Embrace the Soul of the Burren
Into the Burren has always been much more than self-catering accommodation in Clare. Ours is a place that is inextricably linked to the living landscape of the Burren: its wild beauty, rich heritage and surprising discoveries. The spirit and the energy of the Burren frames your stay with us, making your journey one of connection with this iconic land and its stories.
A family-owned retreat, Into the Burren is situated on the edge of the Burren, just outside Fanore village – and is your gateway to this beautiful place we call home. From ancient pathways and sacred wells to centuries-old limestone pavements and crashing Atlantic waves, you’re perfectly placed to take it all in. We want all our guests to enjoy an authentic and meaningful Burren experience – together with comfort, flexibility, warm Irish hospitality and in-depth, personal tours.
Our Story
Founded by Chris and Kathleen Bond, Into the Burren is a rural haven inspired by our landscape and shaped by our surrounds. Kathleen is a passionate Certified National Tour Guide with a deep love for the Burren’s history, Irish folklore and our region’s rare flora and fauna. Whether she’s sharing her knowledge of the Burren’s Neolithic tombs, our pagan past or county Clare’s colourful ancient stories – Kathleen brings the past to life with energy and empathy.
Chris brings the heart and soul of the place into every guest stay and is the quiet engine behind your Burren experience. He’s here to make sure you get the absolute most from your time with us and that you feel well looked-after and relaxed. Whether he’s sharing local tips or simply offering a warm welcome, it’s Chris’ goal to make sure you feel part of something special.
Why We Do What We Do
It’s simple really – we love the Burren, and we want you to love it too. We set out to share our passion for this incredible region with you – its beauty, peace and deeper meaning.
We’re here to give you the freedom and inspiration to discover not just the Burren’s landscape,
but its spirit too.
Into the Burren supports slow travel, considered vacations and real, authentic experiences. It’s about discovery with intent. We are committed to sustainable tourism that explores real experiences, respects Ireland’s heritage and supports the local community.
We’re proud to be part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, and it’s our goal to offer a stay that’s in harmony with this singular environment.
About the Burren – a Heritage Landscape
Stay with us and you’ll be stepping into one of Ireland’s most unique heritage areas. With its name derived from the Irish word Boíreann, meaning “a rocky place” – the Burren is a world-renowned karst region in County Clare, shaped over 340 million years. It is a place where history, geology and geography unite in raw and real harmony. A place where ancient dolmens, early Christian crosses, and medieval abbeys come together with rare alpine wildflowers and extensive bird and animal life. From its unique farming tradition known as winterage to legends of the land – the Burren is a place apart.
Our guests often tell us that staying with us deepened their understanding of Ireland’s past. At the same time, they experienced soulful and peaceful moments that helped them to connect with nature, memory and meaning.
Self-Catering with Soul
Whether you’re here for an adventure, a walking break, seaside escape, or historical journey, you’ll find us the perfect home base. Our beautifully finished self-catering accommodation in Clare offers flexible spaces for families, couples or groups of up to 11 guests. You’ll love that each room and studio has been thoughtfully designed for comfort and privacy — with open-plan kitchens, outdoor BBQ areas, and your own private entrance.
Inspired-by-Stories Tours
One of the many features that make Into the Burren unique is our collection of personalised, immersive tours. Carefully curated and driven by the rich stories, history and culture of the Burren, our tours are led by Kathleen Bond who is a Certified National Tour Guide. We hear so often how our tours amplify and deepen their understanding and appreciation of the Burren, while capturing the soul and energy of our beautiful landscape. Coupled with your stay at Into the Burren’s self-catering accommodation, our tours offer a complete Burren experience.
A Real Welcome Awaits
Whether you’re curious about The Burren’s heritage, seeking an educational family holiday, or longing for some quiet time that grounds you in nature – you’ll find it at Into the Burren. With us you’ll experience the very best of County Clare’s history, nature and local life.
Come for the views, the surf, the fossils, the cliffs and the stories – all wrapped up with warmth, authenticity and an unforgettable journey through Ireland’s heritage heartland.
Come stay, explore, and experience — Into the Burren.