Cliffs of Moher

Car hire at Shannon Airport(30 minutes)

Enterprise, Hertz and Europcar have desks in arrivals; expect EUR 45-70/day. Most cars are manual, so reserve an automatic well ahead. Ireland drives on the left and coastal roads are narrow.

Drive Shannon to Doolin via Ennis(1 hour 15 minutes)

Take the M18/N85 through Ennis and Ennistymon toward the coast. Stock up on supplies at the Ennistymon SuperValu en route.

Check in at Hotel Doolin(45 minutes)

Doolin and Lahinch make the best bases. Hotel Doolin (~EUR 150/night) is walkable to the trad pubs; Lahinch's Vaughan Lodge is a classier alternative.

Dinner and trad session at Gus O'Connor's Pub(3 hours)

Doolin's most famous session pub. Order the seafood chowder with brown bread (~EUR 9) and a pint of Guinness; music usually starts around 9PM. Don't talk over the musicians.

Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience(1.5 hours)

Book a timed online ticket before 11AM (~EUR 12, cheaper than the gate and includes parking). The eco-domed centre's exhibits explain the 214m cliffs' geology and seabird colonies.

Climb O'Brien's Tower(30 minutes)

The 1835 stone tower at the cliffs' highest point, ~EUR 4 to climb, with views to the Aran Islands and Galway Bay on a clear day. The busiest, most photographed spot — go first.

Clifftop walk toward Hag's Head(2.5 hours)

Head south from the platforms on the coastal trail for the most dramatic, crowd-free stretch. Free. The edge is unfenced with 200m drops and fierce gusts — stay well behind the warning signs.

Late lunch at Vaughan's Anchor Inn, Liscannor(1 hour)

Ten minutes back toward Liscannor, Vaughan's Anchor Inn is a seafood institution — the chowder and Liscannor crab claws are worth it (~EUR 15).

Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Doolin Pier(1 hour)

Doolin2Aran Ferries and the Doolin Ferry Co. run cruises (~EUR 30) March-October revealing the full 214m scale and the sea stack An Branan Mor. Puffins nest here in early summer; book ahead and pack for spray.

Doolin Cave — the Great Stalactite(1 hour)

A guided tour to one of Europe's longest free-hanging stalactites, over 7m long (~EUR 15). Bring a light jacket; it's cool underground.

Lunch and browse in Doolin village(1.5 hours)

Grab a bite at the Fiddle + Bow at Hotel Doolin, then poke around Fisherstreet's craft shops for Aran wool and Doolin Chocolate.

Trad session at McGann's Pub(2.5 hours)

Doolin's other great session pub alongside McDermott's. Free music from around 9PM; arrive early in summer for a seat by the fire.

Poulnabrone Portal Tomb(45 minutes)

The Burren's iconic dolmen, over 5,000 years old, standing on bare limestone pavement. Free roadside stop with a car park; go early for photos without crowds.

Caherconnell Stone Fort & sheepdog demonstration(1.5 hours)

A well-preserved medieval ringfort (~EUR 6) with brilliant working-sheepdog demos (~EUR 10, check times). A genuine highlight for all ages.

Aillwee Cave & Birds of Prey Centre(1.5 hours)

Guided cave tour plus flying displays of hawks and owls (~EUR 20 combined). The on-site Burren Gold farmhouse cheese is worth a taste.

Lunch in Ballyvaughan(1 hour)

Monk's Bar on the pier does fresh Galway Bay seafood (~EUR 15). Ballyvaughan is a pretty stop before the drive back over the Corkscrew Hill.

Burren Perfumery, Carron(45 minutes)

A tucked-away artisan perfumery (free entry) with a lovely tea room and herb garden — a fragrant, off-the-beaten-path finish.

Doolin ferry to Inis Mor (Kilronan)(1 hour)

Doolin2Aran Ferries sail to Kilronan (~EUR 35 return); take an early boat and check return times as swell can disrupt the schedule. Doolin is the closest mainland port.

Bike hire in Kilronan(30 minutes)

Aran Bike Hire by the pier rents bikes for ~EUR 15/day — the best way to reach the island's sights at your own pace.

Dun Aonghasa clifftop fort(2 hours)

A 3,000-year-old semicircular stone fort perched on a 100m cliff edge (~EUR 5). The unguarded drop is astonishing — lie down to peer over. A 15-minute uphill walk from the visitor kiosk.

