The Burren is a unique and stunning region located in County Clare, Ireland. It is famous for its unusual karst landscape, featuring limestone pavements, rocky hills, and a diverse array of flora and fauna. For hikers and nature lovers, The Burren offers some of the best hiking trails in Ireland. Wild Meadow Huts offers guests an amazing location to base themselves as they explore the Burren and some of its top hikes. We also offer the perfect location to relax and unwind in after a hike with our salt water hot tubs and award winning mattresses.
In this blog post, we will explore the top hikes in The Burren, Clare, Ireland.
1. Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk (The Burren Way)
The Burren Way is a total of 114km. This linear walk starts in Lahinch and ends in Corofin and takes in some stunning scenery and attractions along the way. On average it takes 5 days to complete and is considered a moderate walking route. It has different stages, the most spectacular and famous being the Cliffs of Moher Cliff walk. This runs between Liscannor and Doolin along the Cliffs edge. The full walk takes approximately 4 hours but can be divided in to two shorter walks using the Cliffs of Moher Visitors Centre as a starting/end point. For guests staying at Wild Meadow Huts the easiest option is to walk out of the Huts, walk down the road towards the pier for 15 minutes to the start of the Cliffs Walk and walk up to the visitors centre. This takes approximately 2 hours, is a moderately easy walk and the scenery is absolutely stunning. You can then get a Bus Eireann bus back from outside the visitors Centre.
2. Mullaghmore Loop Trail (The Burren National Park)
The Mullaghmore Loop Trail is a hard trail taking approximately 3 hours. Located near the village of Kilnaboy, along the L1112 you will find Gortlecka Crossroads. Once you reach the crossroads, you’ll see the lay-by just next to it. Here you can find park and view maps outlining walking routes ranging in time and intensity. Mullaghmore is marked with a blue arrow and is off to the right of the crossroads. Mullaghmore will reward you with breath taking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Lough Avalla Farm Loop
This 6km loop is considered moderate in difficulty and takes approximately 2 and a half hours. This trail is located at the same start point as the above Mullaghmore Loop at the Gortlecka Crossroads. This trail takes you through working farmland and is entrenched in history. Please note this trail is not suitable for dogs due to livestock.
4. Caher Valley Loop Trail
The Caher Valley Loop Trail is a 14.5-kilometer circular hike that takes hikers through the heart of The Burren. The trail begins and finishes in Fanore and takes you through a variety of landscapes, including rugged hills, deep valleys, and lush meadows. The trail is a moderate level of difficulty. There is a carpark at Fanore beach to leave your car and you can always pop in for a swim to cool off after.
5. Black Head Loop Trail
The Black Head Loop Trail is a 26km hike that is considered a difficult trail. It takes you along mountain paths, greenway and tracks. The loop commences in Fanore with parking available at the beach carpark. It offers a beautiful mix of Burren hill and coastline.
The Burren offers some of the most beautiful and unique hiking trails in Ireland. There is a hike for every level of hiker.
Wild Meadow Huts offers luxurious salt water hot tubs making it the perfect place to relax your muscles and stay after a long hike. Use of the hot tub is included in all of our stays.
We like to remind all hikers on the importance of the leave no trace policy whilst out in nature.
We advise all hikers to do their own research prior to a walk to ensure their suitability to each individual. Please always stay on marked routes to ensure safety. Also check if dogs are allowed on each route if you intend on bringing your four-legged friend.
