Doolin Cave

Overview

Doolin Cave is a stunning cave system located in the heart of the Burren, famous for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. It is also the site of the largest free-hanging stalactite in Europe.

The cave is renowned for its geological formations and historical significance, including its association with local folklore and the legendary giant, Cuchulainn.

Cave Geological Site

Location

Address

Craggycoradon East, Doolin, Clare

Neighborhood: Craggycoradon East

Coordinates

52.917500, -9.417500

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

€15

Children

€8 (ages 5-16)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

May-September

Best Time of Day

Mid-morning

fewer crowds and better lighting for viewing the cave formations

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1.5 hours

Recommended

2.5 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild, occasionally rainy

• Wildflowers in bloom
• Lambs in the fields

summer

warm, occasionally rainy

• Long daylight hours
• Outdoor performances

autumn

cool, occasionally rainy

• Fall foliage
• Harvest season

winter

cold, rainy

• Holiday decorations
• Cozy indoor spaces

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Wear sturdy shoes
Bring a jacket

What to Bring

essential

Comfortable walking shoes Jacket or fleece Tickets

seasonal

Rain jacket Warm hat and gloves

not allowed

Drones Large backpacks Pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate, some walking and climbing involved

• Uneven surfaces and steps
• Low ceilings in some areas
• Cold and damp environment

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site, but no medical facilities

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit/Debit cards, Contactless payment

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Typical Costs

entry €15

parking €5

food €10-20

souvenirs €5-30

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable clothing, Layers for changing temperatures, sturdy shoes with good grip, Closed-toe shoes with good grip, no flip-flops or sandals, High heels, Inappropriate or offensive clothing

Booking Tips

• At least 1 week in advance during peak season
• Official website or authorized ticket vendors
• 48 hours in advance for a full refund
• Available for online bookings

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Doolin Cave Official App

Size: 35 MB

Features: Ticket booking, Audio guide, Cave map, Event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Shannon Airport

Distance: 50 km

Travel Time: 45 minutes

taxi

€60-80 45 min

public_transport

€10-15 1 hour 15 min

From City Center

Distance: 10 km

bus

€5-10 20 min

taxi

€20-30 15 min

car

€5-10 (parking) 15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Doolin Cave is a unique and fascinating natural attraction that showcases the beauty of the Burren and the rich geological history of the region. It's a source of local pride and an important part of the community's identity.

Historical Significance: The cave is named after the legendary giant, Cuchulainn, who is said to have used the cave as a hideout. It has been explored and studied by geologists and archaeologists for centuries, and its formations have been admired by visitors from around the world.

Insider Tips

Visit the cave during the week to avoid weekend crowds
Combine your visit with a trip to the Cliffs of Moher for a full day of adventure
Attend a traditional Irish music session in Doolin for an authentic cultural experience

Local Recommendations

• Try a traditional Irish music session in Doolin
• Visit the nearby Cliffs of Moher for breathtaking views
• Explore the Burren National Park for unique flora and fauna

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Go raibh maith agat

where_is Cá bhfuil

how_much Cé mhéad

beautiful Álainn

ticket Ticéad

Guide Languages: English, Irish (Gaelic), French, German, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Cave entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Capture the dramatic entrance with the surrounding landscape

Result: Stunning photos of the cave entrance with beautiful lighting

#DoolinCave #Ireland #CaveAdventure #TravelIreland

Great Stalactite

Best Time: Any time, good lighting throughout the cave

Tips: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full scale of the stalactite

Result: Impressive photos of the largest free-hanging stalactite in Europe

#DoolinCave #Ireland #Geology #CaveExploration

Photography Rules

allowed areas Throughout the cave, excluding restricted areas

prohibited areas Staff-only areas, restricted sections

flash photography Not allowed to preserve the cave's environment and protect bats

commercial photography Permit required for commercial use

drone policy Prohibited

tripod policy Allowed with prior permission, but not during peak hours

selfie sticks Allowed, but be mindful of other visitors

Nearby Attractions

Cliffs of Moher

Distance: 8 km

Walking: Not walkable, driving or public transport required

Type: Natural Attraction

Burren National Park

Distance: 5 km

Walking: 1 hour

Type: National Park

Poulnabrone Dolmen