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Cave · Doolin, Clare
Doolin Cave
Limestone cave 5 km from Doolin with one of the largest suspended stalactites in Europe, 7.3 metres long, seen on a guided tour that descends 80 steps, and a nature trail across the farm.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Doolin Cave
Doolin Cave is a limestone cave formed by water running beneath the Burren, about 5 km from the village of Doolin. It was discovered in 1952 by two English cavers who followed an underground stream and found, in a chamber, the Great Stalactite, a 7.3-metre-long stalactite hanging from the roof, formed drop by drop over thousands of years.
The cave is on a family farm and is visited only with a guide. The descent is by roughly 80 steps, wearing a helmet, down to a lit chamber from which the stalactite can be seen head-on. The guide explains the cave's formation, the water that still flows and the fauna that lives in the dark. The temperature down there is around 10 °C year-round.
On the surface, the farm has a nature trail of about 1 km through the fields, with stone walls, traditional breed animals and Burren plants, and a pottery workshop that uses clay taken from the cave itself. There is also a café.
The visit is short and suitable for families, but the steps are steep and narrow, and there is no wheelchair access. Tours depart at fixed times with limited groups.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour for the guided tour, plus 30 minutes for the farm trail.
Best time
At any time of year, including in rain. In summer, book your time in advance. Tours depart at fixed times; check beforehand.
How to get there
It is located on the R480 road from Doolin to Lisdoonvarna, about 5 km northeast of the village, with signs on the road. There is parking at the farm. There is no direct public transport.
Tip
Bring warm clothing: the grotto is around 10 °C. After the visit, walk the farm trail, short and flat, and see the pottery pieces made with clay from the grotto.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Doolin Cave
How large is the Doolin stalactite?
The Great Stalactite is 7.3 metres long and is among the largest suspended stalactites in Europe.
Is the visit guided?
Yes. The grotto can only be visited with a guide, at fixed times and in small groups, wearing a helmet.
Is the visit difficult?
The descent involves about 80 steep steps, down and back. It is not possible with a wheelchair or a stroller.