Travel: From here to Co. Clare: Ireland's west coast gem

County Clare showcases such natural wonders as the Cliffs of Moher and the rocky, almost lunar-like limestone terrain of the Burren.

Ireland's beauty stretches far and wide, from the rugged pulchritude of Connemara to the verdant hills of Kerry to the seaside splendor of Wexford. Even the urban grit of Dublin boasts innumerable specimens of gorgeous art and architecture.

But nestled quietly midway on Eire's west coast is a county  that still features the picture post-card prettiness that is often attached to many Americans' idealization of the land: Clare.

If you're looking to encounter ancient ruins, sea-swept coasts, traditional music, thatched cottages and plenty of sheep blocking narrow roads, Clare may be the best destination for you. Although you can find most of those features in many parts of Ireland, Clare is a great home base for exploring the entire west coast area. It's only an hour from Galway City and less than that to Co. Kerry. 

It also showcases such natural wonders as the Cliffs of Moher and the rocky, almost lunar-like limestone terrain of the Burren. It's county seat, Ennis, is short drive from Shannon Airport.

While there are numerous reasons to visit this bucolic haven, below are five that make it exceptional.

Doolin – This tiny village, nestled along the coastline just up from the Cliffs of Moher, is a music and arts haven.  It's basically one road with three famous pubs: Gus O'Connor's, McDermott's, and McGann's. All three pull a fine pint and feature traditional music many nights of the week. 

Poulnabrone – There is something magical about this millennia-old dolmen (a rock covered portal tomb) set out in the middle of nowhere on the craggy landscape of The Burren. Knowing you are looking at a burial chamber from at least 2900 B.C. where the remains of  22 adults and six children were buried should give anyone pause. Archaeologista also found a stone axe, a bone pendant, quartz crystals, various weapons and pottery in the tomb. 

Landscapes – The famous Cliffs of Moher are breathtaking and the Burren is an eyeful, but there are plenty of secret beauty in Clare for those willing to venture off the main roads and maybe get lost a bit. You will find patches of greenery that seem almost electric and hidden lakes that seem like they are pools in paradise.

Ruins — Ireland's landscape is dotted with old, intriguing stone buildings in various states of disrepair, but Co. Clare has some of the more interesting ones. The more famous of these are Dysert O'Dea Castle and Corcromroe Abbey, but smaller interesting ruins sit just off main roadways. These include the Leamaneh Castle and the Kilnaboy Church, which features the infamous pagan sheila-na-gig symbol above the doorway. It's will worth the trip and right across the street from a superb bed and breakfast, Fergus View.

Ennis – This bustling little burgh is the county seat of Clare and has much to offer in the way of pubs, arts and, of course, shopping. You can't beat Brogan's for a pint and a bite, as well as for some great tunes at night. The quieter Diamond Bar is about as friendly and quaint a place as you'll find in all of Ireland. Just walking its medieval cobblestone streets is a delight. If you go in May, there is also a wonderful traditional music festival.