Burren in Bloom Festival May 2012

The Burren in May hosts one of Ireland’s best kept treasures – the arrival of a range of wildflowers that paint the landscape and is unrivalled in the rest of the country. The ‘Burren in Bloom’ festival is a celebration of this, opening the magic of this landscape to all. Running throughout the month of May, Burren in Bloom will hold over 40 talks, walks and events for all age groups which are sure to enhance your appreciation for the unique Burren landscape. The events cover a wide range of topics from birds at dawn to coastal flowers, the geology of railways to a trip down set-dancing lane. For the outdoor enthusiasts there are twelve walks throughout the month, covering history, wildflowers, bumblebees and butterflies, while the early risers can enjoy a champagne breakfast after a dawn chorus walk led by Gordon D’Arcy on the 6th of May. The talks schedule is equally full and includes the story of the X-PO community project in Kilnaboy, a discussion on children’s diminishing link with nature and the intriguingly titled ‘The Burren: saviour of the planet and civilisation?’ delivered by Ray Woods, of Plantlife, Wales. Families that want to get out and discover the natural world will not be disappointed by the selection of activities on offer. With everyone being encouraged to get active and spend more time outdoors, the festival provides the perfect opportunity to do so with nature games and exciting bug hunts. No festival is complete without a book launch, and Zoë Devlin’s new book, ‘A Personal Record: Wildflowers of Ireland’ is very apt. This beautiful book is Zoë’s own record of wildflowers in Ireland and is filled with striking photos and interesting facts. The launch takes place on the 27th May and the book will be available to purchase throughout the festival. The Clare Burren Marathon Challenge on Saturday, May 26th is hosted by the Ballyvaughan Fanore Walking Club and will cater for those of a competitive nature, while also being open to families to take a leisurely stroll through the landscape. The Burren in Bloom Festival is run in association with the Ballyvaughan Community Development Group, Burren College of Art and the Burrenbeo Trust. The festival runs from the 4th of May to the 1st of June. To download the festival brochure click here and for more information contact trust@burrenbeo.com or 091 638096.