Aillwee Cave County Clare
Explore ancient caves and witness majestic birds of prey in the heart of Ireland's stunning Burren.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more cave time
Aillwee Cave County Clare
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more cave time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient caves and witness majestic birds of prey in the heart of Ireland's stunning Burren.
"A fantastic experience with both the cave and birds of prey – highly recommended!"
🎟️ Combo Ticket Value
The ticket price includes both the cave tour and the Birds of Prey show – great value!
🦉 Bird Show Seating
Arrive early for the best seats at the Birds of Prey flight demonstrations.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Aillwee Cave Tour
Inside the cave system
Explore an ancient underground river and waterfall within a stunning karst landscape.
Birds of Prey Centre
Birds of Prey Centre
Witness majestic eagles, falcons, and owls in captivating flight demonstrations.
Hawk Walk Experience
Woodland walk area
An unforgettable opportunity to handle and fly hawks with expert falconers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Combine Cave & Birds of Prey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Combo Ticket Value
The ticket price includes both the cave tour and the Birds of Prey show – great value!
🦉 Bird Show Seating
Arrive early for the best seats at the Birds of Prey flight demonstrations.
🚶♀️ Cave Pace
Tours can feel quick due to crowds; visit off-season for more personal cave exploration.
📸 Stunning Views
Don't miss the panoramic views of Galway Bay from the upper parking lot.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combo Ticket Value
The ticket price includes both the cave tour and the Birds of Prey show – great value!
🦉 Bird Show Seating
Arrive early for the best seats at the Birds of Prey flight demonstrations.
🚶♀️ Cave Pace
Tours can feel quick due to crowds; visit off-season for more personal cave exploration.
📸 Stunning Views
Don't miss the panoramic views of Galway Bay from the upper parking lot.
🦅 Hawk Walk Magic
The hawk walk is a highlight; book in advance for an incredible animal encounter.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Aillwee Cave for its dual attractions: the impressive cave system and the captivating Birds of Prey Centre. The knowledgeable and humorous guides, along with the unique Hawk Walk experience, are frequently highlighted as memorable aspects. While some find the cave tours a bit brief during peak times, the overall value and engaging nature of both the cave and bird shows make it a highly recommended stop in County Clare.
"This place was not on our list to visit, but due to the weather we decided to check it out. I am so glad we did!! We thought it was just a cave experience, but there is a birds of prey experience and also a great cheese shop here with their homemade goudas. Wow! We loved everything! The cheeses were amazing. The cave is supreme! The birds are so beautiful and great flyers. Having the birds swoop and dive 2 inches from your face is a bit startling but so fascinating! This place is worth the visit even if not on your route. The drive there is also pretty amazing!"
Don Berdan
"Fantastic experience. For the ticket price, you get to visit both the cave and the birds of prey centre. The cave is very accessible and not difficult to navigate. There are some wondrous sights inside and the tour guide was both very knowledgeable and had a great sense of humour. The birds of prey centre has a nice range of species to see and the flight shows are excellent. There are a number across the day each displaying a different set of birds. Highly recommended for a visit, the kids absolutely loved it."
Andrew Compton
"This is a fantastic experience, we did the caves first, and our tour guide Sinead was fantastic, giving us a detailed history of the cave system with a humorous approach, and took the time to point out the most beautiful features there. We then grabbed some lunch at the little cafe and did a bit of shopping in both gift shop & Farm shop, before heading down to see the bird show. The team there were fantastic, again delivering information with humour and interest, and even letting a few people hold the birds. The team did well even when the snowy owl refused to take part fully! For 27 euro per adult, I think was really good with the level of activity, service & for a unique experience!"
Lewis Godfray
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Aillwee Cave is located in County Clare, about an hour's drive from Galway City. You can drive yourself, rent a car, or consider a taxi service for a more relaxed journey.
Public transport options to Aillwee Cave are limited. While buses run to nearby Ballyvaughan, you may need to arrange a local taxi or consider a guided tour that includes transport.
From Dublin, the drive to Aillwee Cave is approximately 3 hours. You can take the M4/M6 towards Galway and then follow signs for the Burren region. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility.
Yes, Aillwee Cave offers parking facilities for visitors. There's an upper parking lot that also provides spectacular views of Galway Bay.
