Nestled on the edge of the Burren in beautiful North Clare, a historic market town boasts vibrant, colourful shop fronts and enchanting cascading waterfalls, yet it remains undiscovered by tourists who often pass it by.
County Clare is brimming with natural attractions and charming villages, with many tourists placing the Cliffs of Moher and The Burren National Park high on their Irish bucket list. But little do they know that just a short distance from these world-famous destinations lies the quintessential Irish town of Ennistymon. This beautiful place perfectly captures the true essence of rural Irish life, yet remains one of the least visited towns in the country.
Defined by its churning waters that plummet over rocky ledges, cascading right through the heart of town, Ennistymon appears almost too good to be true. Add colourful shops and quaint Irish streets to the mix, and you have the ingredients of a postcard-perfect Irish town – without the busy streets and tour buses.
Compared to some other towns throughout Ireland, Ennistymon has retained a real sense of everyday life, which has to be experienced to be appreciated.
Ennistymon, the prettiest Irish town without the crowds – Enjoy authenticity, beauty and the soothing sound of cascading falls
As one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets, the historic market town of Ennistymon has retained its character and charm, adding to its already undeniable appeal. Small enough to explore on foot, yet captivating enough to keep you enthralled for days, this welcoming town has so much to see and do. So, why with so much going for it, do tourists continue to pass it by?
Eager to make their way to popular spots like the colourful village of Doolin or the lively surf of Lahinch, tourists often miss out on Ennistymon, which is not usually part of a whirlwind tour of Ireland. With that being said, the town’s anonymity has worked in its favour, and those who discover this beautiful town are greeted with a warm welcome, cosy pubs and quirky food spots.
The town is bursting with independent eateries that value local produce and food lovers are well catered for. In fact, “Ireland’s best toastie” can be found at The Cheese Press, right in the heart of Ennistymon – a succulent snack to enjoy down at the falls.
A creative hub with a strong community spirit – the town attracts those with a creative streak
If historic stone bridges, ancient buildings and character-filled shop fronts are not enough, Ennistymon has also gained a reputation as a cultural and creative hub. Creative minds will love the town’s selection of bookshops, galleries and craft stores, which set the tone for the welcoming atmosphere.
Known for hosting fairs and regular art exhibitions, it is no wonder artists, writers, and musicians have long gravitated towards Ennistymon. Of course, when tourists visit Ireland, many seek out traditional Irish pubs hosting live music, and there is no shortage of options; in fact, live music is a regular feature.
Here you can easily spend your days discovering local businesses, indulging in local home-cooked fare or taking endless photos of the falls from the bridge, while planning your adventures to the surrounding areas.
A fantastic gateway to Clare’s best attractions– a charming town makes a great base for exploring
Apart from being a pretty Irish town with a strong creative flair, one of Ennistymons’ greatest strengths is its prime location. With proximity to The Burren, Lahinch Beach and the Cliffs of Moher, Ennistymon makes a great base for onward adventures.
Spend a little longer here, and the rewards grow. Scenic coastal drives, rugged cliff hikes and boat trips to the majestic Aran Islands are all accessible from Ennistymon. The best part is that, after a day of exploring, Ennistymon acts as a quiet retreat in a more relaxed setting, where you can unwind and take a load off.
North Clare’s largest town on the banks of the River Cullenagh may be a beautiful place that tourists often miss out on, but it is for those who discover it, Ennistymon is not just a stopover but rather an authentic Irish highlight.
