Your Essential Guide to the Cliffs of Moher
Your essential guide to the Cliffs of Moher includes important information such as the best times to visit, local attractions, and what to pack.
The Cliffs of Moher, situated in County Clare, rise 702 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and extend for 13 kilometers, from Doolin to near Liscannor.
Cliffs of Moher is the most visited tourist attraction in Ireland with over 1.5 million visitors annually. Although visiting the Cliffs of Moher is fairly straightforward, there are a few tips that can enhance your experience and make your trip even more enjoyable. Using this guide, you will learn the need-to-know details and you can ensure a memorable adventure at this breathtaking natural wonder.
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How to Get To Cliffs Of Moher
From Galway
Driving: It takes about 1 hour from Galway city.
Bus: The 350 bus from Galway is the best option.
Tours: There are tours available that take you from Galway to the Cliffs via the Burren region.
From Dublin
Driving: The drive takes approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes.
Bus: Take route 300 M7 from Dublin City to Ennis, then switch to the 350 bus to reach the cliffs. The total travel time is around 5 hours and 30 minutes.
Tours: Various tours leave from Dublin, including stops at Dunguaire Castle and the Cliffs of Moher, along with other attractions.
From Limerick
Driving: It takes roughly 1 hour and 5 minutes to drive.
Bus: You can take the 300 bus from Limerick to Ennis, then switch to the 350 bus to the cliffs, totaling about 3 hours.
Tours: There are day trips from Limerick that showcase the beautiful scenery along the way.
From Cork
Driving: The journey takes about 2.5 hours.
Bus: It involves taking a bus and a train, but an organized tour might be more convenient.
Tours: Full-day tours from Cork are available and have received excellent reviews.
Rent a Car Ireland
Renting a car in Ireland is perfect for exploring the beautiful countryside. With several rental companies available at the airport and throughout the city, you can easily find a vehicle that suits your needs. We recommend booking well in advance using price comparison sites like rental cars.
Ticket prices
Tickets for the Cliffs of Moher are priced at €12 per person if purchased at the gate without prior reservation. However, if you choose to book your tickets online, you can take advantage of discounted rates:
- Morning Tickets: €7
- Afternoon Tickets: €10
- Evening Tickets: €8
Booking in advance not only helps you save money but also allows you to secure your preferred time slot for visiting these stunning cliffs.
Opening hours
The Cliffs of Moher operate under different opening hours throughout the year, allowing visitors to enjoy the breathtaking views during various seasons. Here’s a breakdown of their hours:
- January, February, November, and December: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- March, April, September, and October: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- May to August: 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
During the summer months, you can take advantage of extended hours which is the perfect time to enjoy the stunning sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean. Check the official website for any changes or special hours, especially during holidays or events, to make the most of your visit.
Maximizing Your Visit to the Cliffs of Moher
Through the visitor center
The ideal way to experience the Cliffs of Moher is through the visitor center. This option is particularly convenient if you have limited mobility, as it allows for a short 250-meter walk to one of the viewing platforms.
While the visitor center offers various exhibits and information about the cliffs, we recommend skipping it and heading directly to the stunning viewpoints. The breathtaking views are what truly make the visit memorable, and you can soak in the natural beauty of the cliffs right away.
Take one of the boat tours
One of the most extraordinary ways to witness the Cliffs of Moher is on a boat tour from either Galway or Doolin. Boarding a ferry allows you to glide along the Atlantic Ocean and sail directly beneath the towering cliffs, offering a unique and breathtaking perspective that differs significantly from land-based views.
This way provides an opportunity to appreciate the cliffs’ sheer scale and beauty in a way that simply can’t be matched from above. Additionally, there are tours available that take you from Doolin to the enchanting Aran Islands. On the return journey, you can enjoy the stunning views of the cliffs from the sea, making it a wonderful two-for-one experience.
