Why You Need to Visit the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland

Fun fact: did you know the location scouts for Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince chose the Cliffs of Moher as the backdrop of Dumbledore and Harry’s Horcrux hunt? The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most spectacular sights and renowned for their natural beauty. Standing at 214 metres at the highest point, they stretch for around 8 kilometres along the Atlantic Coast of Country Clare – in the west of Ireland.

Image from Flickr userAndrea Puggioni

The cliffs were formed more than 320 million years ago. Yes that’s right, way before you were even born! Heavy rainfall (and I’m talkin’ real heavy) created floods that washed sand and mud into rivers that flowed into the sea. Over the years that followed, solid materials like rocks, minerals and the remains of plants and animals – were compacted into layers of rock that make up the Cliffs of Moher today. Capturing the hearts of one million visitors each year, it's a must-see destination for anyone visiting Ireland. Not only do the cliffs boast an amazing view of Ireland, but on a clear day you can see Aran Islands in Galway Bay and the valleys and hills of Connemara.

Things to do at the Cliffs of Moher

There’s something for everyone at the Cliffs of Moher. From a guided tour to bird watching, there is plenty to do while you embrace the natural wonder of Moher. Preparing your visit will ensure you get the most out of it. Don’t forget this is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions – with July and August being the busiest months. Weekends and school holidays often attract large numbers, so try and visit on a week day if you can.

Other things to do include:

• Viewing the cliffs from three primary viewing locations – the main platform, the north platform and the south platform
• O’Brien’s Tower – stands on a headland at the Cliffs of Moher with views of Hags Head and Doolin
• Cliffs exhibition – an interpretive centre that contains images, exhibits, displays and experiences of the cliffs
• Walking – there are more than 600 metres of pathways and viewing platforms along the cliff edge, but be careful as there are no safety barriers and sections of the cliff may give way.

Image from Flickr user: Channing Brown

Beyond the Beautiful Cliffs

If you’re visiting the cliffs, you can take advantage of some fascinating places that are located just beyond Moher. Why not do a 20 kilometre coastal walk in Clare? You’ll get to experience one of the most outstanding landscapes Ireland has to offer. Or what about the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark, just north of the cliffs? A surreal landscape with its own unique distinctiveness. And don’t forget the activities! Whether you’re looking to soak up some rays at the beach, or better yet rock climbing – it’s a wonderful way to see the spectacular scenery.

Ireland's Myths and Legends

Ireland’s most ancient legends are full of stories about the Cliffs of Moher. There’s the mermaid of Moher, the corpse seating eel, the hag and cu chulainn and the lost city of Kilstiffen – just to name a few. But why not experience it yourself? Do a guided tour of the cliffs and learn about the stories told by mankind as they form part of Ireland’s myths and legends.

So go on, what are you waiting for? Go catch that horcrux.

Limits, exclusions and conditions apply. This is general advice only. We do not provide any advice based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the Combined PDS/FSG (available covermore.com.au) before deciding about this insurance. Insurance administered by Cover-More Insurance Services Pty Ltd (ABN 95 003 114 145, AFSL 241713). The issuer of insurance is Great Lakes Australia (ARBN 127 740 532, ABN 18 964 580 576, AFSL 318603).