The best cycling routes in Coole-Garryland Nature Reserve

A remarkable medieval church ruin. A cross made of large stones is embedded in the front wall.

A large, completely hollow limestone castle, even the window frames are made of limestone (built in the 15th century by the O'Brians, rebuilt in the 17th century). A very impressive ruin. On private land.

Here is a starting point for this circular walk through a Burren landscape.

Leamaneh Castle in County Clare is a historic ruin featuring a 15th-century tower house and a 17th-century mansion, with strong ties to Irish folklore. While not open to the public, visitors can admire its exterior from the roadside near Kilnaboy.

This stone desert is interrupted by lush green fields, while the striking geological formations of Doonmore Hill dominate the scene in the background. There is something magical about the stark beauty of this region, and as I rode my road bike along the gently rising roads, I could hardly take my eyes off the varied shapes and colours. The dry stone walls that can be seen everywhere here tell of the long history of agriculture in this area and reinforce the feeling of being in an almost surreal environment.

As you cycle through the quiet streets near the coast, the view suddenly opens up to the atmospheric castle ruins of Muckinish West Tower House. Nestled in the wide, green landscape, with the sea in the background, this place offers the perfect opportunity for a quick stop and a photo. The old castle stands alone above the coast, and although it is now surrounded by a fence and in a dilapidated state, this is precisely what gives it a special atmosphere. The path to the ruins takes you along typical Irish stone walls that meander picturesquely through the landscape. While you admire the castle ruins from a distance, you have a fantastic view across the water to Finavarra. It is one of those places that makes you pause - the peace and the wide panorama invite you to simply take in the surroundings before continuing on two wheels.

Corkscrew Hill lives up to its name. As you tackle the switchbacks, you'll quickly feel the climb taking its toll on your legs - but the view that awaits you with every meter makes up for it. The road winds through the green hills of the Burren, and with every bend a new panorama opens up, giving you a glimpse of this unique karst landscape. Once you've reached the top, it's worth taking a moment to breathe and take in the vastness. From here you can see the Burren in all its glory - the barren, rocky landscape alternating with the lush green valleys. Corkscrew Hill combines the challenge of a demanding climb with the reward of a breathtaking view. Whether you're riding the route as part of a longer tour of the Burren or simply experiencing this iconic climb, Corkscrew Hill is a worthwhile challenge for anyone on two wheels.

When you cycle and climb the serpentines in the Burren, you will quickly realise why this place is so special. The landscape opens up before you like a picture that combines the rugged beauty of the limestone karst with the lush green of the valley. Every pedal stroke brings you closer to this breathtaking view - a mix of rocky hills, old dry stone walls and the wide plains of County Clare. As you move along the winding roads, you can not only admire the impressive rock formations, but also enjoy the tranquility of the place. The Burren tells its own story that goes far back into the past. There is something timeless about standing up here, looking out over the karst landscape. The climb may be challenging, but the reward is the view - not just of the panorama, but also of the small details that make this region so unique. Pack your water bottle, sit on the saddle and be impressed by the Burren and its fascinating geology