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Ballyvaughan is a good point from which to explore the Burren and coasts of Galway Bay. Formerly a small fishing-village, it has in recent years begun to attract the more discerning visitor, and has some up-market restaurants to cater for them. For the archaeologist, the country around Ballyvaughan is a delight; the field monuments in the vicinity are too numerous to list here, but they include the famous Poulnabrone Dolmen among a scattering of ring forts, holy wells, gallery graves, dolmens, cairns, ruined churches and castles, so a specialised guide-book is essential. The famous Poulnabrone Dolmen is the most dramatic - and photographed - monument in the region; it is over 5000 years old and was once covered with a mound of earth, since washed away.
Just outside of the village (approx. 5km) en route to Lisdoonvarna is one of the two sixteenth century castles to be found in the area – the recently restored Newtown Castle. The castle provides a guided tour and should prove a worthwhile experience relating information on the history, botany and folklore of the area. The second sixteenth century castle – Gleninagh Castle is about 6km out on the western side of the village. Originally built by the the chieftains in this region - the O’Lochlain clan who occupied it until 1840. This castle is worthy of a visit. A holy well and medieval church can also be discovered located in front of the castle.
Arguably the greatest attraction of Ballyvaughan is the Aillwee caves, these spectacular caves lie just outside the town. The caves are estimated to be 2 million years old and were discovered in 1944 by a local farmer. An abundance of stalactites and stalagmites and the largest passage being 600m long, the Aillwee caves are a dream come true for potholers and anyone with an interest in caves or caving.
Near Ballyvaughan is the famous Corkscrew Hill, which provides some of the most splendid views of the beautiful scenery to be found in the north-western region of Clare.
Other towns of County Clare
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