Are the Cliffs of Moher Worth It? (My Thoughts as a Local)
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Don’t get me wrong, the Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s leading tourist attraction for a reason. I mean, they are visited by over 1 million people each year. And, 1 million people can’t really be wrong?! Or can they?
You see, the cliffs are easy to visit, and in my opinion, their major popularity is down to a good marketing strategy and accessibility.
Of course they’re beautiful, I am not disputing that, but they are SOOO BUSY! Making it so hard for visitors to actually get a feel for the rugged beauty that Ireland has to offer.
And there are far nicer places in the country with Cliffs that soar even higher than Moher, yet only see a fraction of visitors. Why is that?
Honestly, I think it’s lack of promotion, people simply do not know that these places. And, that is why I am writing this post.
But wait? Does that mean the Cliffs of Moher are not Worth it?
No, not at all. That’s not really what I am getting at. The Cliffs of Moher are iconic, a real bucket list location when visiting Ireland for the first time.
However, if you want to really experience the a raw and rugged beauty of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way then I suggest adding a few of the cliffs below to your bucket list too.
When visiting the Cliffs of Moher, there is so much going on, from the bustling tourist centre, live music performances and heaps of eager visitors. It’s difficult to sit back, relax and take in the nature without getting distracted by the surrounding chaos.
Whereas, in more secluded, lesser known locations you can really get to understand the ‘wild’ part of the Atlantic.
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1. The Slieve League Cliffs in Ireland’s County Donegal
Let’s start with one of the most mighty cliffs in Ireland, Slieve League. Standing at 601 meters high, making them 3 times the size of the Cliffs of Moher.
There are many walking trails to choose from, from the short walk to the viewing platform (1 hour round trip) to One Man’s Pass which I only advise for more skilled walkers.
No matter what you decide to do, you will not be sorry with a trip to Slieve League.
However, it is important to note, you do need to pay for parking, it cost €5, and the car park is located about a 20/30 minute walk from the main viewpoint. But I’ve been there twice since the charge started, and both times they let me drive right up to the first lookout point for the same price.
2. Cliffs at Magheracross Viewpoint in County Antrim
Thousands of people drive along the Causeway Coastal Route each year.
And the Magheracross Cliff Viewpoint has been added in recent years.
It features a small viewing platform that hangs over the cliff edge offering a fantastic view of Antrim’s Coastline.
On the right, there is another platform with a great view of Dunluce Castle and the cliffs around it. The on-site parking is free, and there are plenty of spots to choose from.
3. Baltimore Beacon, County Cork, Ireland
One of my FAVOURITE places in all of Ireland is Baltimore Beacon. There are no words to describe how beautiful it is.
It is perched on top of a cliff and has a view of Skerkin Island.
It’s hard to park at the beacon because the road is narrow and there aren’t many spots.
However, you can walk from Baltimore city centre which takes about 20 minutes.
The path to the beacon isn’t too hard, but it is rocky and uneven in some places. If you’re going to be there, you should wear good shoes.
4. Croaghaun Cliffs, Achill Island, Mayo County, Ireland
Croaghan is the highest cliff walk in Ireland, so it is 100% one that you should not miss.
The cliffs soar 688 meters high, making them 3 times larger than the Cliffs of Moher.
You can find these beautiful cliffs at Keem Bay on Achill Island in County Mayo.
There are many hiking routes to choose from. All of which are different levels, but you should be reasonably fit to do all of them as they can be STEEP in places.
No matter which path you choose, the walks can take anywhere from one to four hours.
You can park for free at Keem Bay, but it can get crowded in the summer. Once there are too many people on the beach, the Guards often block entry to the road. To avoid being let down, it is important to get to Keem nice and early in the morning.
5. Howth Cliff Walk, County Dublin
If you are looking to visit stunning cliffs not too far from Dublin city centre then considering visiting Howth.
Depending on how fit you are, this beautiful trail can take anywhere from two to three hours to finish.
On the walk, you can see scenic views of Dublin’s coast. You can also see the city skyline, Poolbeg Chimneys, and the Great Sugar Loaf on a clear day.
Or perhaps, you would prefer to visit at Sunrise or Sunset. Both are equally as beautiful.
It’s rather easy to get to Howth with multiple public transport options available including bus, train, or taxi.
6. The Gobbins Cliff Walk, County Antrim
The Gobbins Cliff Walk is one of the most unique coastal experiences in Ireland. Located in Islandmagee, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is undoubtedly a must-visit attraction for those seeking an exhilarating outdoor adventure.
Walk along the cliff edge on a secure platform that hangs over the sea. This experience is not for the faint hearted.
Visitors are offered the unique opportunity to explore the rugged beauty of the North coast up close.
Take in the breathtaking views of the Irish Sea, observe fascinating local wildlife, and learn about the region’s rich geology and history.
It’s an immersive experience that offers a truly unique perspective of Ireland’s natural beauty.
7. Portacloy Cliff Walk, County Mayo, Ireland
For such a small country, Ireland sure does have it’s fair share of cliffs, with the next on on the list being the beautiful Portacloy Cliff Walk in County Mayo.
This trail is one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets. It is home to breathtaking beaches, crystal clear waters and striking cliffside views.
The looped trail is 18km in total and takes just over 4 hours to complete.
Don’t let the walks time deter you. It is possible to return back towards Portacloy beach at any point throughout the walk.
There are many things that make Portacloy Cliff Walk one of the best in Ireland including Free parking onsite, fewer crowds and an end-of-hike swimming option.
8. Mizen Head, County Cork
If you add any of these cliffs to your Ireland Bucket List let it be Mizen Head in County Cork.
It is the most South Western tip for Ireland, and home to some of the most incredible views on the Atlantic.
It does cost, €7.50 for entry but believe it is highly worth it.
Visitors typically spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the beauty of the area.
Mizen Head is known for its dramatic cliffside scenery, iconic bridge and crashing waves beneath.
As you make your way through the beautiful coastal area you will be presented with breathtaking views every few minutes.
9. The Cliffs of Aran, County Galway
The Cliffs of Aran are on Inis Mór, the largest of the three Aran Islands.
There are plenty of things to see and do on the island with the
To get to the famous wormhole, you can walk along the edge of the cliff. Which is a natural cutout in the shape of a pool.
A lot of people like to swim at this location. But you should be careful because it’s not the safest place to swim.
From Dun Aonghasa, you can also get a great view of the Cliffs of Aran.
10. Copper Coast, County Waterford, Ireland
I still struggle to understand why county Waterford is not talked about more when it comes to Irish tourism.
The county is arguably one of the most beautiful places in the country.
Particularly, along the Copper Coast, where you will find a range of beautiful cliffs looking out into the ocean.
Waterford is said to be one of the Counties in Ireland that gets the most sunshine throughout the year.
There isn’t one particular cliff I want to mention because most views along this coastal drive are from a cliff edge. So my best advise is go for a drive and see what you find. One thing is for certain, and that is, you will fall in LOVE.
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