Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
This ruined shell of a fortified house is not open to anyone these days. From the outside,
you can see how the 15th-century fortified tower house (the right quarter of the remaining
ruin) was expanded 150 years later (the left three-quarters of the ruin). The castle evolved
from a refuge into a manor, and windows were widened to allow for better views as de-
fense became less of a priority.
• From the castle, turn north on R-480 (direction: Ballyvaughan). After about eight kilo-
meters (5 miles), you'll hit the start of the real barren Burren. Keep an eye out for the next
stop.
Caherconnell (Cahercommaun) Ring Fort
One of many ring forts in the area, you can see Caherconnell to the left on the crest of a
hill just off the road. You can park in the gravel lot and walk up to the small visitors cen-
ter and handy café for an informative 20-minute film followed by a quick wander through
the small fort. The fort sometimes features a sheepherding demo with dogs (generally at
12:00 and 15:00—call to confirm).
Cost and Hours:
€7, €9.50 includes sheepherding demo, daily July-Aug 10:00-18:00,
Easter-June and Sept-Oct 10:00-17:00, closed Nov-Easter, tel. 065/708-9999,
• The stretch from the ring fort north to Ballyvaughan offers the starkest scenery. Soon
you'll see a 10-foot-high stone structure a hundred yards off the road to the right (east,
toward an ugly gray metal barn). Pull over for a closer look.
Poulnabrone Dolmen
Whileitlookslikeastonetable,thisisaportaltomb.Twohundredyearsago,localscalled
this a “druids' altar.” Five thousand years ago, it was a grave chamber in a cairn of stacked
stones. Amble over for a look. (It's crowded with tour buses at midday, but it's all yours
early or late.)
