Doolin - Authentic Ireland
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Wonderguide by

Anna Cook

Doolin - Authentic Ireland

Doolin is known for being the gateway to some of Ireland’s most breathtaking scenery but this quaint village is breathtaking in its own right. This not-just-a-stopover hub of traditional music and great eateries could serve as the perfect home base to discover the real Ireland.

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Top Experiences

Some of the best things to do in this unique coastal village.

Image - Doolin Cliff Walks
Place
Doolin Cliff Walks
Anna:This hiking trail enables you to see all of the Cliffs of Moher. It takes around 3 hours to complete and offers unparalleled views. During my time of visit, it was foggy and slippery but still really beautiful.
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Image - Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival
Place
Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival
Anna:This town neighboring Doolin hosts one of Ireland’s oldest festivals during the month of September, The Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival. Festival events include art shows, music, film screenings, dancing and of course, matchmaking. As it is the largest single’s event in Europe, this festival might just be your means to true love.
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Image - Doolin Cave
Place
Doolin Cave
Anna:A cool cave with massive stalactite. Well worth the visit just for the views of the surrounding countryside.
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Gateway to the Aran Islands

Doolin is a quick ferry ride to the Aran Islands, which are composed of equal parts scenery and history.

Image - Doolin Ferries
Place
Doolin Ferries
Anna:Ferries leave daily from Doolin and can be timed as a day trip or for an overnight stay.
Image - Inishmore
Place
Inishmore
Anna:This is the largest of the three islands offering archeological sites, live music, camping and sailing.
Image - Dún Aonghasa
Place
Dún Aonghasa
Anna:This is an important archeological site that remains somewhat of a mystery. A cool Iron Age fort that would make a unique photo opportunity.
Image - Aran Islands Camping & Glamping
Place
Aran Islands Camping & Glamping
Anna:Offering both glamping pods and traditional campsites, this proves to be the best way to get in touch with the rugged coastline.

Where to Eat

I hope you brought your appetite because things are about to get tasty.

Image - Gus O'Connor's Pub
Place
Gus O'Connor's Pub
Anna:This is the oldest pub in Doolin and you’ll almost always find it busy with locals and travelers alike. It’s an atmospheric spot serving live traditional music and classic pub fare. If you want to commemorate your time here, the neighboring boutique sells postcards with the adorable pub’s façade on the front.
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Image - The Ivy Cottage Cafe
Place
The Ivy Cottage Cafe
Anna:A vegan friendly cafe with really good soups and chowders.
Image - Riverside Bistro Doolin
Place
Riverside Bistro Doolin
Anna:Live music, fair prices and notably good fish. The staff is always very friendly!
Image - Fitzpatrick's Bar
Place
Fitzpatrick's Bar
Anna:A cozy atmosphere with locally sourced food.

Best of Doolin Experiences

A collection of experiences with close proximity to Doolin

Image - Aillwee Cave
Place
Aillwee Cave
Anna:A famous nearby cave with a resident population of birds of prey. You can view flying displays and interact with the birds here.
Image - The Burren Perfumery
Place
The Burren Perfumery
Anna:A cool collection of different scents and products made from plants and flowers that grow in The Burren.
Image - Lahinch Surf School
Place
Lahinch Surf School
Anna:Ireland may not immediately conjure images of surfing, but with so much coast, it's no wonder there's a small population of surfers near Doolin. You can rent gear here and take surfing lessons.
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Wonderguide map

  1. Doolin Cliff Walks
  2. Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival
  3. Doolin Cave
  4. Doolin Ferries
  5. Inishmore
  6. Dún Aonghasa
  7. Aran Islands Camping & Glamping
  8. Gus O'Connor's Pub
  9. The Ivy Cottage Cafe
  10. Riverside Bistro Doolin
  11. Fitzpatrick's Bar
  12. Aillwee Cave
  13. The Burren Perfumery
  14. Lahinch Surf School

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