THINGS TO DO

We've shared a few of our West Clare favourites to inspire your travel plans to Doonbeg Cottage! A more comprehensive guide with phone numbers and seasonal opening hours is available at the cottage.

Discover the Wild Atlantic Way

  • Doughmore Bay

    Stretching over 4.5km of pristine golden sand, Doughmore Bay lies just outside the charming village of Doonbeg. While swimming isn't recommended here, the dramatic surf and scenic beauty make Doughmore Bay a must-visit for those looking to experience Ireland’s wild coastal charm.

    Drive from cottage: 7 min
  • Kilkee Cliff Walks

    Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Kilkee Cliff Walk, a 5km trail that hugs the dramatic Atlantic coastline starts at the Diamond Rocks Café in Kilkee’s West End.

    For those looking to soak in even more of the scenery, continue on to complete the full 8km looped walk—an unforgettable way to explore one of West Clare’s most spectacular landscapes.

    Drive from cottage: 15 min
  • Sauna Suaimhneas

    Sauna Suaimhneas is run by sister and brother duo Niamh & Seán. The duo hail from north Clare and arepassionate about the benefits of sauna use and bringing a sauna culture to Co. Clare.

    Sauna Suaimhneas can be found at different popular swimming locations all year round in North and West Clare.
    Visit website & book →
  • Dolphin Watching on the Shannon Estuary

    The West Clare Peninsula is an area of unspoiled natural beauty, wedged between the roaring Atlantic to the north and the more tranquil Shannon estuary to the south. It is in the final 30 miles of the Shannon that a large group of bottlenose dolphins can be found.

    You can set off on a guided tour from Carrigaholt village (25 min drive) or Kilrush Marina (20 min drive).
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Places of Interest

  • Vandeleur Walled Garden

    The Vandeleur Walled Garden & Visitor Centre is one of county Clare’s most beautiful botanical tributes to Ireland’s rich, natural history. Set amongst 170 hectares of native woodland this hidden gem is nestled in the heart of Kilrush Wood, just 2 km from the centre of Kilrush. There's a Park Run held here every Saturday morning too!

    Drive from cottage: 15 min
  • Scattery Island

    Explore the ancient monastic ruins of Scattery Island (‘Inis Cathaigh’) including round tower, Viking battlegrounds, and a deserted village street.
    Inis Cathaigh is a special area of conservation - visitor numbers are limited to just 160 per day during the open season!

    Drive from cottage: 15 min
  • Bridges of Ross

    Set 8km west of Carrigaholt, the Bridges of Ross is a spectacular natural sea arch and is one of the highlights of the Loop Head Peninsula.

    Be sure to eat at The Long Dock in Carrigaholt when you're out that way. It's a family favourite!

    Drive from the cottage: 25 min
  • O'Sullivan's Traditional Shop

    A 4th generation family business selling an eclectic mix of modern and traditional goodsin an unchanged 200+ year old building in Kilrush, Co. Clare. "Such a gem of a place. The old world atmosphere is amazing. Highly recommend a visit"
    Drive from the cottage: 15 min
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Golfing

  • Doonbeg Golf Course

    The world renowned 18-hole championship course at Trump International Golf Links & Hotel Ireland, Doonbeg, spans 1.5 miles of crescent shaped beach and century old sand dunes along Doughmore Bay. And better still it's just a 5 min drive from Doonbeg Cottage!
    BOOK TEE TIME
  • Lahinch Golf Course

    Lahinch Golf Club ('Saint Andrews of Ireland') was established in 1892. It is a world top 50 course that runs adjacent to the ever changing Atlantic Ocean and is subject to all its mood swings! Lahinch Golf Course is a 30 min drive from Doonbeg Cottage.

    BOOK TEE TIME
  • Spanish Point Golf Course

    Opened in 1896 Spanish Point Golf Club was voted the Best 9-Hole Golf Course in Munster 2019. It is situated just 3 km south of Miltown Malbay on the N67 and is only 10 km from Doonbeg (11 min drive). It is a mature and beautiful classic 9 hole links course.
    BOOK TEE TIME
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Wine & Dine

  • Tubridy's
    Doonbeg

    Since 1777, Tubridy’s Bar Doonbeg, has offered a great atmosphere and a fine pint. A family run bar and restaurant that specialises in local seafood.

    Drive from the cottage: 7 min
  • Afternoon Tea
    Trump Doonbeg

    Treat yourself to Afternoon Tea with a breathtaking view of the Atlanic at Trump Doonbeg. Available April - October.

    Drive from the cottage: 7 min
  • Leo at Home
    Doonbeg

    Chef Leonardo la Pietra creates beautiful, hassle free Italian dishes ready for collection at his Doonbeg kitchen on Friday afternoons. It's not to be missed. Order ahead of time to avoid disappointment at leoathome.ie.

    Drive from the cottage: 7 min
  • Beag
    Kilrush

    A family favourite that serves home bakes, sourdough toasties and some of the best coffee in West Clare. Get there early for fresh cinnamon buns and scones!

    Drive from the cottage: 20 min
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