One of the best places to explore Ireland is Doolin in County Kerry. Whether you’re looking for a coastal adventure, a cultural experience or an opportunity to explore the countryside, Doolin has something to offer every traveler. Located on the west coast of Clare, it’s a small village of colorful houses, surrounded by cliffs (the famous Cliffs of Moher), rocky beaches and rolling hills. And of course, you can go further afield to discover the nearby Aran Islands, take a boat trip along the wild Atlantic coast, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery! With picturesque views, historic sites and plenty to do, Doolin is the ideal destination for those wishing to explore and discover the best Ireland has to offer.
Doolin is a wonderful place to enjoy outdoor activities. The Cliffs of Moher are one of the main attractions within easy reach of Doolin.
What’s more, the Burren region is just around the corner! This is a unique and spectacular region of limestone landscapes, dotted with ancient stone walls and dotted with beautiful wild flowers in spring and summer.
Be sure to visit the Burren Centre, home to a museum, gift store, café and gardens of native plants and wildflowers. Perfect for learning all about the region and its unique ecosystem!
Did you know? If you’re the type of person who enjoys cultural attractions, Doolin is considered the headquarters of traditional Irish music!
It’s here, in the heart of the village, that some of Ireland’s greatest artists come together for exceptional sessions! Events take place all over Doolin, in local Irish pubs and on dedicated stages.
It’s a great way to spend evenings dancing, singing and enjoying the beauty of Irish music!
Doolin offers a wide range of accommodation, including hotels, B&Bs and luxury vacation rentals.
Visitors wishing to stay in a traditional Irish setting can choose from the many B&Bs in the area, while those who prefer modern facilities can choose from Doolin’s wide variety of hotels.
The village also offers a wide range of luxury vacation rentals (such as cottages). These vacation rentals offer guests all the amenities of a hotel or B&B, but with the added benefit of the privacy and autonomy that only a vacation rental can provide.
Doolin is famous for its seafood and fresh local produce! Travelers can enjoy these specialties in many of the city’s affordable restaurants.
Restaurants in Doolin generally offer traditional Irish dishes, including hearty stews, fish and seafood dishes, and tasty desserts.
The village is also an ideal place to enjoy a drink or two while taking in the beauty of the landscape. A wide variety of nearby pubs, bars and breweries offer visitors plenty of options for having a drink or two while exploring the city.
Doolin is a great place to buy gifts and souvenirs. Visitors can browse the many local stores and galleries, where they can find a wide variety of Irish-themed gifts and souvenirs.
Doolin is particularly famous for its handmade jewelry, including silver, gold and Celtic motifs. Visitors can also explore the many craft stores in the vicinity, where they’ll find a wide variety of Irish-themed handicrafts, such as woollen items, handcrafted furniture and woollen goods (including the famous Irish sweater).
Doolin is famous for its festivals, celebrations and lively events. Visitors to Doolin can enjoy the following special events and festivals throughout the year:
The Doolin Traditional Music Festival is a three-day celebration of Irish music and dance performances, workshops and concerts. Visitors can enjoy traditional Irish music in many different styles and instruments, including fiddles, ukuleles, guitars and bodhráns (Irish frame drums).
The Doolin Sea Festival is a two-day celebration of all things coastal and marine, with boat tours, fishing trips, talks, exhibitions and more. Visitors can enjoy a variety of coastal activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding and swimming in the nearby sea.
Doolin is famous for its lively St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. St. Stephen’s Day, usually held on December 26. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of events and activities during this festive celebration, including music, dancing and fireworks.
Doolin is an ideal place to explore Ireland by car. Drivers can park their cars in the nearby parking lot.
Visitors who don’t wish to drive can also explore Doolin by public transport, including cabs and buses.
The village is home to the Doolin Ferry, a car ferry that carries passengers from the nearby towns of Doolin, Coral Cove, the Aran Islands and the nearby islands of Inis Mór and Inis Beag. Parafit for even more fun and exploration!