Lunch at Joe Watty's Bar(1 hour)

Kilronan's beloved pub for seafood chowder and stew (~EUR 14); often has live music. Alternatively, stop at Kilmurvey Beach near the fort.

Seven Churches & evening ferry back(1.5 hours)

Cycle to the early-monastic ruins of Na Seacht dTeampaill before catching the late-afternoon ferry back to Doolin.

Leisurely morning in Lahinch(2 hours)

A free, unhurried start — coffee and pastries at the Lahinch Bakehouse, then a stroll along the promenade watching the surfers.

Surf lesson at Lahinch Beach(2 hours)

Ben's Surf Clinic or the Lahinch Surf School run beginner lessons (~EUR 35 including wetsuit and board). Lahinch is one of Ireland's best surf beaches — expect Atlantic chill.

Walk to Hag's Head(1.5 hours)

From the Hag's Head car park near Liscannor, a short walk leads to the ruined Napoleonic Moher Tower and a quiet view back along the whole cliff face. Free.

St Brigid's Well, Liscannor(20 minutes)

A wonderfully eccentric holy well crammed with votive offerings and photos — a free, only-in-Ireland curiosity.

Dinner at Vaughan's Anchor Inn, Liscannor(1.5 hours)

Award-winning seafood; the whole crab and the daily fish special are standouts (~EUR 25). Book ahead on summer evenings.

Breakfast and checkout(1 hour)

A full Irish breakfast to set you up for the road; settle up and load the car.

Last-minute crafts shopping(45 minutes)

Pick up a hand-knit Aran wool jumper (~EUR 60-100) or Burren-made crafts in Doolin or Ennistymon before leaving.

Optional stop at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park(1.5 hours)

Just off the M18 near Shannon, a restored 15th-century castle and living-history village (~EUR 16) — a good final Irish flourish if time allows.

Return rental car at Shannon Airport(1 hour 15 minutes)

Fuel up before returning (there's a station near the airport). Allow buffer for narrow roads and airport check-in.

Car hire at Shannon Airport(30 minutes)

Enterprise, Hertz and Europcar have desks in arrivals; expect EUR 45-70/day. Most cars are manual, so reserve an automatic well ahead. Ireland drives on the left and coastal roads are narrow.

Drive Shannon to Doolin via Ennis(1 hour 15 minutes)

Take the M18/N85 through Ennis and Ennistymon toward the coast. Stock up on supplies at the Ennistymon SuperValu en route.

Check in at Hotel Doolin(45 minutes)

Doolin and Lahinch make the best bases. Hotel Doolin (~EUR 150/night) is walkable to the trad pubs; Lahinch's Vaughan Lodge is a classier alternative.

Dinner and trad session at Gus O'Connor's Pub(3 hours)

Doolin's most famous session pub. Order the seafood chowder with brown bread (~EUR 9) and a pint of Guinness; music usually starts around 9PM. Don't talk over the musicians.

Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience(1.5 hours)

Book a timed online ticket before 11AM (~EUR 12, cheaper than the gate and includes parking). The eco-domed centre's exhibits explain the 214m cliffs' geology and seabird colonies.

Climb O'Brien's Tower(30 minutes)

The 1835 stone tower at the cliffs' highest point, ~EUR 4 to climb, with views to the Aran Islands and Galway Bay on a clear day. The busiest, most photographed spot — go first.

Clifftop walk toward Hag's Head(2.5 hours)

Head south from the platforms on the coastal trail for the most dramatic, crowd-free stretch. Free. The edge is unfenced with 200m drops and fierce gusts — stay well behind the warning signs.

Late lunch at Vaughan's Anchor Inn, Liscannor(1 hour)

Ten minutes back toward Liscannor, Vaughan's Anchor Inn is a seafood institution — the chowder and Liscannor crab claws are worth it (~EUR 15).

Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Doolin Pier(1 hour)

Doolin2Aran Ferries and the Doolin Ferry Co. run cruises (~EUR 30) March-October revealing the full 214m scale and the sea stack An Branan Mor. Puffins nest here in early summer; book ahead and pack for spray.

Doolin Cave — the Great Stalactite(1 hour)

A guided tour to one of Europe's longest free-hanging stalactites, over 7m long (~EUR 15). Bring a light jacket; it's cool underground.

Lunch and browse in Doolin village(1.5 hours)

Grab a bite at the Fiddle + Bow at Hotel Doolin, then poke around Fisherstreet's craft shops for Aran wool and Doolin Chocolate.

