Self Catering Accommodation Guide to Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare, Ireland
About Lisdoonvarna
Lisdoonvarna is famous for two very different reasons. On the one hand it is a spa well centre whos waters contain unique healing qualities and on the other hand it hosts Europe's largest and longest running Matchmaking Festivals which brings thousands of hopeful bachelors and bachelorettes to the town every year in the hope of finding the perfect match!
Lisdoonvarna Match Making Festival
September is by far Lisdoonvarnas peak month owing to its world famous Matchmaking Festival, which is held annually and draws crowds from all over the world in the hope of finding a "life partner" or at least a bit of age old craic! What was once the serious business of match making has in recent years evolved into a month long session of traditional music, craic and a gathering of friends old and new! Willie Daly is the resident matchmaker, and he is happy to carry on the family tradition. New introductions to the festival, and in keeping with the times include "Speed Dating" which is over seen by Willie Daly himself. The final weekend sees the crowning of Mr. Lisdoonvarna and Queen of the Burren.
Places of Interest in Lisdoonvarna and the surrounding area:
Lisdoonvarna the Spa Town:
Lisdoonvarnas Spa Wells, containing iron, iodine and magnesium which is reputed to have healing properties and in particular has been associated with the relief of the symptoms of arthritis & rheumatism.
Doolin Caves
The charming fishing village of Doolin is just 10 minutes drive from Lisdoonvarna.
Taking the one hour tour of the famous Doolin Caves (The Great Stalactite) is your opportunity to see one of the longest free hanging stalactites in the world.
Aran Islands
From Lisdoonvarna visitors can explore the Aran Islands with regular ferries and boat trips from Doolin to the Irish speaking Island of Inishere (the smallest of the quaint Islands). While on the Islands why not purchase an Aran Sweater which was traditionally made by the wives of local fishermen. Each complex stitch of the Aran Sweater has a mythical meaning attributed to it, claiming to symbolise wishes of wealth, happiness and the in case of fishermen, a good catch.
Cliffs of Moher
The spectacular world renowned Cliffs of Moher are just a fifteen minute drive from Lisdoonvarna. Here you can stand on the edge of Ireland and watch the furious Atlantic waves crash against the giant cliffs.
The Burren
The Burren (Gaelic: Aill Bhuì meaning yellow cave) is a limestone area which spans 250 sq kilometers through the North Western corner of Co. Clare. For the chance to view all the Burren has to offer why not take the Burren Way Walking Route which is a 28 mile (45 km) signposted walking trail from Liscannor , along by the Cliffs of Moher, onto Doolin and into Ballyvaughan.
The Aillwee Caves
The Aillwee Caves just 15 minutes drive from Lisdoonvarna Village is probably the most famous of the many ancient caves that are hidden beneath the limestone landscape of the Burren. The cave itself features an underground river, waterfall, some very impressive stalactites & stalagmites along with animal remains including bears and many ancient relics.
Activities in Lisdoonvarna and the surrounding area
- Surfing is based in a beach hut on the promenade along Lahinch beach which spans over 2 miles. With ISA recognition, this is the ideal place for beginners to learn the art of surfing.
- Lahinch Sea World is an ideal one stop shop for an enjoyable family day of fun.
- Burren Walks is the ideal way to view all the Burren has to offer while taking in the breathtaking scenery of County Clare
- Golf - Lahinch Golf Course is world famous as a challenging course with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Horse Riding in Ennistymon
- The Burren Outdoor Education Centre
Some of the other places and towns within driving distance of Lahinch include
Places to eat and Restaurants in Lisdoonvarna and the surrounding area:
- Sheedy's Country House and Restaurant
- The Roadside Tavern
- Barrtra Seafood Restaurant
- Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel & Restaurant
- Cullinan's Seafood Restaurant and Guesthouse
