown River and onwards past ancient ringforts and magical portal tombs – through enchanted woodlands and around the beautiful Inchiquin Lough, before arriving at Corofin, the end of the Burren Way trail.

Sample Itineraries

5 Day Moderate

Day 1: Arrival in Liscannor

Day 2: Liscannor – Doolin (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 3: Doolin – Fanore (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 4: Fanore – Ballyvaughan (13 or 16.2 Miles / 21 or 26 Km)

Day 5: Departure from Ballyvaughan

6 Day Moderate

Day 1: Arrival in Liscannor

Day 2: Liscannor – Doolin (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 3: Doolin – Fanore (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 4: Black Head Loop (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 5: Fanore – Ballyvaughan (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 6: Departure from Ballyvaughan

7 Day Moderate

Day 1: Arrival in Liscannor

Day 2: Liscannor – Doolin (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 3: Doolin – Fanore (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 4: Fanore – Ballyvaughan (13 or 16.2 Miles / 21 or 26 Km)

Day 5: Ballyvaughan – Carran (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 6: Carran – Corofin (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 7: Departure from Corofin

8 Day Moderate

Day 1: Arrival in Liscannor

Day 2: Liscannor – Doolin (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 3: Doolin – Fanore (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 4: Black Head Loop (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 5: Fanore – Ballyvaughan (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 6: Ballyvaughan – Carran (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 7: Carran – Corofin (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 8: Departure from Corofin

5 Day Challenging

Day 1: Arrival in Lahinch

Day 2: Lahinch – Doolin (17.4 Miles / 28 Km)

Day 3: Doolin – Fanore (11.2 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 4: Fanore – Ballyvaughan (13 or 16.2 Miles / 21 or 26 Km)

Day 5: Departure from Ballyvaughan

6 Day Challenging

Day 1: Arrival in Lahinch

Day 2: Lahinch – Doolin (17.4 Miles / 28 Km)

Day 3: Doolin – Ballyvaughan (16.8 Miles / 27 Km)

Day 4: Ballyvaughan – Carran (14.9 Miles / 24 Km)

Day 5: Carran – Corofin (16.2 Miles / 26 Km)

Day 6: Departure from Corofin

7 Day Challenging

Day 1: Arrival in Lahinch

Day 2: Lahinch – Doolin (17.4 Miles / 28 Km)

Day 3: Doolin – Ballyvaughan (16.8 Miles / 27 Km)

Day 4: Fanore – Ballyvaughan (13 or 16.2 Miles / 21 or 26 Km)

Day 5: Ballyvaughan – Carran (14.9 Miles / 24 Km)

Day 6: Carran – Corofin (16.2 Miles / 26 Km)

Day 7: Departure from Corofin

Currency and Expenses

The currency used throughout Ireland is the Euro (€).

The cost of food, drinks, and activities in Clare can vary depending on several factors such as the type of establishment, the time of year, and personal preferences.

Eating out in restaurants in Clare can range from affordable to moderately expensive, depending on the type of cuisine and establishment. A meal for one person in a mid-range restaurant can cost around €15 to €30, excluding drinks. If you prefer more upscale dining, the prices can go higher. The cost of drinks in Connemara, particularly in pubs, can vary. A pint of beer or a glass of wine can cost around €4 to €8, depending on the establishment. Prices may be higher in touristy areas or during peak seasons.

Clare offers a variety of activities, including boat trips and exploring historical sites. The prices for these activities can vary. As mentioned above, it’s worth noting that prices in Clare can be higher during the peak tourist season (June, July and August) compared to the off-peak season.

The Burren Way Accommodation and Services

Along the Burren Way, you can find various accommodations and services to cater to hikers’ needs.

Hotels & Guesthouses

There are several hotels and guesthouses available along the Burren Way. These accommodations offer comfortable rooms, dining facilities, and amenities for travellers.

Bed & Breakfasts (B&B)

B&Bs are a popular choice along the trail, providing cozy and affordable lodging options. They offer comfortable rooms, breakfast, and often have friendly hosts who can provide local information and tips for your journey.

Hostels

For budget-conscious travellers, there are hostels scattered along the route. These establishments usually provide dormitory-style accommodations and communal facilities such as kitchens and lounges.

Camping

If you prefer camping, there are designated campsites available along the Burren Way. These sites typically provide basic amenities such as toilets, showers, and sometimes cooking facilities.

