Overview
Flying Alpaca Farm sits on the windswept Loop Head Peninsula, just outside the seaside town of Kilkee in County Clare. Run by Barbara and Michele (Mike), the farm blends Italian hospitality with Irish countryside charm. Visitors are welcomed into a working alpaca farm where the gentle, curious creatures roam free, and a range of activities let you feed, pet, and even lead an alpaca on a short trek. Whether you’re looking for a quick family‑friendly stop or a deeper dive into sustainable fibre production, the farm offers several curated experiences.
History & Background
The farm was founded by Barbara, a web‑designer from Milan, and Michele, an aviation enthusiast, who left their eight‑hour office lives to pursue a more grounded existence in the West Clare landscape. Their love of animals and sustainable farming led them to acquire a herd of Suri alpacas – the silky‑fleece variety – and to develop a visitor programme that showcases the animals’ personalities, their low‑impact grazing, and the traditional craft of wool‑making. Today the farm is part of Clare’s growing eco‑tourism network and contributes to the county’s Global Sustainable Tourism certification efforts.
What to See & Do
Alpaca Experiences
| Experience | Duration | Adult Price | Child Price (2 + years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meet & Greet | 30‑40 min | €10 | €5 (under 2 free) |
| Alpaca Walk | 1 hour | €20 | €15 (share lead, 8 + years) |
| Full Alpaca Experience | 1.5 hours | €28 | €15 |
| Alpaca “Lovers” Experience (private) | 1.5 hours | €105 (for two) | – |
The Full Alpaca Experience combines a guided walk, a talk on alpaca care, and a hands‑on wool‑making demonstration.
Soap‑Making Workshop
When the Atlantic wind turns brisk, the farm offers a cosy, chemical‑free soap‑making workshop. Participants learn to blend natural oils and alpaca‑wool fibres into a gentle, scented bar – a perfect souvenir for all ages.
Gift Shop & Café
After your adventure, browse the on‑site shop for handmade alpaca‑wool scarves, blankets and other crafts produced by local artisans. The café, available during the Full Alpaca Experience, serves tea, coffee, orange juice and homemade Italian‑style cakes.
Other Animals & Farm Life
Beyond the alpacas, visitors can meet the farm’s rescued chickens, two pygmy goats (Nutella and Oreo), and the ever‑friendly farm dog Yuki. The chickens, each with a playful name, roam free and are happy to be fed. The goats provide extra amusement for younger guests, while Yuki greets every arrival with a wag.
Sustainability & Eco‑tourism
Alpacas are low‑impact grazers; their padded feet cause minimal soil compaction, making them ideal for sustainable farming. Flying Alpaca Farm is a participant in County Clare’s EarthCheck‑certified tourism programme, highlighting its commitment to environmentally friendly practices and animal welfare.
Special Events & Private Hire
The farm hosts birthday parties, hen parties, and even small weddings. The exclusive “Alpaca Lovers” experience includes an alcohol‑free Prosecco toast, a handmade couple’s gift and romantic farm décor – ideal for anniversaries or proposals. All private events require advance booking and can accommodate groups up to six; larger parties can be arranged on request.
Scenic Setting
Beyond the animals, the farm is a gateway to Loop Head’s dramatic cliffs, the historic Loop Head Lighthouse and the nearby beaches of Kilkee. A short drive lets you explore the peninsula’s walking trails, bird‑watching spots and coastal vistas.
Nearby Attractions
If you have time, combine your visit with other Loop Head highlights:
- Black Head – lighthouse and cliff walk with sweeping sea views.
- Carrigaholt – a charming coastal village with a harbour, pubs and a historic castle.
- The Loop Head Lighthouse itself offers guided tours during summer months.
Practical Information
Flying Alpaca Farm is open year‑round; exact opening times vary with the season, so it’s advisable to confirm current hours on the official website. All experiences must be booked in advance, especially during the summer peak.
- Admission – Admission fees apply and are included in the experience prices listed above.
- Getting there – The farm is located just off the R487 road that loops around the peninsula. Free car parking is available on‑site, with limited free coach parking and paid coach parking nearby.
- Facilities – On‑site toilet facilities are provided (note: not fully accessible). Wi‑Fi is available inside the farmhouse for guests who wish to share their alpaca selfies.
- Accessibility – The farm is partially accessible; main paths are suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, but there are no wheelchair‑friendly toilets.
- Pet policy – Dogs are not permitted on the farm for safety and hygiene reasons.
- Group size – Experiences can accommodate groups of up to six people; larger parties should arrange a private tour.
- Contact – Phone: +353 838 357 180 • Email: info@flyingalpaca.com
- Booking – Reservations can be made directly via the website’s “Book Alpaca experience” page or through local tour operators that include the farm in Wild Atlantic Way itineraries.
Experience the soft hum of alpaca conversation, the scent of fresh wool, and the sweeping sea views of Loop Head – a uniquely Irish farm adventure that stays with you long after you leave.