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Trip Planner:   Europe  /  Ireland  /  Province of Munster  /  County Clare  /  The Burren  /  Ballyvaughan  /  Aillwee Cave

Aillwee Cave, Ballyvaughan

3.9
#1 of 13 in Things to do in Ballyvaughan
Cave · Nature / Park
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Navigate the prehistoric passages of Aillwee Cave, which features an underground river, waterfall, stalactites, and stalagmites. The cave was discovered in 1944 and opened to the public in 1992. Passageways stretch for more than 1 km (984 ft), with about 300 m (984 ft) available to visitors. See the remains of bears in what is considered the last bear den in Ireland. During your tour, you will pass 8,000-year-old formations. As one of the oldest caves in the country, the site even has some areas dating back more than 350,000 years. A visit to Aillwee Cave represents just the start of the adventure when you use our Ballyvaughan trip site to plot your vacation.
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Aillwee Cave reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.0
1,354 reviews
Google
4.5
TripAdvisor
  • Took the kids to the caves for mid term to be shocked at the price I was charged for 2 adults and 3 children( €69). This did not include birds of prey as it was not open. The caves are ok and guide... 
    Took the kids to the caves for mid term to be shocked at the price I was charged for 2 adults and 3 children( €69). This did not include birds of prey as it was not open. The caves are ok and guide...  more »
  • Very good part of a long day trip. The guide was great and tons of cool stories in this 35 minute tour. It is very well lit for those of scared of dark places. The local scenery around is out of a... 
    Very good part of a long day trip. The guide was great and tons of cool stories in this 35 minute tour. It is very well lit for those of scared of dark places. The local scenery around is out of a...  more »
Google
  • It was an awesome cave. Probably because I love caves! Tickets we got were for the cave and the birds of prey show, which was also very cool. Regarding the cave, there was plenty of parking, just follow the signs. At the entrance, as usual there is a gift shop. Then the guide takes you through one of the doors that leads into the cave. Inside the cave was a little cold. There is also a flat concrete path all the way through. The guide stops at different stages to explain certain features or history of the cave.. (he was great too. At the end of the tour, you walk the last few metres out of the cave and there is a tip box for the guide. I didn't have any money on me, but I personally would have left some) Anyone can do this cave, unless you are claustrophobic, then you may want to re-think going in. (Although my wife is a little claustrophobic, but she made it) Overall, a very nice experience! I loved it!
  • This is a must do day out. Great for all ages. You get so much for your buck. The caves, the bird of prey display, get to see them up close, the farmhouse shop and the 2 gift shops. Those kids brave enough to ask a question get to hold a bird. Bring a picnic and enjoy the views.

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