Clare
· IE

Clare

Clare, Ireland

Clare, located in the picturesque country of Ireland, is a destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with rich history. Nestled in the heart of the stunning Wild Atlantic Way, Clare is a charming county known for…

#County Clare#Ireland#Coastal#Wild Atlantic Way#Cliffs of Moher
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Clare.

Top Hotels in Clare

Top Flights to Clare

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Clare.

Tours

Cliffs of Moher

Experience the stunning views from these iconic cliffs, a must-see natural wonder in Ireland.

Bunratty Castle & Folk Park

Step back in time at this 15th-century castle and 19th-century village.

Shopping

Doolin Village

Discover the charm of this picturesque village known for its traditional Irish music.

Outdoor

Burren National Park

Explore the unique limestone landscape of the Burren, home to diverse flora and fauna.

Lahinch Beach

A popular spot for surfing and seaside activities in the charming town of Lahinch.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Clare.

Currency
€ | EUR | Euro
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Clare, Ireland is 'Not Available'.
Languages
English, Irish, English

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Clare.

What people love

Clare, located in Ireland, is a beautiful and charming destination with many attractions and activities that make it a great place to visit. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Clare:

  1. Stunning natural beauty: Clare is known for its breathtaking landscapes, including the iconic Cliffs of Moher, the unique limestone landscape of the Burren, and picturesque coastal towns like Lahinch and Kilkee. Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to explore these scenic areas and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, surfing, and birdwatching.

  2. Rich cultural heritage: Clare is steeped in history and tradition, with many ancient sites and historic landmarks to explore. Visitors can learn about Ireland's past at attractions like Bunratty Castle, the Poulnabrone Dolmen, and the Craggaunowen Living History Museum. The county is also known for its traditional Irish music and dance, making it a great place to experience authentic Irish culture.

  3. Warm hospitality: The people of Clare are known for their friendliness and welcoming nature, making visitors feel right at home. Whether you're staying in a cozy bed and breakfast, dining at a local pub, or attending a community event, you're sure to encounter warm hospitality and genuine Irish charm.

  4. Outdoor activities: Clare offers a wide range of outdoor activities for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. From hiking and cycling along scenic trails to surfing and kayaking on the Atlantic coast, there are plenty of ways to stay active and enjoy the great outdoors in Clare.

  5. Delicious cuisine: Clare is a food lover's paradise, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and markets serving up delicious local cuisine. Sample fresh seafood, artisan cheeses, and traditional Irish dishes made with locally sourced ingredients for a true taste of Clare.

Overall, traveling to Clare offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, warm hospitality, outdoor activities, and delicious cuisine that make it a fantastic destination for visitors of all interests.

What to know

Traveling to Clare, located in Ireland, may have a few cons that travelers should be aware of. Some potential drawbacks include:

  1. Weather: Ireland is known for its unpredictable weather, and Clare is no exception. Visitors should be prepared for rain, wind, and cooler temperatures, especially if traveling during the winter months.

  2. Crowds: Popular tourist attractions in Clare, such as the Cliffs of Moher, can get very crowded, particularly during peak tourist seasons. This may affect the overall experience and make it challenging to fully enjoy the sights.

  3. Limited public transportation: Clare is a rural area, and public transportation options may be limited, making it more challenging to get around without a car. Renting a car or joining organized tours may be necessary for exploring the region.

  4. Expensive accommodations: Like many tourist destinations in Ireland, accommodations in Clare can be on the pricier side, especially during peak travel seasons. It's essential to book accommodations in advance to secure the best rates.

  5. Limited dining options: While Clare offers a variety of dining establishments, particularly in larger towns like Ennis, some rural areas may have limited options for dining out. Travelers with specific dietary requirements may find it challenging to find suitable restaurants.

  6. Tourist traps: Like any popular tourist destination, Clare may have some tourist traps that offer overpriced goods or services. Travelers should be cautious and research thoroughly before making any purchases or bookings.

Overall, while Clare offers stunning natural beauty and rich cultural experiences, travelers should be prepared for potential challenges such as unpredictable weather, crowds, limited transportation options, and higher costs.

Clare, often referred to as County Clare, is a county in the province of Munster, located on the west coast of Ireland. It is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Below is a detailed history of County Clare, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Prehistoric and Early History

  • Prehistoric Sites: Clare is home to some of Ireland's most significant prehistoric sites, including dolmens and ring forts. The Poulnabrone Dolmen in the Burren, which dates back to the Neolithic period (around 3000 BC), is one of the most iconic archaeological sites in Ireland.

  • Early Settlers: The area has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of human activity dating back to the Mesolithic period. The earliest settlers were likely hunter-gatherers who later developed into farming communities during the Neolithic period.

Medieval Period

  • Norman Invasion: The Norman invasion of Ireland in the late 12th century brought significant changes. The O'Brien dynasty, descendants of the legendary High King Brian Boru, became the dominant Gaelic family in Clare.

  • Bunratty Castle: Built in the 15th century by the MacNamara family and later taken over by the O'Briens, Bunratty Castle is one of the most complete and authentic medieval castles in Ireland. It played a central role in the history of the region.

Early Modern Period

  • The Plantation of Munster: In the 16th and 17th centuries, the English Crown attempted to bring the region under control through the Plantation of Munster, which involved settling English and Scottish Protestants in the area.

  • Siege of Ballyalla: During the Irish Confederate Wars in the 1640s, Clare was a site of conflict. The Siege of Ballyalla in 1642 saw Irish Confederate forces besieging the castle held by English Royalists.

19th Century

  • The Great Famine: Like much of Ireland, Clare was severely affected by the Great Famine of the 1840s. The population suffered greatly due to starvation and emigration.

  • Daniel O'Connell: Known as "The Liberator," Daniel O'Connell was a significant political leader from County Clare. He played a crucial role in the Catholic Emancipation movement, which sought to end discrimination against Catholics in Ireland.

20th Century

  • The War of Independence and Civil War: County Clare was active during the Irish War of Independence (1919-1921) and the subsequent Civil War (1922-1923). The region saw various skirmishes and engagements during these tumultuous times.

  • Shannon Airport: Opened in 1945, Shannon Airport became one of the world’s first transatlantic airports and played a significant role in the economic development of the region.

Landmarks and Natural Features

  • The Cliffs of Moher: One of Ireland's most visited natural attractions, the Cliffs of Moher offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and are a UNESCO Global Geopark.

  • The Burren: A unique karst landscape that stretches across north Clare, the Burren is renowned for its limestone pavements, diverse flora, and archaeological sites.

  • Holy Island (Inis Cealtra): Located on Lough Derg, this island is an important early Christian site with ruins of churches and a round tower.

Cultural Heritage

  • Traditional Music: County Clare is famous for its vibrant traditional Irish music scene, particularly in towns like Doolin and Ennis. The county hosts numerous music festivals and events celebrating this rich cultural heritage.

Summary

County Clare's history is marked by its ancient settlements, medieval conflicts, and modern political and cultural developments. Its stunning landscapes and historical landmarks continue to attract visitors from around the world, eager to explore its rich heritage.