A small and picturesque village in north Clare, Lisdoonvarna is internationally famous not just for one attraction, but several. Its most popular claim to fame is the month-long Matchmaking Festival, which takes place every September. The 150-year-old festival began as a means of introducing lonely hearts from scattered farming communities. Today, the guarantee of music, singing and dancing, and the possibility of a little romance, attract more than 40,000 singles from all over Europe to Lisdoonvarna. Culinary experts also arrive en masse in the village for the esteemed World Cup Barbecue Championship. There are many other noteworthy events to be enjoyed in these parts, including the three-day Lisdoonvarna Horse Racing Festival and the Marching Bands Festival Weekend. But before all of these festivities came into being, Lisdoonvarna was already celebrated as a spa town. Its Victorian Spa Complex and Health Centre, the only one of its kind in Ireland, offers health-giving treats such as sulphur baths. The village itself, with its olde worlde charm, historic buildings and ancient sites, has some fascinating attractions, from the unique Spectacle Bridge spanning the Aille river gorge to the Burren Smokehouse Visitor Centre, where staff demonstrate the traditional method of smoking salmon and other locally caught fish.
Places to Stay near Lisdoonvarna
Warpool Court Hotel (189.21 miles)
TYF Eco Hotel (189.63 miles)
Attached to a converted 19th century windmill in rural St. David's, this homely and environmentally conscious hotel is an ideal base for a range of outdoor activities. Situated just off a ... More
Felindre Cottages (190.61 miles)
It is just five minutes walk through the fields to the Coastal Path and the picturesque fishing ... More | visit website
Blackthorn Farm (192.12 miles)
Blackthorn farm is located in an area of outstanding natural beauty, and most rooms have fantastic views. We are minutes from the ferry terminal in Holyhead for sailings to Ireland. ... More
Quality Cottages (192.38 miles)
Boathouse Hotel (192.66 miles)
Just 4 minutes from Holyhead's ferry port and with fabulous views overlooking the marina, the Boathouse Hotel offers en suite accommodation, fresh food, a bar and free parking. On the edge of ... More
Witchingham B&B (193.10 miles)
Holyhead Lodge (193.16 miles)
Wavecrest (193.22 miles)
Ideally located 100 yards from the beach yet just only 3 minutes from the ferry/rail terminal and 2 minutes walk into the town centre for pubs and eating places. All rooms at ... More
Travelodge Holyhead (193.28 miles)
There are loads of reasons our customers choose to stay at Travelodge. Our great value clean and comfortable rooms with en-suite provide everything needed for a good night's sleep and are close to where people ... More | visit website
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