There are many reasons to visit Doolin, Ireland. This Charming wild Atlantic village under the shadow of Doonagore Castle neighbors the world-famous Cliffs of Moher, you’ll be blown away by the natural beauty of Doolin’s rugged coastline with its high sea cliffs reaching up to 300ft high overlooking miles of Irish Sea.
The village of Doolin is located on the River Fergus, between the towns of Ennistymon to the north and Lahinch to the south.
Doolin is world-famous for its traditional Irish music and holds annual festivals such as the Doolin Folk Festival.
The main street in Doolin is called fisher Street and expect a warm welcoming atmosphere
There are plenty of scenic hikes such as the Doolin cliff walk. There is the famous Doolin Cave, and the area has more than 100 archaeological sites from ancient times.
10 Reasons to Visit Doolin village on the wild Atlantic way
1. Doolin is a small town with a population of just over 300 people
With a population of just over 300 people, it’s known for its rolling green hills, dramatic coastline, and abundance of traditional music on the popular fisher street.
2. The Cliffs of Moher are nearby and offer spectacular views
The Cliffs of Moher are definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area! They offer some truly spectacular views, and it’s a great place to go for an adventure walk.
The cliffs rise to a height of 702 feet (214 meters) and extend for 5 miles (8 kilometers) along the Atlantic coast of County Clare in southwest Ireland. They are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ireland.
The Cliffs were formed by the erosion of the sandstone and shale that make up the coastline. The heavy seas and strong winds have been pounding away at the rocks for millions of years, gradually wearing them down.
Many visitors to the cliffs say that they are one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
3. Doolin offers many activities, including surfing, golfing, fishing, hiking trails, and more
Doolin village is an amazing place for outdoor activities most of which are within walking distance. It’s a great spot for fishing, with plenty of salmon and trout in the area, and there are also some good golfing courses nearby. The hiking trail such as the Doolin cliff walk is beautiful,
Doolin village is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities like surfing, golfing, fishing, and hiking. There are plenty of options for each activity, so whether you’re a beginner or an experienced outdoorsman, you’ll find something to enjoy within a short distance of Doolin village.
Golfing is another popular activity in Doolin. The Doolin Golf Club is an 18-hole course that offers beautiful views of this charming landscape
4. There’s an abundance of wildlife in the area
Visit the Carraig na bhFeada Animal Sanctuary to see otters, seals, and other animals up close. The Cliffs of Moher are a great place to see wildlife, and Doolin is no exception. You can often see dolphins offshore and some seals near the pier. Ravens, seagulls, and other birds are common as well. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a whale!,. Inland, there are lots of wild deer, as well as rabbits, hares, and badgers. There are also birds of prey such as golden eagles and hen harriers. The Burren is also home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, including deer, hares, badgers, and pheasants. But perhaps its most famous residents are the puffins. A rare sight!
5. Great food can be found at several pubs in the area
The pubs in Doolin are famous for their delicious food. My personal favorite is The Druid’s Den, but I’m sure the others are just as good. You can’t go wrong with any of them. The pubs in Doolin are known for their great food. Some of our favorites include Gus O’Connor’s, McGanns, and the King’s Head. They all have excellent menus with something to please everyone. You won’t be disappointed!
McDermott’s is known for their delicious seafood dishes, O’Connor’s is famous for their traditional Irish Pub fare, and McGann’s is a great place to go for a hearty steak dinner. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find something amazing at one of these pubs in Doolin.
6. Local musicians often perform traditional Irish music at night on Main Street
The Sliabh Luachra style of traditional Irish music is known for its driving rhythm, intricate ornamentation, and the use of unusual instruments like the uilleann pipes and the bodhrán. Doolin is a small town in County Clare that is considered to be the home of Sliabh Luachra traditional Irish music.
People visit Doolin from all over the world to hear some of the best traditional Irish music in Ireland. There are several pubs in Doolin that offer live music every night, and many of them also have sessions during the day. If you’re interested in hearing some great traditional Irish music, then a visit to Doolin is definitely worth your time!
If you’re looking for traditional Irish music in Doolin, you can’t go wrong with the O’Brien’s Pub. This pub has been a favorite among locals and visitors alike for years, thanks to its outstanding selection of Irish music. Whether you’re looking for a lively session or just some quiet background music, the O’Brien’s Pub is the perfect place to go.
Some highlights you might want to check out include the Doolin Folk Club, the O’Connor’s Pub Sessions, and the weekly Traditional Irish Music Session at McGann’s Bar.
