THE BURREN
Ireland’s Rocky Eco Garden of County Clare
Ireland is famous for its “forty shades” of green, and Eco-Tourism is the hot spot for explorers who lust for the natural wonders. The Burren in County Clare on Ireland’s western coast bordering Galway Bay is the place to explore nature’s beauty, while at the same time, protect a fragile landscape. Stark for its rock strewn almost moonscape-like landscape, the Burren is one of the world’s must-see sites for eco-travelers and a sustainable visitor attraction. Along with the nearby famous Cliffs of Moher (see Moher Cliffs) ,the area of the Burren has gained UNESCO Global Geopark status in recognition of its importance among the world’s natural ecosystems.
The Burren was formed when Ice Age glaciation scoured the land, leaving behind this austere beautiful terrain.
Miles of limestone slabs etched with fissures, caves and valleys, and pock marked with springs and swallow-holes make a home for a rare mix of minute Arctic, Mediterranean and even Alpine plants, forming a mosaic of tiny gardens among the rocks. For eons on time, The Burren, which is Irish for ‘great rock’, has been luring travelers to view its near mystical formations, and more recently, attracting geologists, botanists and archaelogists. Ancient pre-historic monuments and sacred wells are a just stone’s throw from a vast cave complex, spectacular cliffs, moody ocean beaches and sculpted mountains. Now, modern visitors can enjoy the Burren, knowing they are helping preserve this precious place. By choosing Burren Ecotourism providers, eco-travelers contribute to the conservation effort to preserve an protect it.
A wide array of attractions, activities and amenities have joined together to make up Burren Ecotourism. Outdoor adventure centers mix with purveyors of great Irish food, local based hostels, B&B’s and hotels, tours and walking guides, pubs, ancestral heritage and natural attractions, including the Burren Centre, Doolin Caves, Ailwee Cave and the Cliffs of Moher. All dedicated to enjoying the Burren in ways that conserve the environment and improve the lives of the local people.
The Burren Yoga and Meditation Centre offers an ultimate retreat and relaxation escape, where superb teaching together with fantastic views, good food and guided outings seek a natural bliss. Adventure seekers can see the Burren from a totally new angle as part of a sea-kayaking adventure with North Clare Sea Kayaking, or from the surf board of an Aloha Surf School class. For foot touring, Mary Howard of Burren Guided Walks & Hikes leads the way. Combining an amazing destination and minimum environmental impact, the Burren offers a perfect mix of ‘craic and conservation’. For more of Eco green, Ireland’s other Geoparks are the underground caverns of Marble Arch in Fermanagh (see Marble Arch Caves) and Waterford’s Copper Coast. © Bargain Travel Europe
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Burren Ecotourism
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SEE ALSO:
DUNGUAIRE CASTLE - MEDIEVAL BANQUETS
DRIVING IRELAND - SCENIC ROUTES
IRELAND COASTAL HOLIDAY COTTAGES
GREGAN'S CASTLE HOTEL - THE BURREN
