Burren National Park spreads across 1,653 hectares (4,083 acres) and continually acquires more land as it becomes available. The remarkable rocky land is dotted with picturesque ruined castles, tumbling cliffs, rushing rivers, lakes, barren rock mountains, and plant life that defies all of nature's conventional rules. The park is particularly rich in archaeological remains from the Neolithic through the medieval periods -- dolmens and wedge tombs (approx. 120 of them), ring forts (500 of those), round towers, ancient churches, high crosses, monasteries, and holy wells. The park is centered at Mullaghmore Mountain, but there is, as of yet, no official entrance point and no admission charges or restrictions to access.
With its unique terrain and meandering walking paths, the Burren lends itself to walking. One of the best ways to amble through the limestone pavements and terraces, shale uplands, and lakes is to follow the Burren Way. The 42km (26-mile) signposted route stretches from Ballyvaughan to Liscannor, and you can pick it up in the park, walk a stretch of it, and then head back to your car, if you wish. An information sheet outlining the route is available from any tourist office. Burren Guided Walks and Hikes offer a wide selection of guided walks, hikes, and rambles. For more information contact Mary Howard at tel. 065/707-6100, or visit www.burrenguidedwalks.com.
Take Green Roads Through the Burren -- "Green roads" are former highways that crisscross the Burren landscape in inaccessible areas. Most of these unpaved roads were created during the Great Famine as make-work projects for starving locals, although some are ancient roads of indeterminate origin. These old, unused roads are now popular with hikers, and some are signposted. They're also famous for harboring rare and beautiful wildflowers, such as orchids and deep blue gentians.
