Last summer, I had the most incredible week exploring Burren National Park and diving into all the amazing Burren walks it has to offer. I managed to go on every single hiking trail, and let me tell you, they are all stunning in their own unique way. But if I had to pick a favorite, it would hands down be the Purple trail, also known as the Lough Avalla Farm Loop.

This trail perfectly captures the wild beauty of Burren National Park, with its ever-changing landscapes and jaw-dropping views of Mullaghmore peak. It’s a hike that offers a taste of everything this magical place has to offer. In the guide below, I’ll share everything you need to know to prepare for the Lough Avalla Farm Loop Hike and make the most out of your Burren walks experience.

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Located in County Clare near the Wild Atlantic Way, Burren National Park is Ireland’s smallest national park, covering just 15 square kilometers, yet it offers an impressive variety of landscapes. From dramatic karst limestone landscapes to lush grasslands and serene hazel forests, this gem offers a unique glimpse into the natural beauty of the Burren. And the best part? It’s just a 40-minute drive from the iconic Cliffs of Moher, making it a perfect stop on your Ireland adventure.

The National park has six hiking trails ranging in length and difficulty, each showcasing different parts of this stunning park. From gentle strolls to more challenging climbs, there’s something for everyone. Check out my recent post about Burren National Park for a full guide of the park and details about each hike. Burren National Park is definitely not one to miss!

Burren National Park is free to visit and open year-round. However, I recommend going when the weather is clear. Some parts of the trail can get slippery in rain or icy conditions. The best time to visit is in late spring and summer when the weather is pleasant and the flowers are in full bloom.

The Lough Avalla Burren trail is newer, so it tends to be less crowded than the more popular routes, offering a peaceful experience.

Throughout Ireland, entry to all national parks is completely free, and Burren National Park is no exception. Not only is there no entry fee, but you also won’t have to pay for parking, making it entirely cost-free to immerse yourself in the beauty of this stunning park.

Travelling by Car

I would recommend travelling by car to visit Burren National Park, especially if you want to take your time in the park or make a few extra stops along the way. From Dublin, it’s about a 3-hour drive to the Burren National Park, depending on traffic, while from Galway, it’s only around 1.5 hours, and from Limerick, about an hour. If you’re staying in Ennis, it’s just a 25-minute drive, making it a convenient base for your visit.

For those visiting during the busy summer months (May to August), there’s a handy free shuttle bus that runs from the Burren National Park Information Point in Corofin to the main trailhead every half hour, from 9:30 am to 5 pm. This is especially useful since parking in the park can be limited, or if you’re driving a larger vehicle and might have trouble navigating the narrow, uneven roads. The shuttle makes your visit stress-free, leaving you to enjoy the stunning views without worrying about parking.

Travelling by Public Transportation

Unfortunately, there aren’t any public trains or buses that go directly to Burren National Park, and the closest you’ll get is Ennis. From Dublin, you can catch a train to Ennis, which takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes. Once you’re in Ennis, you’ll need to drive or take a local taxi to reach the park.

Navigating the trail is a breeze, with clear purple arrows—just like in the photo above—guiding you the entire way. At the start of the hike, you’ll find a detailed map. I always snap a photo of these maps just in case, but honestly, with the abundance of trail signs along this Burren walk, I didn’t end up needing it. 

On this hike you’ll encounter a mix of terrains: muddy woodlands, limestone slabs, rocky paths, and open fields. Be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots because the path can get pretty uneven in places. And don’t be surprised if you run into some friendly cows and sheep along the trail, it’s a working farm after all!

Along the way, you will also see lots of unique plants, including the tiny Burren orchids, which are absolutely lovely and one of my favorites. They’re such a treat to see, especially during their blooming season.

This is the map that you will find at the start of the hike. I would always recommend taking a map with you when you hike, regardless of the distance and difficulty. You never know when you’ll need a map!

The trailhead is about 1 kilometer from the main car park, and it’s a pleasant walk on a gravel road. If you have a higher vehicle capable of off-roading, you might be able to drive closer, but there is limited space for a car to park near the trailhead. I’d recommend parking in the main car park and enjoying the walk.

The trail is a big loop, so you can go in either direction. Personally, I recommend following the suggested route going clockwise, heading to the Holy Well first. This way, you can enjoy the charming tea house at the very end of your hike as a little reward. 

But if you are craving a cuppa before you start your journey, you can always go anticlockwise and visit the tea house first. Regardless of which direction you choose, don’t forget to grab a hand-carved walking stick!

As you make your way to the Holy Well, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful hazel trees. The area can get muddy when it rains, so be prepared. You’ll walk along a stream, and near the end of the wooded section, you’ll find a tree with cups hanging from it for those wishing to drink from the Holy Well.

In Ireland, drinking from a Holy Well is often part of an ancient custom where people tie a piece of cloth or string to a tree near the well. This is done as a symbol of prayer or a wish, and is believed to bring blessings or healing. It’s a lovely way to connect with the land and its spiritual traditions.

Continuing on, the trail leads you to a large karst limestone slab.This unique geological formation is one of the absolute highlights of the hike. The rugged limestone pavement, with its deep crevices and distinctive patterns, creates a dramatic and captivating scene. It’s the perfect place for unique photos. Each step across this ancient rock is a reminder of the incredible natural history that shaped the Burren.

The trail gently ascends, and you’ll find limestone playfully poking through the grass as you make your way uphill. Once you have made it to the summit, you are at the highest point of the hike. You will be rewarded with panoramic views of the majestic Mullaghmore Hill, standing proud against the skyline. If you’re visiting in spring or summer, keep your eyes peeled for the delicate tiny orchids and a tapestry of wildflowers dotting the landscape.

As you descend, the trail leads you into another serene woodland of hazel trees. Nestled within this tranquil grove lies the fascinating Alter Stone, a colossal limestone slab gracefully balanced atop another. This natural formation is a captivating relic from the last Ice Age, a silent storyteller of Earth’s ancient past. It’s a spot that invites contemplation. Just take a moment to imagine the forces of nature that shaped this landscape over millennia.

As you emerge from the woodland, the trail opens up to a lovely field where you will find some friendly cows grazing. A rope fence marks the path, guiding you safely through the pasture.

The path becomes a bit steeper and rockier as you descend toward Lough Avalla, so watch your footing and take your time. Lough Avalla is a peaceful lake that has a small little dock that extends over the water. It’s the perfect place to rest, reflect, and soak in the natural beauty surrounding you.

The absolute best part of this hike is the tea house at the end. It’s a little off the loop trail, but the extra distance is worth your time. The tea house is a small stone building with only about four tables. The tea house is run by a lovely man named Harry, who is the owner of the farm. He makes fresh tea, coffee and various treats every day. There’s no set menu or prices; instead, Harry graciously accepts donations if you’re able—a beautiful gesture of hospitality.

On my last visit, I had a warm cup of tea and a delicious brownie. It was the perfect reward after a long hike. But what makes this tea house special is Harry’s welcoming spirit and heartfelt conversations. It’s the perfect way to conclude your Burren walk—come for the tea, stay for the warmth that fills both your cup and your soul. Trust me, this is one experience you won’t want to miss!

If you only have time for one hike in Burren National Park, make it this one. I always recommend it for two reasons: the diverse landscape and the tea house. This hike gives you the best of Burren National Park—karst limestone pavements, stunning views of Mullaghmore Hill, tranquil wooded areas, a peaceful lake, and plenty of orchids and unique plants. After a rewarding hike, treat yourself to a cup of tea and a tasty treat. The warm hospitality and kindness of Harry are reason enough to visit. A perfect way to end any Burren Walks adventure!

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