The Cascades are where the River Inagh drops over a broad rock ridge in the middle of Ennistymon, and they are among the most photographed natural sights in Clare. The best-known view is from the grounds of the Falls Hotel, which looks straight onto the churning water.
The River Inagh spills over an extensive ridge of rock right in the middle of Ennistymon, and 'The Cascades' are among the most photographed natural sights in Clare. The classic view is from the grounds of the Falls Hotel, which overlooks the churning water as it heads for Liscannor Bay and the Atlantic.
The Falls Hotel's 50-acre grounds have riverside and woodland walks, including a sheltered glen behind the hotel that is carpeted with bluebells in spring. It is an easy, level stroll just a few minutes from the town centre.
A 5 km signposted loop suitable for people of all ages traces the town from its medieval origins and the arrival of the O'Briens of Thomond in the mid-16th century to its development as a market town in the early 1800s, passing the An Gorta Mor famine memorial.
The hotel's Dylan Thomas Bar and Cascades Restaurant both look straight onto the river and cascades; the restaurant serves local seafood nightly, and afternoon tea is served from 2pm to 4.30pm daily at 30 euros per person, pre-booked.
The Falls Hotel is a carbon-neutral property that runs on its own 220 kilowatt hydro turbine on the river; it states it is the only hotel in Ireland to generate its own sustainable electricity this way.
The town is about 10 minutes from the Cliffs of Moher, 3 km from Lahinch's beach and golf, and a handy base for the Burren and the Wild Atlantic Way. In town, look for the Courthouse Gallery, a regular Food and Craft Fair and nightly traditional Irish music in the pubs.
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