Whatever you do, make sure to soak up the lively atmosphere and enjoy a pint (or two) of Guinness while you’re listening to some of the best traditional Irish music around!
7. Visit the Burren
The Burren is a unique karst landscape located in County Clare, Ireland. It’s known for its lunar-like landscape and its immense number of rare and protected plant species.
The Burren was formed around 350 million years ago when acidic rainwater ate away at the limestone bedrock, creating the distinctive pockmarks and strange formations that can be seen today. The area is also home to a number of rare animal species, including the Irish hare, marten, and pine marten. There are also many interesting historical sites to explore in the area, including Celtic ruins and early Christian churches.
The Burren got its name from an Irish word ‘búirín’ meaning little plain. It is located in County Clare in the west of Ireland. The limestone landscape is home to a variety of flora and fauna.
8. Visit Aillwee Cave , aka Doolin Cave
Aillwee Cave is a limestone cave located in the Burren region of County Clare, Ireland. Doolin Cave is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland, and has been described as “the perfect mix of natural beauty and man-made wonders”.
The Doolin cave was first discovered by farmers in 1941, who noticed a small hole in the ground that led to a collapsed chamber. The farmers began to excavate the cave by hand, and it was opened to the public in 1947. Doolin Cave is now home to a variety of geological features, including stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and curtains. It also contains two underground rivers and two lakes.
The cave was first discovered in 1944 by brothers Paddy and Seamus Flanagan when their dog chased a rabbit into a hole and they followed it. The entrance to the cave was only large enough for a small animal, so Paddy had to crawl through an opening about 18 inches wide to explore further. He soon found that the passage widened out into a spacious chamber.
The brothers developed Doolin Cave as a tourist attraction, installing electric lights and creating walkways and stairs.
9. Accommodation in Doolin
Accommodation options in Doolin include bed and breakfasts, guesthouses, and hotels. There are also a few self-catering apartments available. You can find a list of accommodation options on the Doolin website.
If you’re looking for something special, there are also luxury holiday homes available to rent in Doolin. These homes come with all the amenities you would expect, such as a swimming pool, hot tub, and games room.
The Doolin Hostel is a great place to stay if you’re looking for budget accommodation in Doolin. It’s located just a few minutes’ walk from the center of town. If you’re looking for something a bit more luxurious, the Atlantic Hotel is a great option. It’s situated right on the oceanfront, and it has beautiful views of the Cliffs of Moher. The hotel has a variety of different room types, including suites and family rooms.
Try Glamping
There are several glamping spots in and around Doolin, and most of them offer stunning ocean views. Some of the options include bell tents, treehouses, yurts, and safari tents. And of course, all of the usual amenities are included, such as proper beds, electricity, heating/cooling, etc.
10. Visit The Aran Islands from Doolin Pier
The ferry from Doolin pier to the Aran Islands is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of the wild Atlantic. The crossing takes about an hour, and during that time you’ll enjoy stunning views of the cliffs and coastline. Once you reach the islands, you can explore the villages, go hiking or biking, or just relax and take in the quiet beauty of the place. It’s definitely a must-see attraction when visiting Ireland!
The Aran Islands are also home to some of the most interesting Celtic history in Ireland. You can explore ancient stone forts, learn about traditional Irish culture, and see how locals live today. It’s a great place to visit if you want to experience Ireland’s natural beauty and historical culture all in one place.
Ferry from Doolin to the Aran Islands
The ferry from Doolin pier to the Aran Islands is a great way to experience some of Ireland’s most beautiful scenery. The journey goes to both Inis Oírr, and Inis Mor and you’ll sail past the Cliffs of Moher, which are among the tallest cliffs in Europe. Once you reach the Aran Islands, you can explore their unique culture and traditions, or just enjoy a relaxing walk along the coast.
Which is better Lahinch or Doolin?
There is no easy answer to this question! Both Lahinch and Doolin are beautiful towns located on Ireland’s west coast, and they offer a wealth of activities and attractions for visitors.
If you’re interested in surfing, then Lahinch is the place to be – it has some of the best waves in Ireland. But if you’re more interested in hiking and exploring the countryside, then Doolin is definitely worth a visit.
Our take
In the end, it’s up to you to decide which town is right for you. But whichever one you choose, you’re sure to have a great time!
Conclusion
Located on the Wild Atlantic Way, Doolin is a great place to visit because it has beautiful coastal views, and it’s close to the Cliffs of Moher which are a must-see. There are also plenty of hiking trails and other outdoor activities nearby, and the village itself has a lot of charming pubs and restaurants. For more information stop by at the visitor center.