Welcome to County Clare Hotels Guide

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County Clare does not receive the attention as neighbouring Kerry and Galway which it merits entirely. With the Shannon Estuary cutting deep into its southern border with Kerry and the majestic Galway Bay on its northern littoral, County Clare is home to spectacular coastal scenery and natural landscapes particularly The Cliffs of Moher and the fascinating Burren, a vast expanse of limestone karst scenery that sweeps the north of the county.

A large proportion of Clare's towns and villages have resisted the beautification and commercialisation seen elsewhere in Ireland's tourist towns, each retaining their rustic charm and individuality. The county town of Ennis in the east of Clare is a prime example of a traditional Irish market town. Its medieval origins are clearly visible by strolling through its narrow, winding lanes, lined with old shops and snug bars. Towering above the town, the 13th Century Friary is one of the most significant historic sites in Clare offering informative guided tours from May to September.

The east and south east of Clare comprises the River Shannon and its Estuary ( the longest river in Ireland ) as well as the long and narrow Lough Derg, extending from Portumna in Galway to Killaloe in Clare. The road skirting the western banks is surrounded by gentle countryside and dotted with picture postcard villages , particularly Mount Shannon from where you can take a boat trip across to the 7th Century monastic site on Holy Island. The area has an excellent array of visitor attractions such as the beautifully restored Bunratty Castle built in the 15th Century and the adjacent Bunratty Folk Park. Nearby is Ireland's second international gateway, Shannon International Airport with daily flights to principal UK and European destinations and transatlantic flights to the United States and Canada.

Approaching the Atlantic Coast, South Western and Western Clare is home to outstanding cliff scenery from Loop Head at the south west tip to the seaside resort of Kilkee, a major diving centre with a diversity of underwater scenery. The Cliffs of Moher in the northwest is one of the most breathtaking seascapes in Ireland reaching 203 metres at their highest point. On a clear day, The Arran Islands lie etched on Galway Bay and beyond stand the majestic hills of Connemara in West Galway. A few kilometers to the south, Doolin is an excellent base for discovering Clare's Coast and is very popular amongst backpackers and traditional Irish music aficionados who enjoy the craíc.

The Burren, one of Ireland's most renowned geological landmasses occupies the intertior of North Clare. Once heavily wooded and covered in soil, this large bare limestone expanse boasts a prodigious collection of ancient monuments and megalithic tombs erected by the region's early settlers. Poulnabrone Dolmen is the foremost among them and regarded as Ireland's finest ancient monument. The Burren has a special place in the hearts of outdoor enthusiasts who flock to the region to trek the 35km Burren Way from Ballyvaughan to Liscannor on Clare's majestic Atlantic Coast.

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