Wild Atlantic Way - Clare

This section of the Wild Atlantic Way through County Clare packs incredible variety into a compact route: the world-famous Cliffs of Moher, the lunar landscape of the Burren, traditional music in Doolin, and charming coastal villages.

Highlights

Cliffs of Moher

Ireland's most visited natural attraction, and deservedly so. These 214-meter cliffs stretch for 8km along the coast, offering heart-stopping views of the Atlantic. Visit early morning or late evening to avoid the biggest crowds.

The Burren

A unique karst landscape where Mediterranean and Arctic plants grow side by side in the cracks of ancient limestone. Walking the Burren is like exploring another planet.

Doolin

The spiritual home of traditional Irish music. Tiny Doolin has three pubs famous for nightly sessions: O'Connor's, McGann's, and Gus O'Connor's.

Loop Head Peninsula

Often overlooked for Moher, Loop Head offers equally dramatic cliffs with a fraction of the visitors. The lighthouse at the tip is stunning.

Ennistymon

A charming inland town with cascading falls, colorful shop fronts, and excellent traditional music.

Where to Stay

This 120-kilometre loop from Ennis takes in the Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, the Burren, and Ballyvaughan before circling back. With 1-2 days recommended, you can cover it from a single base -- Doolin is the natural choice if traditional music sessions are a priority, while Ennis suits drivers who want a wider range of accommodation and restaurants.

Doolin

Tiny Doolin sits right between the Cliffs of Moher and the southern Burren, meaning the route's two biggest draws are each less than 10 minutes away. The village is the spiritual home of Clare's traditional music scene, with nightly sessions in O'Connor's and McGann's pubs. Accommodation ranges from hostels to boutique guesthouses, though booking ahead in summer is essential given the village's size.

Ennis

If you prefer a larger town with more dining options and easier parking, Clare's county capital is 40 minutes inland from the cliffs but centrally placed for the full loop. Ennis has its own thriving trad music scene at Brogan's and Ciaran's Bar, and a better range of hotels for families or those wanting a quieter evening. The Burren and Poulnabrone Dolmen are accessible from both Doolin and Ennis.

The Route

Starting from Ennis

The county town of Clare makes a good base, with plenty of accommodation and restaurants.

To the Cliffs

Drive via Ennistymon and Lahinch (great for surfing) to reach the Cliffs of Moher.

Doolin & the Burren

Continue north to Doolin, then explore the Burren inland. Don't miss the Poulnabrone Dolmen.

Loop Head

Head south to explore the wild Loop Head Peninsula, ending at the lighthouse.

Return via Kilkee

This Victorian seaside resort has beautiful cliff walks and a natural swimming pool.

Music Sessions

Clare is the heartland of traditional Irish music. For the best sessions:

• Doolin - O'Connor's, McGann's, Gus O'Connor's
• Ennis - Brogan's Bar, Ciaran's Bar
• Miltown Malbay - The Hillery's, O'Friel's (especially during Willie Clancy Week in July)
• Ennistymon - Eugene's Bar

The Burren in Depth

The Burren deserves more than a quick drive-through. Consider:

• Walking - The Burren Way is a 123km marked trail, but shorter walks abound
• Botanical tours - Local guides can show you the unique flora
• Ancient monuments - Poulnabrone, Caherconnell stone fort, numerous ring forts
• Caves - Ailwee Cave and Doolin Cave are both worth visiting

Practical Tips

1. Book Cliffs of Moher admission in advance, not parking — the charge is a per-person admission with parking included, booked for a timed slot, and it is cheaper online than at the gate
2. Bring layers - The cliffs are exposed and wind can be fierce
3. Allow time for the Burren - It's not just something to drive through
4. Stay in Doolin for the full music experience
5. Loop Head is best in clear weather for the views

Before You Drive This Route

At 129km the Wild Atlantic Way - Clare looks like a 3.5 hours drive on paper. Allow 1-2 days and you will actually see it. The Irish driving rules and road signs guide covers speed limits, signage and the penalty points system, which is worth ten minutes before you set off. Coastal weather changes faster than the forecast admits — the all-season packing guide covers what to have in the boot year-round. Most visitors hire at the airport; our guide to renting a car in Ireland covers deposits, excess and what to check before you drive off the lot. More drives in the same corner of the country are on the County Clare page, and the East Clare & Lough Derg pairs naturally with this one.