Nestled on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, Doolin Inn is the perfect base for exploring Clare and beyond. From breathtaking sea cliffs to hidden limestone landscapes, here are our top five day trips (plus two bonus destinations!) to make the most of your summer escape.
Doolin & Cliffs of Moher
Cliffs of Moher: Choose between a visit to the world‑famous Cliffs of Moher Experience or join the guided Doolin Cliff Walk with local guide Pat to uncover geology and folklore firsthand. For a different vantage, take the Cliffs of Moher Cruise with Doolin Ferry Co and spot puffins, guillemots and maybe even dolphins bobbing in the swell.
Doolin Cave: If you’re up for adventure, delve into Doolin Cave to marvel at “The Great Stalactite” on a guided Doolin Cave Tour.
Culture and Craft: Spend your afternoon browsing local gifts and crafts in Irish Crafts. In the evening, enjoy enjoy traditional Irish music in Gus O’Connor’s, McGann’s, McDermott’s, Fitzs or Russells, or enjoy intimate sessions at the Doolin Music House.
Relaxation: Unwind in Wild Atlantic Seaweeds Baths & Seafoam Sauna at the pier, and cap the day with a fiery sunset over Doonagore Castle—a photographer’s dream.
The Burren
Taste of the Burren: Start with smoked salmon at Burren Smokehouse, discover the mystery of Salmon Smoking, and explore the interactive “Taste the Atlantic – The Salmon Experience”
Heritage Highlights: Explore Caherconnell Stone Fort and a sheep‑dog demonstration, or tour the underground passages & visit the Birds of Prey at the Aillwee Burren Experience.
Wellness & Shopping: Treat yourself to some local botanicals at Airmid in Ennistymon.
Scenic Strolls: Wander the Flaggy Shore and indulge in Linnalla Ice Cream, or head inland to Poulnabrone Dolmen and hike the rocky summit of Mullaghmore for panoramic vistas
Surfing: If you’re up for action, surf a wild Atlantic wave at Aloha Surf School in Fanore.
Aran Islands
Island Choice: Pick Inis Mór for Dún Aonghasa cliff‑edge fort views, Inis Meáin for quieter lanes and craft workshops, or Inis Oírr for its charming village atmosphere.
Active or Easy: Rent a bike to cycle ancient laneways, or take a jaunting car tour for a relaxed overview.
Local Flavours: Stop at an island café, bar or restaurant to sample fresh seafood, or pack a picnic (Doolin Inn guests can pre-order a picnic here) and enjoy quaint stone walls, and panoramic views of the Atlantic.
Loop Head & Kilrush
Coastal Drive: Meander through Miltown Malbay and Spanish Point’s beaches, or take the more direct route along the N67 for quicker access.
Loop Head Lighthouse: Visit Loop Head Lighthouse and discover timeless maritime heritage.
Vandaleur Walled Gardens: Visit Kilrush’s Vandeleur Walled Garden where flora and Irish history come to life.
Local Stops: Doonbeg, Kilkee Cliffs, or the Bridges of Ross.
Ennis & Shannon
Historic Core: Stroll Ennis’s medieval streets, wandering from the Market Square to Ennis Friary’s gothic ruins.
Shop & Sip: Browse artisan boutiques in Ennis and enjoy café culture in cobbled lanes, or join a local food tour sampling Clare delicacies.
Shannon Aviation Museum: Take an exhilarating journey through aviation history at Shannon Aviation Museum. This unique museum boasts an impressive collection of aircraft, from vintage planes to modern marvels, and provides hands-on exhibits for all ages. Visitors can explore interactive displays, flight simulators, and even sit in a real cockpit.
galway City
City Culture: Wander the Latin Quarter’s colourful streets and browse artisan shops on Shop Street, or visit Galway City Museum at the Spanish Arch.
Seafront: Take a coastal stroll along Salthill Promenade and “kick the wall”, followed by a dip at the Blackrock diving board.
Galway Cathedral: Admire Galway Cathedral’s architecture and sit by the Corrib river to watch the world go by.
Café & Cuisine: Relax with a coffee in Eyre Square, or enjoy fresh seafood from McDonagh’s on a sunny day by the claddagh.
Limerick City
City Landmarks & Village Vibes: Visit King John’s Castle and stroll the riverside in Limerick City, or drive straight to Adare for picture‑perfect thatched cottages and boutique shops.
Cultural Gems: Browse the collections at the Hunt Museum (over 2,000 artworks and antiquities).
Market & Cuisine: Head to the Limerick Milk Market (weekends) for local produce, street food and artisan crafts.
After a day of adventure, relax back at Doolin Inn. With so much to explore, why not use Doolin Inn as a base for your trip to the west of Ireland? We have some great longer stay packages available for adventurous explorers looking to get the most out of their trip west.