One of Ireland’s Top Attractions: The Cliffs of Moher

When I’m talking to someone about travel in Ireland, if they have left the capital city of Dublin, it is usually to see the Cliffs of Moher. While I’m a huge advocate for some of the lesser-known attractions across the island (such as the wildness of Connemara or the strange rockiness of the Burren) I also was blown away by the Cliffs of Moher. They are even better than they look in pictures. In fact, you can’t even really comprehend them until you’re standing at the edge.

I too, visited the Cliffs of Moher during my first trip to Ireland. It was in 2007, and after spending some time in Dublin, I boarded a bus for Galway. This was before the motorway connecting the two coastal cities was finished, and the bus had to maneuver through the center of (seemingly) every village between Dublin and Galway. At the time I remember being somewhat annoyed at the lengthy journey, but now that the motorway is open, it almost seems a shame not to see the pretty villages along the way.

From Galway, the Cliffs of Moher are a very manageable daytrip. The two best options to reach the landmark are rent a car, or join a tour. In this case, I recommend joining an affordable day tour. There are many companies that leave right from Galway (many will pick you up right at your hotel or hostel) and will show you not only the cliffs, but also an ancient dolmen, perhaps a trek through some limestone caves, and definitely a stop in a country pub for a pint of Guinness. Taking a tour bus also means you don’t have to pay the expensive parking fee at the cliffs.

That being said, the Cliffs of Moher are most enjoyable when you can gaze out at them in silence. If possible, avoid the weekends, especially in the summer. I visited in late October, and had the entire place to myself. This was worth bundling up in a jacket, as I’ve heard many friends complain about visiting when its busy. Like most landscapes, this one is meant to be enjoyed in solitude. I will add one warning: this attraction might just get you addicted to Ireland travel!

Photo Credit: Jessica Colley