Wild camping along the Burren Way, although not prohibited by law, requires careful consideration due to the exposed terrain, lack of shelter from strong winds and rain, muddy conditions in Spring, and the need for appropriate equipment to endure Ireland’s unpredictable weather.

Airbnb

Airbnb accommodations offer a diverse range of options, from cozy cottages to seaside retreats, providing a unique and personalized experience for hikers. There is a good mix of unique and traditional accommodations to choose from providing a one-of-a-kind experience in the Clare countryside.

Restaurants and Cafes

Along the trail and in towns and villages, you’ll find numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs where you can enjoy a meal, snack, or a refreshing drink. These establishments serve both local and international cuisine, including traditional Irish dishes. Most restaurants and cafes will also be able to meet several dietary requirements.

Shops and Grocery Stores

In the towns and villages along the Burren Way, you’ll find grocery stores and shops where you can stock up on food, water, and other supplies for your journey. It’s advisable to plan ahead and carry snacks and water while hiking between settlements.

ATM’s

There are ATMs available in towns and villages along the route. It’s important to note that the availability of ATMs may be limited, especially in smaller villages or remote areas. To ensure you have enough cash for your journey, it’s advisable to plan ahead and withdraw sufficient funds in larger towns where ATMs are more readily accessible. Additionally, carrying some cash with you is recommended for places that may not accept cards or in case of any unforeseen circumstances. There is the potential to obtain cashback from certain stores. This means that when making a purchase with your card, you can request additional cash on top of your payment. However, it’s worth noting that not all stores offer this service, and the maximum amount of cashback might vary.

The Burren Way Trail Etiquette

The Burren Way is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and environmental conservation efforts such as the Cliffs of Moher. Many locals are passionate about preserving the region’s landscapes and marine life. Respect for the environment, such as practicing responsible tourism, following designated hiking trails, and supporting eco-friendly initiatives, is highly valued in Clare.

Trail etiquette is highly valued along the Burren Way, and hikers are encouraged to follow the principles of the Leave No Trace organization. It is essential to respect the natural environment by refraining from littering or leaving behind any waste, including fruit peels, wrappers, or other non-biodegradable items. Hikers are expected to carry out all their trash and dispose of it properly in designated bins or take it with them until they find appropriate disposal facilities. By practicing Leave No Trace principles, hikers contribute to preserving the pristine beauty of the trail and ensuring its enjoyment for future generations.

At Hillwalk Tours, we proudly support sustainable tourism and love the countryside as it is – wild, peaceful and clean. We are proud to support the “Leave No Trace” initiative that aims to preserve the natural beauty of each nations countryside where we offer hiking holidays.

The Burren Way Map

The Burren Way Terrain

Waymarking

Signage for the Burren Way features a distinctive black and yellow post which are scattered throughout the trail. Where the trail is not waymarked, information will be provided in your route notes found in your walking pack.

If you are ever in doubt, you can always check the Hillwalk Tours turn by turn directions and route notes which also include everything you need to know about local information and history as you pass, along with trail alternatives.

Want to know more on how to read a map? Check out this blog post.

Difficulty

The Burren Way trail offers fairly moderate level hiking, and as stated earlier in this article, can be taken with two levels of walking in mind: Moderate and Challenging. It is a perfect hike for those who have some hiking experience. In addition, there can be quite a bit of asphalt and rocky terrain underfoot, so be sure to wear appropriate and comfortable footwear.

Sights & Attractions

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are named a UNESCO Global Geopark, and you’ll understand why once you feast your eyes on these mythical cliffs. At the centre of the Wild Atlantic Way the jaw-droppingly beautiful Cliffs of Moher stretch into the Atlantic Ocean mist along the North Clare coastline. The magnificent cliffs are undoubtedly Ireland’s top visitor attraction. The Cliffs of Moher are truly extraordinary, giving tourists a feast of views and wildlife, all pieced together to produce one of the great natural wonders of the world. It truly is one for the bucket-list.

(Note: be sure to watch your step and don’t get too close to the edge no matter how good the photo opportunity may be!)

The Burren National Park

The Burren National Park has always been a popular natural phenomenon, drawing in tourists from all over the globe to witness its compelling landscape. Its name comes from the Irish boíreann, or rocky place. It’s rocky landscape has made the region internationally famous for its karst limestone scenery and unique flora.

Formed millions of years ago, the limestone landscape of the Burren teams up with the forementioned Cliffs of Moher to form a UNESCO Global Geopark. There is over 2,700 recorded monuments, some dating back over 6,000 years, scattered throughout the limestone land. Combined with its thriving musical, farming and food traditions, this is a place that richly deserves its UNESCO Global Geopark status. If that didn’t convince you, The Burren was named the Best place to holiday in Ireland 2022 by the Irish Times and Failte Ireland.

