The remains of Caher doon Fergus are in the townland of Murroogh; caves lie below the caher. For scenery and walking, it is also worth looking towards nearby Fanore: dunes, a beach and several routes offer different points to consider when planning.
Caher doon Fergus and local tradition
The remains of a notable caher called Caher doon Fergus are in the townland of Murroogh. Beneath the caher are caves that also feature in local tradition: according to the stories, they were believed to be haunted by the spirits of Fergus mac Roigh and many of his descendants. These include the O’Loghlens of the Burren and the O’Connors of Corcomroe.
This gives the place a specific historical point of reference and a clearly defined folklore story. Those interested in local traditions will find named figures and groups associated with the caves. The caves and the stories about them belong to Caher doon Fergus; they should not be confused with the walking trails near Fanore.
Dune landscape and beach at Fanore
The Fanore dune system stretches for two kilometres, from Murroughtoohy South in the north to Fanore More in the south. The dunes are mainly used for recreation. An extensive area of exposed limestone and boulders lies in a dune hollow. Another landscape feature is a small population of the rare liverwort Petalophyllum ralfsii in a damp, grassy dune area. Its population and visibility can vary.
A visitor information source from 2018 lists a car park, toilet block, shower, access walkway, sand ramp to the beach, viewing point and interpretive information at Fanore Beach. As individual facilities may change, check the current situation before visiting.
Walks around Fanore
Two loop walks start at the Fanore Beach car park. The Black Head Loop is 26 kilometres long, graded as difficult, and follows green roads, tracks and mountain paths. The Caher Valley Loop is shorter at 14.5 kilometres and is graded as moderate; its route follows minor roads and green roads. The two loops therefore differ in both length and difficulty.
The Fanore to Ballyvaughan Trek is described by its duration of five to six hours rather than a distance. The walk goes around Black Head, runs mostly off-road and is suitable for people with a high level of fitness. The route includes green roads, minor roads and forest tracks. This gives you different details to consider when choosing a walk: distance and difficulty for the two loops, and duration and fitness level for the trek.
Accommodation and guided tours
Into The Burren offers accommodation and guided local tours. Its listed address is Murrooghtoohy South, Murroogh, Clare, Ireland, H91 A33D. The tour options described include tailor-made full- or half-day tours. Offers and availability may change; confirm before travelling that accommodation or a tour is available for your dates.
County Clare in the wider context
For planning across County Clare, there are other, distinct natural attractions to consider. The Cliffs of Moher rise to more than 700 feet at O’Brien’s Tower and stretch for almost 14 kilometres along the Clare coast. The visitor facilities there include 800 metres of paved paths and viewpoints, including access to O’Brien’s Tower. Visitors can explore walking trails in Burren National Park.
Travel information also applies to County Clare as a whole: the county is accessible via a road network and bus and rail links; Ennis is connected to the national rail network. Check connections and timetables for your travel dates.
Discover more destinations: Shannon, Lahinch, Kilkee, Canower, Carron, Clonlara, Bunratty, Kilfenora.
For the broader travel overview: County Clare.
