Cliffs of Moher and Connemara National Park
Iconic coastal cliffs and rugged mountain landscapes offering dramatic vistas and hiking adventures along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light
Cliffs of Moher and Connemara National Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic coastal cliffs and rugged mountain landscapes offering dramatic vistas and hiking adventures along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.
"The view here is breathtaking! Definitely worth visiting."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for walking the cliff paths and hiking trails. Be prepared for uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Dress in Layers
Weather changes rapidly. Waterproofs and windproofs are a must, even on sunny days. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cliffs of Moher Grandeur
County Clare
Towering 700 feet over the Atlantic, these iconic cliffs offer breathtaking, dramatic ocean views.
Connemara National Park Trails
County Galway
Explore rugged mountains, bogs, and heathlands with stunning hiking trails and panoramic vistas.
+1
O'Brien's Tower
Cliffs of Moher
A historic viewpoint offering expansive panoramas of the cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean.
Doolin Village Charm
County Clare
A picturesque village known for traditional music and as a gateway to the Cliffs of Moher.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild Atlantic Way
Timing is Everything
Many visitors suggest 2 hours is sufficient for the Cliffs of Moher, but allow more time for Connemara's hiking trails. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for walking the cliff paths and hiking trails. Be prepared for uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Dress in Layers
Weather changes rapidly. Waterproofs and windproofs are a must, even on sunny days. :cloud:
Consider a Guided Tour
Great if you don't have a car. Many tours depart from Galway and include both locations. :bus:
Hike Beyond the Main Area
The best views are often found on the trails away from the visitor center. Stay left on paths! :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for walking the cliff paths and hiking trails. Be prepared for uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Dress in Layers
Weather changes rapidly. Waterproofs and windproofs are a must, even on sunny days. :cloud:
Consider a Guided Tour
Great if you don't have a car. Many tours depart from Galway and include both locations. :bus:
Hike Beyond the Main Area
The best views are often found on the trails away from the visitor center. Stay left on paths! :hiking_boot:
Book in Advance
Especially for popular tours or accommodations, booking ahead ensures availability. :ticket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking, spectacular views at the Cliffs of Moher and the wild beauty of Connemara National Park. Many highlight the dramatic ocean vistas and the opportunity for invigorating hikes. However, some express frustration with trail closures and the height of safety walls, which can slightly obscure the experience.
"The view here is breathtaking! I was fortunate enough to come on a clear day (no fog and the sun peaking through). I was lucky enough to grab a few amazing pictures. Def recommend a visit, 2 hrs is plenty. Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk up steep inclines. However if you are elderly, disabled, or needing physical assistance getting up/around there is a little golf cart type of shuttle to aid those persons needing it."
Vanessa Graber-Salinas
"Worth the trip. Unfortunately the southern and northern walks beyond the main area were closed for maintenance, those would have given that slightly better view back onto the sheer face of the cliffs."
Tim Hayden
"Beautiful and stunning landscape. Lucked out with weather! Only con was most of the other trails were closed and the wall that is up around the main area takes away from the experience. You can’t go to the edge like you like but definitely worth seeing."
Jordan N
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Many visitors opt for guided bus tours from Galway, which efficiently cover both locations. If driving, the Wild Atlantic Way offers scenic routes. Parking is available at both sites, though it can fill up quickly.
Consider Doolin as a charming base for exploring the Cliffs of Moher.
Absolutely! Guided bus tours are a popular and convenient option for travelers without a car, often departing from Galway. These tours typically include transportation and stops at key attractions.
If you're driving, it's about a 1.5 to 2-hour scenic drive between the two locations.
Yes, but it's a long day trip. Many recommend staying overnight in Galway or a nearby town for a more relaxed experience. Day tours from Dublin are available but involve significant travel time.
Both the Cliffs of Moher and Connemara National Park have designated parking areas. The Cliffs of Moher visitor center has paid parking. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an admission fee for the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience, which includes parking and access to the visitor center and main viewing areas. Booking online in advance is recommended.
Connemara National Park itself is free to enter and explore.
The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre typically opens around 9 AM and closes in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on the season. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or group bookings. It's advisable to check the official Cliffs of Moher website for current pricing and discount information.
While some access points might exist, the official and safest way to experience the Cliffs of Moher is through the visitor center, which covers maintenance and preservation efforts.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk along the paved paths to various viewpoints, visit O'Brien's Tower for panoramic views, and explore the visitor center. Boat tours offer a unique perspective from below.
Connemara offers a range of trails, from easy walks to more challenging mountain climbs. The Diamond Hill trail is popular for its stunning views.
Yes, the wind can be extremely strong and unpredictable at the Cliffs of Moher. Visitors are advised to hold onto hats and be mindful of gusts.
The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre has restrooms, a cafe, and a gift shop. Connemara National Park has visitor facilities, including restrooms, at the main entrance.
You might spot seabirds like puffins, guillemots, and razorbills nesting on the cliffs. Seals can sometimes be seen in the waters below.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for dramatic photos. Clear days provide stunning vistas, but even misty conditions can create atmospheric shots.
Beyond the main visitor center viewpoints, walking the cliff paths offers unique angles. O'Brien's Tower provides a good vantage point, though queues can form.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes.
Drone usage is generally restricted at the Cliffs of Moher to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check local regulations before flying.
Include a person or a recognizable object in your shot to convey the immense scale of the cliffs. Experiment with different angles and perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and be prepared for the wind, which can be exciting for kids! 🚶 Solo Travelers
Joining a guided tour from Galway can be a great way to meet other travelers and simplify logistics. 🚗 Road Trippers
Plan your route to include stops in charming villages like Doolin for traditional music and local pubs. Don't forget to factor in time for spontaneous photo stops – the scenery is constantly captivating. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Wild Atlantic Way
When planning your journey, remember that the weather on the west coast of Ireland is famously unpredictable. Packing layers, including waterproof and windproof outer shells, is crucial.
Experiencing Connemara's Rugged Beauty
+1 The park is free to enter, making it an accessible way to experience Ireland's natural splendor. Beyond the hiking trails, Connemara is also known for its picturesque lakes and the iconic Kylemore Abbey, a stunning fairytale castle set against a dramatic backdrop.
Exploring the wider Connemara region by car allows for spontaneous stops at scenic viewpoints and charming villages. Many visitors rave about the fresh seafood, particularly mussels, found in local restaurants. The Cliffs of Moher: More Than Just a View
It's important to note that some of the more extensive walking trails beyond the main visitor area have experienced closures for maintenance.
Visitors often recommend wearing comfortable, sturdy shoes and being prepared for the strong Atlantic winds. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit