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POINT OF INTEREST

Cliffs of Moher

Liscannor North, Clare

Towering 702 feet (214 meters) above the Atlantic Ocean at their highest point and stretching for 5 miles (8 kilometers) along the water, the famed Cliffs of Moher define the rugged west coast of Ireland. They're also one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland, with tours available from Dublin, Galway, Cork, Limerick, Killarney, and Doolin.

Cliffs of Moher excursions depart regularly from Dublin and Galway City and typically include a guide and round-trip transportation. Some incorporate city tours, boat rides, or stops at sites such as Kilmacduagh Abbey and the Aran Islands. Multi-day Ireland adventures almost all visit these cliffs, alongside Cork, Blarney Castle & Gardens, the Ring of Kerry, and Galway Bay.

Once at the cliffs, explore several winding coastal trails and cliff walks, capture photos of the dramatic scenery, and visit the on-site Visitor Centre for educational exhibits and gift shops. The O'Brien's Tower viewing platform provides stellar views over the Aran Islands, Galway, and the Atlantic Coast.

  • Tours from major Irish cities are typically the easiest and most convenient ways to experience the Cliffs of Moher.

  • Allocate at least two hours to explore the area.

  • Weather can greatly affect visibility at the Cliffs of Moher; in the case of foggy conditions, admission tickets can be reused in the next 24 hours.

  • The Cliffs of Moher site is both wheelchair- and stroller-accessible, and baby-changing facilities are available.

  • There's also free Wi-Fi at the Visitor Centre.

Most tours to the Cliffs of Moher include convenient round-trip transportation and stop at other points of interest along the way. You can also reach the cliffs by car in a few hours from most major Irish cities and public buses run between Galway and the cliffs.

The Cliffs of Moher are a popular year-round destination, although you'll typically enjoy better weather and viewing conditions in the sunnier summer months. However, summer is also peak season at the cliffs, with the viewing platforms filling up around lunchtime. Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the largest crowds, or take a chance on a quiet winter visit.

Found in the Burren National Park region of County Clare, the Cliffs of Moher form part of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way which runs from Cork to Donegal. Along with your stop at the iconic cliffs, see more of the Atlantic edge with a coastal drive that includes visits to Bunratty Castle, Corcomroe Abbey, Dunguaire Castle, the quaint fishing village of Kinvara, Galway Bay, and Connemara.

No, you aren't required to purchase Cliffs of Moher tickets, as they are part of the natural coastline on the west coast of Ireland. However, you do need tickets to access the Cliffs of Moher Experience, which has facilities worth visiting. Save money by booking ahead of time.

The Cliffs of Moher offers an official guided tour (prebooking recommended), which covers history and sustainability. You'll find additional tour options in the area including coastal walks, boat tours with a view of the cliffs, and birding excursions. Some tours combine the cliffs with other nearby natural attractions such as the Burren region.

The Cliffs of Moher walk is not difficult. The visitor's center offers flat paths for walking along the cliff's edge and admiring coastal views. There are several picnic tables scattered about, too. Electric cart rides are available for visitors with limited mobility who want to see the viewing platforms.

The best time to visit the Cliffs of Moher depends on your preference. Some travelers visit at sunset for the colorful show, while others prefer a morning visit when the cliffs are less busy. Those seeking to escape the crowds may want to visit in spring or fall.

The visitor center at the Cliffs of Moher offers short, paved paths. The Cliffs of Moher coastal path from the visitor's center connects to the nearby villages of Doolin and Liscannor. The longer coastal walks can be challenging—round-trip, it's about 12.4 miles (20 kilometers).

Yes, it's wise to prebook tours from the Cliffs of Moher visitor center. Boat tours below the Cliffs of Moher often sell out during peak season, too. You can visit the Cliffs of Moher and explore at your own pace if you prefer or if the guided tours sell out.

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