The Cliffs of Moher rise above the Atlantic at the southwestern edge of the Burren, on the western coast of County Clare. The highest point, near O'Brien's Tower, reaches 214 metres (702 feet). The clifftop paths are paved, with stairs and a ramp, so most visitors can reach the main viewpoints. Walk out to O'Brien's Tower, look along the coast, and watch seabirds around the rock ledges below.
Rock, sea and the Burren
The cliffs are sea cliffs built from layers of sandstone, shale and siltstone. They formed from sediment that washed into the sea and hardened into rock over a very long time. Their layers are easy to see from the edge, where the rock falls straight to the water.
The cliffs sit at the edge of the Burren, a limestone region in County Clare. The Burren and the cliffs together form part of a UNESCO Global Geopark, recognised for their geology and the way the landscape is still in use. Inland, the Burren has tombs, caves and unusual flowers, so the cliffs fit well into a wider day in the area.
O'Brien's Tower
O'Brien's Tower is a round stone tower near the middle of the cliffs. Local landlord Sir Cornelius O'Brien built it in 1835 as an observation tower for the visitors who came to see the cliffs at that time. It stands close to the highest point, at 214 metres (702 feet).
From the top viewing platform you can look toward the Twelve Bens, Galway Bay, Loop Head and the Aran Islands. The lower floor has a small gallery for local artists and a gift shop. The tower is open all year and is included in the cliffs admission ticket.
The visitor centre
The visitor centre is set into the hillside above the cliffs and was designed to be environmentally friendly. Inside, interactive exhibits explain the geology, wildlife and history of the area. Educational segments and a large video display give background before you walk out to the edge.
The centre has a café and a gift shop. The gift shop sells artisan items, which cost more than the usual souvenirs, so compare prices if you want a keepsake.
Walking the cliff edge
The main clifftop path is paved, and it has both stairs and a ramp. This makes the walk manageable for most visitors. The path leads to several viewpoints, and from the higher stretches the cliff face drops steeply to the sea.
The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk is a longer option. It runs about 18 kilometres from Liscannor to Doolin, and most walkers start in Liscannor and follow the blue arrows on white markers. The route combines steep climbs, flagstone steps and farm tracks, and it takes around four and a half hours at a steady pace. For a shorter walk, the Doolin Cliff Walk is an option.
On clear days, a shuttle service is available for visitors with reduced mobility. The site has accessible parking, an accessible toilet and a lift and ramp.
Seabirds and conservation
Seabirds nest on the cliffs in large numbers, with more than 30,000 pairs recorded. Puffins and razorbills are among the species here. Much of the cliff area is a protected area for birds, with 35 species found on the site.
The visitor centre is run with a focus on sustainability and nature conservation. Staying on the paths helps protect the cliff edge and the birds that nest on it.
Visiting by boat
Boats run from Doolin Pier and give a view of the cliffs from the sea, sometimes as part of a trip to the Aran Islands. The boats are small, so sailings can be cancelled in bad weather or rough seas. Check the day's sailing before you plan the rest of your visit around it.
Häufige Fragen
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, visiting the cliffs requires an admission ticket. Prices quoted by visitors and publications have differed, so check the current fee before you travel. O'Brien's Tower is included in the cliffs admission ticket.
How long do you need at the Cliffs of Moher?
Most visits take 2 to 3 hours, including the visitor centre and the main clifftop walk. A longer walk along the coastal path takes around four and a half hours for the full route.
Is the Cliffs of Moher accessible?
The main path is paved and has both stairs and a ramp. The site has accessible parking, an accessible toilet, and a lift and ramp. On clear days, a shuttle service is available for visitors with reduced mobility.
When is the best time to visit the Cliffs of Moher?
Late afternoon and sunset are quieter, with fewer people on the paths. Calm, clear weather gives the best views, and strong wind can restrict access to the edge.
Can you see the Aran Islands from the cliffs?
On a clear day, yes. The Aran Islands are visible from the top of the cliffs, along with Galway Bay.
