Poulnabrone Dolmen

Poulnabrone Dolmen is one of Ireland’s most iconic and well-known megalithic tombs. It is located in the heart of The Burren, a unique karst landscape in County Clare, Ireland. Poulnabrone Dolmen is believed to date back to the Neolithic period, the site is an important part of Ireland’s ancient history and attracts visitors from all over the world.

Poulnabrone Dolmen was constructed in the Neolithic period as a megalithic tomb. It was built around 3600 BC, making it over 5,000 years old.. It is believed that the tomb was used to house the remains of important individuals in the community, and may have been used for several centuries.

Poulnabrone Dolmen remained largely intact for thousands of years until it was rediscovered in the 18th century. Since then, the site has been extensively researched and excavated, revealing a wealth of information about Ireland’s ancient past.

Visitors can marvel at the impressive engineering feat of the dolmen and contemplate its ancient purpose. The site also features several other smaller tombs and standing stones, adding to the mysterious atmosphere of the area.

While you are in the area, it would be a shame to not go for a walk in the unique landscape of The Burren. If you just want something short, you could check out the Burren Nature Trail, while people who want more of a challenge could take on Mullaghmore Loop

Getting There

1. By Car: The easiest way to get to Poulnabrone Dolmen is by car. It is located on the R480 road, approximately 8km north of Kilnaboy village. From the N67 road, turn onto the R480 at Kilfenora village, and follow the signs to Poulnabrone Dolmen. There is a small car park near the monument where visitors can park their cars.
2. There are several Tour operators from Cities who include Poulnabrone Dolmen on their itinery.
3. By Public Transport: While there are no direct bus routes to Poulnabrone Dolmen, visitors can take a bus to nearby towns such as Ennis, Ballyvaughan, or Galway, and then rent a car or take a taxi to the monument. Alternatively, visitors can join a guided tour that includes transportation to and from the site.
4. By Bicycle or Hiking: The Burren region is known for its scenic cycling and hiking routes. Visitors can cycle or hike to Poulnabrone Dolmen by following the designated trails in the area. There are also several bicycle rental companies in the nearby towns that offer bike rentals.

Regardless of how visitors choose to get there, it’s important to note that the roads in the area can be narrow and winding, so caution is advised when driving. Additionally, visitors should be aware of the weather conditions and bring appropriate gear for outdoor activities.