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3 stunning walks in the Dublin Mountains

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Top 10 walks and hikes for experienced walkers

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Clare
Ballyvaughan
Ballyvaughan - Wood Loop
Ballyvaughan - Wood Loop
Walking in the Burren
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Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare
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  • Nature and wildlife
  • Sustainability
  • Walking and hiking
Free to visit
Walking in the Burren
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Admire County Clare’s famed limestone landscape on this pleasant 8.8km loop that crosses valley and woodland. Starting at the seaside village of Ballyvaughan, the route passes close to Aillwee Cave, the best known of the Burren’s many ancient geological sites.

A 2 hour trail, Ballyvaughan - Wood Loop consists of minor roadways, surfaced and sandy roads, green lanes, lush woodland and cross country terrain.

Starting from Ballyvaughan’s pictorial seafront, you’ll follow roadways past quaint thatched cottages, cross bridges, encounter stone stiles, open field and farmland. A moderate 8km route, it explores the valley behind Ballyvaughan village and at the midway point leads you by Aillwee Cave.

An ideal spot for a rest or a flask of tea, Aillwee Cave is the Burren’s best known ancient marvel boasting enormous stalactites, stalagmites and chasms. Guided tours of the cave are available and last about 30 minutes.

Unveiling the delightful diversity of the county’s scenery, from idyllic seascapes to the lunar-like Burren, this loop is a great introduction to the Wild Atlantic Way.

Back in Ballyvaughan you’ll have your pick of places to relax and refresh after your walk.

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Trail details

Type:
Walking Trail
Location:
Ballyvaughan
Grade:
Moderate
Format:
Loop
Length:
8.80km
Ascent:
15m
Dogs allowed:
No
    Time:2 hours
    Nearest town start:Ballyvaughan
    Nearest town finish:Ballyvaughan
    Start point:Ballyvaughan Town
    Finish point:Ballyvaughan Town
    Waymarking:Purple arrow
    Facilities:Car park
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Why we like it
  • Passing close to the historic Aillwee Cave, one of the country’s oldest caves, this section of the loop also boasts wonderful views of Galway Bay.
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Contact details
Ballyvaughan,Co Clare,Republic of Ireland
Experience as part of
Wild Atlantic Way LogoWild Atlantic Way
Leave no trace
  • Plan ahead and prepare
  • Be considerate of others
  • Respect farm animals and wildlife
  • Travel and camp responsibly
  • Leave what you find
  • Dispose of waste properly
  • Protect nature from fire
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More to discover at this venue
Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark
Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Geopark
Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Geopark

Mid-way on the Wild Atlantic Way The Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark is a stunning destination with an astonishing landscape steeped in history. It's a destination brimming with activities, attractions, culture and excellent food.

The interior of the limestone cave showing the metal railed walkway that visitors can walk along
Aillwee Burren Experience: Cave Tours, Birds of Prey & Farm Shop
Family funAillwee Burren Experience: Cave Tours, Birds of Prey & Farm Shop

Aillwee Burren Experience: Cave Tours, Birds of Prey & Farm Shop is located in County Clare. Explore life underground in one of Ireland's most fascinating caves, Aillwee Cave, and unlock many secrets of the Burren through amazing underground and overground experiences.

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