The best cycling routes around Inchiquin Lough

The Soda Café is a modern and beloved stopover in Ballyvaughan, housed in a characteristic building at the foot of the Burren. This café is known for its excellent coffee, homemade soda bread, and fresh, local dishes that celebrate the flavors of County Clare.

A remarkable medieval church ruin. A cross made of large stones is embedded in the front wall.

A large, completely hollow limestone castle, even the window frames are made of limestone (built in the 15th century by the O'Brians, rebuilt in the 17th century). A very impressive ruin. On private land.

The Gleninsheen wedge tombs: One is hidden beside the road, the other, partially collapsed, lies about 100 meters northeast in a field (2300 to 2000 BC). In 1932, a local resident discovered the Gleninsheen collar (c. 800 to 700 BC) not far from the wedge tombs, hidden in one of the limestone tombs. It is now on display at the National Museum of Ireland (Kildare Street site) in Dublin. It was listed as number 12 on the semi-official list "A History of Ireland in 100 Objects." These tombs also have a wedge-shaped floor plan, oriented southwest toward the setting sun.

one of the most varied half-day tours I know

This stone desert is interrupted by lush green fields, while the striking geological formations of Doonmore Hill dominate the scene in the background. There is something magical about the stark beauty of this region, and as I rode my road bike along the gently rising roads, I could hardly take my eyes off the varied shapes and colours. The dry stone walls that can be seen everywhere here tell of the long history of agriculture in this area and reinforce the feeling of being in an almost surreal environment.

Corkscrew Hill lives up to its name. As you tackle the switchbacks, you'll quickly feel the climb taking its toll on your legs - but the view that awaits you with every meter makes up for it. The road winds through the green hills of the Burren, and with every bend a new panorama opens up, giving you a glimpse of this unique karst landscape. Once you've reached the top, it's worth taking a moment to breathe and take in the vastness. From here you can see the Burren in all its glory - the barren, rocky landscape alternating with the lush green valleys. Corkscrew Hill combines the challenge of a demanding climb with the reward of a breathtaking view. Whether you're riding the route as part of a longer tour of the Burren or simply experiencing this iconic climb, Corkscrew Hill is a worthwhile challenge for anyone on two wheels.

When you cycle and climb the serpentines in the Burren, you will quickly realise why this place is so special. The landscape opens up before you like a picture that combines the rugged beauty of the limestone karst with the lush green of the valley. Every pedal stroke brings you closer to this breathtaking view - a mix of rocky hills, old dry stone walls and the wide plains of County Clare. As you move along the winding roads, you can not only admire the impressive rock formations, but also enjoy the tranquility of the place. The Burren tells its own story that goes far back into the past. There is something timeless about standing up here, looking out over the karst landscape. The climb may be challenging, but the reward is the view - not just of the panorama, but also of the small details that make this region so unique. Pack your water bottle, sit on the saddle and be impressed by the Burren and its fascinating geology