Explore the bedrock of Ireland with a visit to these secret, historic and spooky spots along the island's 3,000 miles of enchanting coastline. Situated in the cliffs of Rathlin Island, County Antrim , most of the caves here can only be reached by boat. Bruce’s Cave, located beneath the East Lighthouse, is named for Robert the Bruce, who hid there in 1306 after his defeat by the English at Perth.
According to legend, the warrior watched a spider repeatedly trying to reach the roof of the cave until it finally succeeded. Inspired by the spider’s determination, Robert the Bruce returned to Scotland to defeat his enemies and gained the Scottish throne at the battle of Bannockburn. You can visit Rathlin Island by boat from Easter to September.
Located in Glenariff, County Antrim , this cave provided shelter to local elementary school students in the 18th century. At the time, education was carried out in ‘hedge’ schools, so-called because classes were held outside. The students in Glenariff would retreat to this cave during bad weather.
The cave is marked by a memorial stone. The Aillwee Cave lies in the heart of the Burren , close to the village of Ballyvaughan in County Clare. It was discovered in 1944 by Jacko McGann.
The cave is open for tours. The site also includes tea rooms, a gift shop, and the Burren Bird of Prey Centre. The 35-minute tour of the caves with an expert guide allows visitors to view large calcite formations, underground streams, and a waterfall, and .
