Why Doolin Is The Best Place In Ireland For An Autumn Break

Why Doolin is the Best Place in Ireland for an Autumn Break

Looking to get away for a romantic escape, family staycation, some “me-time” or a group trip in Ireland, but don’t know where to go or what to do? Well, we’re here to tell you that Doolin is the best place in Ireland to take an Autumn break.

Why choose Doolin for an Autumn Break?

Autumn is perhaps the loveliest time of the year to enjoy live music sessions throughout the village, outdoor pursuits, food experiences and cosy nights away with delicious grub, and a nightcap of hot chocolates (or hot toddies) by the fire!

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For the Romantics

Stay in one of Doolin’s high-quality accommodation options – there’s a variety of hotels, country houses, B&Bs & guesthouses, holiday homes, and hostels to choose from – from budget to luxury. Furthermore, all accommodation listed on the Doolin Tourism website is Fáilte Ireland Quality Assured.

During your stay, take a romantic stroll to Doolin Pier where you’ll experience the most awe-inspiring sunset and views of Galway Bay and the Aran Islands (a good spot to take a selfie or 2! Don’t forget to share the love.. #LoveDoolin on your Insta or FB post or @ doolintourism).

Experience a taste of the Burren in some of the best eateries along the west coast of Ireland. Take a drive, walk, or cycle through The Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark where you’ll discover a range of things to see and do during your stay. Pick up a picnic package or packed lunch from your host and dine al fresco at Ballyryan – a beautiful spot to share a moment at. Sometimes you can spot dolphins here too! Share a tub at Wild Atlantic Seaweed Baths and more!

Recently engaged? If you’re in love with Doolin and are planning on getting married here, check out Mrs Redhead Photography, Doolin Celebrant, and the many wedding venues around Doolin such as Hotel Doolin, Ballinalacken Castle, and Doolin Inn, to name a few.

Tip: Autumn is the best time to experience sunsets in Doolin. Some of the best places to experience a sunset in Doolin, are at Doolin Pier, along the Doolin Cliff Walk, or if a guest, from the deck at Sea View House.

For the adrenaline seekers, venture out into the great outdoors with some of Doolin’s fantastic activities on offer within the village and its surrounding areas. Go caving, kayaking, surfing, and much more.

Stop by some of Doolin’s excellent local craft shops for some retail therapy. Don’t forget to listen to some tunes over a cold/warm beverage in one of the many establishments within Doolin village before the end of your stay. Depart Doolin feeling revitalized and book your next trip to discover more! Scroll down for more event listings and things to do.

For the Lone Ranger

Do all of the above – adventures are just as fun on your own or in the company of your friends and family! Alternatively, take this opportunity to kick back with some rest and relaxation – Doolin is a great spot for a Yoga Retreat or Wellness weekend. Treat yoself! in the many local shops in Doolin and nearby towns –  wrap up for your cliff walk with a cashmere travel wrap from Ekotree, for example. Be sure to take a stroll down to the local pubs and meet the locals for a chat and a pint of the good stuff – we’re a very friendly and welcoming bunch! Also, check out the Burren Winterage Weekend if staying over the October bank holiday weekend. Scroll down for more event listings and things to do.

For the Family

With so much to do within walking and driving distance, Doolin is a great base for a family break. Check out these Family activity ideas for a family trip to Doolin. There are plenty of family-friendly eateries in and around Doolin offering everything from hearty homemade fare to fine dining. If visiting for Halloween, be sure to check out “Halloween at the Cave“, and other nearby activities and attractions for a fun-filled family experience. Scroll down for more event listings and things to do.

For the Friends Reunion

Rest your head at night in budget or luxury accommodation and experience all that Doolin has to offer right on your doorstep.

Tip: When you reserve your group’s accommodation, be sure to contact the host directly to get the best deal. Some accommodation providers offer a group rate or special offers including dinner for small or large groups.

On your travels, stop for a group selfie at Doonagore Castle – it’s Doolin’s iconic tower house dating back to around the 16th century and is located just 1km above Doolin village. It boasts some fantastic sea views of the wild Atlantic, so take the camera phone out of your pocket and snap away on Instagram with #LoveDoolin and tag your buddies. For more instagrammable spots, download the Doolin Insta-Trail here.

Experience the Cliffs of Moher from a new perspective with the Doolin Cliff Walk (Your knowledgeable guide, Pat, will take you through history, legends, and folklore of the area while you take in the cliff views) or Ollies Tours. There are plenty of other low-level activities to explore during your trip.

Not all groups are fans of high-level adventure but for those that are, there are multiple surf spots and other adventure activities just a short drive from Doolin. Don’t have transport? No problem. There are national bus routes in and out of Doolin each day and for those that want to tour around in small numbers, there are plenty of local taxis and bus hire companies to drive you around or take you on a private tailored tour just for your group. If you’d like some more flexibility, hire some bikes and get out there and explore together! There are bike hire companies within the village – some accommodation providers also provide great bike hire deals so check with your host.

In the evenings, be sure to head down to the local pub for some great entertainment, Live music, and a couple of pints of porter, while you chat among yourselves about the epic adventures of the day, before resting up for the night. Music fans can also enjoy the many local music events at Doolin Music House, The Meadow at Fiddle + Bow, and The Attic @ Hotel Doolin. Scroll down for more event listings and things to do.

Things to do in Autumn