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| Karren at Doolin Point |
The Cliffs of Moher are now
part of a Geopark,
along with the Burren - where the Carboniferous limestone forms one of the finest glaciokarst landscapes in the world.
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| Clints and grikes at Black Head |
Although
a survey of the main limestone plateau of the Burren - found inland - was beyond the scope of this
field trip, there are some very interesting karst features along the coast.
In
the English Peak District National Park, many of the best known Geosites
attract great numbers of general tourists - not just serious students looking at the nationally important geological features here - and the increased need
for parking and associated facilities has placed environmental pressures on
these sites.
For this reason, many of the RIGS, away from the tourist hotspots, have been highlighted for
their aesthetic and educational value.
As
County Geological Sites, places such as Black Head and Doolin Point, would
probably not be considered as Geotourism attractions in their own
right but, collectively, they make a great contribution to the landscape of
this part of Co. Clare. In both localities, limestone pavements are well
developed and, at Doolin Point, there are also sub-surface drainage channels
and karren
exposed at the water’s edge.
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| A sub-surface drainage channel |
From Loop Head to Black Head, there is 80 km of spectacular coastline to be explored...
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| A view from Ballaghaline |