Arrive prior to the opening time of the Cliffs of Moher visitor center
Visiting the Cliffs of Moher early in the morning is often the best time, especially before the visitor center and parking areas open. For example, arriving around 5:00 AM allows you to witness the stunning sunrise at approximately 5:05 AM during June.
Although the car park was closed, parking is available just outside the area, away from the road, making it possible to walk to the cliffs. This early arrival allows you to experience the breathtaking views in peace as the sun begins to light up the landscape.
Visit Cliffs of Moher During Sunset
Experiencing the Cliffs of Moher at sunset is a nice way to take in their beauty. The golden light casts stunning hues on the cliffs, creating a breathtaking view that is perfect for photography. Arriving in the late afternoon allows you to enjoy the scenic landscape as the sun begins to dip below the horizon. This magical time not only enhances the dramatic features of the cliffs but also provides a serene atmosphere as the day comes to a close. Make sure to check the sunset times for the date of your visit to ensure you arrive with ample time to soak in the view.
Cliffs of Moher for free
Due to safety issues, the only walk available at the Cliffs of Moher is the Doolin Cliff Walk, which is limited to the Surfer’s Path. If you’re interested in visiting the Cliffs of Moher without an admission fee, consider taking one of the cliff walks.
The Doolin Cliff Walk
The Doolin Cliff Walk is a 6.6 km path that takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes to complete. It’s a beautiful but challenging walk along the coast of County Clare, offering amazing views of the Cliffs of Moher.
Starting Point
The walk starts near Fisher Street in Doolin, right by the Doolin Inn. Look for the uphill road just past the inn to begin your hike.
Length and Time
The trail from Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher is 6.6 km long. If you plan to walk back, the total round-trip distance is 13.2 km, which will take about 3 hours.
Difficulty
This walk is tough in some places, with steep sections. Good walking shoes are important to handle the rough terrain.
Trail Breakdown
- Easy Start: The first part of the walk is mostly flat. After 1 km, you’ll come across a small step ladder over a fence, called a stile.
- First Challenge: About halfway through, you’ll face a steep 455-meter uphill section that’s quite tiring.
- Amazing Views: As you climb higher, the views of Burren National Park and the cliffs get even better. But remember to keep a safe distance from the edge!
- Final Push: Before reaching O’Brien’s Tower, there’s one last steep section. The cliffs rise dramatically here, and you’ll also see the Branaunmore sea stack, a tall rock that was once part of the cliffs.
At the end of the walk, you’ll arrive at O’Brien’s Tower, where you can enjoy stunning views of the cliffs. You can also visit the viewing areas and the visitor center.
To return, you can walk back, take a taxi, or catch the 350 bus to Doolin.
The trail runs close to the cliff edges, and the ground can be uneven. Be careful not to slip and stay away from the edge. Strong winds can be dangerous, so it’s important to be cautious. Sadly, there have been accidents in the past, so always prioritize safety.
Hags Head Cliffs Of Moher Walk
The Hags Head Cliffs of Moher Walk is a 5.3 km trail that takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, depending on how fast you walk. It offers some of the best views of the cliffs and is a great option for those looking for a moderate hike.
Parking
There’s a convenient car park near the start of the trail, and it costs €5 to park. It’s an “honesty box” system, so bring cash. You can find the parking location on Google Maps.
Getting Back
You have two choices for returning to your starting point:
- Walk back: Retrace your steps for a 10.6 km round trip, which will take around 3-4 hours in total.
- Bus + walk: Take the 350 Bus Éireann from the visitor center. However, you’ll need to walk about an hour from Liscannor to the car park.
Most people find walking back more enjoyable than taking the bus.
Trail Length
The walk from Hags Head to the visitor center is 5.3 km, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours. If you walk back, it becomes a 10.6 km round trip, lasting about 3-4 hours.
Difficulty
The walk is moderate and manageable for anyone with a reasonable fitness level. The path can be uneven, and there are some inclines, but nothing too difficult.
