Ballyvaughan Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Village

Facts and practical information

Ballyvaughan is a charming village located in the Clare region of Ireland. Nestled on the shores of Galway Bay, this picturesque destination offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality.

One of the highlights of Ballyvaughan is its stunning coastal scenery. Visitors can take leisurely walks along the shoreline, admiring the dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The village is also a gateway to the world-renowned Burren National Park, a unique landscape of limestone pavements, rare flora, and ancient archaeological sites. Exploring this fascinating terrain is a must for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

For those seeking cultural experiences, Ballyvaughan doesn't disappoint. The village is home to several art galleries and craft shops, where visitors can discover local talent and pick up unique souvenirs. Traditional music sessions can be enjoyed in the local pubs, creating a lively and authentic atmosphere that showcases the region's vibrant musical heritage.

Food lovers will be delighted by Ballyvaughan's gastronomic offerings. The village boasts a range of charming restaurants and cafés, serving up delicious dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. From fresh seafood to hearty traditional Irish fare, there is something to satisfy every palate.

History enthusiasts can delve into the past by visiting the nearby Aillwee Cave, an ancient underground network of passages adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. The cave also offers guided tours, providing fascinating insights into its geological and archaeological significance.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of activities to enjoy in Ballyvaughan. The surrounding area offers excellent opportunities for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. The nearby Fanore Beach is a popular spot for surfing and swimming, while boat trips can be arranged to explore the scenic coastline and spot local wildlife, including dolphins and seals.

Alternative names: Elevation: 33 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 53°6'57"N, 9°8'56"W

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ClareIreland

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Ballyvaughan Top Attractions

Ballyvaughan Attractions - What to See and Explore

Ballyvaughan offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Aillwee Cave, Newtown Castle, Gregans Castle, Ballyallaban ringfort. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Natural attraction • Park • Cave
Aillwee Cave
Nestled in the heart of the Burren in County Clare, Aillwee Cave is one of the oldest caves in Ireland and a premier tourist attraction in Ballyvaughan. Discovered in the 1940s, the cave's limestone formations offer a window into the subterranean world that dates back...
Forts and castles
Newtown Castle
Newtown Castle is a 16th-century tower house, located close to the village of Ballyvaughan within the Burren area of County Clare, Ireland.
Forts and castles
Gregans Castle
Gregans Castle is the name applied to both a 15th-century tower house and a Georgian-style house in the Burren region of County Clare, Ireland, near the village of Ballyvaughan. The latter dates from 1750 and is associated with the Martyn and O'Lochlainn families.

Archaeological site
Ballyallaban ringfort
Ballyallaban ringfort or sometimes An Rath is an earthen ringfort south of Ballyvaughan in the Burren area, in County Clare, Ireland. It is a National Monument.
Forts and castles
Shanmuckinish Castle
Shanmuckinish Castle is a ruined tower house located in Drumcreehy civil parish of County Clare, Ireland.
Archaeological site
Cahermore ringfort
Cahermore ringfort or sometimes Caher Mór or "Ballyallaban stone fort" is a ringfort south of Ballyvaughan in the Burren area, in County Clare, Ireland. It is a National Monument.
Tower
Finavarra Tower
Finavarra Tower is a Martello tower in Finavarra, County Clare, Ireland. Built during the Napoleonic wars in 1812-16, and situated on Finavarra Point, the tower protected the north-eastern side of Ballyvaughan Bay and the south-western entrance of New Quay harbour from possible attack from France.
53°5'27"N • 9°8'48"W
Burren Birds of Prey Centre
Nature and wildlife • Park

Day trips

Ballyvaughan – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Ballyvaughan, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Galway City Museum (Galway), King John's Castle (Limerick), Thomond Park (Limerick).

11 milesN
Museum
Galway City Museum, Galway
Nestled in the heart of the vibrant city of Galway, the Galway City Museum stands as a cultural beacon, inviting visitors to delve into the rich tapestry of Galway's history, culture, and heritage. Overlooking the famous Spanish Arch and the River Corrib, this...
38 milesSE
13th-century riverside fortress
King John's Castle, Limerick
King John's Castle, a commanding fortress and historical beacon, stands proudly on King's Island in the heart of Limerick, Ireland. This 13th-century castle, which overlooks the majestic River Shannon, is a testament to the city's medieval heritage and its pivotal role...
37 milesSE
Specialty museum, Sport, Arenas and stadiums
Thomond Park, Limerick
Thomond Park, nestled in the historic city of Limerick, Ireland, is a bastion of rugby union and a fortress for its home team, Munster Rugby. With a capacity of 25,600 spectators, this iconic stadium has been a hallowed ground for sports enthusiasts since its opening...
4.6 miS
Archaeological site, Historical place
Poulnabrone Dolmen
Poulnabrone Dolmen stands as a hauntingly evocative portal tomb in the stark limestone landscape of the Burren in County Clare, Ireland. This archaeological marvel, estimated to have been constructed around 3600 BCE during the Neolithic period, serves as a silent...
32 milesSE
Forts and castles, Museum, History museum
Bunratty Castle, Bunratty
Nestled in the quaint village of Bunratty in Ireland, Bunratty Castle stands as a majestic testament to the country's rich medieval heritage. This imposing fortress, originally constructed in the 15th century, has been authentically restored to its former glory...