This calm village in northern County Clare marks the entrance to the Burren's limestone fields, with 15th-century castle ruins, white-tailed eagles at Inchiquin Lake, and walking trails to ancient sites.
Corofin, a village in northern County Clare, sits at the gateway to the Burren's limestone fields. Walk through the ruins of 15th-century Inchiquin Castle, spot white-tailed eagles soaring over Inchiquin Lake, or research your ancestry at the local Genealogy Centre. From the village, paths lead into the Burren's rocky terrain and to ancient sites like Poulnabrone Dolmen.
Getting to Corofin
Corofin lies 12 km north of Ennis, at the intersection of the R460 and R476 regional roads. Local roads connect directly to the Burren's limestone landscapes. Take a bus from Ennis, or drive from Shannon Airport in about 40 minutes.
Lakes and Wildlife
Inchiquin Lake covers 260 acres on the western edge of the village. White-tailed eagles circle above the water, while kingfishers and grey herons hunt along the shoreline. Black and white swans glide across the lake's surface, and mallard ducks nest in the reeds. The calm waters welcome kayakers, and anglers fish in the connected River Fergus.
Walking in the Burren
The Lough Avalla Farm Loop extends for 6 km through limestone terrain. The trail begins at a marked parking area and winds past Lough Avalla's shores, through hazel woods, and across bare rock surfaces. The Mullaghmore Loop starts from Kilnaboy village and runs for 7.5 km, circling the 590-foot Mullaghmore hill. Walk around Lough Gealain lake and take in views of the Burren's stone fields.
Historical Buildings
St. Catherine's Church, built between 1715 and 1720, houses the Clare Heritage Museum. Wood-framed cabinets display items from 19th-century daily life in Clare. North of the village, Inchiquin Castle's 15th-century ruins stand by Lake Inchiquin. The castle grounds remain open, with cattle and sheep grazing in the surrounding fields.
Traditional Music and Events
Listen to Irish music sessions at several Corofin pubs, including regular performances at Teach Cheoil every Thursday evening during July and August. The village comes alive with the North Clare Agricultural Show in summer and the Festival of Finn in autumn. Try your luck at the World Stone Throwing Championship or enter Ireland's Best Beard & Moustache Competition during the festival.
Beyond Corofin
Within a 15-minute drive, you'll find the restored 15th-century Dysert O'Dea Castle and Clare Archaeology Centre. The 12th-century Dysert O'Dea Church displays intricate Romanesque carvings around its doorway. Explore Leamaneh Castle, Kilfenora Cathedral, and Corcomroe Abbey. Drive 30 minutes to reach the Burren's archaeological sites, including Poulnabrone Dolmen and Caherconnell Stone Fort.
