Doolin - Definition and Overview

Doolin harbour in the evening

Doolin (Irish: Dúlainn) is a small rural village in County Clare in Ireland. It borders the spa town of Lisdoonvarna. It is well known for its traditional music which is still common in its three pubs, making it a popular tourist destination. Doolin is one of two places with ferry services to the Aran Islands. The village Rossaveal on the northwest shore of Galway Bay is the other village with a ferry service to the Aran Islands. Doolin is also near the Cliffs of Moher, and a bus service from Limerick/Ennis stops both at the cliffs and Doolin on its way to Galway – stopping along the other direction also. The area is near the western edge of the Burren region.

The scattered village of Doolin comprises two parts – the upper part, Roadford, which has two pubs, a restaurant, a cafe, a few hostels, B&Bs and a campsite – and about 1 kilometer down towards the shore and harbour, Fisher Street, with a pub, hostel, shops, restaurants, takeaway and B&Bs. Even further towards the sea, Doolin Harbour and another campsite lie at the end of the road.

The Aillee River runs from the hills of the Burren down, passing Doolin, meeting the sea.

See also: List of towns in the Republic of Ireland