Ireland’s Pride: The Cliffs of Moher

Attracting one million visitors every year, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most visited natural attractions. If you are a Potter fan, you would have probably recognized this impressive “sea cave” from Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. Arguably one of the most breathtaking sights in all of Ireland, the cliffs rise to a maximum height of 214 metres (702 feet) above the Atlantic Ocean and present unspoiled views, spanning nearly five miles of the Irish coast.

Things To Do

1. Enjoy the views: While the cliffs have three viewing platforms, it is the North Platform where O’Brien’s Tower, the cliffs’ highest vantage point is located. From here you can see the Aran Islands, Galway Bay and Aill Na Searrach, Ireland’s premier wave point and a popular spot for surfers. On a clear day the distinctive Twelve Pins mountain range to the north and County Kerry to the south are a spectacular sight.

2. Bird watching: Ideal for bird watching, the Cliffs are home to over 30,000 birds, including 20 species of nesting birds and 9 species of sea birds. From the South Platform you can watch hundreds of Puffins and other sea birds like hawks, gulls guillemots, ravens and choughs nesting on Goat Island, a grassy island visible from the viewing platform. Be sure to carry your binoculars or ask for one from a Ranger stationed along the Cliffs.

3. Learn about the Cliffs at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience: This state-of-the-art underground visitor centre features various interactive exhibits, images and displays that can be enjoyed by people of all age groups. As you take a walk around, explore the different aspects of the mighty Cliffs: Ocean, Rock, Nature and Man. During the self- guided tour you will also be shown two short movies about this beautiful spectacle.

4. Trekking for the serious walker: With over 600 metres of pathways, walkers can enjoy a stroll around the Cliffs and marvel at the magical vistas from the different viewing platforms. The area is dotted with talking telescopes to get a closer look at the surroundings. If you are lucky enough, you may also get to see the Cliffs Buskers playing traditional Irish music along the pathways. And if you are a serious hiker up for a challenge, there is a 20-kilometre Cliffs Coastal Trail involving daunting ascents and exposed cliff-top paths.

Best Time To Visit

Being one of the busiest attractions in Ireland, you are bound to find visitors all year round, however July and August are the peak months. Weekends are generally busier than weekdays, except during school holidays. Be prepared for unpredictable weather when visiting the Cliffs of Moher, as it could rain one minute and be sunny the next. It is advised to carry a good rain jacket and walking boots. May and June are the best months to view Puffin colonies, during their nesting season.

How to Get There

The closest airport to the Cliffs is Shannon International Airport. Buses are the cheapest and best way to travel around Ireland, and many people prefer to take the public bus connections from Galway Bus station to the Cliffs of Moher. Log on to makemytrip.com and plan your holiday to Ireland’s most beautiful natural attraction.