Burren Way Hiking Tour (5-Day)
Explore Ireland’s rugged charms hiking the Burren Way
Self-Guided
Burren Way Hiking Tour (5-Day) Overview
A walking tour on the Burren Way is one marked by unforgettable scenery and remarkable history. On this 5-day self-guided hiking tour, you’ll explore the Burren Way, a long-distance walking trail that goes through Country Clare, Ireland. Known for the unique Burren limestone landscape, the route is a mix of coastal paths, quiet backroads, and charming villages.
The tour begins in the colourful village of Doolin with a warm welcome to County Clare. Your first day of hiking brings you to the world-famous Cliffs of Moher, immortalized in Irish folklore. After another night in Doolin, work your way north as you enter the Burren. Ancient rock formations stretch as far as the eye can see, home to a stunning amount of plants and flowers, many of which are usually found in very different climates. Continue exploring the Burren with a visit to Fanore Beach, stopping at historical attractions such as Fermoyle Chapel and Newton Castle along the way. Your tour ends in the coastal village of Ballyvaughan, the perfect place to experience traditional Irish culture.
If you’re keen to make the most of the Burren, this 5-day hiking tour on the Burren Way is the one for you.
Trip highlights
Drink in the breathtaking views from the famed Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s must-see sights.
Hike through the incredible rock formations of the Burren, a region of exceptional natural beauty.
Visit the ancient circular towers of Newtown Castle, a 16th-century relic.
Sunbathe on the shores of Fanore, the Burren’s only beach.
Day By Day Itinerary
Arrive in the tiny village of Doolin, your home for the first night. Check into your accommodations and pick up your detailed information pack, which includes route guides and contact information.
Enjoy an evening at leisure – don’t miss the live Irish music!
- Overnight Location:
- B&B in Doolin
- Distance:
- None
- Meals:
- None
Your first day of hiking starts with one of Ireland’s most famous sights! After breakfast, head straight to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre. The Burren Way will lead you all the way Hag’s Head, the southernmost point of the world-famous cliffs.
Take your time to relish in the panoramic views, stretching out past the Aran Islands and across the North Atlantic Ocean. When you’re ready to depart, head back to the Visitor Centre. Once there, call your taxi for the return transfer to Doolin.
- Overnight Location:
- B&B in Doolin
- Distance:
- 3-4 hours, 12.5km, 951m of ascent, 902m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
The day starts with a quick transfer north to Ballinalacken Castle, the starting point for today’s hike. Winding country roads lead you into the fascinating Burren. Dominated by rock and karst formations, this landscape has been described as “lunar” and provides much to explore!
As you progress north, keep your eye out for a host of historical sites. Fermoyle Chapel and Newton Castle are two highlights, with plenty of old ring forts scattered around the Burren. Views across Galway Bay to the Aran Islands accompany your path into the harbour village of Ballyvaughan.
- Overnight Location:
- B&B in Ballyvaughan
- Distance:
- 4-5 hours, 19km, 378m of ascent, 476m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Take a quick transfer to begin the day, which starts at the Black Head Loop. The old “Green Road” guides you over Gleninagh Mountain and through the Burren until you reach Fanore, boasting the only beach in the region.
After catching some rays, turn and head back through the lovely Caher Valley to complete the loop, discovering more ring forts and other hidden surprises along your way. Ring your taxi to transfer back to Ballyvaughan.
- Overnight Location:
- B&B in Ballyvaughan
- Distance:
- 4 hours, 17km, 495m of ascent, 494m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
After breakfast, check out from your accommodations and depart from Ballyvaughan via your own arrangements.
- Overnight Location:
- None
- Distance:
- None
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Tour Map
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Inclusions
Included
- 4 breakfasts are included.
- Accommodations for 4 nights are included. Additional nights can be booked as a supplement.
- Transport to the start of the hikes on Days 3 and 4 along with a transfer from the end of the Day 4 hike back to Ballyvaughan are included. Luggage transfers between the properties are also included. Airport transfers are not included.
- Detailed route book with full area maps
- GPS-enabled app for navigation & points of interest
- 24-hour emergency/information support
- Full pre-departure information to maximize your experience
- In-house holiday specialist to assist with any additional services
Not included
- Travel insurance
- Flights
- Transport into Doolin or out from Ballyvaughan
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Visas is required
- Entrance fees to any sites or parks
Optional Extras
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Extra services:
-
- Welcome briefing: $50 per person
- Welcome briefing and follow up calls during the tour: $75 per person
- Single occupancy upgrades
- Extend tour to 8 days
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These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
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FAQ
We rate this tour as a 3/5. A moderate level of fitness is required for the distance and elevation changes on this route, and previous hiking experience is recommended. However, no technical expertise or gear is necessary. The route involves various surfaces: road walking, muddy and grassy tracks, and sections along open cliff tops, all possibly wet underfoot. Good boots are essential.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Self-guided travelling is not difficult! For many, it is a preferred type of travel as you are in charge of your own time and pace. You are provided all the information on which direction you need to go daily. However, self-guided travelling requires good navigation skills and those who don’t feel confident in unknown places should consider booking guided tours.
4 breakfasts are included.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover hiking. Get your Travel Insurance.
Fly into Shannon International Airport (SNN). From Shannon Airport, the town of Doolin is about 1 hour by car. Public transit by bus will take roughly 2-2 ½ hours, with a transfer in Ennis. Your holiday specialist can assist with arrival and departure plans if needed.
No. You will be provided with all necessary information to complete your self-guided tour.
The tour ends in the town of Ballyvaughan. From here, the Shannon Airport (SNN) is roughly 1 hour by car. Public transit by bus will take about 2 ½ hours.
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
Why book Burren Way Hiking Tour (5-Day) with 10 Adventures?
Self-guided Specialists
Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
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