Trad session at McGann's Pub(2.5 hours)

Doolin's other great session pub alongside McDermott's. Free music from around 9PM; arrive early in summer for a seat by the fire.

Poulnabrone Portal Tomb(45 minutes)

The Burren's iconic dolmen, over 5,000 years old, standing on bare limestone pavement. Free roadside stop with a car park; go early for photos without crowds.

Caherconnell Stone Fort & sheepdog demonstration(1.5 hours)

A well-preserved medieval ringfort (~EUR 6) with brilliant working-sheepdog demos (~EUR 10, check times). A genuine highlight for all ages.

Aillwee Cave & Birds of Prey Centre(1.5 hours)

Guided cave tour plus flying displays of hawks and owls (~EUR 20 combined). The on-site Burren Gold farmhouse cheese is worth a taste.

Lunch in Ballyvaughan(1 hour)

Monk's Bar on the pier does fresh Galway Bay seafood (~EUR 15). Ballyvaughan is a pretty stop before the drive back over the Corkscrew Hill.

Burren Perfumery, Carron(45 minutes)

A tucked-away artisan perfumery (free entry) with a lovely tea room and herb garden — a fragrant, off-the-beaten-path finish.

Doolin ferry to Inis Mor (Kilronan)(1 hour)

Doolin2Aran Ferries sail to Kilronan (~EUR 35 return); take an early boat and check return times as swell can disrupt the schedule. Doolin is the closest mainland port.

Bike hire in Kilronan(30 minutes)

Aran Bike Hire by the pier rents bikes for ~EUR 15/day — the best way to reach the island's sights at your own pace.

Dun Aonghasa clifftop fort(2 hours)

A 3,000-year-old semicircular stone fort perched on a 100m cliff edge (~EUR 5). The unguarded drop is astonishing — lie down to peer over. A 15-minute uphill walk from the visitor kiosk.

Lunch at Joe Watty's Bar(1 hour)

Kilronan's beloved pub for seafood chowder and stew (~EUR 14); often has live music. Alternatively, stop at Kilmurvey Beach near the fort.

Seven Churches & evening ferry back(1.5 hours)

Cycle to the early-monastic ruins of Na Seacht dTeampaill before catching the late-afternoon ferry back to Doolin.

Leisurely morning in Lahinch(2 hours)

A free, unhurried start — coffee and pastries at the Lahinch Bakehouse, then a stroll along the promenade watching the surfers.

Surf lesson at Lahinch Beach(2 hours)

Ben's Surf Clinic or the Lahinch Surf School run beginner lessons (~EUR 35 including wetsuit and board). Lahinch is one of Ireland's best surf beaches — expect Atlantic chill.

Walk to Hag's Head(1.5 hours)

From the Hag's Head car park near Liscannor, a short walk leads to the ruined Napoleonic Moher Tower and a quiet view back along the whole cliff face. Free.

Dinner at Vaughan's Anchor Inn, Liscannor(1.5 hours)

Award-winning seafood; the whole crab and the daily fish special are standouts (~EUR 25). Book ahead on summer evenings.

Dolphin-watching cruise from Carrigaholt(2 hours)

Dolphinwatch Carrigaholt runs trips (~EUR 40 adult) to see the Shannon's resident bottlenose dolphins. Sailings depend on tide and weather — book by phone the day before.

Loop Head Lighthouse(1 hour)

A working 1854 lighthouse on a narrow headland (~EUR 5 for the tower tour) with vertiginous cliff views and an offshore sea stack. Windswept and gloriously empty.

Bridges of Ross(45 minutes)

A natural sea arch (once three, now one) and a famous storm-birdwatching point in autumn. Free clifftop stop; mind the edges.

Lunch at the Long Dock, Carrigaholt(1 hour)

A characterful pub doing excellent local seafood (~EUR 16). A perfect halfway stop on the peninsula.

Kilkee seafront(1 hour)

Finish with a stroll around Kilkee's horseshoe bay and the Pollock Holes tidal pools before the drive back.

Slow breakfast at Unglert's Bakery(1 hour)

An Austrian-Irish bakery on Ennistymon's main street famous for its pastries and coffee — a relaxed start (~EUR 8).

The Cascades walk(45 minutes)

Stepped waterfalls on the River Inagh behind the Falls Hotel, best after rain. Free riverside path; the hotel bar overlooks them.

