Burren National Park

The Burren National Park, located in the south-eastern corner of the Burren, Co Clare is managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. It is approximately 1500 hectares in size and was established by the state, for both nature conservation and public access as Ireland’s fifth National Park in 1991.

The Burren National Park contains examples of all the major habitats for which the region is internationally known. These include limestone pavement, hazel scrub, and deciduous woodland, lakes, turloughs, springs, fen and limestone grassland. Botanically, the Burren is one of the most fascinating regions in Western Europe. Many of the flowers growing in narrow fissures on the limestone terraces are rare elsewhere but it is the combination of flora that is so unusual with flowers from Arctic, Alpine and Mediterranean regions all growing together.

The highest point in the park is Knockanes (207 metres) which continues as a curving terraced ridge to Mullaghmore to the south. East of this ridge is an area of extensive, low lying limestone pavement containing a number of semi-permanent lakes. West of this ridge the pavement sweeps down to grasslands on partially drift-covered ground which gradually rises again to reach the foot of a rocky escarpment.

Trails:

The Park has numerous walking trails graded from moderate to very difficult. The Nature Trail (2km) covers a wide variety of Burren habitats from wildflower meadows to hazel woodland and includes views of the dramatic limestone landscape. The Mullaghmore trails with their spectacular views are challenging but rewarding for the more adventurous walker.

Burren National Park Opening Hours:

The Burren National Park is open 24 hours a day all year round. Access is free.

Burren National Park Information Point:

The newly developed Information Point in Corofin, Co Clare provides an educational and interactive experience for the visitor, using a blend of modern technology and interpretative panels on the geology, fauna, flora and the importance of farming and management of the Burren. Open from April to the end of September, National Parks and Wildlife Service staff provide information on the National Park. Walks, talks and activities for all ages are organised on a regular basis and guided walks for groups may be booked in advanced.

Information Point Opening Hours:

April and May: Open daily - 10.00 - 17.00 (Closed for lunch 13.00-14.00)
June, July and August: Open daily - 10.00 - 18.00
September: Open Wednesday to Sunday - 10.00 - 17.00 (Closed for lunch 13.00-14.00)

See the website www.burrennationalpark.ie for further information and updates.

Directions:
To Burren National Park Information Point:

Clare Heritage Centre,
Corofin,
Co Clare
GPS: N 52.94481 W 009.06277

To Burren National Park:

To access the park, from Corofin, take the R476 to Kilnaboy. In Kilnaboy take the right turn (L1112) before the ruined church. Approximately 5 kilometres along this road you will reach a crossroads. There is parking in the lay-by just before this cross roads on the right. Then on foot, follow the walking trail signs to the right, this leads you onto the ‘crag road’. Please park in the lay-by not on the crag road as this will avoid damage to the vegetation.

Contact Details:

Burren National Park Information Point,
Corofin,
Co. Clare
Tel: 065 6827693 (April-September)

Email: burrennationalpark@ahg.gov.ie
Website: www.burrennationalpark.ie