Visiting Co. Clare

County Clare is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave. Shaped by the Atlantic Ocean and full of music, character, and natural beauty, it offers a relaxed and very real sense of Ireland. Along this part of the west coast, towns and villages like Doolin, Ennistymon, Lahinch, and Liscannor give visitors a wonderful mix of scenery, culture, and everyday Irish life.

Doolin

Doolin is best known for its traditional Irish music, and it’s easy to see why. On any evening, you might hear lively tunes drifting out of a local pub, with musicians and locals gathered together. Doolin also sits close to some of Clare’s most famous landscapes, including the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren. It’s a small village, but one that feels full of warmth and welcome.

Ennistymon

A short drive inland brings you to Ennistymon, a colourful market town built along the River Inagh. The river flows through the centre of town, creating small cascades that are a real focal point. Ennistymon has a creative, easygoing feel, with independent shops, cafés, and galleries that invite you to stop and explore at your own pace.

Lahinch

Lahinch is a lively coastal town with a long sandy beach and a strong connection to the sea. It’s well known for surfing and golf, but it’s also a lovely place for a simple walk along the promenade, watching the waves roll in. Lahinch has a relaxed energy that makes it popular with visitors and locals alike.

Liscannor flagstone wall, Hags Head

Just nearby, Liscannor offers something a little quieter. This small harbour village feels calm and lived-in, with fishing boats, stone walls, and wide sea views. It’s the kind of place where you can pause, take a breath, and enjoy the sound of the Atlantic without distraction.

What makes this part of County Clare so special is how close everything feels. The drive between these towns takes you through green fields, along narrow roads, and past sudden views of the ocean. It’s a reminder that in Ireland, the journey itself is often just as enjoyable as the destination.

At Grand Irish Tours, we love helping guests experience County Clare in a relaxed and personal way. Taking time to visit places like Doolin, Ennistymon, Lahinch, and Liscannor allows you to see a side of Ireland that feels genuine, welcoming, and full of quiet moments that often become lasting memories.

If you’re exploring Ireland’s west coast, County Clare is a place that rewards slowing down – and invites you to feel right at home.