Optional spa afternoon at the Falls Hotel(2 hours)

The River Spa offers massages and a pool (~EUR 60-90 for treatments) — ideal for a rainy Clare afternoon. Book ahead.

Dinner at Byrne's of Ennistymon(1.5 hours)

Riverside restaurant with modern Irish plates (~EUR 25); the terrace overlooks the Cascades in fine weather. Finish with a nightcap at Eugene's Bar, a photo-lined snug.

Latin Quarter & Shop Street stroll(1.5 hours)

Galway's pedestrian heart — cobbled lanes, buskers and the Spanish Arch by the river. Free to wander; pick up a Claddagh ring from Thomas Dillon's, the ring's original 1750 maker.

Lunch at McDonagh's(1 hour)

The city's legendary fish and chips on Quay Street (~EUR 15). Alternatively, oysters and chowder at The Quays.

Galway City Museum & Spanish Arch(1 hour)

Free museum covering Galway's medieval and maritime history, beside the 16th-century Spanish Arch.

Pint at Tigh Neachtain(1 hour)

A gloriously old-school corner pub (Neachtain's) with snugs and a huge whiskey list — a Galway institution.

Salthill promenade sunset(1 hour)

Drive out to Salthill and 'kick the wall' at the end of the prom like a local before heading back to Clare.

Doolin ferry to Inis Oirr(30 minutes)

The closest island to Doolin (~EUR 25 return), just 8km offshore. Short crossing; the first boat gives you the island nearly to yourself.

Plassey shipwreck(45 minutes)

The rusted 1960 cargo wreck made famous by the Father Ted opening credits, beached on the eastern shore. Free; a flat 20-minute walk or cycle from the pier.

O'Brien's Castle (Caislean Ui Bhriain)(45 minutes)

A 14th-century tower ruin on the island's high point (~100 steps up) with a full panorama of the Aran group and the Clare coast. Free.

Lunch at Tigh Ned(1 hour)

A friendly harbourside pub since 1897 for toasties, seafood and a pint (~EUR 14).

Aras Eanna arts centre & beach(1 hour)

The island's clifftop arts centre often has exhibitions; finish on the white-sand beach by the pier before the ferry back.

Burren National Park loop walk (Mullaghmore)(2.5 hours)

Waymarked trails around Mullaghmore mountain's swirling limestone terraces — the park's most photogenic hike. Free; a seasonal shuttle runs from Corofin. Bring water and grip shoes.

Corcomroe Abbey(45 minutes)

A beautifully atmospheric ruined Cistercian abbey (1195) with fine carved stonework, set in a quiet valley. Free and rarely busy.

Burren Smokehouse tasting, Lisdoonvarna(45 minutes)

Free tastings of oak-smoked Irish salmon and a short film on the smoking process — a tasty, low-key stop.

Lunch at the Roadside Tavern, Lisdoonvarna(1 hour)

The Roadside Tavern pairs Burren Smokehouse smoked fish with its own craft ales (~EUR 16).

Fanore Beach(1 hour)

A dune-backed sandy beach on the coast road, good for a bracing paddle or a sunset. Free parking.

Burren wild-food foraging walk(2.5 hours)

Guided seaweed or hedgerow foraging walks (~EUR 40-60, book ahead with operators around Ballyvaughan) end with tasting what you gather. Deeply tied to the Burren's rare flora.

Kilfenora / Burren Centre(1 hour)

The Burren Centre explains the region's geology and archaeology (~EUR 8); next door, Kilfenora Cathedral holds a rare collection of high crosses. Free churchyard.

Dinner at Vaughan's Pub, Kilfenora(1.5 hours)

Hearty pub food (~EUR 18) in the pub tied to the legendary Kilfenora Ceili Band.

Set-dancing session at Vaughan's Barn(2 hours)

Kilfenora's set dancing is among Ireland's best — join in or just watch (small cover ~EUR 10 on session nights). Check the weekly schedule.

Beach morning at Spanish Point(2 hours)

A gentle Blue Flag beach south of Lahinch, good for a walk, a swim or watching surfers. Free; the Armada Hotel bar overlooks the strand.

Long lunch at the Cornerstone or Kenny's, Lahinch(1.5 hours)

Relaxed pub lunch and a pint (~EUR 16). Lahinch's easygoing surf-town buzz.

Free afternoon(2 hours)

Read, nap or wander the promenade — a genuine rest before the journey home.

