The Cliffs of Moher

Visiting the Cliffs of Moher is the highlight of most people’s trip to Ireland and cannot be missed. Unfortunately, we visited on a rainy, misty day (most days in Ireland) and apparently the views on a sunny day are even more extraordinary. We enjoyed walking through the development and experiencing the sites and sounds of the Cliffs of Moher. On the way, as throughout Ireland, we saw the sheeps and cows enjoying the green of the Emerald Isle.

The Cliffs of Moher is Ireland’s most visited natural attraction. It is a magical view that captures the heart of over a million visitors every year. The Cliffs rise to over 700 feet at their highest point and extend for about five miles over the Atlantic. They are located on the western seaboard of County Clare. From the Cliffs of Moher one can see the Aran Islands, Galway Bay and also the Twelve Pins, the Maum Turk Mountains in Connemara and Loop Head to the south.

The Cliffs of Moher get their name from a ruined fort “Moher” which was demolished during the Napoleonic wars to make room for a signal tower at Hag’s Head. The Cliffs formed about 320 million years ago during a time called the Upper Carboniferous period, when the area was much warmer and was situated on the mouth of a large river. The river flowed down brining mud and sand with it, then dumping all over this area where it settled and eventually formed the rock layers you see when you visit.

Wildlife at the Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher is a specially protected area and home to Ireland’s largest mainland seabird nesting colony with 20 species of nesting birds including 9 species of breeding seabirds and up to 30,000 breeding pairs. From the cliff edge, you will see a host of seabirds, including puffins (the clown of the sea) which nest on Goat Island. In the early morning and before midday is the best time to see the puffins as they go out to sea fishing in the afternoon. Puffins arrive from the mid-Atlantic in April and return there at the end of July.

You can also see Guillemots and razorbills on the flat stone at the base of the Branan Mor sea stack. A pair of peregrine falcons, the fastest creature on the planet, can be seen nesting below the tower and can be seen protecting their territory.

In addition to birds, a herd of wild goats roam the length of the Cliffs of Moher and sometimes can be seen near the visitor areas. Dolphins and seals can commonly be seen out to sea and you may sometimes sea a basking shark, a humpback or minke whale.

Cat’s Ear and Sea Pink are some of the very pretty flowers you will see at the Cliffs of Moher in the summer. There are rangers available to help you find these different wildlife spectaculars so don’t hesitate to ask at the Visitor’s Center.

O’Brien’s Tower

O’Brien’s Tower, which was built in 1835 by Cornelius O’Brien, is a viewing point for tourists who flock to the Cliffs of Moher. When you visit the tower and climb the spiral staircase, you are in for a delightful view of the Cliffs which are utterly breathtaking. On a clear day you can view 5 counties in Ireland. The grounds around the tower give you the feel of the Irish castles you drive by on your visit to Ireland.

Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark

This is one of UNESCO’s Global Geoparks, which is a special region with outstanding geology and fascinating local culture. You can experience a wide range of intriguing geo-sites, breathtaking walking trails and informative visitor centers. You can savor local food, culture, and engage in guided educational tours as well.

If I return to Ireland, this will be a definite stop for me again, and I will hope to have a sunnier day. However, all in all, through clouds and rainy mist it is still one of the most spectacular visions I have witnessed.

If you would like to read more about my trip to Ireland take a look at https://www.escapewriters.com/famous-places-to-see-in-10-days-travel-of-ireland/ and Bars In Ireland at https://avacato.co/blog/bars-in-ireland as well as my other other articles on Vocal (Many Facets of Ireland)

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