Cliffs Of Moher - Galway Tourism

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Ireland’s top visitor attraction

The extraordinary Cliffs of Moher, undoubtedly Ireland’s top visitor attraction, tower high over West Clare’s wild Atlantic coastline. Standing 214 metres above the raging ocean at their highest point, the cliffs stretch for 8 jagged kilometres along the Clare coastline. And from them, you can see astonishing vistas. To the north and west are the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, the Twelve Bens Mountains, and the Maam Turk Mountain Range. And to the south there is beautiful impressive Loop Head with the Kerry coast lurking in the mist beyond it. And atop the iconic Cliffs of Moher sits O’Brien’s Tower, yet another of Ireland’s most photographed landmarks, and it holds steadfast against the winds and the relentless Atlantic onslaught to guard the coast from Spanish galleons and warring tribes.

But even more mesmerizing than the panoramic views from the Cliffs of Moher, are the views down onto the raging Atlantic Ocean so far below. Massive waves hurl themselves against the Cliffs over and over again, tearing at the rock, sending out a distinctive booming sound wave, and throwing salt spray high into the air. And the next day the sea is flat calm and blue, and the only ripples on the water are those caused by tourist boats sidling close into the cliff face.

The Cliffs of Moher are truly extraordinary, a feast of vistas, sounds, and wildlife, all thown wonderfully together to produce one of the great natural wonders of the world. A remarkable sight which will be remembered forever!

How to get to the Cliffs of Moher

By bus, or car. Bus Eireann Route 350 provides a service from Galway to The Cliffs of Moher (see timetable). Alternatively follow the N6 from Galway to Kilcolgan, and then the N67 and R478 to The Cliffs of Moher.

Where to stay near Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs of Moher has lots of great accommodation options nearby including hotels, self-catering holiday homes, guesthouses and B&B’s.

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Things to do in Cliffs of Moher

• Remember that you do not have to pay to see the Cliffs of Moher. They have been free for millions of years and always will be.
• Pay a visit to quirky St Brigid’s Well and you will see the important place that religious veneration still has in Irish society. St Brigid’s well about 2 miles south of the cliffs on the right beside the O’Brien monument is a very famous holy well, and a revered place of local pilgrimage.
• Drop in to Doolin Cave and see the largest stalactite in the Northern Hemisphere. Savour a mini “Indiana Jones” style adventure, but note that tours are limited to 15 at a time, so book early online.
• The Cliffs of Moher are home to one of the major colonies of cliff nesting seabirds in Ireland. The area was designated as a Special Protection Area (SPA) for Birds under the EU Birds Directive in 1986, and as a Refuge for Fauna in 1988. Included within the designated site are the cliffs, the cliff-top maritime grassland and heath, and a 200 metre zone of open water, directly in front of the cliffs to protect part of the birds’ feeding area. The designation covers 200 hectares and highlights the area’s importance for wildlife.

Video guide to visiting the Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs of Moher coastal walk 🚶

The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk is a 20km cliff-edge trail offering breathtaking views of Galway Bay, the Aran Islands, and the Atlantic. Starting from Liscannor and ending in Doolin (or vice versa), this linear route takes approximately 4.5 hours to complete. The exposed cliff-top path is strenuous, requiring a high level of fitness due to narrow, steep ascents and descents. Walkers will traverse flagstone steps, farm tracks, and local roads. Safety precautions are necessary, including appropriate clothing and footwear. This demanding trail, with its stunning Atlantic seascapes, is perfect for seasoned walkers. See trail map below.

Cliffs of Moher FAQs

Do you have to pay to see the Cliffs of Moher?

The cliffs are technically free to view because they are a naturally occurring part of the west Clare landscape. The visitor centre at the Cliffs of Moher, however has an admission fee. In fact, the entrance cost is included in the parking fee if you’re driving.

Ticket prices (at peak times 11am – 4pm) Adult: €10 Child under 12: free Student: €9 Senior: €9 Family: €20

Reduced prices available if visiting before 11am or after 4pm.