Sunset return to the Cliffs of Moher(2 hours)

After 4PM the coaches leave and entry prices drop; the low light on the 214m cliffs is unbeatable. Walk a stretch of the trail and watch the sun sink into the Atlantic.

Breakfast and checkout(1 hour)

Final full Irish breakfast and pack up.

Last crafts and coffee(45 minutes)

Pick up a hand-knit Aran jumper (~EUR 60-100) or Burren crafts before leaving Clare.

Optional Bunratty Castle & Folk Park(1.5 hours)

A restored 15th-century castle and folk park near Shannon (~EUR 16) — a fitting last stop.

Return rental car at Shannon Airport(1 hour 15 minutes)

Refuel before returning; allow buffer for narrow roads and check-in.

Car hire at Shannon Airport(30 minutes)

Enterprise, Hertz and Europcar have desks in arrivals; expect EUR 45-70/day. Most cars are manual, so reserve an automatic well ahead. Ireland drives on the left and coastal roads are narrow.

Drive Shannon to Doolin via Ennis(1 hour 15 minutes)

Take the M18/N85 through Ennis and Ennistymon toward the coast. Stock up on supplies at the Ennistymon SuperValu en route.

Check in at Hotel Doolin(45 minutes)

Doolin and Lahinch make the best bases. Hotel Doolin (~EUR 150/night) is walkable to the trad pubs; Lahinch's Vaughan Lodge is a classier alternative.

Dinner and trad session at Gus O'Connor's Pub(3 hours)

Doolin's most famous session pub. Order the seafood chowder with brown bread (~EUR 9) and a pint of Guinness; music usually starts around 9PM. Don't talk over the musicians.

Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience(1.5 hours)

Book a timed online ticket before 11AM (~EUR 12, cheaper than the gate and includes parking). The eco-domed centre's exhibits explain the 214m cliffs' geology and seabird colonies.

Climb O'Brien's Tower(30 minutes)

The 1835 stone tower at the cliffs' highest point, ~EUR 4 to climb, with views to the Aran Islands and Galway Bay on a clear day. The busiest, most photographed spot — go first.

Clifftop walk toward Hag's Head(2.5 hours)

Head south from the platforms on the coastal trail for the most dramatic, crowd-free stretch. Free. The edge is unfenced with 200m drops and fierce gusts — stay well behind the warning signs.

Late lunch at Vaughan's Anchor Inn, Liscannor(1 hour)

Ten minutes back toward Liscannor, Vaughan's Anchor Inn is a seafood institution — the chowder and Liscannor crab claws are worth it (~EUR 15).

Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Doolin Pier(1 hour)

Doolin2Aran Ferries and the Doolin Ferry Co. run cruises (~EUR 30) March-October revealing the full 214m scale and the sea stack An Branan Mor. Puffins nest here in early summer; book ahead and pack for spray.

Doolin Cave — the Great Stalactite(1 hour)

A guided tour to one of Europe's longest free-hanging stalactites, over 7m long (~EUR 15). Bring a light jacket; it's cool underground.

Lunch and browse in Doolin village(1.5 hours)

Grab a bite at the Fiddle + Bow at Hotel Doolin, then poke around Fisherstreet's craft shops for Aran wool and Doolin Chocolate.

Trad session at McGann's Pub(2.5 hours)

Doolin's other great session pub alongside McDermott's. Free music from around 9PM; arrive early in summer for a seat by the fire.

Poulnabrone Portal Tomb(45 minutes)

The Burren's iconic dolmen, over 5,000 years old, standing on bare limestone pavement. Free roadside stop with a car park; go early for photos without crowds.

Caherconnell Stone Fort & sheepdog demonstration(1.5 hours)

A well-preserved medieval ringfort (~EUR 6) with brilliant working-sheepdog demos (~EUR 10, check times). A genuine highlight for all ages.

Aillwee Cave & Birds of Prey Centre(1.5 hours)

Guided cave tour plus flying displays of hawks and owls (~EUR 20 combined). The on-site Burren Gold farmhouse cheese is worth a taste.

Lunch in Ballyvaughan(1 hour)

Monk's Bar on the pier does fresh Galway Bay seafood (~EUR 15). Ballyvaughan is a pretty stop before the drive back over the Corkscrew Hill.

Burren Perfumery, Carron(45 minutes)

A tucked-away artisan perfumery (free entry) with a lovely tea room and herb garden — a fragrant, off-the-beaten-path finish.