Highlights Along the trail
- Moher Tower: After walking about 1 km from the car park, you’ll reach Moher Tower, an old Napoleonic watchtower built around 1808. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the Clare coastline.
- First Cliffs View: Just 12 minutes after leaving Moher Tower, the cliffs come into view. The scenery is incredible, and you’ll be able to enjoy it for most of the walk.
- South Viewpoint: About 40 minutes into the walk, you’ll arrive at the South Viewpoint, offering amazing views of the cliffs.
- O’Brien’s Tower: As you near the visitor center, you’ll see O’Brien’s Tower in the distance. This area tends to be much busier since it’s close to the main entrance. The views from here are spectacular, and it’s worth taking your time to soak them in.
The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk
The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk is a challenging 19.5km trail that takes about 4.5 hours to complete, offering breathtaking views along the way. This linear route can be started from either Doolin or Liscannor, and you can catch the 350 Bus Éireann to return to your starting point after the hike.
Starting Point:
Although you can begin the walk from either Doolin or Liscannor, starting from Liscannor is often preferred, as it avoids some of the steeper inclines near Doolin. The stretch from Liscannor to Hags Head is less scenic but easier to tackle at the beginning of the walk.
Length and Time:
This version of the walk covers 19.5km, and it typically takes 4.5 hours to complete. If you prefer a shorter route, consider the Hags Head Walk, which offers a condensed version of the experience.
Difficulty:
The walk is strenuous, with uneven ground and strong Atlantic winds. Good fitness and proper footwear are essential.
Getting Back:
After completing the walk, take the 350 Bus from either Doolin or Liscannor or call a local taxi service.
Walking Routes:
- Starting from Doolin:
Begin with the Doolin Cliff Walk (6.6km, 1.5 hours) to the visitor center, tackling several steep inclines along the way. From there, continue to Hags Head (5.3km, 1.5-2 hours) and finish with the 6km walk to Liscannor (1.5 hours). - Starting from Liscannor:
The first leg (6km, 1.5 hours) to Hags Head is relatively easy but less scenic. After reaching Moher Tower and the famous cliffs, you’ll follow the trail to the visitor center (5.3km, 1.5-2 hours) and then continue to Doolin with views of the Burren.
Liscannor Walk
The Liscannor Cliff Walk offers stunning views and several options based on your fitness level and available time. Whether you’re up for a moderate hike or a more strenuous adventure, there’s a trail for you.
Liscannor to Visitor Centre
- Distance: 10.4km
- Time: About 2.5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
This walk starts in Liscannor Town or near the trailhead car park. If you prefer a shorter hike, you can start from the car park, which reduces the walk to 5.3km (1.5 hours). You’ll get beautiful cliff views soon after beginning the walk, especially as you pass Moher Tower at Hags Head and approach the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre.
Liscannor to Doolin (Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk)
- Distance: 19.5km
- Time: Around 4.5 hours
- Difficulty: Strenuous
For those wanting a longer hike, the full walk extends from Liscannor to Doolin, covering almost 20km along the coastline. If you start from the car park, the distance is reduced to 12.5km and takes roughly 3 hours.
Getting Back
After reaching either the Visitor Centre or Doolin, you can take the 350 Bus Éireann to return to Liscannor or call a local taxi at 065 707 5000. You can also retrace your steps if you prefer a round trip, but the bus is a convenient option.
Starting Point
You have two choices for where to begin:
- Liscannor Town: This adds an extra 5.5km to the hike, but the first section is less scenic and may feel long.
- Trailhead Car Park: Starting here cuts down on time and distance, plus you skip the less exciting part of the walk.
Highlights of the trail
- Moher Tower: This Napoleonic-era tower from 1808 is a great landmark, and after passing it, you’ll see the cliffs in about 12 minutes.
- Cliff Views: The views of the cliffs are constant and spectacular, especially compared to what visitors at the busy Visitor Centre experience.
