With stunning flora and fauna, the Burren region of north Clare and south Galway is renowned far and wide and will be celebrated through Burren in Bloom, running over the next two weeks.

A local celebration of the Burren’s natural heritage, Burren in Bloom recognises the important role people have played in the area down through the years, and continue to do so.

Aíne Bird of the Burrenbeo Trust, the landscape charity organising Burren in Bloom, explains that Burrenbeo works to connect people to their places. Little do many visitors realise, but the fascinating cultural and natural heritage that attracts them to the Burren is essentially a legacy of the area’s agricultural tradition.

“The future security of this wonderful legacy very much depends upon the continuation of these traditions,” says Áine.

“When it comes to ecological wealth and diversity, the Burren has few parallels elsewhere in Ireland. In terms of flora, the Burren is especially rich, containing many rare and sought-after species.

“Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy the Burren, while also learning about the area’s rich and diverse natural heritage.”

The festival features a mix of walks, talks, open gardens, workshops and a family event. The walks will be led by farmers and ecologists, sharing their knowledge and perspective on the Burren’s natural heritage.

The opening talk will be given by renowned botanist Micheline Sheehy Skeffington on Friday, 18 May, and the Saturday evening talk will be given by Pádraic Fogarty, who will discuss his recent publication Whittled Away: Ireland’s Vanishing Nature.

“The walks are suitable for older children and adults, as they are focused on information sharing they will generally not cover huge distances,” says Áine. “However, the terrain can be uneven so a certain level of fitness is required. On Saturday, 19 May, there will be a family day where all ages are welcome.”

This event is run as a fundraiser for Burrenbeo Trust. Many of the walk leaders and venues give their time and space free of charge. The walks and open gardens cost €10 or €5 for members of the Burrenbeo Trust. Talks cost €5 or are free for Burrenbeo Trust members. There are also weekend tickets. CL

Burren in Bloom runs on 18-30 May. Booking is required for several events. Visit www.burreninbloom.com for the event’s programme, booking details and information.