Doolin ferry to Inis Mor (Kilronan)(1 hour)

Doolin2Aran Ferries sail to Kilronan (~EUR 35 return); take an early boat and check return times as swell can disrupt the schedule. Doolin is the closest mainland port.

Bike hire in Kilronan(30 minutes)

Aran Bike Hire by the pier rents bikes for ~EUR 15/day — the best way to reach the island's sights at your own pace.

Dun Aonghasa clifftop fort(2 hours)

A 3,000-year-old semicircular stone fort perched on a 100m cliff edge (~EUR 5). The unguarded drop is astonishing — lie down to peer over. A 15-minute uphill walk from the visitor kiosk.

Lunch at Joe Watty's Bar(1 hour)

Kilronan's beloved pub for seafood chowder and stew (~EUR 14); often has live music. Alternatively, stop at Kilmurvey Beach near the fort.

Seven Churches & evening ferry back(1.5 hours)

Cycle to the early-monastic ruins of Na Seacht dTeampaill before catching the late-afternoon ferry back to Doolin.

Leisurely morning in Lahinch(2 hours)

A free, unhurried start — coffee and pastries at the Lahinch Bakehouse, then a stroll along the promenade watching the surfers.

Surf lesson at Lahinch Beach(2 hours)

Ben's Surf Clinic or the Lahinch Surf School run beginner lessons (~EUR 35 including wetsuit and board). Lahinch is one of Ireland's best surf beaches — expect Atlantic chill.

Walk to Hag's Head(1.5 hours)

From the Hag's Head car park near Liscannor, a short walk leads to the ruined Napoleonic Moher Tower and a quiet view back along the whole cliff face. Free.

St Brigid's Well & dinner at Vaughan's Anchor Inn, Liscannor(2 hours)

Peek into the eccentric St Brigid's holy well (free), then feast on award-winning seafood — the whole crab and daily fish special are standouts (~EUR 25). Book ahead.

Dolphin-watching cruise from Carrigaholt(2 hours)

Dolphinwatch Carrigaholt runs trips (~EUR 40 adult) to see the Shannon's resident bottlenose dolphins. Sailings depend on tide and weather — book by phone the day before.

Loop Head Lighthouse(1 hour)

A working 1854 lighthouse on a narrow headland (~EUR 5 for the tower tour) with vertiginous cliff views and an offshore sea stack. Windswept and gloriously empty.

Bridges of Ross(45 minutes)

A natural sea arch (once three, now one) and a famous storm-birdwatching point in autumn. Free clifftop stop; mind the edges.

Lunch at the Long Dock, Carrigaholt(1 hour)

A characterful pub doing excellent local seafood (~EUR 16). A perfect halfway stop on the peninsula.

Kilkee seafront(1 hour)

Finish with a stroll around Kilkee's horseshoe bay and the Pollock Holes tidal pools before the drive back.

Slow breakfast at Unglert's Bakery(1 hour)

An Austrian-Irish bakery on Ennistymon's main street famous for its pastries and coffee — a relaxed start (~EUR 8).

The Cascades walk(45 minutes)

Stepped waterfalls on the River Inagh behind the Falls Hotel, best after rain. Free riverside path; the hotel bar overlooks them.

Optional spa afternoon at the Falls Hotel(2 hours)

The River Spa offers massages and a pool (~EUR 60-90 for treatments) — ideal for a rainy Clare afternoon. Book ahead.

Dinner at Byrne's of Ennistymon(1.5 hours)

Riverside restaurant with modern Irish plates (~EUR 25); the terrace overlooks the Cascades in fine weather. Finish with a nightcap at Eugene's Bar, a photo-lined snug.

Doolin ferry to Inis Oirr(30 minutes)

The closest island to Doolin (~EUR 25 return), just 8km offshore. Short crossing; the first boat gives you the island nearly to yourself.

Plassey shipwreck(45 minutes)

The rusted 1960 cargo wreck made famous by the Father Ted opening credits, beached on the eastern shore. Free; a flat 20-minute walk or cycle from the pier.

O'Brien's Castle (Caislean Ui Bhriain)(45 minutes)

A 14th-century tower ruin on the island's high point (~100 steps up) with a full panorama of the Aran group and the Clare coast. Free.

Lunch at Tigh Ned(1 hour)

A friendly harbourside pub since 1897 for toasties, seafood and a pint (~EUR 14).

Aras Eanna arts centre & beach(1 hour)

The island's clifftop arts centre often has exhibitions; finish on the white-sand beach by the pier before the ferry back.

