Doolin Cave and the Great Stalactite
About
Doolin Cave is built around one of the largest free-hanging stalactites in Europe, a 7.3-metre, roughly ten-tonne calcite mass hanging in a chamber the guided tour brings you down to. The cave is on the R479, about five minutes' drive from the village, and the tour descends some 125 steps to a constant eleven degrees underground before the chamber opens up to reveal the Great Stalactite, lit in the dark. It was found by British caving students in 1952 and has been run by the Browne family as custodians since the 1990s. Tours last around 40 to 45 minutes and pre-booking is essential, as numbers are capped. There is an above-ground eco-trail, a cafe and a pottery shop at the visitor centre, and a reduced winter schedule.
Photos
Highlights
- ✓The Great Stalactite, one of the largest free-hanging in Europe at 7.3 metres
- ✓A guided descent of 125 steps to a constant eleven degrees underground
- ✓An above-ground eco-trail, cafe and pottery shop
- ✓Five minutes' drive from Doolin on the R479
Tips
- →Pre-book; tour numbers are capped and it can sell out in summer.
- →Bring a layer; the cave is a constant eleven degrees.
- →Winter hours are reduced, mostly weekends and the Christmas period; check ahead.
Best Season
More Attraction Activities
Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience
Ireland's most famous sea cliffs, 7 km south of Doolin, with O'Brien's Tower and a visitor centre. Pre-book a timed ticket online.
Doolin Pier and the Shore
The working ferry pier and limestone shore, with rock pools, Aran views and the best sunset in the village. Free and open.
Doonagore Castle (Viewpoint)
The photogenic round tower house on the hill above the village. Privately owned and not open to the public; view it from the road or the cliff path.