The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast or simply seeking stunning vistas, the Cliffs oh Moher hike should be on your bucket list.
In this guide, we’ll cover when to visit, how to get there, what to wear, tips for your hike, and essential information to make the most of your visit.
Best Time to Visit the Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher can be visited year-round, but the best time to go is during the spring and summer months (May to September). These months offer milder weather, but be aware that the climate here is unpredictable.
It rains about 200 days a year, and the fog can roll in quickly, obscuring the cliffs entirely. While July might seem like an ideal time to visit, you should always check the weather forecast before planning your hike.
On our trip, we had clear skies for the first 30 minutes, only for fog to roll in, leaving us with limited visibility.
How to Get to the Cliffs of Moher
There are several options for reaching the Cliffs of Moher, whether you’re driving yourself or opting for a guided tour:
- By Car: The Cliffs of Moher are located along the Wild Atlantic Way, and if you’re traveling from Dublin, it’s about a 3.5 to 4-hour drive. The roads can be narrow and winding, so be cautious, especially in bad weather. Galway is about 1.5 hours away from the cliffs, and the drive is equally scenic.
- By Bus: If you prefer not to drive, buses regularly run from Dublin and Galway to the cliffs. The bus journey takes around 3 to 4 hours, and most tours offer guided commentary, making the ride enjoyable.
- Guided Tours: The most popular way to explore the Cliffs of Moher is by joining a guided tour. We opted for a full-day tour from Dublin, which left early in the morning and took us to the cliffs, along with other stops like Burren National Park and Galway. Our bus tour lasted about 12 hours, with 2-3 hours allocated for free time at the cliffs.
What to Wear at the Cliffs of Moher
Weather at the Cliffs of Moher is notoriously changeable. Even in July, when we visited, it was cold, windy, and rainy. Be sure to dress in layers and wear waterproof gear. Here’s what we recommend:
- Waterproof Jacket: A windproof, waterproof jacket is essential to shield you from the elements. Be prepared for rain and high winds.
- Sturdy Waterproof Shoes: The paths can get slippery, especially after rain. Make sure your shoes have good grip and are waterproof.
- Layers: Wear a warm layer beneath your jacket, as temperatures can drop quickly, especially along the coast.
- Hat and Gloves: These can come in handy on windy days, even in the summer months.
Tips for Visiting the Cliffs of Moher
→ Check the Weather: The fog at the Cliffs of Moher is a common phenomenon. The weather changes rapidly, and it can be difficult to see the cliffs in dense fog. Plan extra time to wait for the fog to clear if possible, or plan your visit around good weather conditions for the best experience.
If you’re traveling from Dublin, aim to arrive early to maximize your time in case the weather changes. We got lucky, seeing the cliffs clearly for about 30 minutes before the fog came in.
→ Stay Safe Near the Edge: The cliffs are spectacular, but dangerous. There are no barriers to protect visitors from the sheer drops, and several fatalities have occurred due to people getting too close to the edge. Stay back from the cliff’s edge, and be cautious if you’re walking on the wet paths.
→ Plan Extra Time: We recommend spending at least 3 hours at the Cliffs of Moher if you’re hiking. The fog can roll in unexpectedly, and you’ll want to wait for the weather to clear up if needed.
Details About the Hike at the Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk offers some of the best views of the cliffs and the surrounding landscape. The 4-5 km trail is moderately challenging but very rewarding. The trail stretches along the cliffs, providing various viewing points and breathtaking views.
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect on the hike:
- Start at the Visitor Center: Most visitors begin the hike near the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center, where you can get information about the area, maps, and even weather updates. From here, you can choose to hike in either direction.
- Going Left (toward O’Brien’s Tower):
- Distance: About 2.5 km (1.5 miles) to O’Brien’s Tower.
- Time: Expect to spend around 45 minutes to 1 hour hiking in this direction.
- Highlights: This section of the trail offers spectacular views of the Aran Islands and Galway Bay, with O’Brien’s Tower sitting proudly at the highest point of the cliffs. If you’re after panoramic views of the cliffs, this is the best direction to go.
- Going Right (toward Doolin):
- Distance: Around 4.5 km (2.8 miles) to Doolin.
- Time: It takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the Doolin side.
- Highlights: The right-hand side offers quieter, less crowded sections of the cliffs. It’s a peaceful path that provides incredible views of the cliffs and coastline, but it’s also a bit more challenging with some steep sections. If you’re seeking a more tranquil hike, this is the way to go.
Recommended Hiking Duration: For a complete experience, we suggest hiking in both directions. Aim to spend around 2 to 3 hours walking, depending on your pace, and plan your breaks along the way to soak in the views.
What to See Near the Cliffs of Moher
While the Cliffs of Moher are the main attraction, there are other incredible places to explore nearby:
- Burren National Park: Located a short drive away, this UNESCO Global Geopark features a unique limestone landscape and fascinating geology. Perfect for those who love nature and want to explore more of Ireland’s rugged beauty.
- Galway: After the Cliffs, you can visit the charming city of Galway. Known for its lively atmosphere, colorful streets, and rich history, Galway is a great place to unwind after your hike.
Our Personal Experience & Insider Tips
We joined a guided bus tour from Dublin, leaving at 6:30 AM. It was a long journey, but the views along the way were spectacular. We arrived at the Cliffs of Moher around midday, with about 2-3 hours of free time to explore.
The weather was unpredictable, and within 30 minutes of arriving, the fog began rolling in, limiting our view of the cliffs. We were lucky to see the cliffs in all their glory for a short time, but we highly recommend planning extra time to allow for the weather to change.
If the weather is clear, you can enjoy uninterrupted views, but the fog can come in quickly, so stay flexible with your plans.
One of the most important tips we can give is to be mindful of the narrow, winding roads leading to the cliffs, especially in foggy or rainy conditions. If you’re not an experienced driver, it might be better to take a guided tour.
Fun Facts
- The Cliffs of Moher stand at 214 meters (702 feet) at their highest point.
- They were used as a backdrop in the movie Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.
- You can see as far as the Aran Islands and Loop Head on clear days.
- The cliffs have been featured in several music videos, including The Cranberries’ “Dreams”.
- The cliffs are home to over 30,000 birds, including puffins, razorbills, and guillemots.
- The name “Moher” comes from a fort called Moher, which once stood on the cliffs.
Conclusion
The Cliffs of Moher are a must-see destination on the Wild Atlantic Way, offering dramatic views and a memorable hiking experience. Whether you’re hiking along the cliffs or simply marveling at the views, this destination should be at the top of your Ireland bucket list.
Just be sure to check the weather before you go, wear appropriate clothing, and plan for some extra time in case the fog rolls in.
Whether you’re driving, taking a bus, or joining a guided tour, the Cliffs of Moher won’t disappoint. Stay safe, enjoy the views, and make sure to take in the unforgettable beauty of the cliffs.
