Sunset over the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, Ireland, with dramatic sea cliffs, coastal walking trail, and Atlantic Ocean views.

County Clare – Limestone Plateau, Atlantic Cliffs, and Open Atlantic Coast

Limestone uplands, exposed shoreline, and low rolling farmland along Ireland’s western edge.

County Clare is a coastal county of limestone plateau, Atlantic cliffs, and low hills in western Ireland. Walking routes cross Burren National Park and the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, and follow the Burren Way and Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk, linking places such as Ennis, Doolin, Lisdoonvarna, Kilfenora, and Kilrush across rock pavement, grassland, and exposed headland ground between Galway Bay and the Shannon Estuary.

Much of the terrain is firm but uneven underfoot. Limestone pavement, gravel tracks, field paths, minor roads, and clifftop trails allow steady progress, with mostly gentle gradients inland and short steeper sections near cliffs and escarpments. Surfaces can be rough or wet across bare rock and upland pasture.

The landscape shifts between areas. The Burren forms a broad limestone plateau of exposed rock and thin soils across the north, while the Atlantic edge rises into cliffs and headlands around Doolin and Liscannor. Central Clare becomes lower and more agricultural, with fields and hedged lanes around Ennis. Toward the south and west, ground flattens along the Shannon Estuary with quieter rural routes.

Towns and villages are spaced along the coast and inland roads, creating regular access points for shorter walks and longer linear routes, with longer open stretches across the Burren interior.

Trails and Routes Through County Clare

Burren Way

Long-distance route running across the Burren between Lahinch and Corofin through limestone pavement, farmland, and low hills.

Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk

Linear clifftop path between Doolin and Liscannor following the Atlantic edge with exposed sections and coastal viewpoints.

East Clare Way

Looped rural route through low hills, lakes, and farmland east of Ennis using minor roads, tracks, and woodland paths.

Shannon Estuary Paths

Flat riverside and coastal tracks along the estuary linking smaller settlements and open shoreline ground.

Walking Character

Limestone pavement and karst ground
Atlantic cliffs and headlands
Low rolling farmland
Gravel tracks and minor roads
Mostly gentle gradients inland
Short steeper coastal sections
Open, exposed terrain with wide visibility

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is County Clare located?

County Clare is in western Ireland, bordered by Galway Bay to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and the Shannon Estuary to the south.

What defines walking here?

Rocky limestone ground, clifftop routes, and open farmland dominate, with a mix of upland plateau and coastal walking.

Are there long-distance routes here?

Yes. The Burren Way and East Clare Way cross the county, and the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk provides a continuous linear coastal section.

Is the terrain steep?

Most inland routes are gently rolling. Coastal sections near the cliffs include short, steeper climbs and uneven ground.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring through early autumn offers firmer ground and longer daylight. Coastal areas can be windy year-round, and rock surfaces may be slippery after rain.