Yes, you can arrange for a taxi to Aillwee Cave, especially if you are staying in nearby towns like Ballyvaughan or Kinvara. It's advisable to book in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices typically cover both the cave tour and the Birds of Prey Centre. Check the official Aillwee Cave website for current pricing and any special offers.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or for specific shows, to guarantee your entry and preferred time slots.
A standard ticket usually includes a guided tour of Aillwee Cave and access to the Birds of Prey Centre, including their flight demonstrations.
Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or family packages. It's best to check the Aillwee Cave website or inquire directly about any available concessions.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's essential to check the official Aillwee Cave website for the most up-to-date information on operating times before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Yes, the Aillwee Cave tour is generally suitable for children, with guides often making it engaging and informative. The Birds of Prey shows are also a big hit with younger visitors.
The guided tour of Aillwee Cave typically lasts around 30-40 minutes. Some visitors wish for more time to explore, especially during busy periods.
The Birds of Prey show features impressive flight demonstrations by eagles, falcons, and owls, led by knowledgeable and entertaining falconers.
Yes, the Hawk Walk experience allows you to handle and fly hawks. The Birds of Prey Centre also offers opportunities to learn more about the birds.
The cave tour is generally accessible, with well-maintained paths. However, some areas might have uneven surfaces. The Birds of Prey Centre is also largely accessible.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Aillwee Cave has a farm shop that offers artisan products, including cheese and fudge. There may also be light refreshments available.
While there might not be designated picnic areas, you can typically bring your own snacks. However, purchasing from the farm shop supports the attraction.
The farm shop often features local produce, including Aillwee's own cheese and fudge, as well as other artisan Irish products.
Yes, the nearby village of Ballyvaughan offers several pubs and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal after your visit.
While Aillwee Cave focuses on its farm shop and artisan products, you can enjoy snacks and treats there. For a full meal, nearby Ballyvaughan is your best bet.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside Aillwee Cave, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the cave formations. Always check with your guide.
The cave's underground river and waterfall are dramatic photo opportunities. Outside, the views of Galway Bay from the upper parking lot are spectacular.
Yes, you can take photos during the Birds of Prey show, but be mindful of not obstructing other visitors' views or using flash that might startle the birds.
Drone usage is typically restricted at tourist attractions to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the cave's expanse. For the bird show, a telephoto lens can be beneficial. A tripod might be useful in low-light cave conditions, but check if allowed.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For an extra special experience, consider the Hawk Walk, which offers a hands-on encounter with trained hawks. It's an unforgettable adventure for kids (and adults!). The farm shop with its local treats like fudge is also a nice touch for families.
🌿 Nature & Animal Enthusiasts
The cave itself is a natural wonder, showcasing the geological formations of the Burren. The surrounding landscape also offers beautiful views and a chance to appreciate the unique ecosystem of this region.
📸 Photographers
Outside, the panoramic views of Galway Bay from the upper parking lot are stunning, especially during golden hour. The Birds of Prey shows also provide dynamic subjects for action photography, though be mindful of lighting and potential restrictions on flash.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Aillwee Cave System
The cave is well-equipped for visitors, with paved walkways and good lighting, making it accessible. However, some visitors have noted that the tours can feel a bit rushed, especially during peak tourist seasons, leading to a desire for more personal exploration time. Visiting during the shoulder seasons, like October or November, is suggested for a more leisurely experience.
Key formations to look out for include various speleothems that have formed over thousands of years. The natural beauty and geological significance of the cave make it a must-see attraction in the Burren region.
The Thrill of the Birds of Prey Centre
The shows are designed to be educational and captivating, explaining the natural behaviors and ecological importance of each species. Visitors often praise the quality of the demonstrations, noting that they are far from 'cheesy' and genuinely interesting.
Beyond the shows, Aillwee also offers a unique Hawk Walk experience. This immersive activity allows participants to get up close with trained hawks, handle them on a glove, and even fly them in a woodland setting. It's described as an unforgettable experience, well worth the investment for animal lovers.
The Burren Landscape and Views
The Burren itself is a fascinating region with a rich history and diverse flora. While Aillwee Cave focuses on its attractions, the surrounding landscape provides a stunning backdrop and adds to the overall visitor experience. The terraced mountainside location offers a sense of elevation and expansive vistas.
For those interested in photography, the combination of the cave's natural wonders and the sweeping coastal views provides ample opportunities to capture memorable images. The drive through the Burren to reach Aillwee Cave is also scenic, offering glimpses of this distinctive Irish environment.
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