Ancient Lough Gur

OVERVIEW

Explore one of the country’s most remarkable archaeological sites at Lough Gur, a national monument that contains the oldest and largest stone circle in Ireland. These types of circles or henges were built during the Neolithic and Bronze Ages and were probably used for sacred rituals. Excavations inside the circle have revealed pottery from the Beakers, an ancient people named for the ornately decorated, bell-shaped ceramic beakers that they created. Browsing the interactive exhibits in the heritage center will help you more completely understand the importance of this site, as it brings to life more than 6,000 years of archaeology and history. Following lunch in a nearby restaurant, you will pause for photos in Adare, a village on the River Maigue. Although renowned for its quaintness and beauty, Adare is even more revered for its thatched cottages, which were built in the 1830s to house laborers and servants.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See the oldest and largest stone circle in Ireland, an archaeological gem from the Neolithic Age.
• Browse the heritage center and uncover the details behind the circle, including who built it.
• Stop briefly in Adare, a constant contender for the Prettiest Village in Ireland title.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.