County Clare known as the Banner County, is situated on the West Coast of Ireland in the province of Munster.  Its natural boundaries comprise Galway Bay to the north, the River Shannon and Lough Derg to the east, and the Shannon Estuary to the south. Together with Counties Limerick, Tipperary North Riding and Limerick City, it constitutes the Mid-West Region of Ireland.  The population of Clare is 116,885 (preliminary Census 2011 figures).

County Clare is an area of great scenic diversity. You can enjoy the freshness of Clare’s Atlantic Coastline. Clare’s Atlantic Coastline includes some of the most stunning coastal scenery you will ever find. All along you will encounter breath-taking scenery. Sheer-rock faces alternate with sweeping sandy beaches, many marking the origins of fine resorts like Kilkee, Spanish Point and Lahinch.

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The beautiful Burren is a remarkable limestone area that is unique in Europe. Its geology, flora, caves, archaeology and history set it apart as a place of great mystery and beauty. In a small 100 square mile area, there are majestic rivers, brooding castles, tranquil lakes, towering cliffs, lush green valleys, barren rock mountains, rare plants, green road walks – and everywhere relics of ancient civilization.

The Burren, Co. Clare; Photo provided by Clare County Council

The awesome Cliffs of Moher. They have featured in almost every pictorial guide to Ireland ever produced and have been employed as a backdrop in films and on television. However, no recreation can substitute for direct experience of their grandeur and sheer visual force. The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s top scenic visitor attraction and an incredible experience. They are 8 km long and 214 metres high and stand against the might of the Atlantic Ocean. O’Brien’s Tower, located on the highest cliff, is an exceptional viewing point. The Cliffs can be visited year-round.

The Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare; Photo provided by Shannon Development

Within the larger cities and towns, the pace of life is quickening. County Clare provides the opportunity to get away from it all. In County Clare, if you choose, you can get to hear the actual sound of silence or the sheep bleat or the cock crow. You can face into an Atlantic breeze and listen to the sea crashing, the rivers flowing or lake waters lapping. Holidays in County Clare can be as relaxing, or as active, as you decide. Romantic Breaks? County Clare is perfect for couples.

Clare is truly immersed in built, natural and cultural heritage. The county boasts some of the best preserved monuments and site from Ireland’s ancient past. Clare’s castles and forts are a tribute to the past of the epic wars that were won and lost between varying forces.  Many of these castles and forts have interpretive areas which will give you a detailed knowledge of how society lived in those times.

Clare is rich in Irish music and dance tradition. Let yourself go with traditional music and dance in their various festivals that take place the length and breath of the county. One festival not to be missed is the Lisdoonvarna matchmaking festival where Willie Daly will surely find you a suitable partner. Irish Music and dancing takes place in nearly every bar and romance and craic is in abundance.

Great accommodation options in beautiful locations, from luxury castle hotels on their own estates, to B&B’s and self-catering accommodation by the lake or sea. The backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, cliffs, forests, rivers or lakes is idyllic. Close-by rented holiday homes (self-catering cottages and houses) are a great family choice, a relaxing home away from home with all modern conveniences. The County also boasts many fine ’good food circle‘restaurants. Children are welcome and are well-catered for. They will particularly like the beaches, sea-life centres, waterworlds, show-caves, folk parks, dolphin-watching, visitor farms, forests and castles.

For more information on County Clare please visit  the following websites:

www.clare.ie

www.westirelandholidays.com