Activities & Things To Do
To find out more about any of these activities, simply click on the one you're interested in.
Walking
Many visitors venture out to enjoy the spectacular views, ancient monuments, deserted famine villages and rare plants and animals of the Burren on foot. There’s lots of walking trails that you can follow with a knowledgeable walking guide or by using our specially-prepared guide booklet.
Scenic Drives
Driving is also a good option for getting out and about to appreciate the local scenery. In fact the Automobile Association described the area around Gregans Castle as one of the top ten scenic drives in the world.
Golf
We’re close to the world-famous Lahinch Golf Course (known as Ireland's St. Andrews) and Greg Norman’s Doonbeg Golf Course, as well less-famous courses such as Gort and Spanish Point. Brad Faxon and Davis Love III were among recent golfing guests at Gregans Castle Hotel.
Sea Angling
O'Callaghan Angling offers deep-sea fishing trips off the Clare coast, which can be combined with a trip to one of The Aran Islands for lunch. Departures are from Liscannor, which is 15 miles from the hotel.
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Cycling and Biking
The quiet lanes of the Burren are ideal for biking and cycling, in fact the world’s top biking travel companies all start their Irish tours here. We have some bicycles at the hotel that guests are free to use and we can also organise the hire of electric bikes with a day’s advance notice. And, we can arrange guided biking around the Burren (either full day or half day) with our local guide, which could include a Father Ted theme. You can visit all of the locations from the popular TV series and have tea in the Father Ted Parochial House!
Sea Kayaking
A sea kayaking tour around the village of Ballyvaughan is an ideal way to experience the wonders of sea kayaking while also exploring the magical waters at the base of the Burren’s limestone mountains. As you paddle along the coastline you’ll explore the ruins of Gleninagh Castle and its nearby holy well. On the tour you get to row around small islands and inlets and have the unique vantage point of seeing the great mountains of the Burren from the quiet of the kayaks. This coastline is also home to plenty of magnificent sea birds and sea life, including dolphins and seals. It’s a fabulous tour for all!
Horse Riding
Set off on a guided trek on the Burren hills with stunning views of Galway Bay and the Aran Islands. Located near Lisdoonvarna at the Mountain View Horse Riding Centre (15 mins from the hotel). All abilities are catered for.
Clay Pigeon Shooting
Tuition is available at the local and fully-licensed Woodlands Shooting Club near Lisdoonvarna.
Surfing
Space, solitude and un-crowded surf…Fanore Beach is the ideal place for those wanting to learn to surf. And it’s only 20 minutes away! Aloha Surf School runs professional lessons for people of all ages and abilities here – no experience is necessary and all equipment is provided.
Rock climbing
The Burren is an ideal place to first experience rock climbing. Quality climbing instructing can be given to all levels of climber – from the complete novice to the advanced. If there are no waves, it's a great alternative to surfing, and a great experience in its own right too – even when it’s wet!