Explore Ireland’s most notorious cliffs

More than just one of Ireland's most incredible natural sites, the cliffs also play a central role in many Irish myths and folklore tales. It is said that a mermaid used to live in the waters below but she disappeared after freeing herself from a local fisherman who had taken her away. Some have claimed to get a glimpse of the lost city of Kilstiffen peeking through the dark waters below the cliffs. The city is said to have sunk when the chieftain lost the golden key to a church inside the castle. Only once the key is found and returned can the city be restored to its former glorious self. Legend has it that the mythical city rises from the depths of the Atlantic every seven years, but only for a moment. The legend posits that those who witness this brief resurrection die within the next seven years, never getting a chance to see it a second time. During your visit, you’ll probably also hear about a witch named Mal who is said to have accidentally jumped off the cliffs, crashing into the rocks below. Today, the set of rocks known as Hag’s Head are meant to bear Mal’s features, serving as an eternal reminder of her misfortune.

Obviously, the best thing you can do at the Cliffs of Moher is walk round, but there are a few ways of going about this. 

You could head to the O’Brien Tower, built in 1835 by Sir Cornelius O’Brien, either to serve as a teahouse or to impress the women he was courting at the time; the history books aren’t too sure. Whatever the initial purpose of the tower, the vantage point you get from it is impeccable and well worth a visit. 

The roughly 14km of cliffside are a UNESCO Geopark, meaning the precious fauna and flora of the area is protected and the cultural significance of the cliffs is recognised internationally. Please be mindful of this and keep an eye out for the different species of birds that fly around the cliffs as you walk around.\ A great way to explore the cliffs is by following the coastal walking trails. The first is the Coastal Walk North, a linear 20km walk which takes about 4.5 hours to complete. The path takes walkers from Liscannor to Doolin, via the picturesque cliffs, making for a wonderful day out exploring both Irish towns and the great outdoors! 

The other walk is the Coastal Walk South which takes walkers from the Cliffs of Moher visitor centre to Hag's Head rocks. The path is about 5.6km long and takes walkers anywhere from 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. Both walks are magnificent and offer some of the most breathtaking views of this Irish treasure. You can find out more about both walks here. Please remember to be respectful of the nature around you and do not litter during your visit. Please also make sure to wear appropriate clothing for your walk. 

• Opening hours of the Cliffs of Moher change seasonally. From May to August, they are open from 8am to 9pm; in March, April, September and October the cliffs are open from 8am to 7pm and from November to February, the cliffs are open from 9am to 5pm. 
• Entrance fees start at 7€ and it is best to book your tickets online ahead of time in order to get the best rates.
• The site is dog friendly. 
• The visitor centre is fully accessible and can give you more information about accessibility at the Cliffs of Moher. 
• The weather can be rather intense at the cliffs so please check this before you travel over. You can learn more about weather conditions and safety at the Cliffs of Moher here.   
• A water fountain is available at the visitor centre so be sure to bring your reusable water bottle along.