Explore Clare – Great Days Out Itinerary

Morning

Leave Ennis and follow the N68 southwest towards Kilrush — a drive of about 55 minutes (approx. 45 km). The route winds through classic West Clare countryside, passing villages such as Lissycasey and Cooraclare, where rolling farmland and glimpses of estuary landscapes hint at the coast ahead.

Arriving in Kilrush, you’re in one of County Clare’s most historic towns — a maritime heritage centre on the Shannon Estuary. Start your visit at the beautifully restored Vandeleur Walled Garden & Visitor Centre, located on the former Vandeleur Estate. Here, you can explore colourful gardens filled with seasonal planting, wander the woodland paths, browse the gift shop, and enjoy coffee or brunch at the Vandeleur’s Brambles Woodland Café. Allow 1–1.5 hours.

If you prefer to begin in the town itself, stroll through Market Square and down to the Marina, where fishing boats and pleasure craft line the quays. For coffee or lunch, Jellyfish Café offers waterside views and fresh local flavours.

Optional Experiences

Kilrush is also the departure point for two of Clare’s most memorable excursions — perfect for those who don’t mind a longer day:

• Dolphin Watching Cruises: Departing from Kilrush Marina, these trips bring you out on the Shannon Estuary to see one of Ireland’s largest resident populations of bottlenose dolphins. The experience is unforgettable, but it can add 2–3 hours depending on tides and sailing times.
• Scattery Island Tours: A short ferry ride from the marina leads to Scattery Island, an early Christian site with a round tower, ruined churches, a Napoleonic battery, and peaceful coastal walks. Allow 2–3 hours including ferry crossings.

IMPORTANT: Both excursions require advance booking and are tide-dependent. If you plan either, consider making Kilrush your main stop and saving Loop Head for another day.

Afternoon

From Kilrush, continue west along the R487 to the Loop Head Peninsula (approx. 45 minutes, 40 km). The drive is one of the most scenic stretches on the Wild Atlantic Way, with sweeping views across the estuary and Atlantic. Along the route, you’ll pass Carrigaholt, a picturesque fishing village worth a brief stop for its pier and coastal charm. The Long Dock Pub and Restaurant is nice refreshment stop.

At the tip of the peninsula lies the Loop Head Lighthouse, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Shannon Estuary in a dramatic collision of sea and sky. The 19th-century lighthouse is open seasonally for guided tours, and the clifftop views are among the finest in Ireland. Allow 1 hour for exploration.

If time allows, stop at the Bridges of Ross, a series of striking sea arches just a short walk from the road, or call into Kilbaha Gallery, where you can browse and buy beautiful Irish art, crafts, and jewellery inspired by Clare’s coastline before beginning the return journey.

Return to Ennis via Kilrush and the N68, allowing about 90 minutes driving time.

End of Journey

Your loop finishes back in Ennis — the ideal place to round off your day with a relaxed dinner or evening stroll through the town’s medieval streets.

Tip: Always check opening times and ferry or tour schedules before setting out, as they vary by season and weather.

Travel Kindly, Don’t Rush Clare

Clare rewards those who travel slowly. Let the landscape set your pace — pause, breathe, and notice what’s around you. Take your time and tread lightly. Walk when you can, support local, and leave every place as beautiful as you found it. If the day feels full, shorten your journey — Clare is best enjoyed unhurried.