The Cliffs of Moher (Co. Clare)
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In Ireland, mention “the Cliffs” and faces light up with a spark of knowing pride. Everyone knows that “the Cliffs” are the Cliffs of Moher, one of the most beautiful spots in Ireland. Rising more than 200 meters above the Atlantic Ocean and stretching for more than 8 km along Ireland’s western coast, the Cliffs of Moher offer a spectacular glimpse of Europe’s western-most point. With the waves crashing below, birds soaring overhead, and a sheer plunge at your feet, the natural drama needs little explication.
The Cliffs draw thousands of tourists each year, and a few years ago a visitor’s center was built to handle the traffic. Set into the hillside, it is easy to miss the building itself, but within there is a gift shop, a coffee shop, a restaurant, plenty of restrooms, and the Atlantic Edge, an interactive exhibit about the geological and biological features of the Cliffs (for an additional charge). And on a hot day, I highly recommend the soft-serve ice cream cones from the coffee shop. Yummy!
The Essentials
Location: on the west coast of Ireland in County Clare
Price: the Cliffs themselves are free, however there is a parking charge of €8 per car. Atlantic Edge Exhibit: Adult: €4.95; Family(2+4): €13.95; Child(4-16): €2.95; Child(under 4): Free (prices for the 2009 season)
Who will love it? Everyone! The Cliffs themselves are gorgeous, and on a fine day, there is nothing better to do in Ireland. The walking paths are nicely-groomed, and those with mobility limitations have access to significant parts of the walking paths.
Arrangements: In miserable weather (rain, fog, etc) the Cliffs aren’t much fun. They can be socked in with fog, limiting or even eliminating visibility. I highly recommend calling the visitor’s center ahead of your arrival to check the weather conditions.
Notes: the visitor’s center is well-equipped with options for food, gifts, and clean restrooms.
The Cliffs open to visitors at 9 am all year, but closing time varies depending on the season. Check the website for more information. In addition to visiting the Cliffs on your own, scuba, horseback, boating, and hiking outfitters offer trips to the Cliffs as well for a range of different vantage points on one of Ireland’s greatest landmarks.