Burren National Park loop walk (Mullaghmore)(2.5 hours)

Waymarked trails around Mullaghmore mountain's swirling limestone terraces — the park's most photogenic hike. Free; a seasonal shuttle runs from Corofin. Bring water and grip shoes.

Corcomroe Abbey(45 minutes)

A beautifully atmospheric ruined Cistercian abbey (1195) with fine carved stonework, set in a quiet valley. Free and rarely busy.

Burren Smokehouse tasting, Lisdoonvarna(45 minutes)

Free tastings of oak-smoked Irish salmon and a short film on the smoking process — a tasty, low-key stop with lunch at the neighbouring Roadside Tavern (~EUR 16).

Golden-hour photography walk, Black Head(2 hours)

Drive the coast road to Black Head lighthouse and shoot the cracked limestone pavement against the Atlantic as the sun drops. Free; a tripod and a wind layer help. Endless foregrounds of karst.

Drive Clare to Galway(1.5 hours)

North via the N67 coast road through Kinvara, or the faster M18. Check into a city hotel like the House Hotel or the g Hotel.

Latin Quarter, Spanish Arch & Shop Street(2 hours)

Wander the buskers' lanes; buy a Claddagh ring at Thomas Dillon's, the original 1750 maker, and see the 16th-century Spanish Arch. Free.

Dinner at Ard Bia at Nimmo's or McDonagh's(1.5 hours)

Ard Bia does inventive local plates by the Spanish Arch (~EUR 30); McDonagh's is the classic fish and chips (~EUR 15).

Trad and pints at Tigh Neachtain(2 hours)

A characterful corner pub with nightly sessions and a deep whiskey list — a quintessential Galway night.

Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden(2 hours)

A Benedictine abbey mirrored in a lake beneath wooded mountains (~EUR 16), with a restored walled garden. Connemara's signature sight; go early to beat the coaches.

Killary Harbour fjord viewpoint(45 minutes)

Ireland's only true fjord, a glassy inlet ringed by mountains. Free roadside stops; a fjord cruise runs from Nancy's Point if time allows.

Sky Road loop, Clifden(1 hour)

A dazzling 11km cliff-and-ocean drive out of Clifden, Connemara's capital. Free; pull in at the upper viewpoint for the islands and the Atlantic.

Lunch in Clifden(1 hour)

Mitchell's Restaurant on Market Street does fine Connemara seafood (~EUR 18).

Connemara ponies & the Inagh Valley(1 hour)

Watch for the hardy native ponies on the open commonage as you loop back through the Inagh Valley between the Twelve Bens and the Maumturks.

Diamond Hill loop, Connemara National Park(3 hours)

A well-built 7km loop climbing to 442m with sweeping views over Kylemore and the coast. Free; visitor centre at Letterfrack. The upper loop is steep and exposed — check the forecast.

Lunch at Roundstone(1 hour)

O'Dowd's Seafood Bar in the pretty harbour village (~EUR 18); Roundstone Musical Instruments makes traditional bodhrans next door.

Dog's Bay & Gurteen Beach(1.5 hours)

Back-to-back crescents of white coral-sand beach on a sandy tombolo — some of Ireland's finest. Free; a gentle, restorative stop.

Return to Galway(1.5 hours)

Drive back east for the night; unhurried, with photo stops across the bog.

Galway Market by St Nicholas' Church(1.5 hours)

A weekend (Sat/Sun) street market with local cheeses, doughnuts, hot curries and crafts. Sheridans cheesemongers is nearby. Grab breakfast on the go (~EUR 10).

Galway City Museum(45 minutes)

Free museum on the city's medieval and maritime past, if the market isn't running that day.

Dunguaire Castle, Kinvara(1 hour)

A photogenic 16th-century tower house on Galway Bay (~EUR 8), on the coast road back to Clare. Medieval banquets run some evenings.

Drive back to Clare base(1 hour)

Continue south through the northern Burren to re-check in at your Doolin or Lahinch base.

Killimer-Tarbert car ferry(20 minutes)

The Shannon Ferry (~EUR 20/car) saves a long inland detour and is a scenic crossing in itself. Sailings roughly hourly; no booking needed.

Drive to Dingle town(2 hours)

Continue through north Kerry to Dingle (An Daingean), a colourful harbour town in the Gaeltacht. Check into a guesthouse like Pax House or Greenmount House.

