Dunguaire Castle is one of the most photographed castles in Ireland, located on the shores of Galway Bay near the village of Kinvara. Built in the 16th century, it was once the stronghold of the O’Hynes clan. Today, it’s best known for its picturesque setting and for hosting traditional Irish medieval banquets during the tourist season, where guests can enjoy food, music, and storytelling. It’s a popular stop on routes between Galway and the Burren, offering great photo opportunities, especially at sunset when the castle is reflected in the water

Newtown Castle is a distinctive 16th-century tower house located in the heart of the Burren. What makes it unique is its unusual circular design—most Irish tower houses are rectangular. It was built by the O’Loghlen clan and later fell into disrepair before being carefully restored in the 1990s by the Burren College of Art. Today, the castle is used as a venue for small events, lectures, and cultural gatherings, and it reflects a blend of historic architecture with modern restoration. Its setting among the limestone landscape of the Burren adds to its charm and character.

Corkscrew Hill is a scenic winding road that cuts through the limestone landscape of the Burren in County Clare. Famous for its sharp bends and steep ascent, it connects Ballyvaughan to Lisdoonvarna and offers spectacular panoramic views over the Burren and Galway Bay. The name “Corkscrew” comes from its twisting, spiral-like layout as it climbs the hillside. It’s a popular stop for visitors exploring the Burren, especially for photography. There’s a small viewing area near the top where you can safely pull in and take in the dramatic scenery. On a clear day, the views are particularly striking.

Poulnabrone Dolmen is a famous Neolithic portal tomb located in the limestone landscape of the Burren. It dates back to around 4200-2900 BC, making it over 5,000 years old. The structure consists of a large capstone balanced on two upright portal stones, with a smaller back stone supporting the rear. Beneath it, archaeologists discovered the remains of many individuals, along with tools and pottery, indicating it was used as a burial site over a long period. Today, it stands in a stark, almost lunar-like setting that highlights the Burren’s unique geology. It is one of Ireland’s most iconic prehistoric monuments and a key stop on heritage routes through County Clare.

Caherconnell Stone Fort and Sheepdog Demonstrations is a well-preserved early medieval stone ring fort located in the Burren, alongside one of Ireland’s most popular sheepdog demonstration centres. The stone fort dates back over 1,000 years and is an excellent example of the defensive farmsteads once common in rural Ireland. Archaeological excavations at the site have uncovered artefacts that suggest long-term settlement and everyday domestic life within the fort. Today, visitors can explore the circular stone walls and also watch live sheepdog demonstrations, where trained dogs expertly herd sheep across the rugged Burren landscape. The combination of living farming tradition and ancient history makes it a standout cultural stop in County Clare.

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most famous natural landmarks, stretching for about 14 km along the Atlantic coast in County Clare. Rising to 214 metres at their highest point, the cliffs offer dramatic views over the ocean, the Aran Islands, and the Galway Bay coastline on clear days. They are part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, recognised for both their geological significance and biodiversity. The site is home to large seabird colonies, including puffins (seasonal), razorbills, and guillemots. Visitors can explore safe viewing platforms, walking paths, and the visitor centre built into the hillside, which provides context on the geology, wildlife, and history of the area. The Cliffs are especially popular at sunset and are one of the most visited natural attractions in Ireland.