Cliffs Of Moher, County Clare, Ireland Photo by Jody Halsted, www.havekidwilltravel.com

There is a very simple reason the Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s top attraction – little can compare with their natural beauty.  I have visited the cliffs three times; every time has been different, every time I was awed by the views.

O'Brien's Tower, Cliffs of Moher Photo by Jody Halsted www.havekidwilltravel.com

O’Brien’s Tower was built in 1835 as a viewing spot for the tourists that came, even then, to view the majestic cliffs.  In past years the tower has been closed for safety. Repairs have recently been made and the tower is once again open to tourists.  Visitors may browse souvenirs in the tower shop on the ground floor and work by local artists on the first floor, or, for a small fee, access the viewing tower on the roof.

Since my first visit many upgrades have been made to access both the tower and other points on the cliffs.  Gone are the rutted paths (as seen in the photo at the left), replaced with smooth, handicapped accessible -though very steep – walkways and viewing platforms at various locations.

Caelan, age 1, at the Cliffs of Moher Photo by Jody Halsted www.havekidwilltravel.com

High stone walls are in place to keep children safe at the cliffs.  And for those adults who may think to climb them, I suggest following the advice of the posted signs.

Signs at the Cliffs of Moher Photo by Jody Halsted www.havekidwilltravel.com

If the signs aren’t enough to deter you, Rangers are on hand to keep you safe- as well as answer any questions you may have and conserve the cliffs.

The visitor’s center, at the base of the Cliffs of Moher, lies within the contours of the hills almost seamlessly blending with its surroundings.  As you approach you pass six outlying craftworker’s cottages which house shops that include jewelry, Celtic music and clothing.

Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center Photo by Jody Halsted www.havekidwilltravel.com

Inside the visitor’s center are a large gift shop, two restaurants,and  the Atlantic Edge exhibition and interactive interpretive center.  The Atlantic Edge if fun for any age and has so much amazing information about the cliffs.  It is well worth the additional charge if you have not visited the Cliffs before.

The Cliffs of Moher will not disappoint you and are a definite “must see” if you are in the west of Ireland.

What You Need To Know Before You Go

The Cliffs of Moher and the visitor’s center are both handicapped/ stroller accessible.  There are viewing platforms that are easy to reach as well as those higher up the cliff.  If you are in a wheelchair or have a child in a stroller be prepared and have someone strong available to push you- and keep you from a very fast ride back down the paths!

To reach the Cliffs of Moher you will need to arrange transport with a tour company or have your own car.  Roads tend to be narrow as you approach the cliffs and the winds may be strong.

Plan for the cliffs to be cool.  The winds off the Atlantic shift often.  You can experience sun, rain, wind and sun again in the space of half an hour.  If the wind is high the cliffs may close for safety.

Cost: (all prices current as of October 2009, please visit the Cliffs of Moher website for current information)

• The Facilities charge includes admission to all public areas of the visitor centre building, all external areas of the visitor zone including the cliff pathways and platforms, unlimited vehicle parking and provision of first aid facilities and safety onsite. This charge also contributes toward the visitor management and conservation provided at the Cliffs of Moher.  Car: €8   Motorcycle: €2
• Atlantic Edge  Adult €4.95; Family (2 adults + 4 children) €13.95; Couple (2 adults) €8.95; Senior/Student €3.95; Child (4-16) €2.95; under 4 free
• O’Brien’s Tower  Adult €2.00; Child €1.00

Hours: (current as of October 2009, please visit the Cliffs of Moher website for current information)

January: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00/5:30 p.m.
February: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00/5:30 p.m.
March: 9.00 a.m. – 6.00/6:30 p.m.
April: 9.00 a.m. – 6.30 p.m.
May: 9.00 a.m. – 7.00 p.m.
June: 9.00 a.m. – 9.30 p.m.
July: 9.00 a.m. – 9.30p.m.
August: 9.00 a.m. – 9.30p.m.
September:9.00 a.m. – 7.00/7.30 p.m.
October: 9.00 a.m. – 6.30/7.00 p.m.
November: 9.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m.
December: 9.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m.

The last entry into Atlantic Edge is 30 minutes before closing.

O’Brien’s Tower opens daily at 10am.

Craftworker units operate under separate hours.

Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays in March to November subject to weather the centre may remain open half an hour later than the scheduled closing time.Opening times will be reviewed regularly and are subject to change.