Explore Poulnabrone Dolmen: Ireland’s Iconic Neolithic Tomb

A rocky expanse in County Clare, Ireland, known as the Burren, is home to a stately 5,000-year-old tomb that served as an active burial site for over 600 years. In the mid-1980s, an archaeologist named Ann Lynch excavated the striking stone structure that has captivated locals and travelers for centuries. In recent years, Poulnabrone Dolmen—as the tomb is known—has become one of Ireland’s most popular ancient structures.

Located near the peak of one of the highest points in the Burren, Poulnabrone served as a tomb and as a prominent property marker during the Neolithic period. Poulnabrone features a stone roof that slopes slightly toward the west and is supported by a handful of vertical stones. Archaeologist Ann Lynch and her team unearthed pottery, arrowheads, and over 6,000 ritually separated bone fragments from Poulnabrone, which Lynch believes belong to up to 36 separate individuals.

The terrain near Poulnabrone is steep and uneven. It is best to wear sturdy shoes and proceed at a slow pace so that you don’t trip on one of the Burren’s legendary jagged stones. There is no entry fee to view Poulnabrone. An Office of Public Works representative is always on-site to answer any questions that you may have about one of Ireland’s most interesting burial sites.

Poulnabrone Dolmen is an excellent addition to any Ireland road trip. After you spend a few hours admiring Ireland’s most iconic portal tomb and learning about the burial rituals of the Neolithic people, you can drive to the Cliffs of Moher to enjoy one of the most stunning ocean views in the world. O’Brien’s Tower offers a panoramic view of Hag’s Head and the whimsical Aran Islands.

If you’re searching for comfortable accommodations, Wild Honey Inn in Lisdoonvarna is an excellent place to stay while exploring Poulnabrone Dolmen and the Cliffs of Moher. Wild Honey Inn features 14 rooms that are decorated with locally sourced items, including antique furniture. Wild Honey Inn is also home to an elegant yet relaxed dining pub that received a Michelin Star and a Michelin Green Initiative for sustainable gastronomy. There’s nothing quite like relaxing by a roaring fire after a day spent exploring the windswept Burren.

Poulnabrone Dolmen is a unique tomb perched atop a rocky landscape that will leave a lasting impression. No tour of Ireland is complete without an exploration of the Burren, Poulnabrone Dolmen, and the Cliffs of Moher.

Location on Google Maps.

Explorer Passport

Next badge: Trail Scout

Unlocked after exploring 5 different unusual places.

0 of 5 places explored