Visiting Doolin is never an adventure on its own. It always follows by a trip to the Cliffs of Moher.
Last updated: January 16, 2023
Visiting Doolin Village for the First Time
Small, yet with a spark… This is exactly how you’d describe charming Doolin Village on the West Coast of Ireland. Unlike other popular Irish cities and villages, this place seems to be too tiny to spend more than a few hours. But the more you immerse into Irish culture and enjoy breathtaking scenery while wandering around Doolin Village, the longer you wish to stay here. Perhaps, this is one of the main reasons why this place is referred to as a small village with a giant heart.
A FIRST-TIMER GUIDE TO VISITING DOOLIN VILLAGE
Getting to Doolin Village
Doolin is located on the Wild Atlantic Way approximately three hours away from Dublin and over an hour away from Galway. Due to its rural nature and somewhat isolated location, there is no direct train access to the village. The best way to visit Doolin is by car.
Yet if driving on the left side along narrow country roads in Ireland puts you on edge, you can travel by bus or hire a private driver. The latter is particularly suitable for small groups and families with kids.
READ MORE: Pros and Cons of Guided Tours in Ireland
The Best Time to Visit Doolin Village
As one who doesn’t really follow generally accepted travel guidelines and most of the time opts for off-season travels, I was happy to find out that Doolin’s locals don’t favor specific seasons. On the contrary, they recommend visiting the village of Doolin all year round. Each season transforms the place anew, revealing different colors and shades.
Yet to give you some guidelines, August is the warmest month. The temperature drops to its lowest in January. Although rain is an integral part of every season in Ireland, you might want to avoid visiting Doolin in October, the rainiest month of the year.
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Things to Do while Visiting Doolin
Explore the Cliffs of Moher
For a small village, Doolin has a lot of things to do. And first thing first, while visiting the village of Doolin you absolutely must explore the Cliffs of Moher. One of the most visited attractions in Ireland, this place brings you closer to the famed Irish wild natural beauty.
Just like the Irish people, the site surprises with its open, welcoming nature. On the other hand, unlike famous Irish hospitality, the Cliffs change their mood in a split second, showing their vainglorious side.
Hike the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk
If you are visiting Doolin Village for more than one day, don’t rush to drive to the Cliffs of Moher. Rather than being way too gentle on your feet, put them to work on the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk. This 13-kilometer trail runs from Doolin to Hag’s Head near Liscannor.
This exposed cliff path with steep ascents requires a lot of strength and stamina. Yet it rewards with scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Cliffs of Moher, and the Aran Islands that far surpass all the challenges.
Admire Doonagore Castle on Your Trip to Doolin Village
Ireland is proud of its centuries-old castles, and so is the little village of Doolin. While is doesn’t have plenty of them, at least one castle reminds you of the long history of the place. Thus, during your first visit to Doolin Village, make sure to stop at Doonagore Castle. A round 16th century tower house is located on a hill between Doolin and the Cliffs of Moher.
Step inside Doolin Cave
While visiting Doolin for the first time, make sure to venture four kilometers outside of the village to explore the magnificent Doolin Cave. A highlight of this visit is the Great Stalactite, a stunning 23-foot-long natural wonder of Ireland.
Enjoy Traditional Irish Tunes
The heart of Irish traditional music, Doolin is not to be missed for those who want to immerse in Irish culture and enjoy traditional Irish music. All local pubs here are at your service and don’t let you leave without whistling some of the Irish tunes first.
Don’t Miss the Burren while Visiting Doolin Village for the First Time
In Doolin, you are just a stone’s throw away from the stunning Burren. The village is located on the far edge of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark. A short drive from here takes you to a completely different Ireland. A place you couldn’t possibly imagine to see in this part of the world.
Vast Irish fields with typical short stone walls disappear. Limestone rock landscapes replace them, making you feel like you’ve just landed on another planet.
Take a Ferry Trip to the Aran Islands
While a visit to Doolin Village offers a great introduction to the natural and cultural heritage of Ireland, the Aran Islands never fail to enhance this experience. The three islands take you back in time and walk you through their winding narrow roads with thick stone walls.
Eventually, they show their unique attractions such as Plassy Shipwreck on Inis Oírr or Inisheer. Inis Mór or Inishmore further unveils the rich cultural heritage of Ireland presenting ample historical monuments. Moreover, you’ll meet a small group of people who still speak Irish in their daily life.
Get on Surfboard… Yes, Say “Yes” to Surfing while Visiting Irish Village of Doolin
Surfing may be the last thing that comes to your mind while visiting Doolin. Yet this tiny place shares its secrets slowly, one by one. So if trying your hands on surfing sounds like not such a bad idea, then add a visit to Doolin Point to your itinerary. The exposed reef break of the place provides good surfing conditions all year round.
Here are some of the guided tours that help you explore Doolin and several places nearby.
Where to Stay in Doolin
For such a small place, Doolin exceeds any expectation when it comes to lodging. Moreover, the variety of accommodations fit most budgets. So whether you’re a backpacker, budget traveler, or visiting Doolin with your family, you can easily find a place to stay that suits your style.
Aille River Hostel and Camping
Nestled in the center of the village, the Aille River Hostel looks like a perfect place to experience the renowned Irish hospitality. Furthermore, this 300-year-old cottage promises an immersion in Irish culture during a short visit or an extended stay. The Aille River Hostel accommodates its visitors with private rooms for couples and families, as well as dorm rooms for single travelers.
Sea View House Doolin
What is one thing you admire most when visiting Doolin? Certainly, a location that allows you to walk to most of the places in the village, including the Cliffs of Moher. In that case, Sea View House with its Bed and Breakfast, luxurious lodges, and award-winning food is your place to call home away from home during the trip to Doolin.
Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel
If you want to see luxurious side of Doolin, check into Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel. This 15th century castle turned a four-star hotel is set on a hilltop outside the village. Far enough from the occasional hustle and bustle of Doolin, the hotel takes pride in its pristine location with the views of the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands. And while here, you can always count on their cozy rooms, a traditional pub, and exceptional food in O’Brien room.
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