East Clare Way – A Circular Long‑Distance Trail in County Clare

Overview

The East Clare Way is a National Waymarked Trail that forms a 168.8 km (often rounded to 170 km) loop around the eastern side of County Clare. It begins and ends at the car‑park “Between the Waters” in Killaloe (grid reference R 70393 73003, 52.80739 N, ‑8.43979 W) and can be comfortably completed in eight days, with daily stages ranging from 20 km to 30 km. The trail is marked with a blue arrow on a white background (Sport Ireland) and also appears on some signs as a yellow arrow on black (Discover Ireland). Participation is free, parking is free at all trailheads, and the route is open year‑round.

The trail weaves through a patchwork of quiet tarmac roads, forestry tracks, bog roads, open ground and field paths. About 53 % of the route follows local roads, some of which carry fast traffic, while the remaining sections offer true off‑road walking. Sections at Sellernaun, Mountshannon and Derrainey are currently blocked after Storm Eowyn, so walkers should check the latest status before setting out.

History & Background

Designated as a National Waymarked Trail by the Irish Sports Council, the East Clare Way is managed by East & Mid Clare Way Limited and the East Clare Way Committee, with day‑to‑day support from Clare Walks (info@clarewalks.ie). The route was created to showcase the lesser‑known eastern side of Clare – a landscape of limestone hills, sparkling lakes and a rich tapestry of early Christian and medieval heritage.

The trail passes close to sites linked with Brian Boru, the 11th‑century High King of Ireland, whose stronghold once overlooked Killaloe. In Tuamgraney, the 10th‑century St Cronan’s Church – still in continuous use – bears a direct connection to Boru. Along the way walkers encounter ancient dolmens, holy wells and the ruins of St Flannan’s Cathedral (11th century) in Killaloe, as well as the monastic island of Inis Cealtra, reachable by boat from Mountshannon.

What to See & Do

Villages and Towns

The loop touches nine trailheads: Killaloe, Broadford, O’Callaghan’s Mills, Tulla, Feakle, Flagmount, Whitegate, Mountshannon and Scarriff. Each settlement offers a blend of traditional pubs, cafés and B&Bs, making it easy to break the walk into manageable stages. Killaloe, a heritage town on the River Shannon, boasts the historic bridge, Brian Boru’s fort and a lively music scene.

Lakes and Mountains

The route skirts Lough Graney, circles it, then climbs the rugged boglands of the Slieve Aughty Mountains before descending towards the mighty Lough Derg. The Slieve Bernagh range provides sweeping panoramas, while the highest point on the walk, Cragnamurragh (≈ 1 730 ft), offers a rewarding view over the lakelands.

Wildlife

Nature‑loving walkers may spot the rare hen harrier and the swift merlin soaring over the open moorland. Herds of Sika deer roam the forested sections, and the varied habitats support a wealth of wildflowers, especially on the bog tracks.

Heritage Highlights

• St Flannan’s Cathedral (Killaloe) – 11th‑century stone church with a striking bell‑tower.
• St Cronan’s 10th Century Church (Tuamgraney) – Ireland’s oldest church in continuous use.
• Dolmens and Holy Wells – scattered across the route, offering quiet moments of reflection.
• Bohatch Dolmen – a striking megalithic portal near Mountshannon, perfect for sunrise photography.
• Inis Cealtra (Holy Island) – accessible by boat from Mountshannon; a monastic complex with a round tower, churches and ancient graves.

Outdoor Activities

Beyond walking, the surrounding lakes provide opportunities for kayaking, canoeing and fishing. Lough Derg’s blue‑flag beaches at Ballycuggaran (near Killaloe) and Mountshannon are popular for swimming and picnicking.

Seasonal Considerations & Trail Updates

The East Clare Way is open year‑round, but weather can affect conditions, especially on bog sections which become very wet after rain. Early spring may bring higher water levels on the lakes, while autumn offers vibrant foliage on the forest tracks. Always check the latest trail status on the Sport Ireland page before setting out, as sections at Sellernaun, Mountshannon and Derrainey have been closed intermittently following Storm Eowyn.

Tips for Walkers

• Dog policy – Dogs are not permitted on any section of the trail.
• Footwear – Sturdy, waterproof walking boots are essential for boggy and uneven terrain.
• Navigation – Carry a printed map or download the GPX file; waymarks can be sparse on some forest tracks.
• Supplies – Stock up on food and water in the villages; services are limited on the more remote sections.
• Safety – Inform someone of your planned stages and expected arrival times, especially if tackling the more isolated bog sections.

Practical Information

Getting There

The trailhead is a short walk from Killaloe railway station (Shannon‑Limerick line) and is served by Bus Éireann and Local Link (route C2 Scarriff – Killaloe). For those driving, the M18 provides easy access to Killaloe, and Shannon Airport is about 30 km north.

Maps & Navigation

Digital and printable maps are available from Sport Ireland:

• Map 1 – Killaloe to Broadford
• Map 2 – Broadford to O’Callaghan’s Mills
• … (maps 3‑8 continue the loop) A GPX file for GPS devices can be downloaded here: East Clare Way GPX.

Accommodation & Services

Each of the nine villages offers a range of B&Bs, guesthouses and small hotels. Grocery shops, cafés, pubs and restaurants are located near most trailheads, ensuring supplies are within easy reach. Free car parking is provided at every official trailhead; some sites also have coach parking.

Rules & Safety

• Dogs: Not permitted on the trail (as stated by Sport Ireland and Clare County Council).
• Road sections: Approximately 53 % of the route follows local roads; walkers should be aware of traffic, especially on the busier stretches near Killaloe and Scarriff.
• Weather: Bog sections can become very wet and muddy after rain.
• Blocked sections: Check the latest updates on the Sport Ireland page for any closures at Sellernaun, Mountshannon or Derrainey.

Contact

For detailed enquiries, the trail is overseen by Clare Walks:

• Email: info@clarewalks.ie
• Website: www.clarewalks.ie

Nearby Attractions

If you have extra time, consider a short detour to some of County Clare’s other highlights:

• Bunratty Castle – a fully restored medieval fortress with a folk park (Bunratty).
• Cliffs of Moher – dramatic sea cliffs with visitor centre and walking trails (Cliffs of Moher).
• Burren Way – a long‑distance trail that traverses the unique limestone landscape of the Burren (Burren Way).
• Clare Museum in Ennis for a deeper dive into the county’s history (Clare Museum).

The East Clare Way offers a rewarding blend of wilderness, water‑side serenity and centuries‑old history – a perfect choice for walkers who want to experience a less‑trodden side of Ireland’s famed western landscape.