Into The Burren

06/05/2026

The Burren - Where Wildflowers Paint the Limestone

28/04/2026

Fanore Beach - Where the Burren Meets the Sea - looking like a postcard today.

20/04/2026

The Burren is often called a Marine Graveyard… and quite literally, you’re walking on it.
These marine fossils, found hiking on Mullaghmore Co. Clare yesterday are over 300 million years old 🐚

20/04/2026

Walking on a 300 Million Year Old Seabed
These incredible marine fossils, found hiking on Mullaghmore yesterday are over 300 million years old. Long before this landscape became the wild, rocky beauty we see today, it lay beneath a warm tropical sea.

06/02/2026

We’ve been a bit quiet since Christmas… but the Burren hasn’t.
Spring is popping up in the cracks between the limestone — wildflowers, soft light, birdsong, and that first hint of longer evenings.
Come take a wander on the back roads, hear ancient stories and visit the places most visitors miss.

21/01/2026

RIP Willem

We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our dear friend and former committee member, Willem Verhulst
Willem was a unique and remarkable individual whose life journey began in Holland in 1946, in a country still healing from the scars of war. He survived the devastating floods of 1953 as a child, taking refuge on the roof of his family home with his loved ones — an early experience that shaped his quiet resilience and perspective on life.
Willem made Fanore his home 23 years ago, having first visited as a guest in Anna Towler's B&B. He quickly became part of the fabric of the village, especially through his love of Irish music and song. For many years, he was the heart behind the Fanore Song Nights in O'Donohue’s Pub — organising, supporting, and sharing in the music that brought people together. He also partnered with Patsy Carrucan to write songs that reflected the local stories and spirit of the place he grew to love.
As a long-serving member of the Fanore Events Club, Willem brought a quiet diligence and integrity to everything he did. He never left a detail to chance and brought a gentle humour to our Irish habit of arriving "just a few minutes late" to meetings — a cultural quirk he never quite got used to!
Outside of community life, Willem was a gifted translator and writer. He translated books between English and Dutch — and even Irish — and wrote thoughtful book reviews for various publications. Most recently, he worked closely with local historian Joe Queally, editing Joe's latest work, Tragedies of Clare.
Willem stepped back from the club three years ago due to health reasons, but his presence and quiet influence have always remained with us. His passing is a great loss to all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife, Ans van de Giessen and his daughter Suzanne Verhulst and her partner.
We extend our deepest sympathies to them at this difficult time.
Rest in peace, Willem — your words, your music, and your kindness will not be forgotten.
A funeral service will be held at St. Patrick's Church, Fanore on Saturday 24th of January 2026 at 12 o'clock. Followed by private Cremation

21/11/2025

“A Weekend of Music & Memories at the John Jo & Friends Memorial Weekend - Fanore, Co. Clare."

Join us in O’Donohue’s Pub, Fanore from 21st–23rd November for a Memorial Weekend of music and memories, as we come together as a Community to remember John Jo Scanlon and all those from Fanore who are fondly remembered.

Over the weekend there will be traditional Irish music, singing and storytelling, as we share stories and memories - all are Welcome.

The full programme of events is in the poster attached.

05/11/2025

“When your dog’s on the hunt for the perfect stick, and you find fairy houses instead !!
Ireland’s forests never fail to surprise!
What’s the quirkiest thing you’ve spotted on a walk?”

14/09/2025

26/08/2025

🏃‍♀️ Fanore Burren 5k 10k & Half Marathon – Save the Date! 🏃‍♂️

We’re back this year on Saturday, October 4th at 11:00 AM, starting from O’Donohue’s Pub, Fanore – and we’d love you to join us!

This year’s run is especially close to our hearts, as we honour Kevin McCormack, the founder of the Fanore Run and the driving force behind it for so many years. Kevin’s humour, passion, and dedication built this event into more than just a run (or a jog or a walk!!!) – it’s a community gathering, a celebration, and a tribute to this special place. 💙

✨ Event Options & Prices

Half Marathon – €30 (€25 for Over 65s & Students)

10K – €25 (€20 for Over 65s & Students)

5K – €20 (€15 for Over 65s & Students)
👨‍👩‍👧 Family discounts available – just ask!

📌 How to Register
✅ Online now via Active.com (fastest + easiest!) https://www.active.com/fanore-clare/running/distance-running-races/fanore-burren-run-jog-walk-half-marathon-10k-5k-event-2025

💶 On-the-day registration at O’Donohue’s Pub from 10:00 AM (cash/cheque only).

So whether you’re a first-timer or a Fanore regular, come along for the unbeatable views, the uphill stretches (sorry 😉), and of course, the craic and good company afterwards.