Hazel Mountain Chocolate

Hazel Mountain Chocolate is a tourist attraction in County Clare, Ireland, that offers visitors a unique and delicious experience. Located in the Burren region, this chocolate factory and cafe is a must-visit for chocolate lovers and anyone looking to enjoy some of the best artisanal chocolate in Ireland.

The history of Hazel Mountain Chocolate dates back to 2012 when the company was founded by two chocolate enthusiasts, John and Kasha Connolly. The couple started making chocolate in their kitchen, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques to create unique and flavorful chocolate bars. As the demand for their chocolate grew, they decided to open a small factory and cafe in the village of Bellharbour, where visitors could watch the chocolate being made and enjoy some samples.

Today, Hazel Mountain Chocolate has become a popular tourist attraction in Ireland, attracting visitors from all over the world. The factory produces a range of single-origin and flavored chocolate bars, using high-quality cocoa beans sourced from small farms across the globe. The chocolate is made using traditional techniques, with a focus on ethical and sustainable production.

Visitors to Hazel Mountain Chocolate can take a guided tour of the factory and see the chocolate-making process up close. The tour starts with an introduction to the history of chocolate and cocoa beans, followed by a demonstration of how the chocolate is made. Visitors can watch the chocolate being tempered, molded, and packaged, and learn about the different flavors and ingredients used in the bars.

After the tour, visitors can sample some of the chocolate in the cafe, which offers a range of drinks and desserts made with Hazel Mountain Chocolate. From hot chocolate and chocolate cake to chocolate truffles and macarons, there’s something for every chocolate lover. Visitors can also purchase chocolate bars and other goodies to take home as souvenirs.

If you’re planning a visit to Hazel Mountain Chocolate, there are a few tips to keep in mind. The factory and cafe are open seven days a week, and guided tours run throughout the day. It’s recommended to book your tour in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to ensure availability. The tour lasts about an hour and costs ‘›10 per person, with discounts available for groups and families.

In addition to the factory and cafe, Hazel Mountain Chocolate also offers chocolate-making workshops for those who want to learn how to make chocolate themselves. These workshops are a fun and interactive way to learn about the chocolate-making process and create your own unique chocolate bars. The workshops are suitable for all ages and skill levels, and can be booked in advance.

Overall, Hazel Mountain Chocolate is a unique and enjoyable tourist attraction in Ireland that offers visitors a glimpse into the world of artisanal chocolate-making. With its focus on quality, sustainability, and ethics, it’s a great place to learn about chocolate and indulge in some delicious treats. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or just looking for something fun and different to do in County Clare, Hazel Mountain Chocolate is definitely worth a visit.