The Cliffs of Moher, on the edge of County Clare (and on the Wild Atlantic Way), are a must see if you are visiting the West of Ireland. Well at least that’s received wisdom, as many say, most guides tell you, and the official website enforces this impression. It is true that the drop of around 700 feet from a relatively flat meadow to the Atlantic is simply breathtaking. There is a visitor center and an “Atlantic Edge” exhibition, but ultimately the natural landscape is the focus of attention here.
The Cliffs of Moher in a nutshell
Down to the basics, the Cliffs of Moher are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe, towering 700 feet above the Atlantic. An impressive sight (the view is pretty good too, although a view of the Atlantic can get bored pretty quickly) Stunning views and very good photo opportunities, a selfie sky to boot (just watch your steps, especially when taking selfies, you focus on the right angle and then you realize there is nothing but air after the last and fateful step back).
But let’s quickly break down: On the bright side, a lot speaks for the Cliffs of Moher:
- You get stunning views of the Atlantic and coastal cliffs to the left and right of the visitor center.
- Sheer drops of around 700 feet make the Cliffs of Moher one of the highest cliffs in Europe.
- It is one of the most impressive landscapes in Ireland.
- There is the interesting multimedia exhibition “Atlantic Edge”.
And what about the other side, are there any negatives? Yes, some, unfortunately …
- The pricing structure is not the best.
- “Flat rate entrance fees” do not include O’Brien Tower.
- The Cliffs of Moher can often be very crowded, especially during the main season.
The Cliffs of Moher – My opinion considered
The Cliffs of Moher really should be a five-star attraction – you walk down a winding road and suddenly the Atlantic Ocean is in front of you. Or rather below you, a vertical drop of around 700 feet makes a difference. It is simply awesome. And a challenge for those who do not suffer from vertigo. How close to the drop do you dare to go?
This perceived challenge has led to several deaths in recent years and urged the Clare County Council to make the cliffs safer (and more profitable too). By restricting access, providing more security, and building a new visitor center for safe viewing. This has led not only to quite high installation fees (the ‘parking fees’) but also to a new multimedia celebration of the natural environment, called the ‘Atlantic Edge’. It’s worth seeing, but it pales in comparison to the natural beauty of the cliffs.
The Cliffs of Moher are once again in the top ten in Ireland. No reservations except facility fees… they will blow you away even before you see the Atlantic.
And there is a star afoot: for the blatant effort to milk the visitor as much as possible, providing a flat fee that you might not want (or actually need), and then add extras (like going up a few steps for another view … from O’Brien’s Tower).
Visitors who think that the Cliffs of Moher are too crowded (as they might as well be, especially on weekends in summer) might want to go further north – the cliffs that are easily accessible tourist-friendly and not much less in The League of Slieve in County Donegal provide a genuine alternative.
One reason visitors tend to turn down the Cliffs of Moher is the price to pay, which you don’t really have to pay. The legal situation is complicated but it works in favor of the tourist. Here’s the deal: The impression created by the tourist machinery is that you have to pay to see the Cliffs of Moher or access the area. This is simply a fabrication: the entrance fee is charged for the use of the car park and the “Atlantic Edge” exhibition. If you can live without both, you are free to push yourself to the limit.
There is a public right-of-way from the main road to the cliffs. However, local parking regulations will force you to take a long walk, even if you are coming here by car (hint: the driver can drop off passengers and then head for a longer distance).
There are also coastal walks between Doolin and Lahinch, also free and with a great view of the Cliffs of Moher.
By the way, combining a visit to the Cliffs of Moher with a tour of the nearby Burren is a practical way to see two highlights in one day.
Essential information about the Cliffs of Moher
Website : www.cliffsofmoher.ie
Opening hours : every day from 9 am, closing hours vary according to the season (closed on December 24, 25 and 26).
Entrance prices : adults € 6, children under 16 free, students, pensioners and disabled visitors € 4. Reductions for groups, or when a prior reservation is made online.
