The Cliffs of Moher are considered a natural wonder of the world and one of Ireland’s most visited tourist sites. These stunning cliffs give you fabulous views of the Irish Coast, the Atlantic Ocean, and (on a clear day) the Aran Islands.
You can view the cliffs by land, air, or sea. I chose the more traditional land viewing option, though I can only imagine the beauty witnessed when visiting this historic natural landmark by sea or air. If you have the opportunity, don’t pass it up! I took an organized bus trip, but there are several other ways to get there.
On site, there is an unobtrusive visitor center built into the cliffs where you can learn about the natural wonderland. The center provides video of aerial views of the site as well as access to underwater videos of the cliffs. You can also learn about the flora and fauna of the cliffs, which also happen to be a great spot for bird watching with over 20 different species of birds.
You can walk along a path on the cliffs to take in their grand size and stunning views of the sea and the Emerald Isle. In 1835, a lookout tower was built on the cliffs to provide another viewing point from the cliffs. For an additional 2 Euros you can climb to the top platform of the tower.
You can see O’Brien’s Tower in the background of this photo.
July & August tend to be the busiest months for tourism. I visited the site in July, and while it wasn’t overly crowded, it was quite chilly! Bundle Up!
SAFETY: Be mindful of guidelines. People can be blown off the cliff, and their fate is often dismal. The harsh conditions off the coast of Ireland can make rescue efforts challenging. The cliffs are also constantly eroding, so the views are best seen from the designated paths and viewing points.
Not traveling anytime soon? You can catch a glimpse of these breathtaking views in these films:
- Harry Potter & the Half Blood Prince
- The Princess Bride
- Leap Year
- Ryan’s Daughter
- The Yank
- And many more…
I’m a bit terrified of heights, so I would be super cautious about not getting blown of the cliffs! I was surprised to read that it was still chilly in July.
I’ve been following your Ireland pictures on Instagram, they are great – it’s one of the places I need to get to!
I’m glad you enjoyed the photos! There are plenty more coming from that trip and hopefully I’ll have even more after my July return trip to Ireland.
Looks like a scene from Lord of The Rings…even the name sounds like it, although I noted that you mentioned Harry Potter was shot here. That’s cool.
Ireland and Iceland are my must-visit places for next year.
I’m considering making 2017 the year of the I’s. Italy, Iceland, maybe more Ireland because I can’t get enough and Indonesia/Bali.
Loved that you mentioned to be very careful, I saw so many people so close to the edge it was so scary. The Cliffs of Moher is one of my favorite places to visit in Ireland.
I’m definitely a rule follower. Too many people have died on those cliffs, it’s important to be safe both for yourself and your loved ones, but also to prevent rescue workers from having to risk their own lives when tourists behave foolishly.
Ireland is definitely on the list with a stop at the Cliffs of Moher. I am surprised it is chilly in July. Good to know so I can plan accordingly if we go during that time.
You have some wonderful pictures of the cliffs. What a way to go, blown off a cliff! I wonder how many people die there a year?
I’ve booked a tour to take me to the cliffs, Doolin and the Burren so I can’t wait to experience and see it for myself. I’ll have that ticked off my list before moving to Canada 🙂 Yes safety is paramount up there and only last weekend a gentleman was blown off. People please don’t be so silly as to get close to the edge!!!
The idea of the wind grabbing me does spook me a little bit, but the Cliffs of Moher sound like something I just have to see some day, and not just on film (though I was surprised at how many of the ones you listed I’ve actually seen). There’s something fairly romantic about this kind of rugged beauty.
There’s a fence for safety. Only those who choose to go beyond the fence are at risk, a risk they willingly take on. Don’t let that be what holds you back. There’s also the lovely lookout tower!
just discover this site from somewhere. great sharing story & experiences. i will recommend this site to my friends out there.
I’m afraid I’ve only seen these beauties in the movies, but I’d love to visit in real life. I’ll heed your warnings though about staying on the path – I certainly wouldn’t want to get blown off into the sea.
I’ve yet to visit Ireland, but I’m dying to take my mom here! I’m all about rugged coastlines over sandy beaches. Did you pay to go up the tower? I bet it’s a stunning site! Also, I love that you put what movies this site was in at the end! Thanks for the dose of wanderlust!
The Cliffs of Moher are high on my list! It really looks out of this world incredible! And crazy enough, it looks even more picturesque and atmospheric on a cloudy, misty day!