Cliffs of Moher main attractions
The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s most visited natural attraction. They receive around one million visitors a year.
Yes, the cliffs are stunning and mesmerizing. But, there are many things to do at the Cliffs of Moher besides only observing. We share with you some other ways to enjoy your time at this marvelous place.
About the Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher are located at the southwestern edge of the Burren region in County Clare, Ireland. This is about 3.5 hours southwest of Dublin.
The cliffs are 120 meters (390 ft.) above the Atlantic Ocean at Hag’s Head, stretching for about five miles long. The highest point is 214 meters (702 ft.), just north of O’Brien’s Tower.
The name “Moher” comes from a fort named “Mothar”. “Mothar” means ‘the ruin of a fort.’
The Cliffs of Moher have appeared in numerous media. Some of the films include The Princess Bride (1987), Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009), and Leap Year (2010). The cliffs have also appeared in many music videos, including Maroon 5’s, “Runaway”, Westlife’s, “My Love”, and Rich Mullins, “The Color Green.”
These cliffs really are a stunning site. In July 2009, the Cliffs of Moher became one of the finalists in the “new seven wonders of the world.” Unfortunately, it didn’t make the cut, but they are considered a UNESCO Global Geopark.
The Cliffs of Moher is one of the tourist destinations which you should prioritize while in Ireland. The best time to visit the Cliffs of Moher is in the summer, because much of the rest of the year, the cliffs are covered in thick fog. However, it will be more crowded that time of the year.
Here are several things to do during your time at the Cliffs of Moher.
1. Observe Nature
From the cliffs, visitors can see far and wide. Some things you can view include the Aran Islands in Galway Bay, the Maumturks, the Twelve Pins mountain ranges to the north, and Loop Head to the south.
This area was set up as a special protection area (SPA) for birds in 1989. It’s estimated that there are 20 species with more than 30,000 birds living under the Cliffs of Moher and surrounding areas. Some of the species include Atlantic puffins, eagles, gulls, guillemots, fulmar, razorbills, shags, and choughs.
2. Hiking
Hiking is one of the main things to do around the Cliffs of Moher. There are plenty of options for hiking and walking around the cliffs. If you’re adventurous, you can walk the entire Coastal Trail. This is an 18 km hike from Doolin to Liscannor.
However, there are two other options which are shorter. One is a five mile trail from the visitor’s center to Doolin. Another walk is a 1.2 mile stretch to Hag’s Head. Both include amazing views of nature and the water.
3. Take a Ferry
To enjoy the cliffs from a different angle, you can take a ferry to see the river channels that cut the cliff base. The tour lasts around 45 minutes and runs from March until October. For around $30 USD you can get an incredible view of the cliffs and various birds.
There are also longer cruises that last for either a half or full day and will take you further up and down the coast. You can see all the options here.
4. Climb O’Brien’s Tower
Visitors can also enjoy the beauty of the Cliffs of Moher from O’Briens Tower. This is a small castle created for the purpose of enjoying the views of the cliffs. It’s located at the highest point of the cliffs.
5. Surfing
Ireland is known for some amazing surfing. People come from all over the world to surf the incredible waves. It turns out, some of the waves near these cliffs are also good for surfing.
Aileen’s is an exposed reef break beneath the Burren and Cliffs of Moher. Waves here can be as high as 50 feet and can approach very quickly! Only the most experienced surfers should hit the waves here.
Accommodations Near the Cliffs of Moher
The accommodations near the Cliffs of Moher are halfway between the villages of Doolin and Liscannor. Doolin is 5 km away, while Ennis is a large town about 45 km from the Cliffs of Moher. There are quite a few hotels and lodging options in Doolin.
Even if surfing is not one of the things you plan to do at the Cliff of Moher, it’s still important you purchase travel health insurance for your trip. Unfortunately, accidents happen during travel.
While there is nationalized medical coverage for Ireland residents, visitors are not included. Therefore, you would have to pay out of your own pocket for any medical expenses incurred during your stay. Sadly, it’s quite expensive.
Check out our various travel medical insurance plan options. For just a couple of dollars a day you can give you and your family peace of mind. Call us at 480-813-9100 or email us with any questions. Get your plan today!
Enjoy your travels to Ireland and beyond!
