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.
One of Ireland’s most recognisable natural sites, the Cliffs of Moher are a tourist attraction of epic proportions. Towering over County Clare’s coastline, the cliffs stand as a rebellious testament to the eternal dance between sea and land. This masterpiece of nature is nothing short of breathtaking and beckons visitors to approach its edges, the rough Atlantic winds whispering secrets in their ears and messing up any hairstyle they may have attempted that morning. The vibrant tones of green that run along the cliffside are a perfect contrast to the deep marine hues of the waters below. The sound of the waves crashing into the bottom of the cliffs is mesmerising, and the sheer drama of the backdrop is enough to leave you feeling like time stood still, even just for a moment. It’s easy to see what makes this one of Ireland’s most visited sites, as any visitor will tell you it is a privilege to stand in such an impressive feat of nature. Located on Ireland’s western coast, it’s a perfect destination for a roadtrip across the country, allowing you to drive through some epic scenery, with the most majestic views waiting for you at the other end.
Sunset at the Cliffs of Moher
- © Piotr Machowczyk / Shutterstock
Myths and Legends of the Cliffs of Moher
Cliffs of Moher at sunset.
- © Voyagerix / ShutterstockTake a walk!
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.
O’Brien’s Tower at the Cliffs of Moher.
- © Tito Slack / ShutterstockSome practical information about visiting the Cliffs of Moher
- 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.
How to get to the Cliffs of Moher?
By car:
- The Cliffs of Moher are located on Ireland’s western coast, about 3.5 hours from Dublin and 90 minutes from Galway by car. The main visitor car park is located right by the visitor centre and everything is well signposted so you can’t miss it. There are also many members of staff on site to help you figure out which way you should be going. Find out more about parking at the Cliffs of Moher here.
By public transport:
- A bus service runs daily from Galway to The Cliffs of Moher and then on to Ennis. Bus Éireann’s route number 350 offers visitors a scenic ride towards the cliffs and is a great way to get there if you don’t have a car. Find out more about services and schedules on their website.
The nearest Airport is Shannon Airport.
Editor’s tip:
We love picnicking on the cliffs, especially on a sunny day or evening with an epic sunset view. That said, if you haven’t packed anything to eat, there is a lovely café inside the Visitor Centre that provides a little bit of everything should you be looking for a snack or a drink. Find out more about the café on their designated webpage.
Useful Link
Cliffs of Moher Official Visitors Centre Website:
