Cliffs of Moher
Sweeping panoramic vistas of sea and shoreline greet visitors to Ireland’s Cliffs of Moher.
The trek to the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare on the western coast of Ireland takes the traveller to one of the world’s most inspiring places. Through millions of years, as the green countryside meets the pounding surf of the Atlantic Ocean, nature has carved a breathtaking panorama of sheer rock and seemingly endless seas stretching to the limitless horizon.
The cliffs are named after an old fortress known as Mothar, or Moher, that once dominated their southern reaches. They soar 214 metres (702 feet), while extending eight kilometres (five miles) along the coast at the southwestern edge of Ireland’s Burren region, from Hag’s Head in the south to beyond O’Brien’s Tower in the north. The tower, built in 1835 by Sir Cornelius O’Brien, is a familiar man-made landmark, constructed by the local businessman who wanted to spur tourism to boost the local economy. Along with the vantage point of the cliffs, the tower offers extensive vistas of the Twelve Pins and Maumturks mountain ranges in County Galway to the north, the Aran Islands in Galway Bay to the west, and southward to Loop Head.
Among the most-visited sites in Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher, named a part of the UNESCO Global Geopark, welcome about 1.5 million travellers each year, captivating them with unparalleled natural beauty. There is a variety of animal species here, including birds such as Atlantic puffins that nest on Goat Island, peregrine falcons, kittiwakes and more, along with whales, dolphins and other marine life. Rare flora includes Sea Pink and Cat’s-ear, along with other abundant blooming species. Ancient stories of the cliffs abound in local lore, enchanting those who stop to listen, and bringing the vibrant history of the area to life.
An ecologically oriented visitor centre opened in 2007 and rests within the crook of a hillside to minimise its profile across the verdant landscape. The Cliffs of Moher virtual tour is an unforgettable 360-degree experience, and audio guides and maps are readily available. Admission is about £7 ($9) per adult, and visitors under 16 years of age are admitted free of charge. The visitor centre is open daily, except at Christmas, usually from 9am to 9pm local time. Two trails lead from the centre, and multiple entry points have been opened along the cliffside. Visitors are asked to exercise caution and stay on the official trail, which is set back a bit from the edge for safety reasons. The unofficial trail runs closer to the edge but is indeed more treacherous. Three primary viewing platforms the main at Hag’s Head, the north at Knockardakin and the south near the puffin colony’s home are within reasonable walking distance of the visitor centre.
Taking advantage of regular air service to Dublin, visitors may wish to rent a car, enjoy the 270-kilometre (170-mile) drive from the capital city to the Cliffs of Moher, sample the local fare in an authentic Irish pub, and find affordable lodging located in the surrounding area. Buses run a daily schedule to nearby towns such as Doolin, Lisdoonvarna, Galway, Ennis and kinvara.