LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
Everybody’s Clare is different. Wild and rugged. Tranquil and romantic. Adventurous and outgoing.
That’s why every adventure starts at Monks – with so much to explore, experience and enjoy right on your doorstep.
Monks is at the heart of the local community, set against the backdrop of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. We pride ourselves on sharing our expert local knowledge with our visitors. Check out the Wild Atlantic Adventures blog, written by our very own Shauna
DISCOVER BALLYVAUGHAN
With stunning vistas of Galway Bay, Monks Seafood Restaurant, Bar and Accommodation is ideally situated in the picture-perfect village of Ballyvaughan on the west coast of Ireland. Full of historical richness, archaeological treasures, friendly locals, plenty of delicious food and drink options, Ballyvaughan is truly a unique and beautiful place!
Go kayaking on an underground tour of Aillwee Cave, rock climbing, wildlife viewing and more. Finish your adventure with delicious, fresh seafood at Monks!
BURREN FOOD TRAIL
A proud member of the food trail, we recommend eating and drinking your way around one of the most unique landscapes in Ireland dotted across County Clare. Select your fresh fruit and vegetables at a local village farmer’s market and experience first-hand the true passion for food prepared by talented chefs in the area.
When travelling the Burren Food Trail, a stop at the renowned O’Loclainn’s Whisky Bar in Ballyvaughan (O’Lochlainns Bar ) is a must. The authentic pub, which boasts more than 75 whiskies, was even praised by Steven Spielberg as one of the best pubs he has been in.
WILD ATLANTIC WAY
Conde Nast Traveller voted the Wild Atlantic Way one of the ‘10 Best Road Trips in the World’. The journey spans nine counties, three provinces and some 2500km of spectacular coastline with over 130 discovery points to explore. The Ballyvaughan Discovery Point is located across the road from us here in Monks!
Stand strong atop the mighty Cliffs of Moher, take a dip in Fanore Beach and discover quaint, rural villages and breath-taking scenery along the way.
BURREN ECOTOURISM NETWORK (B.E.N)
The Burren Ecotourism Network (the B.E.N.) is a membership organisation embedded in a sustainable tourism ethos. It was formally established in 2011.
B.E.N. is a network of tourism businesses with the objective of establishing the Burren as a premier internationally-recognised sustainable tourism region ensuring the future economic and social growth and sustainable development of its communities, environment and heritage. It seeks to support continued training, mentoring and accreditation in sustainable tourism for its members and for businesses interested in joining the Network.
BURREN ECOTOURISM NETWORK MEMBER
Monks Ballyvaughan Seafood Restaurant & Bar is a proud member of the Burren Ecotourism Network. B.E.N. is a network of tourism enterprises with the objective of establishing the Burren as a premier internationally-recognised sustainable tourism region ensuring the future economic and social growth and sustainable development of its communities, environment and heritage.
We are also a member of the Burren Food Trail where we are bound by our commitment to building a sustainable future for the region.
BURREN AND CLIFFS OF MOHER UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARK
Making up over 530 square kilometres the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark offers diversity that is second to none. This rich and alluring landscape of staggering sea cliffs, limestone karst terraces, fertile valleys, vibrant villages and welcoming locals offers some truly inspiring experiences.
UNESCO Global Geoparks are internationally recognised places with unique geology, landscapes, history and culture. Geoparks are managed with a focus on education, conservation, sustainable tourism and community engagement.