The Black Head Loop, Co Clare

Hike: The Black Head Loop, Co Clare. The Burren is renowned for its unique geology, and the bare, terraced hills around Black Head are classic examples of the region. This circuit provides great coastal views, and close encounters with the 340 million-year-old limestone pavement. You follow purple arrows throughout, and join the Burren Way for a stretch too. Begin by heading north along the R477 for 1km, then turn right onto an old green road. Pass around Black Head, then climb over Gleninagh Pass on mountain paths. A series of tracks and trails bring you to a tarmac road in the Caher Valley, where you turn right and descend back to the R477. Now turn left to return to Fanore Beach car park 700m later.

Start and Finish at: Fanore Beach Car Park.

Get there: Fanore is located along the R477 coast road between Doolin and Ballyvaughan.

Level: Moderate — signed paths, tracks and laneways with 350m ascent.

Length / Time: 15km / 4-5 hours.

Pack: A pocket wildflower guide for identifying the unique flora, and a map downloaded from irishtrails.ie

Refuel at: O’Donohue’s Pub in Fanore. You can’t miss this bright blue pub just south of Fanore beach, which is renowned for its seafood and trad music. Check for updates on opening hours.