Clara Bog Nature Reserve
Clara Bog
One of the best-preserved raised peat bogs in Western Europe, with a roughly 1-kilometre boardwalk loop and free admission.
Clara Bog is one of the largest and most intact raised peat bogs remaining in Western Europe and is an EU-protected nature reserve. A roughly 1 km circular boardwalk runs into the heart of the bog, offering close views of sphagnum moss, sundews and other insect-eating plants, bog pools and wild birds. The nearby town of Clara has a visitor centre explaining how bogs form. Admission is free and the site is open year-round, with a visit taking about an hour. The open bog offers no shelter and can be windy, and the boardwalk is slippery in rain. It is about 35 km from Athlone and requires a car.
Opening hours
Open all day (visitor center open on weekdays)
Nearby sights
- Lough Boora Discovery Park
- Old Rail Trail Greenway
- Kilbeggan Distillery
- Hill of Uisneach
- Belvedere House & Gardens
- Sean's Bar
- Athlone Castle
- Luan Gallery