Aillwee Caves

Explore life underground in one of Ireland’s most fascinating and magnificent caves, the Aillwee Caves. They’re known as one of the oldest caves in Ireland with history and geology stretching over 330 million years. You can tour this natural phenomenon accompanied by a guide who will take you on a journey through the unique and special geology of the caves. The tour takes visitors 850 meters into the Aillwee Mountain, with 90 meters of limestone overhead at its deepest point.

Doolin Cave

If you’re interested in unofficial wonders of the world, Doolin Cave is home to Europe’s largest Stalactite, formed magnificently by a single continuous drop of water! Located 200 feet down, in the heart of the earth lives a world created from water, time and the hand of nature. The famous Stalactite reaches 7.3 meters in length and weighs around 10 tonnes!

Dromoland Castle

Dromoland Castle, now turned 5-star hotel, has been welcoming guests since the 16^th century. The castle once housed the O’Briens of Dromoland, whose lineage dates back 1,000 years to Brian Boru, one of the last High Kings of Ireland.

Lahinch

If you love to surf then you’ll need to visit the reputable top ‘surf centre’ of Ireland, Lahinch. Lahinch is a small, vibrant, bustling town located at the centre of the Wild Atlantic Way. With pubs vibrating from live trad music this town has an atmosphere and energy that’s all its own. Located at the head of Liscannor Bay, it boasts a 2 km long beach of golden sands, with surf schools dotted along the way. It’s a must see if you’re planning on taking an extra day on your tour.

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park

Bunratty Castle is the most complete and authentic castle in Ireland, dating back to the 15th century. The castle was originally a Viking trading camp all the way back in 970. You are able to take a tour of the iconic fortress whilst taking in some stunning views of the Clare countryside. Along with this magical castle comes Bunratty Folk Park which dates back to the 19th century. This impressive folk park features over 30 buildings made up of rural farmhouses, village shops and streets which were recreated and furnished as they would have appeared at that time to give visitors a glimpse into the past.

Lisdoonvarna Match-Making Festival

Lisdoonvarna is famously known for hosting one of Europe’s largest singles match-making festivals of romance. People from all over the world visit this renowned festival every year in the hopes of finding the love of their lives. The festival has been running each September for over 160 years, and has earned its title as one of the biggest matchmaking events in Europe attracting crowds of up to 20,000 people from all over the world. The main man to meet on the day is Willie Daly, known as Ireland’s last traditional matchmaker, who claims to have matched over 3,000 couples over the course of his 50-year career. If you’re looking for love this is the place to visit.

Spanish Point

Spanish Point is a small village in the parish of Milltown Malbay in County Clare. The village gets its name from the wrecking of some ships of the Spanish Armada in 1588, where many Spaniards on board died.

The People & Local Customs

The people of Clare are known for their warm and friendly nature. It is customary to greet others with a smile, engage in small talk, and show general friendliness towards both locals and visitors. Hospitality is highly valued, and you may often find locals offering assistance or striking up conversations. Clare has a rich musical heritage, and traditional Irish music plays a significant role in local customs. Many pubs in Clare host live music sessions, and it is customary to join in or enjoy the lively atmosphere. The local residents take pride in their cultural traditions, including music, dance, and storytelling.

The Irish language, also known as Irish Gaelic or simply Irish, can be seen throughout County Clare. Signs, street names, and public announcements are often bilingual in English and Irish. While English is widely spoken, the Irish language can be spoken in parts. Showing respect for the Irish language and culture is appreciated. Learning a few basic Irish phrases like “Dia duit” (Hello) or “Go raibh maith agat” (Thank you) can be a pleasant gesture.

Tipping in Ireland is a relatively new phenomenon due to the influx of tourists. However, it is important to note that tipping isn’t socially mandatory and ultimately depends on your own personal preference and of course, in certain environments. When dining in a restaurant, it is normal to leave a 10% tip, whereas anything above 10% is only really given if the service was found to be outstanding. Tipping is not expected in any pub although if you receive table service, a tip is gracious

Pop Culture

Music

County Clare has a huge history of folk song and music, both traditional and contemporary. Many songs, airs, jigs, and reels have been inspired by this beautiful part of Ireland.

Traditional music, dance and singing are still alive and well here and throughout the island of Ireland.