- Panoramic Ocean Views: As you walk, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Atlantic, stretching to Galway Bay, Aran Islands, and Liscannor Bay.
Walk to Doolin
If you continue past the Visitor Centre, you’ll be on the Doolin Cliff Walk, but in reverse. This section has some steep declines, so sturdy shoes are essential. As you approach Doolin, you’ll be treated to views of the Burren in the distance.
Where to eat Near the Cliffs of Moher
Villages like Lahinch, Liscannor, Lisdoonvarna, and Doolin offer delicious Irish cuisine and lively traditional music sessions. Doolin, in particular, is famous for its traditional music scene. If you’re a fan of seafood, many restaurants in these villages serve locally caught fish, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Cliffs of moher with kids
Visiting the Cliffs of Moher comes with a certain level of risk, as the trails run close to the cliff edge. As long as you remain on the marked paths, there are no major safety issues. However, in some parts, the trail is just a few feet from the edge, which can be risky for younger children who might stray from the path. Because of this, the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center advises that only children aged 12 and above should hike the Cliff Trail.
If you’re visiting with younger kids, it’s a good idea to begin at the Visitors Center for stunning views and perhaps walk just a short section of the trail for a safer experience.
Where to stay near Cliffs of Moher
There are several charming villages near the Cliffs of Moher where you can stay if your schedule allows for more time in the area. Villages such as Lahinch, Liscannor, Lisdoonvarna, and Doolin offer a range of accommodations, from small hotels to traditional Irish bed & breakfasts. These towns are perfect for cliff visitors, providing a cozy place to rest while immersing yourself in local culture.
Useful Tips for Visiting the Cliffs of Moher
Check the Weather: The cliffs can be windy and rainy, so it’s essential to look at the forecast before you go. Dress in layers and bring a rain jacket, as the weather can change quickly.
Stay in Doolin for convenience. In the morning, take the shuttle from Doolin to the Liscannor Walk Car Park, which is near Hags Head. From here, walk the full trail, starting at Hags Head and finishing in Doolin. Plan for about five hours to complete the hike. Along the way, you can stop at the Visitor Center for a break, grab some food, or use the restroom.
For those short on time, start at the Visitor Center and explore a small section of the trail.
Wear Sturdy Footwear: The paths along the cliffs can be uneven and slippery in places, so it’s best to wear proper walking shoes or boots with good grip.
Stay on the Path: For your safety, always stick to the marked trails. The cliffs can be dangerous if you get too close to the edge.
FAQ about cliffs of moher
Walking from Doolin to Hags Head along the Cliffs of Moher is free. However, you may need to pay for parking in Doolin and Liscannor. If you walk the entire Coastal Walk, it's free, but you'll have to pay for the shuttle back. The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center has an entrance fee, but you can avoid costs by not visiting the center and staying at a hotel along the trail to skip parking fees.
If you're just visiting the Visitor Center for cliff views, you’ll need about an hour. However, if you intend to walk part of the trail along the Cliffs of Moher, your visit could take between 2 to 4 hours, depending on how far you walk. Walking the full length of the Cliffs from Doolin to Hags Head takes approximately 4.5 hours.
The Cliffs of Moher are home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, including around 20 different bird species. They have also appeared in numerous films, such as Harry Potter, The Princess Bride, and Leap Year, among others.
The walk along the Cliffs of Moher varies in difficulty, from easy to challenging. It typically takes between 4 to 6 hours to complete the scenic coastal path that starts at Liscannor or Hags Head, passes by the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre, and ends in Doolin to the north.
If you want a unique perspective of the Cliffs of Moher and the famous An Branán Mor sea stack during your trip to Ireland, consider taking a boat tour with Doolin Ferry Co from Doolin Pier or the Aran Islands.
To have the best experience at the Cliffs of Moher, try to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. These times provide beautiful lighting for photography and help you steer clear of the busiest tourist crowds.
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