Wild. Beautiful. Strange. Extraordinary. The Burren is a must-see for your next trip to Ireland.
With a Gaelic name that translates to ‘Stony Place’, The Burren is unlike anywhere else. It is truly a landscape shaped as a result of time and is a wonderful reason to visit Ireland.
In 1651 a Cromwellian Army Officer named Ludlow remarked, “of this barony it is said that it is a country where there is not water enough to drown a man, wood enough to hang one, nor earth enough to bury them. This last is so scarce that the inhabitants steal it from one another and yet their cattle are very fat. The grass grows in tufts of earth of two or three foot square which lies between the limestone rocks and is very sweet and nourishing.”
This Irish region looks other-worldly with its vast landscape of glacial-era limestone, cliffs, caves, fossils and rock formations. At first glance, The Burren may not seem like the first place you’d find wildlife. However, it’s famous for its flora and fauna, with more than two-thirds of Ireland’s plant species and a diverse animal population.
The most visited attraction of The Burren is the Cliffs of Moher, found at its southwestern edge. Stretching for 5 miles along the Atlantic Coast and reaching more than 700 feet high, this natural formation provides stunning views looking out into the sea. More than 1 million people visit the Cliffs each year and take in the sights from spots like O’Brien Tower or from the perspective of the sea while on a cruise. You’ll want to have your camera ready from any angle you choose.
Scattered throughout The Burren, you’ll find countless archaeological sites. Dating back to 3800 BC, Poulnabrone Dolmen is perhaps the most well-known and photographed. This portal tomb receives thousands of visitors each year who come to see a bit of the Neolithic people of Ireland’s history for themselves.
When you’re ready for a pint, the town of Doolin awaits. Doolin is the unofficial traditional music capital of Ireland. It’s the perfect base for a place to stay while exploring the greater Burren region. With loads of little shops and pubs, you’re sure to have a lovely time.
The Burren’s rocky, windswept region symbolizes Ireland’s wild beauty at its finest. Its intriguing natural formations and rich history give it personality and make it an entity all of its own. It’s truly a force to be reckoned with on your next journey to the Emerald Isle.
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