Attractions in and around the village of Adare

There is much to do and see in and around the village of Adare. Visit the Desmond Castle 1200ad, the Franciscan Friary 1320ad or stop in to one of the thatched cottages for some shopping or a bite to eat. Become immersed in this medieval village and step into the past with so much to see. Click here for more information on this beautiful village.

For the active visitor there are many outdoor pursuits in Adare. There are 25 golf courses within an hours drive of the village including Killarney, Lahinch & Ballybunion. The Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort is home to the Irish Open until 2009 attracting some of the finest players in the world each May.

Fishing along with clay-pigeon shooting and equestrian activities, Adare is a haven for those with a passion for the outdoors. Visit Limerick Racecourse, just 4km away or visit the dog tracks in Limerick city.

Celtic Theme Park and Gardens
Situated adjacent to Curraghchase forest park the Celtic theme park are located on an original Celtic settlement and historically on one of the most important Cromwellian plantations in the southwest of Ireland. On display are a stone circle, mass rock, dolmen, lake dwelling, ogham stone, cooking site, stone church, holy well and a fine example of an early surviving historic ring fort.

Castle Matrix
A Geraldine Castle built about 1410, but with some early 17th century additions. Restored recently, the castle now possess a very fine library, unique in Ireland for its collection of Documents relating to the wild Geese, the Irish Soldiers who served in Continental armies in the 17th and 18th centuries. It was at Castle Matrix, according tradition, that the poet Edmund Spenser first met Sir Walter Raleigh.

Carrigogunnell Castle
The castle is superbly situated on a volcanic rock with a marvellous view overlooking the whole Shannon estuary. It consists of a multi-sided enclosure, fortified by a strong wall probably of 15th century date.

De Valera Museum
An extensive collection of memorabilia includes an audio visual presentation on the life and time of Eamon De Valera.

Foynes Flying Boat Museum
The museum recalls the 1930's and 40's when the port of Foynes was the fulcrum point for air traffic between the US and Europe. The famous flying boats were frequent visitors, carrying on board a diverse range of people from celebrities to refugees. The museum recalls the era with exhibits and graphic illustrations. You can see original footage of the flying boats. The museum is situated in the original terminal building with its Radio and Weather Room.
E-mail famm@eircom.net

Hunt Museum
The hunt Museum exhibits one of Irelands greatest private collections of art and antiques. You can view art by Leonardo da Vinci, Picasso, Renoir and Yeats, and stunning work from medieval times. Examine weapon and tools from the Celtic Past and visit the jewellery gallery, where the gold cross anecdotally linked to Mary Queen of Scots is displayed.
Visit: www.huntmuseum.com

Irish Palatine Heritage Centre
In 1709 several hundred families of German origin settled in Ireland. Known as the Palatines they established roots mainly in Rathkeale. A greatly extended display of artefacts, photographs, graphics etc. The complex represents the Irish Palatine experience from their German places of origin to their colonisation and settlement in Ireland.

King johns Castle
Impressive 13th century military castle. The castle remains a most impressive Anglo-=Norman fortress It retains many of its pioneering features which make its construction unique for its day. Its massive gatehouse, battlements and corner towers await exploration.
Visit: www.shannonheritage.com

Lough Gur Heritage Centre
An Archaeological gem of international significance. Includes the remains of stone circles and standing stones, ancient burial chambers and Cairns. Artefacts have been found dating back to the Bronze Age.

Stonehall visitor Farm
Experience the enjoyment and fun of a wide variety of animals in a secure and pleasant setting. Located next to Curraghchase forest park

Walking
West Limerick abounds with numerous scenic walks, ranging from mountain trails to costal paths. Many of the villages and towns have these walks in abundance. The great Southern trail, part of a disused railway line offers an interesting scenic walk between Newcastle west and Ardagh. The Mullaghareirk Mountain trails are situated on the borders of Limerick and Kerry, above the villages of Broadford and Ashford. His majestic landscape of rolling hills and open farmland is ideal walking terrain. The duration of the walks ranges from a half-hour to five hours and should be selected with care.

Other activities in the area