Doolin Cave
Explore Europe's longest free-hanging stalactite in Doolin Cave, a stunning natural wonder near the Cliffs of Moher.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Doolin Cave
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Europe's longest free-hanging stalactite in Doolin Cave, a stunning natural wonder near the Cliffs of Moher.
"The Great Stalactite is magnificent; a must-see wonder in Ireland!"
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be navigating stairs, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must.
📅 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot and avoid disappointment by booking your guided tour in advance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Stalactite
Main Cavern
Marvel at Europe's longest free-hanging stalactite, a 7.3-meter natural wonder formed over millennia.
+2Cave Exploration
Underground Passages
Journey through a system of passages leading to a majestic, cathedral-like dome.
Grounds and Animals
Above Ground
Enjoy the well-maintained grounds, and don't miss the friendly donkeys and pygmy goats!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Stairs and Helmets Required
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be navigating stairs, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must.
📅 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot and avoid disappointment by booking your guided tour in advance.
🐐 Meet the Goats!
The grounds feature donkeys and pygmy goats; feel free to feed them carrots!
🗺️ Near Cliffs of Moher
Doolin Cave is just a short drive from the iconic Cliffs of Moher, perfect for a combined visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be navigating stairs, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must.
📅 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot and avoid disappointment by booking your guided tour in advance.
🐐 Meet the Goats!
The grounds feature donkeys and pygmy goats; feel free to feed them carrots!
🗺️ Near Cliffs of Moher
Doolin Cave is just a short drive from the iconic Cliffs of Moher, perfect for a combined visit.
🎶 Doolin's Music Scene
Doolin is famous for traditional Irish music; catch a pub session after your cave visit. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Doolin Cave for its magnificent Great Stalactite, a truly awe-inspiring natural wonder. The guided tours are informative and engaging, and the surrounding grounds with friendly animals add to the charm. Some find the ticket price a bit high for the relatively short tour, and the stair climbing requires a moderate level of fitness.
"We went there as walk ins and got onto the next tour even though online it showed there were no slots? Booking in advance is probably still better if you are planning to visit during main season (we were here off season). Our group was pretty small and the one after us were only 2 people. Our guide was entertaining and considerate, checking if everyone saw everything and understood everything volumewise. He also made sure everyone got photos and even took our pictures."
jn04h
"We visited at noon on a Monday with tickets we purchased online weeks ago. We were the first to arrive for our tour at 11:45, with about 10 of us in total at noon. The tour itself is very short in distance, going down 100 some steps and then back up the same way, but the stalactite inside is magnificent. I've been to cabes across the USA and seen many amazing things, and I was still in awe at how large it was. Definitely worth a quick stop if you're in the area and a fan of caves!"
Alex Bennett
"This is a must see if you're in the area. You have to do a guided tour, which runs frequently. We did not have to reserve ahead of time when we went. Learning about the story of the explorers that first discovered it was fascinating. And the Cave itself was really breathtaking. The property around it is also very pretty and well maintained. We had some soup in the Cafe and there is free wifi. The guide was great and very knowledgeable and made sure everyone had a safe experience."
Raymond R.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Doolin Cave is located in County Clare, on the west coast of Ireland, near the village of Doolin. It's easily accessible by car and is a short drive from the Cliffs of Moher. Many visitors combine a trip to the cave with exploring the Burren and the Aran Islands.
Yes, Doolin Cave is situated along the scenic Wild Atlantic Way, making it a convenient stop for those driving this famous coastal route.
Absolutely! Doolin Cave is an excellent addition to a day trip exploring the County Clare region, especially if you're visiting the Cliffs of Moher. +1
There is ample parking available at Doolin Cave, making it easy for visitors arriving by car.
While public transport options to Doolin exist, it's generally more convenient to reach Doolin Cave by car or as part of an organized tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your guided tour tickets online in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee your entry and preferred time slot.
Ticket prices can vary, and it's best to check the official Doolin Cave website for the most up-to-date pricing information. Some visitors have noted it can be 'exorbitantly expensive' if they haven't planned ahead.
There are no strict age restrictions, but visitors must be able to descend and ascend approximately 100-120 steps. Helmets are required for all participants.
The guided tours at Doolin Cave typically last around 45-50 minutes, offering a comprehensive experience of the cave and its formations.
