County Clare · The west coast
Cliffs of Moher
High cliffs above the Atlantic in west Clare. The landscape is remarkable, and so is the traffic.
The Cliffs of Moher are the best known cliffs in Ireland, and it is easy to see why. They are high, they drop straight into the sea, and the land around them is fairly bare. What makes the difference is that the air and the water are together in far greater measure than they are elsewhere.
But the place is a busy destination as well. Parking is limited, there are walks, and the weather can turn quickly. Putting the place on a list is not enough — you have to think about how you reach it, and at what hour.
Most visitors approach from the south, where the main car park lies. From there you can walk along the cliff, but the path is narrow and can become crowded.
The highest stretch of the cliffs is visible from the north side, but the way to that point is less clear.
Wind and weather
The wind on the cliffs is stronger than it is in the countryside. This matters if you are walking with children or with people who are vulnerable.
Three things you learn
A visit to the place can teach you something about the Irish coast that no map can.
- 01 Scale
- You do not understand how high the cliffs are until you stand beside them. The difference between a photograph and a place is greater than you would think.
- 02 The weather
- The weather can change within the hour. This is plainer on the coast than anywhere else.
- 03 The traffic
- The thing people least expect is how many others are there. The place is among the best known destinations in the country.
The way to the place
The way to the Cliffs of Moher is not a motorway. You come by regional roads through open country, and the speed limit is low. If you are coming from Limerick or from Galway, the distance is fairly long and you should allow time for it.
The place forms part of the Atlantic route, and so people often reach it as part of a longer journey. If you are planning that way, think about the time you will need to stop, and the time you will need to get back out onto the road.
Not a recommendation
We make no recommendation about timing or parking. See the official site for current details.
Frequently asked questions
Can the place be seen for free?
Check official sources for current conditions. We do not quote prices.
Is it suitable for people with reduced mobility?
Part of the site is accessible, but the paths along the cliffs are uneven. Contact the facility in advance.
What is the best time to visit?
We make no recommendation. Traffic and weather can shape the experience more than the hour itself.
Can children walk on the paths?
The paths are narrow in places and the walls are low. Constant supervision is required.
Editorial
Material is written and reviewed in accordance with our editorial policy.
Corrections
If you spot an error, tell us at [email protected].
Contact
m50nline, 73 Clontarf Rd, Clontarf East, Dublin 3, D03 EP93, Ireland
+353 1 833 6364