Things to see and do
There is so much to see and do in Clare. Here are a few of our favourite activities, places to visit and places to eat. Guests to our B&B enjoy tailored itineries planned around their interests. Just ask us during your visit and we will be delighted to help you get the most out of your stay in lovely West Clare.
Activities
Golf
From Clonmore lodge you can play on 5 golf courses all within 25 minutes drive including a championship links at Lahinch and the newly designed Greg Norman links at Doonbeg (10 mins. Drive). Tee times can be arranged to facilitate golfers.
Doonbeg Golf Resort
Designed by Greg Norman, the 5 star golf resort was officially opened in 2002 and has had an impeccable reputation for fantastic links golf ever since. Most recently voted Conde Nast Best International Golf Resort, this course is a “must play” on any golfer’s list.
Lahinch Golf Course
Lahinch is a traditional, out-and-back links course. Fans of the course include Stewart Cink and Phil Michelson. Play the championship or castle course, either way you’ll have plenty of challenges, even on a calm day.
Kilkee Golf Course
Kilkee has developed into an 18-hole course, blending the old and the new into a course that the boasts great views, with first and second tees looking out onto the Atlantic Ocean and the third Tee overlooking Chimney Bay with a spectacular clifftop view.
Kilrush Golf Course
Kilrush Golf & Sports Club is situated half mile outside the old heritage town of Kilrush and was founded in 1934. The new course was re-designed by Dr. Arthur Spring in 1994.
Spanish Point Golf Course
This local 9-hole links course in Spanish Point is a lovely links course overlooking the beach. It has some 3 par holes which demand accuracy in shot making especially when there is a strong Atlantic wind blowing!
Looking for a break from the fierce Atlantic breeze, why not try these gentler inland Clare courses:
East Clare Golf Course
The East Clare Golf Club is set in 150 acres of unspoilt, rolling, quiet countryside with majestic views of East Clare. East Clare Golf Club operates a "pay as you play" policy for visitors ensuring visitors can be accommodated at all times.
Ennis Golf Club
Ennis Golf Course is an 18-hole, Par 70, located in gentle tree-lined park land.
Surfing
West Clare is earning quite a reputation as a surfing destination, The two-mile long beach in Lahinch with its variety of breaks caters for novice, intermediate and experienced surfers. 5 miles further south you will find Spanish Point, another perfect surfing beach. Both are some of the best places in Europe to learn surfing with the advantage of the slower rolling Atlantic waves. There are lots of providers offering lessons and a range of surf gear for hire. Try:
Lahinch Surf School
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Family Activities
Dolphin Watching
The mouth of the Shannon is a special area of conservation with an abundance of wildlife, and the location of Ireland’s only resident group of bottle nose dolphins. Tours depart from Kilrush and Carraigaholt regularly to see these magnificent creatures up close and in their natural habitat.
Kilrush
Carraigaholt
A day at the Beach
There are many local sandy beaches including Kilkee, Seafield, Spanish Point, Lahinch, and Fanore to name but a few of the most popular destinations. If you’ve forgotten your bucket ‘n spade, don’t worry you can pick them up locally.
Lahinch Seaworld
If it’s a wet day, then head to Lahinch Seaworld where the family can explore the amazing marine life of the West coast in the Atlantic Aquarium. It’s one of Ireland’s largest acquariums and also boasts an indoor swimming pool, gym, sauna, Jacuzzi, café and kiddies play area.
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
Step back in time and learn about the 15th century Bunratty Castle and 19th century Bunratty Folk Park.
Cliffs of Moher
The impressive Cliffs of Moher stretch for 8km & rise up to 214 metres above the Atlantic Ocean. ‘Atlantic Edge’ is the exciting interpretive centre at the Cliffs of Moher. Housed at the centre of the underground building a huge domed cave contains images, exhibits, displays & experiences that will delight the whole family.
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Day trips from Clonmore Lodge
Ideal stop-over to tour world famous Burren region, cliffs of Moher, Aran islands from Doolin and also West Clare’s dolphin watching, Loop drive, Vandelures Gardens and Scattery Island. While the Killimer car ferry-40 minutes drive from Lodge will leave you in County Kerry in less than one hour.
- Burren
- Cliffs of Moher
- Aran Islands
- Bunratty Castle
Further a field
- Limerick
- Killaloe
- Galway
- Kerry
Off the beaten Track
If you want to slow it down and take in some special Clare sights that are unique to the area, here are our Top 3 things to do:
1. Loop Head Drive
A loop drive that takes you right to the very the southern point of the county, with a solitary Lighthouse overlooking the Kerry mountains. With lots of wildlife and an impressive coastline to rival the more famous cliffs to the north of the county, this drive is very rewarding and invigorating. Winner of the European Destination of Excellence 2010 sustainability award.
2. Corcomroe Abbey
A beautiful example of ecclesiastical architecture nestled in a tranquil glen in the heart of the Burren. Perfect spot for some quiet reflection.
3. Scattery Island
Step back in time on Scattery Island and explore its rich and unusual history. You can catch a ferry there during the Summer months from Kilrush marina.
