September has been a month to remember at Doolin Cave! From celebrating our 20th anniversary and unveiling our exciting Sculpture Park Vision to welcoming some unexpected visitors underground, it’s certainly been an eventful few weeks here in the heart of the Burren.
As we say goodbye to September, we’re looking back at some of the highlights of a very special month.
Celebrating 20 Years of Doolin Cave
On Saturday 19th September, we celebrated a milestone that’s particularly close to our hearts: 20 years since Doolin Cave first opened to the public.
What began as a small family idea has grown into a unique visitor attraction, welcoming people from all over the world to experience the magnificent Great Stalactite, one of Europe’s largest free-hanging stalactites.
Our 20th Anniversary Celebration and Sculpture Park Vision Launch brought together visitors, local artists, friends, supporters and members of the community for an afternoon dedicated to celebrating our journey and looking towards the future.
The event featured storytelling, artist talks and creative workshops, conversations about biodiversity and the Burren landscape, local artisan food and crafts, and a special performance underground.
It was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the past two decades, share stories and celebrate the people who have helped make Doolin Cave what it is today.
A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the occasion so memorable!
Unveiling Our Sculpture Park Vision
One of the highlights of our anniversary celebration was the unveiling of our Sculpture Park Vision, an exciting new chapter for Doolin Cave.
Our vision explores how art, nature and the unique Burren landscape can come together to create an experience that celebrates the natural and cultural heritage of this extraordinary part of County Clare.
The Sculpture Trail Vision Exhibition gave visitors an opportunity to discover our ideas for the future and learn more about the relationship between creativity, conservation and the surrounding landscape.
Our existing 1km looped eco-trail already offers visitors the opportunity to explore the countryside above the cave, discover local wildlife and enjoy the beauty of the Burren.
The Sculpture Park Vision builds on our commitment to protecting and sharing this special place while creating new opportunities for visitors to connect with art and nature.
We’re excited about what lies ahead and look forward to sharing more as the project develops.
A Few Familiar Faces Underground
September also brought a few unexpected visitors to Doolin Cave!
We were delighted to welcome Alan Clarke, who stopped for a photograph beside the magnificent Great Stalactite, as well as Donald Trump Jr. and his family, who also paid us a surprise visit.
From familiar faces to families and adventurers travelling from all corners of the world, it’s always a pleasure to share the wonder of Doolin Cave with our visitors.
Looking Ahead to Autumn at Doolin Cave
As September draws to a close, we’re looking forward to welcoming visitors throughout the autumn months.
It’s a wonderful time of year to explore the Burren, with changing colours, beautiful countryside and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Whether you’re planning a day trip to County Clare, visiting the nearby Cliffs of Moher or enjoying a few days away in Doolin, there’s plenty to see and do.
Join us for a guided tour beneath the Burren to experience the magnificent Great Stalactite, enjoy a walk along our 1km looped eco-trail and browse our Visitor Centre Craft Shop, where you’ll find our unique Doolin Cave Pottery alongside a selection of Irish-made gifts.
And why not make a break of it? Doolin Village offers fantastic local accommodation, delicious food in its welcoming pubs and award-winning restaurants, and traditional Irish music sessions seven nights a week.
Thank You for Being Part of Our Journey
Twenty years after opening our doors for the very first time, we’re still as passionate as ever about protecting the Great Stalactite and sharing the story of Doolin Cave with visitors from around the world.
September has been a wonderful reminder of just how special this place is. From celebrating with our local community and sharing our vision for the future to welcoming visitors old and new, it’s certainly been a month to remember.
We’re incredibly grateful to our small, dedicated team, our local community and everyone who has supported us throughout the past two decades.
Here’s to the next chapter beneath the Burren!
Planning your next adventure? Book your Doolin Cave tour and discover one of Ireland’s hidden natural wonders.
vance is advisable. Allow extra travel time and check official event transport arrangements closer to the date.
Visiting Doolin Cave
Book your tour in advance (visitor numbers are strictly limited for conservation).
Allow at least 2 hours to wander the eco-trail, explore the cave on a guided tour and savour local crafts.
Stay nearby in Doolin village for easy access to evening music sessions and fresh seafood.
Extend your stay to include coastal drives, hill walks and days out at other attactions in the Burren or a boat trip to the Cliffs of Moher and Aran Islands—all at a leisurely pace.
