The Route
Starting in the seaside town of Lahinch (famed for its surfing), the trail passes through the nearby village of Liscannor and then along the majestic Cliffs of Moher to Doolin, a lively traditional music hub. Next, the route continues north along the hills above the sea to Fanore.
From Fanore the route goes around Black Head, the most north-westerly point of the Burren, or across the hills and through two valleys to the village of Ballyvaughan, on Galway Bay. It then crosses into the heartland of the Burren through the tiny village of Carran.
Terrain Overview
The Burren Way & Cliffs of Moher follows a mix of Green Roads (old cattle drover’s roads), pathways, forestry tracks and minor tarmac roads. In many places the trail follows local roads, but this is dependent on which tour itinerary you choose and there is less road-walking in the sections between Lahinch and Ballyvaughan.
Because the limestone surface affords excellent drainage most of the route is on dry or rocky tracks and you will rarely get your boots muddy. The total aggregate ascent is approximately 1,500m over the entire route and there are only a few short, steeper climbs involved. Overall the trail is relatively flat and easy to manage. The exception is the hike around Black Head, which is in places a little more challenging and can also be a little overgrown at certain times of the year.
Elevation Profile