One of Ireland’s most iconic sights; sheer cliffs soaring 214m above the waves on the wild west coast.
The Cliffs of Moher, which are part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, are one of the most popular visitor attractions in Ireland… and with good reason. Walking the pathways along the 14km-long cliffs and gazing out at the wild Atlantic Ocean from the viewing platforms feels like experiencing the very essence of Ireland itself. Throughout history, these magnetic cliffs have always drawn people in, inspiring ancient myths and wowing on screen in classics such as Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. Isn’t it time you paid a visit?
Doolin Ferry boat tour, Cliffs of Moher
© Doolin Ferry
The Cliffs of Moher are legendary for their sheer drops, majestic Atlantic Ocean vistas and the elemental weather. To make the most of your visit, it’s advisable to book ahead. Admission to the cliffs includes car parking, Wi-Fi and access to all parts of the area including O’Brien’s Tower and the interactive Cliffs exhibition in the visitor centre. Conveniently, there is now also a free shuttle bus operating from May to September. The Burren & Cliffs Explorer Shuttle Bus connects towns such as Lahinch, Doolin and Ballyvaughan with the cliffs, enabling handy, car-free visits to the cliffs.
Whether you come by car, coach or bus, once you arrive, make your way over to the visitor centre to enjoy the exhibition before walking out to see the cliffs themselves. As the sea spray fills the air with the invigorating freshness of the Wild Atlantic Way, it’s hard not to feel as though you’re braving the ocean from the prow of a magnificent ship, with the cliff plunging 214 metres to the waters below.
The surrounding landscape is a marvel of natural beauty, with delicate sea campion, blushing sea pinks and wildflowers dotting the springy coastal grass around your feet. On a calm day, keep an eye out for any ripples in the water – breaching basking sharks and pods of dolphin are a common sight.
Discover our Wild Atlantic Way bucket list
Boat tours at the Cliffs of MoherEnjoying the epic views from the tops of the cliffs is a must, but for a different perspective, hop on a boat tour. Your tour will show off a different side of the cliffs and will take in sights such as the Great Sea Stack and the sea cave that was featured in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. A boat tour is also perfect for getting the best views of this magnificent coastline, one of the most beautiful parts of County Clare.
Kayaker at the Cliffs of Moher, County Clare
Courtesy Gareth McCormack/garethmccormack.com
There are two places to eat at the Cliffs of Moher, which means you can relax and enjoy the day without worrying about refreshments. For the best views, head to the Cliffs View Café, which is located on the first floor of the visitor centre and boasts stunning views of the surrounding landscape and ocean. The menu is built around local suppliers, and features seafood chowder with locally caught seafood, Burren Smokehouse Salmon and St Tola Goats Cheese.
The Puffins Nest Café is located on the ground floor and delivers a more casual option with sandwiches and soups. A nice option if the weather is fine is the Picnic at the Cliffs of Moher Experience, so you can lunch at your leisure with the best view on the coast. Picnics need to be ordered 48 hours in advance, and blankets are available on loan from reception.
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Poulnabrone Dolmen, The Burren, County Clare
The Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark covers just over 500km² and is a region of unique geology, landscapes, history and culture, with so much to explore. Highlights include the Aillwee Cave and the Poulnabrone Dolmen, which sits atop the Burren’s moon-like limestone plateau. For culture and heritage, catch a trad music session in postcard-perfect Doolin or surf and golf in outdoorsy Lahinch. Pack your walking boots as numerous trails criss-cross the geopark, from Black Head and Dromore Wood to Caher Valley. Or jump on a ferry from Doolin to visit the Aran Islands, havens of traditional culture.
The region is also supported by the Burren Ecotourism Network, an award-winning network of local businesses aiming to establish the area as a sustainable tourism destination. Linnane’s Lobster Bar, Burren Smokehouse, Burren Distillery, Hylands Hotel… the list goes on of fantastic places to stop by on your visit to this gorgeous part of Ireland.
Discover the Wild Atlantic WayThe Cliffs of Moher are a jewel on the Wild Atlantic Way, but this 2,500km coastal touring route along Ireland’s west coast has much more to offer, from the epic Ring of Kerry touring route to the south and the spectacular Glenveagh National Park to the north.
Try our 10-day Wild Atlantic Way trip idea to help you plan your itinerary now.
