West Clare is a holiday destination with something for
everyone — the sea, the beaches, the beautiful scenery, busy pubs, music,
quaint shopping in county towns, and numerous leisure activities to keep
the young and the young-at-heart amused. Lydia Francis takes a look at the
village of Quilty and the surrounding area for self-catering family breaks.
Where we Stayed... Quilty Holiday Cottages, Quilty, Co. Clare +353 65 7087095
A prestigious development of approximately 20 cottages located between
Quilty and Spanish Point with spectacular views of the sea, beaches and
cliffs.
The cottages are built to a high standard and offer every luxury, double
and twin bedrooms, two bathrooms, a large living/dinning area and a fully-fitted
kitchen (washing machine, dish-washer, microwave, electric cooker, fridge
plus all cutlery, glasses and pots and pans!). A long walk or a short drive
takes you to Quilty and the local shop where you can buy all the necessary
provisions for that hearty Irish breakfast.
The Quilty holiday cottages are ideally suited for young families. The
site offers an indoor swimming pool, playground, games room and tennis court
— and, of course, other families with children on holiday for your own children
to make new friends with.
Local attractions... Cliffs of Moher +353 61 360788
A breathtakingly beautiful area of natural geographic and historical
interest. Hold on tight to your children though, it’s a long way down!
The Liscannor Ferry, +353 65 7086060
The Liscannor Ferry company operates a ferry service that allows you
to view the Cliffs of Moher from beneath them, taking in the sights of the
coast and coastal wildlife. During holiday times, the ferry usually goes
out three times a day, however it is advisable to call first to check sailings.
The hour-and-a-half trip costs n20 per adult, (and with each paying adult
a child is free).
Clare Equestrian Centre Deerpark, Doora,
Near Clarecastle, just outside Ennis +353 65 6840136
A family-run equestrian centre, complete with indoor arena. Horse riding
for the novice through to the very experienced. Gentle treks can take you
through parkland and across streams its great way to see the countryside.
Lessons are available for those who wish to improve their riding, weekend
or week-long courses, or just a one-off lesson. During July and August there
are weekly children’s pony camps, so if you are based nearby children can
attend all week. Family rates for riding are available.
And if it’s raining... The Rock Shop, Liscanoor +353 65 7081930
Should the weather prevent you from viewing the cliffs and it often does
— don’t despair. This Rock Shop in Liscanoor has a short informative video
on quarrying methods and tools through the ages, with spectacular aerial
shots of the cliffs showing the flagstones.
The shop and museum are a treat for kids who love collecting rocks, quartz
crystals and mineral specimens, and the tearoom serves exceedingly good
cakes and homemade Clare Jam.
Lahinch Seaworld + Leisure Centre +353 65 7081900, In Lahinch
A three-in-one leisure facility, the educational atlantic aquariam, a
swimming complex and sammy Shark’s playzone fun for 2-10-year-olds.
Aillwee Caves +353 65 7077036, Ballyvaughan
Spectacular caves and caverns, guided tours and safety rails, so you
are quite safe. Even if the sun is shining outside, it gets quite cold right
inside the cave, so take a jacket! There is a lovely craft shop — take home
lots of souvenirs.