Dingle town & harbour stroll(1.5 hours)

Wander the pastel shopfronts and pier; Murphy's Ice Cream, made with Dingle sea salt (~EUR 5), is a must.

Dinner and music at Dick Mack's(2.5 hours)

A pub-cum-cobbler with its own brewery and superb trad sessions (~EUR 20 for food). Dingle's most famous watering hole.

Gallarus Oratory(45 minutes)

A perfectly preserved early-Christian dry-stone church, watertight after 1,200 years (visitor centre ~EUR 3; the oratory itself is free). A remarkable feat of stonework.

Dunmore Head & Coumeenoole Beach(1 hour)

Ireland's westernmost point, with the Blasket Islands offshore and a Star Wars filming location. Free; a steep path leads down to the beach.

Blasket Centre, Dunquin(1 hour)

A moving museum (~EUR 5) about the abandoned island community and its famous writers, with views to the Great Blasket.

Lunch at Kruger's, Dunquin(1 hour)

Kruger's is Ireland's westernmost pub — a hearty stop (~EUR 15) on the loop.

Beehive huts (Fahan)(45 minutes)

Clusters of ancient corbelled stone clochans on the hillside (~EUR 3 for the ones on private farmland). Photogenic and mysterious.

Conor Pass(1 hour)

Ireland's highest paved pass (456m), a single-track road with jaw-dropping views over glacial lakes and both coasts. Free; drive slowly and use the pull-ins.

Inch Beach(1 hour)

A 5km sandspit beach beloved of surfers and film crews (Ryan's Daughter). Free; Sammy's cafe at the entrance does a good chowder (~EUR 12).

Killimer-Tarbert ferry & drive north(2 hours)

Recross the Shannon (~EUR 20/car) and continue to your Clare base for the final stretch of the trip.

Casual dinner back in Clare(1.5 hours)

A low-key pub supper in Lahinch (Kenny's or the Cornerstone, ~EUR 16) after the drive.

Slow breakfast and free morning(2.5 hours)

Sleep in; linger over coffee and the papers. Do as little as possible.

Spa or leisurely swim(2 hours)

The Falls Hotel River Spa in Ennistymon (~EUR 60-90) or the Armada Hotel's facilities at Spanish Point are ideal for a rainy Clare afternoon.

Gentle beach walk at Lahinch(1 hour)

An easy promenade-and-sand stroll watching the surfers. Free.

Early pub dinner(1.5 hours)

The Cornerstone in Lahinch for stew and a quiet pint (~EUR 16).

Father Ted's House (Craggy Island Parochial House)(45 minutes)

The isolated farmhouse from the sitcom, near Kilnaboy — a fun photo stop for fans. It's a private home, so view and photograph from the lane only. Free.

Burren wild-food foraging walk(2.5 hours)

A guided hedgerow or seashore foraging walk (~EUR 40-60, book ahead around Ballyvaughan) tied to the Burren's rare botany, ending with a tasting.

Lunch at the Burren Perfumery tea rooms, Carron(1 hour)

Home-baked lunch in the herb garden of this artisan perfumery (free entry; ~EUR 12 for lunch). A serene, fragrant hideaway.

Poulnabrone at dusk(1 hour)

Return to the dolmen for softer evening light and far fewer people than a daytime visit. Free.

Free morning and last shopping(2.5 hours)

A slow start; pick up a hand-knit Aran jumper (~EUR 60-100) or Burren crafts in Doolin or Ennistymon.

Sunset return to the Cliffs of Moher(2.5 hours)

After 4PM the coaches thin out and entry is cheapest; walk a stretch of the clifftop trail and watch the sun set behind O'Brien's Tower over the 214m cliffs.

Dinner at Vaughan's Pub, Kilfenora(1.5 hours)

Hearty local food (~EUR 18) in the pub linked to the celebrated Kilfenora Ceili Band.

Set-dancing session at Vaughan's Barn(2 hours)

Join Clare's best set dancing or just watch and clap along (~EUR 10 on session nights). Check the weekly schedule — a joyful final night.

Breakfast and checkout(1 hour)

Final full Irish breakfast; pack and load the car.

Optional Bunratty Castle & Folk Park(1.5 hours)

A restored 15th-century castle and living-history village near Shannon (~EUR 16) for a last taste of old Ireland.

Return rental car at Shannon Airport(1 hour 15 minutes)

Refuel before returning the car; allow buffer for narrow roads and airport check-in.