"Don't miss Clare - she's a beauty" County Clare by Tayto

County Clare Travel Guide: 702 reviews and 1,890 photos

Clare is not to be issed

Co Clare is one of the nicest couties in Ireland. Many people visiting Ireland may overlook it in favour of say Kerry or perhaps Galway or Donegal. The may visit the Cliffs of moher or perhaps the Ailwee caves. In doing so they miss out on an opportunity. If you have time (2-3 days) it is well worth hiring a car and driving along the coast of Clare especially from the Cliffs of Moher south to Loop head. Along the way there is plenty of opportunity to enjoy the 'ceol agus craic' (music and fun) for which Clare is famous. If you are a golfer there are some great links courses to be played including the famous course at Lahinch. For me personally its the power of the Atlantic ocean as it crashes into the coast to form cliffs, natural bridges, stacks that make this county so special.

Next stop America

Loop Head Co Clare

This is the Lighthouse at Loop Head. It is the furthest point west in County Clare. The drive from Kilkee to Loop head is spectacular

Residents

Do you think they spotted us ?

As you drive through Clare you will notice the traditional dry stone walls surrounding small fields. Have a closer look at the walls.... they are constructed without mortar ! This requires a high level of skill in selecting the right combination of stones to achieve the strength and balance of the walls. These walls are common throughout the west of Ireland and can withstand severe gales coming in from the Atalntic. Rather than presenting a solid surface reistance to the gales as in the case of mortared walls the wind can pass throught them while the overall weight and integration of the stones keeps the walls intact.

This can provide a great safe haven for livestock.....I thought these residents looked kinda cute !

Pros and Cons

Pros:The Atlantic Ocean, scenery, Ceol agus Craic
Cons:often overlooked by tour companies...only a con if your on one but a pro if your not !
In a nutshell:Up close and personal with the Atlantic Ocean !

Last visit to County Clare: Jul 2004
Intro Updated Nov 15, 2007
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Reviews (6)

Cliffs of Moher Things to Do (6)

This is one of the most popular spots for tourists after the Guinness Storehouse. The best time to go there is in the... more travel advice

Ailwee Caves Things to Do (6)

There is a great scene in Father Ted where Ted and Dougal meet Victor Meldrew or the actor who plays Vicrtor Meldrew... more travel advice

Bringing home the Groceries and....er children ! - County Clare

Bringing Home the Groceries Things to Do (6)

Fetching groceries from the local store ....and er.....children from school in West Clare ! I was not sure whether to... more travel advice

Quality cottages in Quilty ! - County Clare

Nice Holiday Cottage ! Things to Do (6)

I saw this sign located right beside a derelict cottage and while it referred to brand new modern cottages down the road... more travel advice

Comments (3)

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Mariajoy Nov 15, 2007 at 4:11 PM

Lovely updates here Joe, there's so much of Ireland I would still love to see especially the Cliffs of Moher! Those cave pics are fab too! I shall have to start organising a trip I think :)
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nickandchris Jan 19, 2006 at 8:09 AM

Sounds like my sort of place. We, too, have dry stone walls here in Cumbria. I always admire the skill that goes into these walls.
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Bilimari Aug 2, 2005 at 7:49 PM

Find a cottage in Quilty and take a tractor for a spin! Great tips!!