My Lovely Rose of Clare – Chris Ball

One of the most recognised and played folk songs throughout Ireland, My Lovely Rose of Clare was written by Chris Ball from Ennis in 1979.

Spancill Hill – The Dubliners

Another very popular and played Irish folk ballad, Spancill Hill, tells a story of the longing an immigrant has for his home in Spancill Hill in the county of Clare. The ballad was originally written by Michael Considine back in 1850 who emigrated from Ireland as a youngster. The song made its way down through 100’s of years to be replicated by bands like the Wolfe Tones, the Dubliners and covered by Shane McGowan and Christy Moore, to name a few.

Sharon Shannon

Born and raised in Ruan, Co. Clare, Sharon Shannon is one of Ireland’s most famous trad players. Best known for her skills on the accordion, she also plays a plethora of other musical instruments. She began her musical career performing with Disirt Tola, a local band, with which she toured the United States with at the age of just 14. Her 1991 debut album, Sharon Shannon, is the best-selling album of traditional Irish music ever released in Ireland. Over her many years of performing, she released a number of hit albums along with famous collaborations with the likes of Sinead O’Connor. She also performed for a number of famous faces such as Bill Clinton and former president of Ireland Mary Robinson to name a few. She is still releasing music with her last album ‘The Reckoning‘ released in 2020. She remains one of Ireland’s best folk players to this day.

Film & TV

Father Ted (1995)

Probably one of Ireland’s most famous exports, a cult classic at that, Father Ted was an Irish sitcom starring Dermot Morgan and Ardal O’Hanlon. The show was based around three priests, Ted, Dougal and Father Jack who try to work together and manage the parish on Craggy Island after the bishop banished them for their actions in the past. The show also stars Pauline McLynn, who plays the famous Ms. Doyle. This show is engrained in the memory of most Irish people who to this day will re-watch the episodes over and over again. Sadly, Dermot Morgan who played Father Ted suddenly passed away in 1998 forcing an end to the popular show. However, his memory will always live on through this slapstick comedy show.

The show was shot by English television producer, Channel 4 who started broadcasting the show all over the U.K. It was so popular, that the show managed to reach the shores of Australia and New Zealand who broadcasted the show on their respective television networks.

The fictional parochial house was actually based at a house in Kilfenora, County Clare. You can visit the house that is showcased throughout the show and live out your Father Ted fantasies (although the inside of the house was actually just a studio set). Many outdoor scenes from the TV series were shot throughout different parts of County Clare.

Harry Potter and The Half Blood Prince (2009)

The Cliffs of Moher played a starring role in the famous film franchise of Harry Potter. In the 2009 flick, Harry Potter and The Half Blood Prince, the magnificent natural beauty takes part in the film where they are home to Harry’s Cave. You can see the cliffs in action below.

The Princess Bride (1987)

The Cliffs of Moher played another starring role in the Oscar nominated movie, The Princess Bride. The ‘Cliffs of Insanity’ were played by the rugged cliffs making it another high-profile appearance by the UNESCO Geopark.

Snow White and the Huntsman (2012)

This star studded fictional movie, starring Chris Hemsworth, Kristen Stewart and Charlize Theron, once again, features the wonderful Cliffs of Moher. The cliffs once again playing backdrop in another Hollywood blockbuster.

Irish Wish (2024)

This popular Netflix rom-com, starring Lindsay Lohan, follows Maddie, who is a bridesmaid-to-be at the wedding of her dream man, Paul Kennedy. Irish locations play a prominent role throughout the movie, hence the title. The Cliffs of Moher feature, showcasing their stunning backdrop and iconic presence.

Books, Literature & Authors

Edna O’Brien DBE

Josephine Edna O’Brien DBE is an Irish novelist, memoirist, playwright, poet, and short-story writer who was born on December 15, 1930. Renowned as one of Ireland’s finest writers, by former president Mary Robinson, O’Brien has been appointed a Dame of the British Empire for her services to literature. O’Brien has won many awards in a long and distinguished career.

Born in Tuamgraney, Co Clare, in 1930, she made her name with her debut novel, ‘The Country Girls’ in 1962, which won the Kingsley Amis Award. In 1995, she won the European Prize for Literature (European Association for the Arts) for House of Splendid Isolation; the Irish PEN Award in 2001; the Ulysses Medal from University College Dublin in 2006; the Bob Hughes Lifetime Achievement Award in Irish Literature in 2009: the Frank O’Connor International Short Story Award for Saints and Sinners in 2011; the Irish Non-Fiction Book of the Year in 2012 for her debut memoir.