No, entry to Doolin Cave is by guided tour only. This ensures a safe and informative experience for all visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for climbing stairs. A light jacket might be advisable as caves can be cooler. Helmets are provided and required.
Yes, children often enjoy Doolin Cave, especially if they are able to manage the stairs. Some compare it favorably to Aillwee Cave for younger visitors.
The temperature inside Doolin Cave remains relatively constant year-round, typically cool. It's advisable to wear layers.
Yes, Doolin Cave has a cafe where you can get refreshments like soup and enjoy free Wi-Fi, as well as a gift shop.
Photography is generally permitted inside Doolin Cave, but it's always best to check with your guide on the day of your visit for any specific restrictions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Doolin Cave has a cafe on-site where you can purchase refreshments, including soup, and enjoy free Wi-Fi.
Doolin village is known for its excellent pubs and restaurants, offering traditional Irish cuisine and a lively atmosphere.
While there's a cafe, it's generally best to consume your own food outside the main visitor areas. Check with staff for specific policies.
Information on specific dietary options at the cafe is not widely available, but it's worth inquiring upon arrival.
Dining in Doolin can range from casual pub fare to more formal meals. Expect prices to be typical for tourist areas in Ireland.
📸 📸 Photography
The main highlight is the Great Stalactite, offering dramatic shots. The cave's cathedral-like dome and the surrounding grounds with animals also provide great photo ops. +1
Photography is generally allowed inside Doolin Cave, but always confirm with your guide. Be mindful of other visitors and the cave environment.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial. A wide-angle lens can help capture the scale of the cave and the stalactite.
While generally permitted, avoid using flash photography that could disturb the cave environment or other visitors.
The cave's lighting is managed for tours, so any time of day for a guided tour will offer similar photographic conditions. The grounds are lovely in natural light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The Great Stalactite is a definite 'wow' factor for all ages. Some parents suggest that Aillwee Cave might be slightly more engaging for younger children due to its size and additional attractions like the bird sanctuary, but Doolin Cave is still a worthwhile visit. 🚶 Budget Travelers
+1 Consider combining your visit with other free or low-cost activities in the Doolin area, such as exploring the village, enjoying the traditional music in pubs (often free entry), or taking scenic walks along the coast. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2 The cave's natural lighting, combined with the impressive scale of the formations, can yield stunning shots. Remember to check with your guide about flash photography rules, as it's often discouraged to protect the cave environment. A wide-angle lens will be beneficial for capturing the vastness of the cave and the stalactite. The grounds also provide lovely photo opportunities, especially with the animals. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Great Stalactite: A Geological Marvel
+3 This magnificent structure has been slowly formed over thousands of years, with mineral-rich water dripping drop by drop from the cave ceiling, depositing calcite. The sheer scale and delicate beauty of the Great Stalactite are what draw visitors from around the globe, leaving them in stunned silence. +1During the guided tour, your knowledgeable guide will explain the geological processes behind its formation and share the fascinating story of its discovery in 1952 by local explorers.
+1It's important to remember that this is a living geological feature, and it continues to grow, albeit very slowly. The conservation efforts ensure that this natural marvel can be appreciated by future generations. The guided tour ensures that visitors understand the significance of the stalactite and how to best preserve its integrity.
Doolin: More Than Just a Cave
Doolin also serves as a crucial gateway to other major attractions. It's a prime departure point for boat tours to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher from sea level, offering a unique perspective of these iconic natural wonders.
The surrounding area is also known for its stunning natural beauty, with opportunities for scenic drives along the Wild Atlantic Way. Visitors can enjoy beautiful sunsets, explore charming local shops, and experience the warm hospitality that County Clare is renowned for.
+1Navigating Doolin Cave: Practicalities for Visitors
+1 For this reason, it's essential to wear comfortable, sturdy footwear that provides good grip. Helmets are mandatory for everyone entering the cave to ensure safety, and these are provided as part of the guided tour. The cave environment is cool and damp, so dressing in layers is advisable, even during warmer months. While the tour is not excessively long, the stair climbing means it's best suited for those who are comfortable with moderate physical activity.
The guided nature of the tour ensures that visitors are kept safe and informed about the cave's geology and history. Beyond the cave itself, the grounds offer a pleasant experience. Visitors can enjoy the well-kept surroundings and interact with the resident donkeys and pygmy goats, which many find to be a delightful bonus to their visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit