Hidden Gems: Unique Outdoor Activities in Doolin, Ireland
Adventure like a local!
Discover some of the most unique outdoor activities in Doolin and County Clare. Below you will find a handful of the many hidden gems in Doolin’s great outdoors, recommended by Doolin locals.
Doolin warmly welcomes visitors to stay & discover more, explore the hidden gems of the region, and experience unrivalled Irish hospitality in a traditional Irish setting!
Video by Kev L Smith, Music by Doctor Turtle
Doolin Cliff Walk
Come and experience one of the most scenic walks in all of Ireland. Join your local guide, Pat Sweeney, on a “Cliffs of Moher Adventure”, as he leads you on a guided walk along the sea cliffs from Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre, for a unique experience of the breathtaking rural beauty of this part of the world. With green fields on one side and pounding waves of the Atlantic Ocean on the other, this spectacular walk is a must if you are visiting the west coast of Ireland along the Wild Atlantic Way.
I’m crazy with pride and passion for my local area where I grew up, that I want to share it..
Pat is a local historian and a walking enthusiast, with expert knowledge of local history and folklore, and is passionate about the preservation of a rural lifestyle enjoyed by five generations of his family who have farmed in this area.
Find out more: www.doolincliffwalk.com
Doonagore Castle Photos by Kev L Smith
Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk to Doonagore Castle
Not many people know about this little hidden gem, but here is some insider knowledge of what to do before or after the coastal walk. The coastal walk is commonly accessed via the Cliff Path in Doolin Village, however, there is a wonderful alternative that takes you up the backroad from Doolin towards the cliffs and past Doonagore Castle – a magnificent spot. Additionally, the good folks over at StoneCutters Kitchen Family Restaurant, can provide directions and are offering a complimentary cup of tea or coffee before/after your walk – just quote the secret code “Meet the Locals”.
Find out more: www.stonecutterskitchen.ie and www.doolin.ie/archaeology-heritage/
Cycling on the Aran Islands
Cycling is one of the best ways to explore the Aran Islands and discover hidden gems that you might not experience if you don’t embrace the saddle, on your holiday. Bring along your own bike, or hire one on Inis Mór and Inis Oírr. Head to Doolin Pier to catch the ferry to the islands, and begin your day of discovery.
Cycling on Inis Oírr:
Be sure to check out:
- Plassy Shipwreck
- Loch Mór (Big Lake)
- Cnoc Raithní – Bronze Age burial mound
- Cill Ghobnait – An Teampall Beag (The Small Church)
- The Lighthouse
Cycling on Inis Meáin:
Be sure to check out:
- Dún Fearbhaí (Ferboy’s Fort)
- Dún Crocbhur (Conor’s Fort)
- Leaba Chinnderig – Saint Kenderrig’s grave
- The Puffing Holes
- Cathaoir Synge (The House of Synge) – a small museum
Cycling on Inis Mór:
Be sure to check out:
- Dún Aonghasa world heritage site
- The Wormhole – Redbull Cliff Diving Venue
- Kilmurvey Beach
- The Black Fort
- The Seal Colony
Surfing in nearby Lahinch
Doolin is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, making it a great base for all adventurers. Although the surfing spots in Doolin itself are more suitable for advanced surfers, Ben’s Surf School can be found in nearby Lahinch for the novice surfer. Lahinch is one of the best-known locations for surfing in Ireland.
Be sure to explore the rest of our website to find out more information, or to plan your next visit to beautiful Doolin in County Clare. Check out our new destination video: ‘Meet the Locals’, for more local knowledge and hidden gems!
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