Doolin
From World travel guide
Contents |
Understand
Doolin is a small village located on the north west coast of County Clare in the Republic of Ireland. Until the 1970s Doolin was just a typical Irish village, but then Irish folk music became more and more popular all around the world, and one of the best Irish whistle players, Micho Russell, lived in Doolin. During the times that he was not on US tour or in the studio, he could often be found at the O´Connor´s Pub in Doolin playing with his two brothers. This attracted an increasing number of tourists to the village, which in turn lead to more pubs offering Irish music sessions. Even though Micho Russel died in 1994, Doolin has retained its reputation as the unofficial "capital of Irish traditional music".
Although the village is full of tourists during summer, it is not like other tourist destinations in Ireland. People who go to Doolin do not just take a few photographs and move on, but get involved. They explore the local the culture and participate in the music scene. Consequently, the atmosphere is very friendly.
The village itself is just one street, Fisher Street. This is where most of the shops and pubs are located. Beyond that, there is a wide net of small roads that consists of the residential area. So, be aware that if you want to visit Doolin, due to the small population of the village and limited accommodation, you may find yourself staying 5 miles away.
Get in
- From Lisdoonvarna: Follow the L54 and the signs to Doolin
- From Ennis: Take the N67, direction Lisdoonvarna and turn left after 5km, follow signs to Doolin
- Coming from Galway on a clear day you might also consider taking the L54 route along Black Head and Fanore, which takes a bit longer but you have a beautiful view over Galway Bay
See
- At Doonagore Castle, just above Doolin, you have a wonderful view of the town.
Do
- Take a day trip to the Aran Islands. Daily ferry boat and also a fast ferry from Doolin in the morning and back in the evening (weather permitting).
- Visit the Cliffs of Moher, 5km to the south of Doolin.
- Cliffs of Moher Cruises also offer boat trips around the Cliffs of Moher.
- Doolin is also a perfect starting place for visiting the Burren.
Eat
Drink
- O´Connor´s Pub which made Doolin famous for its traditional music sessions.
- McGann´s is a bit smaller but also has excellent sessions.
Sleep
- Doolin Hostel [1]
- Aille River Hostel. Tel: +353 6574006. Beautiful small hostel situated at the river, very friendly staff!
- Fisherman's Rest [2] Fisher Lane (off Fisher Street), tel: +353 065-7074673, email: fishermanrest@eircom.net. Quiet central location, good small but clean rooms with en suite bathrooms. €30 per person with very good breakfast. Friendly colorful host.
- Many excellent B&Bs: Try Craggy Island B&B for example, which is a bit away from the town centre but excellent breakfast, nice rooms and very friendly service at a reasonable price (26.50 - 30 € per person sharing). Ph. +353 657074595, cragisle@eircom.net
Buy
- Nice Celtic jewellery shop
- The Traditional Music Shop: Bodhrans and other Irish instruments, but also CDs with Irish music
External links
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