Do & See

It is impossible... to be bored in Ballyvaughan!

The village of Ballyvaughan is situated on the coast of North Clare overlooking Galway Bay. It is the ideal base to explore the rich heritage of the Burren and surrounding areas. The famous Burren Way (26 miles of Green Road) starts in Ballyvaughan, goes to Fanore, Doolin and ends in Liscannor. There are numerous other walks, which are easily negotiable with the aid of a map, or better still, with a local guide. There are several self-guided walks in and around Ballyvaughan, including the Ballyvaughan Wood Loop, Black head Loop, Carron Loop and the Burren Way. Maps can be downloaded from www.shannonregiontrails.ie/FindaTrail/

You can enjoy miles of quiet country roads by bicycle, which can be hired in the village.
Beautiful unspoilt beaches at Bishopsquarters and Fanore invite you to swim, kayak and surf. The sheltered Ballyvaughan Bay is suitable for all kinds of water activities. With a recently constructed slipway you can access the sea by sail or motorboat, windsurf, canoe or kayak or try a swim in the sea or learn to dive with the Burren Adventures Dive Centre. Sea angling is another pastime - with great catch off The Burren offers wonderful opportunities to observe the Burren's large wildlife community, and to discover the exotic and unique flora. There is for example a birdhide at the western end of the village.

Limestone areas like the Burren are famous for their large cave systems. There are two caves open to the public: the Aillwee Caves and, since 2006, the Doolin Cave with one of the largest stalactites known to the world.

There is (modern and traditional) music in the pubs, especially during the summer months. No holidays in Ireland would be complete without a visit to the pub, enjoying the local hospitality and listening to the traditional music.

A bit down the road towards Galway, you will find the little peninsula called Newquay, with its beautiful Flaggy Shore with Mount Vernon, (formerly Lady Gregory's summer residence, now a Country House Hotel), the Russell Gallery, and the Martello Tower built by the English in fear of a potential French invasion at Napoleon times. Lenanes Pub is a great place to grab a bite after walking along the Flaggy Shore.

For a list of  activity providers please check out the Activities link.