Doolin has long been a centre for potholing enthusiasts, and maybe that’s because it’s got a cave entrance right in the middle of the village itself! The Fisherstreet Pothole gives you access to the Doolin Cave System, over 10.5 kilometres in length. The Burren region is underlaid by a maze of cave systems, many of which channel the water that has carved the uniqueness of this ancient place down though the ages. Poll an Ionain is an incredible example of such caves, housing as it does the world’s longest free-hanging stalactite. Known as The Great Stalactite, this wonder of nature is seven metres in length and is suspended only by a section of calcite of 0.3 metres square. Tours of the Doolin Cave System can be arranged, and Poll an Ionain is open to visitors, hard hats supplied!

The Aillwee Caves, located near Ballyvaughan, approximately 20 minutes’ drive from Doolin, is a fun day out for everyone. Here, you can explore this former hibernation chamber – native, long-extinct brown bears used to winter in these caves and they’ve left much evidence behind! See this and all the other intriguing features the caves offer. With a restaurant, craft shop and seasonal activities, you can cheerfully spend a day at the Aillwee Caves.