The Burren, which is formed by limestone karst plates (in other words, it's a great big rocky mass) is one of Ireland’s most famous natural attractions. The limestone terrain holds a special fascination for geologists and botanists for its Mediterranean and alpine plants. Described as a botanist's paradise, the Burren has one of the most diverse and beautiful floras in Ireland: 635 different plant species (including 22 of Ireland's 27 native orchids) have been recorded here.