The Cliffs of Moher Tour, Ireland

Ireland is full of breathtaking natural beauty, and one that always comes to mind is The Cliffs of Moher. If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, visiting The Cliffs of Moher is one of those unforgettable experiences. You’ll be in awe of your surroundings, the history of this attraction, and the area. It is one of Ireland’s most visited tourist attractions, and we will tell you why.

The Cliffs of Moher tour in Ireland is all about nature; it is where you reach a point with an inspiring view of the pure nature world. Where the cliffs are facing the ocean and where you will experience the salty wind and enjoy walking on ancient rocks.

Where in Ireland are the Cliffs of Moher?

This iconic attraction is in the beautiful County of Clare, which offers much to see and do. Over one million people come to County Clare each year to experience the impressive Cliffs of Moher.

The cliffs stretch eight kilometres across the Atlantic Ocean, and their unique shape makes them one of the most photographed sites in Ireland in the Wild Atlantic West. On a clear day, you can see Aran Island and Galway Bay and spend hours taking in the views.

You can follow the coastal route around the cliffs for 18 kilometres, starting from Hag’s Head to Doolin. You will pass the visitor centre and the historic O’Brien’s Tower on the coastal walk. The walk offers the best viewing opportunities and is worth it for the spectacular views on display. It would take around two hours to complete, but it is indeed worth it.

What city is closest to the Cliffs of Moher?

The nearest city to the Cliffs of Moher is located on the West Coast of Ireland, a village called Liscannor in County Clare. Shannon International Airport is also the closest airport to the attraction, around 50 minutes away.

It is worth spending some time in Liscannor village; it’s a beautiful place that comes alive during summer. It’s also a great place to stay as it offers a variety of accommodations with plenty of attractions, from the pubs to the restaurants and the shops.

How were the Cliffs of Moher Formed?

It is believed that the Cliffs were formed over 320 million years ago when Ireland’s ancient riverbeds created seabeds that formed the rocks of the cliffs. All those years ago, the area of the Cliffs of Moher was much warmer and located on a much bigger river. Then, loads of rainfall caused massive floods that cleared the sand and mud into the rivers and the sea. Over time, the sand, silt, and mud compacted, forming a solid rock that is now the ‘Cliffs of Moher‘.

The Cliffs run for about 14 kilometres and rise to 120 metres (390ft) above the Atlantic Ocean on the southern side. On the north side, they reach a maximum height of 214 metres (702ft).

Cornelius O’Brien and The Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs have long been a treasured part of the Irish landscape, but not much is known about the man who helped create interest in the area. Cornelius O’Brien was a local landlord who was the first person to discover the cliffs and thought they would make a great tourist attraction in County Clare.

He built the O’Brien Tower at the highest part of the cliffs as a viewing point for visitors during the 19th century. Along with the tower, he built a wall along the cliffs made of Liscannor Flagstone to make the cliffs safe and accessible. He also created stables and picnic tables for visitors we would invite to his Birchfield home. He helped to bring the area to life so that people could come and appreciate one of Ireland’s natural sites.

The Visitor’s Centre at the Cliffs of Moher

After O’Brien died in 1857, the site began to pick up interest. With increased visitors, they restored the O’Brien Tower into a visitor access point in 1974. Again, popularity grew from 100,000 in 1978 to 250,000 in 1988 at the Cliffs of Moher. The first visitor centre could no longer hold vast numbers of people, so a further redevelopment took place in 2007. This was when the Clare County Council opened the official ‘Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre’.

The new state-of-the-art centre allows visitors to explore and learn more about the incredible cliffs. The cost of entering the visitors’ centre is 8 pounds for adults, and children under 16 are free. In 2016, an impressive 1.427 million people visited the visitor’s centre to see the Cliffs. With the constant increase of visitors during peak hours of 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., people who wish to enjoy the attraction are advised to come at other times.

Cliffs of Moher in Popular Culture

The beautiful attractions in County Clare, Ireland, have also appeared in many films and media. The popular Harry Potter Film was one of the most famous movies filmed here. In Harry Potter and the Half-blood Prince, Harry Potter appears standing on a rock, moving towards a sea cave. Modern technology makes it seem like they are at the Cliffs of Moher.

Other features included Leap Year (2010) and being mentioned in the Martin Scorsese film Bringing Out the Dead. You’ll have to go back and watch these films to see the beauty of the Cliffs—they might not look as stunning in the movie as they do in real life, but they still look incredible.

Visitor Facilities

A range of facilities and amenities have been developed to accommodate the thousands of visitors who flock to the Cliffs of Moher each year, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The visitor centre near the cliffs’ entrance offers various services, including information desks, gift shops, and cafes serving locally sourced cuisine. Interactive exhibits provide insights into the geological and ecological significance of the cliffs, enhancing visitors’ understanding of this natural wonder.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, guided tours are available, led by knowledgeable local guides who share their expertise on the area’s history, folklore, and wildlife. These tours often include visits to nearby attractions, such as the quaint village of Doolin, renowned for its traditional Irish music scene, and the ancient fortress of Dun Aengus on the Aran Islands, comprehensively exploring the region’s cultural and natural heritage.

Preservation and Conservation

Preserving the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Cliffs of Moher is paramount, given their status as a designated Special Protection Area and UNESCO Global Geopark. Conservation efforts are ongoing, aimed at safeguarding the fragile ecosystems along the cliff edge and promoting sustainable tourism practices. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by staying on designated pathways, avoiding littering, and refraining from disturbing wildlife.

Planning Your Visit

When planning a trip to the Cliffs of Moher, there are a few practical considerations to remember. The cliffs are accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months when the weather is mild and wildlife activity is at its peak. It’s advisable to check the weather forecast before setting out, as visibility can be limited during periods of fog or rain.

Several transportation options are available for reaching the Cliffs of Moher, including guided bus tours departing from major cities such as Dublin, Galway, and Limerick. Alternatively, self-drive is a popular choice for those seeking flexibility and independence. Parking facilities are provided onsite for those arriving by car, with designated areas for cars and coaches.

Cliffs of Moher Tour Visitor Centre Opening Times

The place’s opening hours will differ according to the month, but it opens all year except on the 24th, 25th, and 26th of December. It begins at 9 AM all month long but closes at different times.

In January, it closes at 5 p.m.; in February, at 5:00 p.m.; and in March, at 7 p.m.

In April, it closes at 7 p.m.; from May until August, it closes at 9 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Then it closes at 7 p.m. in September, 7 p.m. in October, and 5 p.m. in November and December.

Conclusion

A visit to the Cliffs of Moher is a journey into the heart of Ireland’s natural splendour, where rugged cliffs meet the wild Atlantic Ocean in a breathtaking display of beauty and majesty. From the dramatic landscapes to the rich biodiversity, there is much to explore and discover at this iconic destination. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking tranquillity amidst spectacular scenery, the Cliffs of Moher offer an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after you return home. So, pack your bags, embark on an adventure, and let the magic of Ireland’s cliffs leave you spellbound.

Also, don’t forget to check out other related places and attractions around Ireland: The Giant’s Causeway| Bundoran: Donegal| Grianan of Aileach| The Capital of Connemara: Galway| Best Cities to Visit in Ireland|