How a new shuttle bus service launched in Clare will connect towns and tourist attractions
The free Burren and Cliffs Explorer is a joint initiative of Clare County Council and the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), supported by Fáilte Ireland, and is available for online bookings.
Running as a pilot project from May 1 to August 31 — with the possibility of an extension into September — the service links destinations including Ballyvaughan, Corofin, Carran, Kilfenora, Doolin, Liscannor, and Lahinch. It also stops at key hubs like Lisdoonvarna and Miltown Malbay, where free parking is available.
With a fleet of seven buses, the project aims to give passengers easy access to some of the region's best-known attractions with the service stopping off at the Burren National Park, the Cliffs of Moher Experience, Aillwee Burren Experience, Poulnabrone, Michael Cusack Heritage Centre, The Burren Visitor Centre, and Caherconnell Stone Fort and Sheepdog Demonstrations.
Siobhán McNulty, Director of Tourism Development, Clare County Council, said, 'The Burren and Cliffs Explorer aims to enrich the visitor experience while supporting sustainable tourism. By strengthening transport links between our communities, we are encouraging visitors to leave their cars behind and fully experience the distinctive charm of our towns and attractions. This approach not only benefits the environment but also boosts local economies.'
Ms. McNulty acknowledged the local community for its contribution to the development of the new service.
'To ensure the initiative reflects community priorities, public consultation events were held in early April at Miltown Malbay Community Centre and The Burren Visitor Centre in Kilfenora. These sessions invited input from residents, businesses, and stakeholders to help shape the service in line with local needs and aspirations,' she explained.
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