Doolin Cave — Attraction in County Clare

Very unprofessional receptionist — first claimed we’d sent our email to the wrong address, then backtracked and replied to it 10 minutes after speaking to me (pointless, as she’d already given me the answer in person). This was the first and only reply to the email we sent. She showed no regard for the fact that some visitors have packed attraction days and don’t plan their schedule entirely around a cave visit. On the day, we had done 11 hours of sightseeing around Clare and Galway.

She also completely ignored the fact we had emailed on 7th August — six days before our visit — and called the same day with no answer. We rang again today. Her excuse? She’s “too busy” to answer calls. Yet while we waited for our tour for 40 minutes, most of the time there was no one at her counter and the phone wasn’t ringing.

Really disappointed — do not recommend. Go to nearby Aillwee Cave instead. Postcards here are also overpriced — more than double the price compared to Galway’s High Street.

The cave itself has an interesting story, but the poor service overshadows it. There’s a car park and café on site, but absolutely no mobile reception — your maps, data, and internet won’t work here. A total black spot for technology.

Answer to Doolin Cave reply:

Thank you for your reply, but I feel some key points were missed.

I emailed on 7th August — six days in advance — and received no reply. I also phoned the same day, with no answer. Only after I highlighted the lack of response did I get a reply, and that came 10 minutes after I had already spoken to your receptionist in person. That is not timely communication.

Your website lists both tours@doolincave.ie (described as general information) and sales@doolincave.ie separately. It is not unreasonable for a visitor to assume “sales” means ticket sales. The description does not make clear which address to use for individual bookings, and it’s unfair to shift the blame onto customers for this lack of clarity.

On the day, we were told calls cannot always be answered because staff are busy with visitors. However, during our 40-minute wait the receptionist was present at the desk and not busy with visitors or phone calls.

My mention of the mobile “black spot” was simply to inform other visitors in advance — not a criticism, so there was no need for a defensive tone in your reply.

Likewise, my comment on postcards was only to highlight that prices are significantly higher than in Galway city centre, so tourists can be prepared. That is the point of reviews: to share practical information so others know what to expect.

The cave itself is worth seeing, but the communication and customer service could be...

My partner and myself had booked in for the cave tour at Doolin Cave, we arrived just 2 minutes after our booked in time due to travelling issues. When we got there, there was no one at the desk, we were looking around aimlessly until a girl came up. She was helping other people who just missed the tour as well and she offered them a slot in the next one. My partner then asked if we had just missed it and if it was possible to be put in the next session.. this wasn’t okay with the girl working and her attitude completely changed. She became rude and said we wouldn’t be able to and would have to wait a full hour after our booked in time. My partner asked if there was any chance we could be put in an earlier slot and she remarked that “we were late and it was our own fault”. We stayed about, got some food which was very nice in the restaurant. But our mood was spoilt by her attitude. Now we queued up early so we wouldn’t miss the slot we were given. While waiting I witnessed this girl talking negatively about myself and my partner to others working. This I was appalled by. The tour that was supposedly to start on the hour was just after the hour.. so we were left slightly annoyed with the attitude this girl had given us when the timing of Doolin Cave wasn’t the most timely either. Now I would recommend going to Doolin Cave, but I would pray that this member of staff gets a...

My visit to Doolin Cave was nothing short of magical. Nestled in the heart of Clare, this cave experience feels like stepping into another world. Sandra, our tour guide, was simply fantastic—her knowledge of the cave’s history, geology, and unique ecosystem brought the tour to life in a way that was both educational and personal. She shared stories that made each twist and turn feel like an adventure, and her passion for the cave’s beauty was truly infectious.

The guided tour itself, which lasts about 50 minutes, was well-paced. With tours running every hour, it was clear that they prioritize a relaxed, unhurried experience. Sandra led us down 125 steps into the depths of the cave, equivalent to an 8-storey descent, but the sturdy handrail and landing every ten steps made it manageable even for someone with moderate fitness.

The atmosphere in the cave is cool and slightly damp, creating an otherworldly ambiance that’s both humbling and awe-inspiring. I’d recommend dressing warmly to stay comfortable.

Sandra’s expert guidance and storytelling made this an unforgettable experience, and I left with a newfound appreciation for the marvels hidden beneath the surface. Doolin Cave is truly a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the natural...