Ireland’s Million Year Old Aillwee Cave Celebrates 50 Years

Waterfall within the Aliwee Caves, Co. Clare

One of Ireland’s most iconic visitor attractions, Aillwee Burren Experience in County Clare marks 50 years in 2026, celebrating half a century of underground adventure, wildlife encounters and artisan food in the otherworldly landscape of the Burren.

Set deep within the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, Aillwee has welcomed more than seven million visitors since opening in 1976. Today, it offers a rare combination of natural wonder, cultural heritage and hands‑on experiences that appeal to travellers of all ages.

A journey beneath the Burren

The signature experience is the guided cave tour, a 45‑minute immersive journey through an 850‑metre passageway carved out over millions of years. Uniquely lit and sensitively developed, the tour reveals waterfalls, caverns and ancient formations beneath 90 metres of limestone. Over the decades, the cave has also hosted everything from opera performances to underground fashion shows, adding to its reputation as one of Ireland’s most atmospheric spaces.

Ireland’s leading Birds of Prey Centre

Above ground, the Birds of Prey Centre is home to the largest collection of native and non‑native raptors on Ireland’s west coast. Visitors can watch daily flying displays, learn about the 4,000‑year‑old tradition of falconry, and even take part in a one‑to‑one hawk walk through the Burren landscape. The centre also contributes to national and international raptor conservation projects.

Birds of Prey Centre, Co. Clare 

A taste of the Burren

Aillwee is also home to Burren Gold, a traditional farmhouse Gouda made on site since 1985 using milk from a single local herd. Produced only when the cows are grazing on rich summer grass, the cheese is recognised as a GEOfood, a designation highlighting its deep connection to the region’s geology, biodiversity and culinary heritage. Visitors can sample the cheese at the Farm shop and learn about the Burren’s unique food culture.

A reimagined experience for a new generation

Following a major upgrade in 2022, Aillwee now offers a fully refreshed experience, including a redesigned Birds of Prey Centre, enhanced cave lighting, and a Burren Biodiversity Woodland Walk that introduces visitors to the rare flora and fauna of this remarkable landscape.

As Aillwee Burren Experience celebrates its 50th anniversary, visitors are invited to join a year‑long programme of special events, storytelling moments and behind‑the‑scenes experiences that honour five decades of creativity, innovation and warm Irish hospitality.

Burren Gold Cheese, Co. Clare 

From underground adventures to artisan food and unforgettable wildlife encounters, Aillwee Burren Experience continues to offer one of the most distinctive and enriching days out along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

For more information, visit the Aillwee Burren Experience website.