Coolcations in Europe: Clare Is Cool
As Europe swelters under record-breaking heatwaves, there’s one place where you can cool off without sacrificing the adventure: Doolin, County Clare. While cities across the continent bake in 35 °C+ heat, this colourful little village on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way is cruising along comfortably in the mid-20s. Welcome to the ultimate coolcation—where the breeze is fresh, the pace is slow, and the pints are perfectly poured.
Ditch the Heat, Not the Holiday
While Rome’s cobblestones are hot enough to fry an egg and Paris is melting into its own postcard, Doolin stays refreshingly chill. Here, you can spend your days rambling across coastal cliffs, sipping coffee by the Atlantic, or cruising past cliffs & sea stacks—without breaking a sweat. Literally.
Mid-20s in Doolin means you can pack light, dress comfortably, and forget the phrase “heat exhaustion.” It’s the kind of summer weather we’d like to copyright.
Rest Easy: Rural Stays with Big Charm
At the heart of your stay is the Doolin Inn, a cosy and thoughtfully designed base for exploring the Burren and beyond. Think soft bedding, quiet rooms, local art, and big, hearty breakfasts. Outside your window? Rolling green fields, stone walls, and maybe a curious cow or two.
Each morning begins with soft light over the hills & village, and each evening winds down with the sound of distant trad music or a crackling fire. It’s the kind of atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a slower, sweeter version of life.
Stay Cool with These Chilled-Out Experiences
Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk
Just minutes from Doolin Inn, hike the iconic clifftop trail for epic views and plenty of salty sea breeze. Bonus: no crowds if you go early.
Trad Music Sessions in the Village
The air might be cool, but the music’s always hot. Pull up a stool in one of Doolin’s legendary pubs and let the fiddles and flutes carry you away.
Surfing a Wild Atlantic Wave at Fanore Beach
Fanore’s wide, windswept beach is perfect for catching a wave—or just watching the locals make it look easy. Equipment and lessons available at the beach.
Doolin Cave
Take a journey underground to see one of the world’s longest free-hanging stalactites. Even better? It’s a consistent 11 °C all year round—a naturally air-conditioned escape from the summer heat.
Island Hopping to the Aran Islands with Doolin Ferry Co
Set sail from Doolin Pier to Inis Oírr, Inis Meáin, or Inis Mór. Enjoy the salty breeze, explore ancient forts and island life, then cruise back with your mind full of stories.
Discover the Burren
Explore this otherworldly landscape where Arctic and Mediterranean plants grow side by side. You’ll feel like you’re on another planet.
For even more unforgettable experiences in and around Doolin, visit: www.doolininn.ie/experiences
Weather Warning… Sort Of
Here in Ireland, the weather’s a conversation, not a forecast. Met Éireann might say “sunshine and 24 °C,” but we all know the truth: you could be wearing sunglasses at 10am, dodging a shower by noon, and basking in rainbows by dinner. We call it charm. Or chaos. Either way—pack layers.
Why Clare Is the Coolest County This Summer
Natural Air-Con: Thanks to Atlantic breezes, you’ll never need to sleep with a fan blowing in your face (although we do have these in all our rooms at Doolin Inn, just in case!).
Less Heat, More Heart: Doolin’s charm lies in its people, stories, and relaxed pace—not packed beaches or blistering sidewalks.
Authenticity Over A/C: From stone cottages to windswept cliffs, it’s summer in its most natural form.
Ready to explore more of Ireland’s stunning west coast?
Fly into Shannon Airport from the UK and across mainland Europe for as little as €18 one‑way per person! Shannon is ideally placed between Limerick and Ennis, offering smooth connections and the convenience of U.S. pre‑clearance, making it the perfect gateway for your next adventure. Budget carrier Ryanair operates many of these routes, with some fares starting from just €18 if you book early—check out their low‑fare finder for current deals. For more travel info and airport services, visit the Shannon Airport official site, and to snag the best flight prices, head over to Ryanair’s website. Don’t miss out—your next getaway awaits!
Coolin’ in Doolin at Doolin Inn
Forget sweltering city breaks and hello to soft air, slower days, and scenery that stuns. Whether you’re escaping the European scorch or simply craving a different kind of getaway, Doolin is where coolcations come to life.
Ready for coolin’ in Doolin? View our packages below.
Best Way to Travel to Doolin from Abroad: Why Shannon Airport is Your Best Bet
Planning a trip to Doolin? You’re in for a treat! Doolin, the gateway to the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands, is a small, vibrant village in County Clare, Ireland. With its rich culture, traditional music, and stunning landscapes, it’s no wonder Doolin draws visitors from all over the globe. But how do you get there from abroad?