As some of you may recall from one of my September newsletters, the town of Lisdoonvarna , in County Clare comes alive in September.

My travels brought me nearby, so I made a side trip to make a quick visit, so please come along with me today for our walk through this charming town.

The Town of Lisdoonvarna is located about a 20 minute drive from the Cliffs of Moher  and takes its name from the Irish Lios Dúin Bhearna meaning the enclosed fort of the gap . There is an ancient sone aged fort near the town as well as a Norman era castle. However, the present town is a comparatively new one by Irish standards dating mainly from the start of the 19th century.

The town is often referred to by the locals simply as Lisdoon ( pronounced Liz- doon ).

What put Lisdoonvarna on the map was its four famous springs . The spa was officially opened in 1845 and the waters were used for various treatments – Copperas Well, for skin conditions, ulcers and sores, the Twin Wells offer water rich in iron and sulphur, and the main Sulphur Well lies at the bottom of the hill.

We can take a peek at the Victorian spa house that is located beside the Sulphur bridge before we head up the town.

Over the years the town thrived on visitors to the Spas and it became a popular destination for older visitors, many of whom were single.

This is where it gets interesting… Lisdoonvarna hosts Europe’s largest matchmaking festival every September ! It’s said that upwards of 40,000 people descend on the village during the month in search of a partner.

Due to covid the official festival is cancelled, but, as restrictions have eased the place is buzzing.  Come along with me as we walk along the main street …The pubs are busy, there is music and dancing going on ( even in the afternoon ) and there are buskers and matchmakers on hand ready to find you a partner !! There is a faded charm about the place and many of the hotels are small, family run established – no fancy fittings and décor .. but a warm welcome and a friendly nod to send you in the direction of the “ Craic “- which the Irish for “ enjoyable social activity “ .. .. what a lovely way to describe a bit of fun !!

It really is great to see so many people out and about , enjoying the September sunshine and making new friends

We have to hit the road and leave the merriment behind, but I hope that you enjoyed this whistle stop visit to Lisdoonvarna .

Stay well until next time and all the best.

Stephen