However if you take the stunning cliff walk from either Liscannor or Doolin access is free. Trail details with map below.

How do you get to The Cliffs of Moher?

By Public Transport

Reaching the Cliffs of Moher via public transport is possible but requires planning. Take a train to Ennis from Galway or Limerick, both roughly 1.5 hours away. From Ennis, Bus Éireann’s 350 service connects to the cliffs, also stopping in Doolin. However, rural bus services are infrequent and unreliable, so booking a guided tour is a more convenient option if driving isn’t viable.

From Dublin

The Cliffs of Moher are 3.5 hours west of Dublin. Follow the M50 to the M4, then the M6 toward Galway, switching to the M18 southbound near Athenry. Exit at Gort to join the R460, leading to the cliffs. Don’t forget the M50’s electronic toll, payable within 48 hours. A scenic drive across Ireland’s motorways and regional roads makes this a memorable journey.

From Galway

A 1.5-hour drive south from Galway brings you to the Cliffs of Moher. Take the N67 toward Lisdoonvarna, then turn onto the R478. The coastal route offers breathtaking views and notable stops, including Dunguaire Castle and the Flaggy Shore. Traffic in Galway city may add time, but the stunning scenery en route makes up for it. Nearby attractions include Burren National Park, perfect for nature lovers.

From Limerick & Shannon Airport

The Cliffs of Moher are an hour’s drive from both Limerick city and Shannon Airport. Head north on the N85 toward Lahinch, turning onto the R478 coastal route. Along the way, you’ll pass highlights like Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. Whether traveling from the medieval charm of Limerick or Shannon’s international gateway, this short drive promises a mix of history and spectacular views.

Why is the Cliffs of Moher famous?

The Cliffs of Moher have a wonderful variety of flora and fauna with up to 20 different species of birds to be seen. The cliffs have also formed the backdrop to many famous movies such as Harry Potter, The Princess Bride, Leap Year and many more.

What does Moher mean in Irish?

The name Moher derives from Gaelic words meaning “ruined fort”. The Cliffs of Moher name in fact means the cliffs of the ruined fort.

What town is closest to the Cliffs of Moher?

The closest villages to the Cliffs of Moher are Liscannor 6km south and Doolin 7km north. The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk connects Liscannor and Doolin, via the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre. This scenic route, it takes approx 5 hours to walk and includes remote, exposed cliff-top sections so extra care and high level of fitness is required throughout.

What are the most intersting things about the Cliffs of Moher?

Below are the top ten interesting facts about the Cliffs of Moher:
1. Spectacular Height The Cliffs of Moher rise up to 214 meters (702 feet) at their highest point, offering breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean.
2. Length and Location Stretching approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) along Ireland’s western coast in County Clare, the cliffs are part of the Wild Atlantic Way.
3. Geological History The cliffs are made up of sandstone, siltstone, and shale, formed over 300 million years ago during the Carboniferous Period.
4. O’Brien’s Tower A historic tower built in 1835 by Sir Cornelius O’Brien stands at the highest point, serving as a viewing platform for visitors.
5. Diverse Wildlife The cliffs are home to over 20 species of seabirds, including puffins, razorbills, and guillemots. It’s a designated Special Protection Area for birdlife.
6. Filming Location The cliffs have appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and The Princess Bride.
7. Atlantic Edge Exhibit The visitor center houses an interactive exhibit called the Atlantic Edge, providing insights into the cliffs’ geology, history, and wildlife.
8. UNESCO Global Geopark The Cliffs of Moher are part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, recognized for their unique landscapes and cultural heritage.
9. Mythology and Legends Irish folklore says the cliffs were once the home of mythical sea creatures and are associated with tales of lost civilizations like Hy-Brasil.
10. Breathtaking Views On a clear day, visitors can see the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, and even as far as the mountains of Connemara across the Atlantic.

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