Joseph and I sadly set off from Galway and hit the road super early. We couldn’t complain though because today was the day we were going to the Cliffs Of Moher!! The cliffs were one of the things I wanted to see the most so I could NOT contain my excitement for today! However, it is extremely hit or miss when it comes to the visibility at the cliffs. Sometimes it is so foggy you can barely see your hand when you put it out! Fingers crossed we would have great views. (Spoiler alert: WE DID!)
The Cliffs of Moher are about an hour and a half (75.6km) from Galway, making it and easier trek than from Dublin to the Cliffs. There are tours and tours buses that do day trips from both cities, but we obviously had the car, making it easier for us. It is a wise idea to get there earlier, not only for a parking spot, but before the majority of tour buses that get there. It will be a bit foggier in the morning, but if you go on a good day, it tends to clear up and you can see the spectacular views. The Cliffs open at 9am and are open until anywhere from 5 to 9pm depending on the month and season. It cost Joseph and I 12 Euros (6 each) to get in and children under 16 get in free!
We first went in to the visitor center built into the side of hill. The center has a coffee ship and a cafe, along with a souvenir shop, restrooms, information, ATM’s and more. We popped into the coffee shop for some breakfast and caffeine and prepare ourselves for the cliffs. Today happened to be the coldest day in Ireland since I arrived, and the wind was absolutely insane! Luckily I had packed a sweatshirt and a windbreaker to took the bite out of the cold.
We exited the visitors center and agreed to turn right. We headed up the stairs towards O’Brien’s Tower, which is the highest point of the Cliffs of Moher. It was built in 1835 by Sir Cornelius O’Brien as an observation tour. Supposedly, it was also built to impress the women he was trying to date (court) at that time! If you would like to climb up it, it costs 2 Euros, and you must climb up a spiral staircase. The views from the top are great, especially if you go on a clear day!
After O’Brien’s Tower, we decided to conquer the cliffs and started up the path to the left. The Cliffs of Moher stand at 702 feet at the highest point and stretch for 5 miles along the Atlantic Ocean, part of the Wild Atlantic Way. Around 1 million people visit the cliffs each year (wow!) and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ireland. And, for good reason!
The Cliffs of Moher are unlike anything I have ever seen in my life. Hiking up the Cliffs of Moher consists of going up and down, so it isn’t for the faint of heart! There are stairs, pathways ,and a rail at certain parts, and other times just rocky ground. Due to mother nature, parts of the cliffs are starting to erode and crumble so there are warning signs about getting close to the edge – so be careful. That doesn’t stop some daredevils of sitting on the edge!
During our hike, the sun started to come out and the clouds starting to clear. You could see for ages and staring out over the expansive Atlantic is awe-inspiring. We walked to Hag’s head, the most southerly point of the Cliffs of Moher. It was quite the trek, and I stupidly brought my giant purse instead of a backpack (typical!). But, I we survived, thanks to Joseph, and it was worth every minute!
We made it back to the visitors center and had one last look at the cliffs. It was hard for me to say goodbye, as the Cliffs of Moher were one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen. Today is also in my top travel days of ALL time! Joseph and I found the car, said goodbye one last time, and then headed to Ennis for the night. What a fantastic day!
Stay tuned for the next adventures in #ErinGoBroad – The Ring of Kerry!
