As County Clare prepares to welcome a wave of visitors for the Irish Open, golf fans and travellers alike have an opportunity to discover the local life that lies just beyond the greens.
While the major sights draw well-deserved crowds, the true magic of the region lies in its independent, family-run treasures. One such highlight is the Flying Alpaca farm on the Loop Head peninsula, which has been offering uniquely intimate, year-round visitor experiences since 2017.
The farm is run by Barbara, who moved to rural Clare from the bustling city of Milan, alongside her partner Mike. Unlike large commercial operations, their farm offers a highly personalized, “one-to-one” encounter where visitors are welcomed warmly.
“We treat people like they’re part of the family or friends,” Barbara explains. “We tend to be quite funny. So the purpose is to make people laugh having a great time with the animals and with us too.”
Visitors are treated to a full “A to Z” tour, meeting all of the farm’s animal residents, who are treated as beloved family pets. The herd has grown from four alpacas to a family of fourteen, many of whom were born on the property. The star of the show is Spitfire, a rescue alpaca who is almost 11 years old and has been with Barbara and Mike since the very beginning. Interestingly, Spitfire is the reason the business exists in the first place.
“Because as he was very scared of people, the only way we found to make him friendly was to let him meet people,” says Barbara. Today, the herd is exceptionally friendly and well-mannered, firmly debunking the popular misconception that alpacas are naturally prone to spitting.
“Many people think that alpaca means spits. It’s not. It’s not true,” Barbara clarifies, noting that they only spit if they feel frightened, much like a non-socialised dog might growl.
For those seeking to explore local crafts, the farm experience extends indoors. Visitors are invited into the farmhouse for a live demonstration of Barbara’s spinning wheel, showcasing how raw wool is processed and spun into beautiful yarn. The farm shop sells clothing and yarns crafted directly from their herd’s wool, alongside handmade creations from local artisans. The farm also offers creative soap-making workshops for those looking to learn a traditional skill.
Transitioning from high-stress city living to farm life in rural Clare has given Barbara a deep appreciation for nature and patience. “I prefer it. I find it better for the soul,” she reflects, “and to learn more about life, death and the circle of life.”
This lifestyle shift has completely rewired her perspective on value, a lesson she loves to share with visitors.
“You know like when you grow a salad it takes so long and you have to stay behind that salad all the time. And then you go to the shop and you buy it for less than one euro and you’re like, ‘No, it should value more,’” she remarks.
Barbara sees the incoming crowds for the Irish Open as a wonderful opportunity for the entire West Clare community. “I think it’s a very good opportunity to exactly show what we have here,” she says, emphasizing that smaller local businesses offer a vital, authentic dimension to the county. “We will not stay open only because there is the Irish Open; we are open all year round every year… We want to be open for our local people, too.”
Barbara’s Guide to West Clare: Must-See Spots & Local Bites
If you find yourself with a free afternoon during the tournament, here is Barbara’s insider guide to experiencing the very best of the area:
The Unmissable Views: The breathtaking Kilkee Cliffs and Loop Head Lighthouse are absolute essentials. But if you want to see Barbara’s personal favorite, head to the Bridges of Ross.
The Hidden Gem: Escape the main tourist crowds at Querrin Pier. “It’s gorgeous. It’s not known at all,” Barbara shares, recommending it for a peaceful walk.
Coffee & Sweet Treats: Grab a top-tier coffee at the scenic Vandeleur Gardens or Beag in Kilrush for coffee and pastries.
Where to Eat: For an excellent meal in Kilkee, try Stella Maris, La Casa (pizzeria) or Nolan’s Fish and Chips. But if you really want to have a local experience go to Keane’s Oyster Pub in Lisdeen.
Unique Local Souvenirs: Visit the Flying Alpaca farm shop to pick up unique, locally crafted goods and home-spun alpaca wool yarns.