Food & Drink

Burren Smokehouse

The Burren Smokehouse is more of a flavour than a food. It is known for its delectable smoked salmon. Nowhere captures the smoked taste better than the Burren Smokehouse. You can even learn how the they smoke their salmon, trout and mackerel and view the kiln with its unique patented smoking method on a visit to the smokehouse.

Gleninagh Lamb 

The small village of Ballyvaughan is home to Gleninagh high quality, free-range lamb. The Gleninagh lambs are all grass fed and the meat is reputed for its tenderness, quality and high lean meat content. Next time your ordering lamb ask for Gleninagh’s highest quality lamb.

Vegan Options

If that sounds like a bit too much meat for your liking, let’s take a moment to talk about vegan options. In rural areas, it can be harder to find varied menus, particularly ones that cater for vegans, vegetarians, gluten-free diets etc. That said, it is becoming more and more common to see different options. These places may take a bit more effort to find so through doing a bit of research on the web or using apps like Vanilla Bean and Happy Cow, and doing some good old-fashioned asking around, you may be more likely to find gluten-free, vegan and organic options.

Irish Stew 

Warm up the body after a day of hiking with a homegrown bowl of hearty Irish stew. The perfect dish during the depths of winter or a chilly spring day, stew is made in a single pot with vegetables and beef. A satisfying and tasty meal that will feed the belly and the soul. 

Shepherd’s Pie 

Possibly Ireland’s most beloved dishes, Shepherd’s Pie is made with a layer of ground beef or lamb and veggies, and is topped with creamy mashed potatoes before being baked to perfection. The dish actually originated in Scotland where crust was used in place of potatoes. However, once it arrived to Ireland, potatoes were quickly opted for instead, and the dish has become a household favourite throughout the country. 

Guinness 

It would be near impossible to visit a cosy pub on the island of Ireland and not try a pint of creamy Guinness. Although made in Dublin, this iconic drink is a firm favourite up on every corner of the Emerald Isle.

Nearby Trails

There are various other trails available to you once you have completed The Burren Way. Here are some other nearby Hillwalk Tours we offer:

• Connemara & West of Ireland
• Kerry Way
• Dingle Way
• Beara Way
• Sheep’s Head Way

The Burren Way Tips and FAQS

The Burren Way Image Gallery

Hillwalk Tours

About Us

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Leave No Trace

We like to walk in nature and since you are reading this – we believe you do too! It is important to ensure that our impact on the environment is limited so that hikers can enjoy the same view after us. The rule applies: when you leave, make sure that nature looks the same as when you arrived or simply put “leave no trace.” As more and more people take to the great outdoors, our collective mark on the environment increases.

What does this mean in reality? Of course, do not leave any rubbish or waste behind. Do not collect stones, flowers, or other “souvenirs”. Don’t carve your name on a tree or break branches… I think you get the drift. It is imperative for walkers to play their part in making sure litter, damage to vegetation and all forms of pollution are limited.

Noise can also be a form of pollution. Whoever walks through a forest talking and laughing loudly, for example, ruins the peace and quiet of other walkers, who can no longer hear the birds. The same goes for cell phones that suddenly start ringing. Keep the volume down and respect your surroundings. Ultimately, the point is to ensure that as many people as possible can enjoy walking through nature. So that applies to you, but also to those who tread the path after you.

Hillwalk Tours proudly supports sustainable tourism and loves the countryside as it is – wild, peaceful and clean. We are proud to support the “Leave No Trace” initiative that aims to preserve the natural beauty of each nations countryside where we offer hiking holidays. We try to create happy experiences for our accommodation too, and the restaurants, shops and taxi companies that serve our walkers. These are often small businesses located in isolated areas that have been left behind by urban migration and a lack of investment in rural regions. Their warm hospitality and friendly welcomes epitomise the magic of a Hillwalk Tour and we’re dedicated to helping keep these rural communities alive.

The Benefits of Hiking

In recent years, walking and hiking outdoors has been widely reported to have numerous physical and mental health benefits. The following are examples of some of these benefits:

• Improve strength and fitness
• Weight loss
• Muscle gain
• Improve metabolism
• Improve digestion
• Better quality sleep
• Increase in Vitamin D
• Improve discipline
• Sense of achievement

Hiking Equipment List

For a more in-depth list of recommended hiking equipment list, click here.

Make A Booking

Are you ready for your Burren Way adventure? Get started by simply filling out the booking form below!