Falls Hotel & Spa, nestled within the UNESCO Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark in Ennistymon, offers guests an exceptional eco-luxury experience powered entirely by renewable energy. This historic Georgian mansion-turned-hotel provides the perfect blend of heritage charm and modern sustainability, featuring 140 spacious en-suite bedrooms with stunning views of cascading waterfalls and surrounding woodlands.
The property operates as Ireland’s only hotel generating its own sustainable electricity through a 220-kilowatt hydro turbine, complemented by 90 solar panels, achieving complete carbon neutrality for an environmentally conscious stay. With its award-winning River Spa, fine dining restaurants, and 50 acres of pristine gardens along the River Inagh, Falls Hotel & Spa delivers unparalleled tranquility while serving as the gateway to County Clare’s most spectacular natural attractions and outdoor adventures.
Their story
Falls Hotel & Spa was founded by the McCarthy family in 1986 when Dan and Eileen purchased the historic 20-bedroom property beside the River Inagh. Their vision transformed the Georgian mansion into Ireland’s most sustainable luxury hotel, pioneering renewable energy through their groundbreaking hydroelectric turbine that harnesses the river’s power.
Over decades, they’ve expanded to 140 rooms while achieving carbon neutrality and reducing emissions by 90%. Now led by their sons Michael and John, the hotel stands as a testament to responsible tourism, where guests enjoy zero-carbon footprints while experiencing the natural beauty of the UNESCO Burren Geopark in complete harmony with the environment. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The Falls Hotel & Spa was constructed with exceptional environmental consciousness, utilizing renewable energy systems and sustainable practices throughout its development.
- The hotel runs on a 220‑kW hydroelectric turbine powered by the River Inagh, covering all its electricity needs.
- Together with 90 solar panels added in 2025, it achieves carbon‑neutral operations for Scope 1 and 2 emissions.
- Built with local materials, it features LED lighting and water‑saving sensor systems for maximum efficiency.
- All building materials and operations align with UNESCO Geopark conservation standards, while partnerships with eco-conscious suppliers.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- Falls Hotel & Spa demonstrates exceptional energy efficiency through its innovative 220-kilowatt hydroelectric turbine installed on the adjacent River Inagh. When flowing at capacity, this renewable energy system provides 100% of the hotel’s electricity needs, making it the only hotel in Ireland generating its own sustainable power this way.
- The property has achieved carbon neutrality for direct emissions, reducing carbon output by 90% over five years from 700 tonnes to just 56 tonnes annually.
- Additionally, 90 solar panels installed in 2025 generate 39kWh of clean energy when river levels are low.
- The hotel exclusively uses LED lighting throughout all facilities, monitors energy consumption monthly, and purchases 100% renewable electricity and Calor BioLPG fuel.
Pioneer in waste management
- The hotel monitors waste generation monthly, participates in Repak Ireland’s recycling scheme, and uses authorized waste collection operators with proper permits.
- Kitchen staff track food waste to minimize spoilage and monitor plate waste to optimize portion sizes, while compostable takeaway containers replace single-use plastics.
- Recycling bins are provided in guest bedrooms, with dedicated collection points for batteries and light bulbs through weee Ireland.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- Their River Spa exclusively uses natural, organic products from Elemis and Voya, selected for their sustainable ethos and natural ingredients.
- The hotel has eliminated single-use plastics in guest rooms, opting instead to refill individual soap containers with products from the Handmade Soap Company.
Actively protects nature and community
- The property maintains 50 acres of gardens and woodland, featuring wildflower gardens, active beehives, and tree planting for carbon offsetting.
- As members of the Burren Ecotourism Network and Green Hospitality Ireland, they promote responsible tourism while supporting local communities and preserving heritage. Their dedication to Leave No Trace principles ensures guests contribute positively to environmental conservation efforts.
Most Popular Activities Near Falls Hotel & Spa
- Hydroelectric turbine tours showcasing Ireland’s only hotel-generated sustainable electricity.
- River kayaking and SUP adventures along River Inagh to Lahinch Beach.
- Guided Burren walks exploring limestone landscapes, flora, and archaeological sites.
- Surfing lessons at nearby Lahinch and Fanore beaches for all skill levels.
- Cliffs of Moher and Aran Islands ferry cruises from Doolin Pier.
- Golf at championship Lahinch Golf Club and surrounding parkland courses.
- Foraging experiences discovering wild edible plants and traditional Irish remedies.
- Cave exploration at Aillwee and Doolin Cave featuring Europe’s longest stalactite.
- Cycling tours through UNESCO Burren Geopark with complimentary hotel bikes.
- Spa treatments using natural Elemis and Voya products in historic stable buildings.
- Fishing opportunities on hotel grounds and nearby Atlantic coastline.
- Cultural heritage tours including Bunratty Castle and ancient stone forts.
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Best Time To Visit Falls Hotel & Spa
- The best time to visit Falls Hotel & Spa is from late spring to early autumn, particularly between May and September, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.
- During these months, guests can fully enjoy the hotel’s eco-friendly amenities, including the outdoor hot tub, riverside walks, and kayaking adventures.
- The milder weather also enhances visits to the Burren’s unique limestone landscape and archaeological sites.
- Spring offers vibrant wildflower displays in the hotel’s dedicated garden, while summer provides perfect conditions for cycling, golf at Lahinch Golf Club, and ferry trips to the Aran Islands from nearby Doolin.