The Cliffs of Moher, towering majestically along the southwestern coast of Ireland, offer a breathtaking blend of natural beauty and rich history. Stretching over 5 miles and reaching heights of up to 702 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, these dramatic cliffs provide stunning panoramic views.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, with scenic walking paths, visitor center, and a touch of Irish folklore, the Cliffs of Moher are an unforgettable destination that captures the wild spirit of Ireland.
The Cliffs of Moher were only a short distance from where we were staying in Lahinch, in County Clare and we visited them one sunny, clear afternoon from 4pm - 6pm. I’m incredibly grateful that we had the option to wait for ideal weather to see them; there was only a mild breeze, blue skies and warm afternoon sunshine. The weather in Ireland is so unpredictable and extreme, many tourist with tight itineraries would have no choice but to visit the cliffs in rain and gale force wind. If you have the choice, I would recommended going later in the afternoon as it’s less crowded and slightly cheaper.
If you’re looking at a map of Ireland, the cliffs stretch from Lisconner in the south all the way to Doolin in the north and it has been possible to hike from one end to the other and it is free to do so. In the middle, near O’Briens Tower, is the visitors centre which includes a large designated carpark, a museum with informative displays, cafe and giftshops. It’s $12 Euro per adult to visit via the visitor centre (kids under 12 are free) and this area has paved pathways and stone barriers in place.
For us, with kids, the visiter centre was the most straighforward and safest way to visit. With the stone barriers, there was no way the girls could go close to the edge. Being close to the edge of cliffs this high does give you an intense feeling of anxiety and unfortunately people have ventured to close to the edge and fallen to their deaths.
The tracks that extend 1km both north and south of the visiter centre have stone barriers set along the paths but beyond that to Lisconnor and Doolin, the paths have no barrier and are fairly close to the edge.
Just recently, while we were staying in Lahinch, authorities have close off portions of the cliff walks that extend to Lisconnor and Doolin to set up more barriers and warning signs. As beautiful and awe inspiring as the cliffs are, it visitor centre felt like the safest and most practical way to visit them.
