Overview
The Lough Avalla Farm Loop is a 5.2 km (3.2 mile) moderate circuit that starts and finishes at a lay-by on Gortlecka Crossroads, just outside Corofin and within Burren National Park. Designed as a working-farm trail rather than a manicured park path, it takes most walkers between two and two and a half hours to complete. With a total ascent of 140 metres, the route rewards effort with sweeping views of Mullaghmore (180 m), the Slieve Bernagh hills and the Slieve Felim range. The trail is clearly waymarked with purple arrows and standing-stone slabs, making navigation straightforward even when the landscape opens up.
The Route & Landscape
The loop moves through a carefully curated sequence of Burren habitats. You begin on sandy farm tracks and a short stretch of green road shared with the Burren Way, before descending into dense hazel woodland. Hand-built hazel gates and stiles mark the transitions between fields, and a neat stack of hand-cut hazel walking sticks sits at the trailhead for anyone who needs extra stability on the steeper or wetter sections.
Key features along the path include:
- Holy well: Tucked inside the hazel wood, this stone-lined well is accompanied by two glass mugs hanging from a branch. Local folklore claims the water can cure diabetes if drunk on-site over six consecutive days.
- Standing stones & mass rock: Scattered across the limestone pavement, these monuments mark ancient ritual sites and clandestine Catholic worship locations.
- Stone cairn: The highest point of the loop, offering panoramic views across the karst landscape and down toward Lough Gealain.
- Limestone cliffs & pavement: A short stretch of high natural ‘cliffs’ and open grike systems showcase the region’s 350-million-year-old geology.
- Lough Avalla shoreline: The trail skirts the calm lake, where you’ll likely spot the farm’s goats and grazing cattle.
History & The Farm
The loop was created in 2011 by Dutch-born organic farmer Harry Jeuken, who moved to Ireland in the 1970s and settled in the Burren with his wife, Maria. Together they run a certified biodynamic farm that continues the ancient Burren winterage system. This traditional form of transhumance involves moving their herd of white-belted Galloway cattle, along with goats and sheep, to upland grazing pastures during the winter months. The practice is essential for maintaining the fragile limestone flora that defines the geopark, preventing scrub from overgrowing rare wildflowers like spring gentian and rock rose.
By opening a waymarked route across his active land, Harry offers visitors a rare, respectful window into traditional Burren agriculture. The trail avoids sensitive nesting and grazing zones while still delivering an authentic sense of place.
The Tea House & Finishing the Walk
At the final stretch, the path leads to the Jeukens’ homestead and a modest, welcoming tea house. There are no fixed prices or menus; visitors are offered tea, coffee, and homemade baked goods – most famously the apple tart with fresh cream, alongside occasional brownies or scones. A donation jar sits on the counter, with €5–€10 per person being the typical contribution. Harry often greets walkers, shares stories about the farm’s history, and is happy to show visitors his kitchen garden and fig tree. It is a genuine highlight of the experience and a fitting end to the hike.
Tips for Walkers
- Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with reliable grip are essential. The limestone pavement becomes extremely slippery after rain.
- Walking sticks: Borrow a hazel stick at the start if needed, and return it to the stack at the tea house or trailhead.
- Weather preparedness: The Burren is highly exposed. Bring a waterproof jacket and layers, even in summer.
- Dog policy: Dogs are strictly not allowed on the trail to protect livestock and preserve the delicate limestone habitat.
- Facilities: There are no public toilets or refreshment stops on the route. Plan accordingly.
- Pacing: Take your time on the ascent to the cairn and allow extra time for photos at the holy well and lake.
Getting There & Nearby
The trailhead is a 20-minute drive from Ennis and roughly 30 minutes from the Cliffs of Moher. From Ennis or Corofin, follow the R480 toward Kilnaboy, then turn onto the L1112 and drive for approximately 5 km to the Gortlecka Crossroads lay-by. Free parking is available directly at the start point.
If you have extra time in the area, consider pairing the loop with these nearby highlights:
- Poulnabrone Dolmen: One of Ireland’s most iconic and photographed portal tombs, located just a 10-minute drive north along the R480.
- Corofin: A charming village that serves as the southern gateway to the Burren, offering traditional pubs and the Clare Heritage Centre.
- Burren Way: The long-distance trail that shares a green-road section with this loop; ideal for multi-day hikers.
Trail quick reference
- Length: 5.2 km
- Time: 2–2.5 hours
- Grade: Moderate
- Ascent: 140 m
- Waymarking: Purple arrows & standing-stone slabs
- Dogs: Not permitted
- Admission: Free (donations welcome at tea house)
Start early to avoid afternoon cloud cover, borrow a hazel stick if the ground looks damp, and plan to linger for tea at the homestead. The combination of active farming, ancient stone markers and open limestone views makes this one of the most authentic walking experiences in County Clare.