Ireland Bucket List
Tourist Attraction • Wonder
Cliffs Of Moher
What They Are about
Situated on the Wild Atlantic Way on Irelands west coast the Cliffs of Moher boast some of the most breathtaking scenery in Ireland.
Rising slowly from Doolin they ascend to over 700 feet stretching south for nearly five miles to Hags head. They have become one of Irelands premier tourist attraction and a must see for many people visiting Ireland.
For most people the only way they experience the Cliffs of Moher is by visiting the Co Council run Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience. Built in 2007 at a cost of 30 million euro and occupying just one small section of the Cliffs it now attracts over 1.5 million vistors a year. Unfortunately the site and the local road network are struggling to cope with these volumes resulting in long queues and traffic delays at the Cliffs of Moher Vistor Experience during the summer months.
The best way to experience the Cliffs is to avoid the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience and experience the Cliffs of Moher by exploring the Cliffs of Moher hiking trails instead.
Our Notes
Check the Weather: While the Cliffs of Moher are beautiful in the sun and the cloud, you do want to be able to see them which isn’t always possible in the fog. The first time I was in Ireland, we drove past the parking lot because we were unable to see it due to extremely foggy conditions. Those taking a day trip don’t have much choice in the matter, but if you have your vehicle, it’s easier to check the weather at the Cliffs of Moher in advance and plan your visit accordingly.
Stay Close: Sure, you can drive in from Galway or Limerick, but to make the most of your Cliffs of Moher experience, it’s best to stay nearby in one of the smaller towns. It’s closer, making it easier to visit away from the crowds, there’s lots more to see and do in the area such as explore the Burren or go surfing. Plus, the smaller towns are charming and often more budget friendly. My favorite town to spend a night or two in is Doolin; just a ten-minute drive from the Cliffs of Moher or, if you are active and love the outdoors, you can take the Doolin Cliff Walk
Drivers will need to pay 6 euro to park at the Cliffs of Moher. This includes your ticket to the visitor’s center. If you walk, you do not need to pay to enjoy the paths. However, if you would like to access the visitor’s center, it’s 6 euro for adults and 4 euro for a student. Children are free. If you plan on climbing O’Brien’s Tower, there is an additional fee.
There are toilets, a restaurant, and an ATM located in the visitor’s center.
Opening hours are as follows: November- February: 9am-5pm
