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Viewpoint · Doolin, Clare
Cliffs of Moher
Cliffs of sandstone and shale stretching about 14 km over the Atlantic and reaching 214 metres in height, with the Torre de O'Brien from 1835 and a visitor centre carved into the hillside.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cliffs of Moher
The Falésias de Moher are on the west coast of County Clare, between Doolin and Hag's Head, stretching for about 14 km. The rocks are layers of sandstone, shale and siltstone formed roughly 320 million years ago when the area was the delta of a large river, and the sea has been eroding the cliffs' bases, which reach 214 metres in height at the highest point near Knockardakin. They are part of the Burren and Falésias de Moher UNESCO Global Geopark.
In the central section, next to the visitor centre, paved trails follow the cliff edge in both directions. To the north is the Torre de O'Brien, built in 1835 by Cornelius O'Brien, a local politician, as an observation point for visitors of the time; from there you can see the Ilhas Aran, Galway Bay and the Connemara mountains on clear days. To the south the trail continues to Hag's Head, with an old watchtower on the tip.
The visitor centre, opened in 2007, was built into the hillside and covered with turf so it doesn't appear in the landscape. It houses an exhibition on the cliffs' geology, birds and history, plus cafés and toilets. The cliffs host colonies of seabirds, including the puffin, which is usually present from April to the end of July, as well as gulls, kittiwakes and razorbills.
The coastal trail between Doolin and Liscannor, about 18 km, passes the visitor centre. Sections outside the central area have no protective wall: always stay behind fences and away from the edge, especially in wind. On foggy days the view can disappear completely; check the forecast before you go.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the visitor centre and central area trails; 3 to 4 hours for the walk from Doolin to the centre.
Best time
Early morning or after 4pm, outside coach arrival times. In summer the late afternoon is long and light hits the cliff faces head on. From April to July puffins are often seen near the Torre de O'Brien. In fog the view disappears: check the forecast.
How to get there
The visitor centre is on the R478, 7 km from Doolin and 6 km from Liscannor. Paid parking is available at the visitor centre. Regular buses from Galway and Ennis stop at the entrance, and tours run from Galway and Dublin. On foot, the coastal trail departs from Doolin.
Tip
Buy the online, timed ticket — it's usually cheaper and avoids queues. Walk south towards Hag's Head: the section is quieter and offers the classic view of the cliffs with the Torre de O'Brien in the background. Bring a windproof layer even in summer.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cliffs of Moher
How high are the Falésias de Moher?
They reach 214 metres at the highest point, near Knockardakin, north of Torre de O'Brien, and stretch for about 14 km along the coast.
Do I need a ticket?
Entry is via the visitor centre, with a ticket that includes parking and the exhibition. Buying online with a timed entry is usually more convenient.
Can you view the Falésias de Moher from the sea?
Yes. In season, generally from March or April to October, boats depart from Doolin pier and pass beneath the cliffs. Schedules depend on sea conditions.
Is the coastal path safe?
In the central area there are paved paths with a stone wall. Outside that, the dirt path runs close to the edge without protection. Stay behind the fences and avoid the path in strong wind or rain.
When do the puffins appear?
They are usually on the cliffs from April to the end of July, during the breeding season, mainly near Torre de O'Brien and the rock Goat Island.