The Cliffs of Moher run for about 8 km along the coast of County Clare, reaching 214 metres at their highest point near O’Brien’s Tower. On a clear day you can see the Aran Islands, Galway Bay and the mountains of Connemara; in spring and early summer the ledges are crowded with puffins, guillemots and razorbills. They are the most visited natural attraction in Ireland, and still worth it.
Inland lies the Burren, about 250 square kilometres of cracked limestone pavement where Arctic, Alpine and Mediterranean wildflowers grow side by side among Stone Age tombs and ring forts. Between the two sits Doolin, a scattered village with a reputation for traditional music out of all proportion to its size, and the pier for boats to the Aran Islands.
Highlights
- The cliff-edge paths north to O’Brien’s Tower and south towards Hag’s Head.
- A boat trip from Doolin — the cliffs from below, with seabirds overhead.
- Poulnabrone dolmen — a portal tomb more than 5,000 years old on the bare Burren plateau.
- Burren wildflowers — gentians and orchids in May and June.
- A session in Doolin — music most nights in the village pubs.
- Lahinch — a wide surf beach and a celebrated links golf course.
Quick facts
| Where | North-west County Clare, on the Atlantic coast between Galway and Limerick |
|---|---|
| Jurisdiction | Republic of Ireland — euro (€), km/h |
| Gateway | Shannon Airport (about 1 hour); Galway (1 h 30 min); Dublin (about 3 h 15 min) |
| Ideal stay | 1–2 nights; many visitors come on a day tour |
| Best for | Coastal scenery, walking, birdlife, geology, traditional music |
| Getting around | Car or bike; a bus links Galway, Doolin, the cliffs and Ennis |
How long to stay & where to base yourself
Most people see the cliffs on a day trip from Galway, Limerick or Dublin. Staying one or two nights transforms the experience: you can walk the cliffs in the evening light after the coaches have gone, hear music in Doolin and give the Burren the half-day it deserves. Doolin is the classic base; Lahinch and Liscannor are close to the cliffs on the south side; Ballyvaughan suits the Burren; and Ennistymon and Lisdoonvarna are small inland towns with more beds.
