Gardens and Wildflowers of the Burren3rd Jun 2025
From:£1,595
Summary
The Burren, from the Irish bhoireann - a stony place - lies in the northwestern corner of Co. Clare. Over 300 square kilometres in extent, it is the largest area of karstic limestone in western Europe. At first glance it presents a bleak appearance, but closer examination reveals the beautiful diversity of flora for which the whole region has become justly famous. The colourful exuberance and profusion of the wild flowers is simply captivating and, subject to the prevailing conditions, we can expect to see many interesting different species.
We begin with visits to a local private garden at Knockpatrick, which contains many unusual varieties of magnolias, azaleas and rhododendrons.
Next we visit the tiny island of Inis Oírr, whose geological features, coastal setting and traditional agricultural practices contribute to the richness of its flora and fauna, and cruise by the Cliffs of Moher, perhaps Ireland’s most dramatically impressive natural attraction. This is followed by a private garden at Caher Bridge, a wonderfully varied plantsman’s limestone garden in the true “cottage” style, and an award-winning artist and designer’s garden near Lisdoonvarna.
We then have a full day exploring The Burren in the company of a local expert guide, when we can expect to see a good selection of plants typical of the area, with ‘textbook’ examples of pavement,
flower-rich grasslands and associated limestone features such as disappearing lakes.
We conclude at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, set in 26 acres of unspoilt Co. Clare countryside.
What to Expect
- Privately-owned gardens giving an insight to gardening in this corner of Ireland
- Masses of wildflowers of great variety
- Unique landscapes of The Burren
- Dramatic vistas from the Atlantic of the Cliffs of Moher
- Poulnabrone Dolmen, an impressive megalith
Departure Routes
| Location | Pickup Time | Dropoff Time |
|---|---|---|
| London Gatwick Airport | 00:00 | 00:00 |
| Shannon Airport | 00:00 | 00:00 |
** Please note that all timings are approximate and subject to change. Final timings and pick-up points will be confirmed with your joining instructions approximately 10 days prior to departure. **
Day by Day Itinerary
Knockpatrick Garden and travel by ferry to hotel
We depart from London on a flight to Shannon Airport (other airports available on request at a supplement) where on arrival we are met by our coach and tour manager and transfer to Knockpatrick, a garden of nearly three acres overlooking the Shannon estuary. Helen and Tim O’Brien are the fourth generation of the family to tend this 1930s garden with dedication and enthusiasm. The garden is endowed with running water and nourishment from the family farm. It featured in the April 2008 “The Irish Garden” magazine and contains many unusual varieties of magnolias, azaleas and rhododendrons. Other plants of note are calicanthus, clianthus, drymis, echium and dicksonia.
Following our visit we cross the Shannon by the Tarbert to Killimer ferry and continue to the Old Ground Hotel, Ennis, Co. Clare. Formerly an eighteenth-century manor house, it blends the warmth of a country home with the style and comfort of a modern hotel. All rooms are en-suite with TV, telephone, hair dryer and hospitality tray.
Meals includedDinner
