16 Best Cliffs in Ireland
Read our guide on the most beautiful cliffs in Ireland, including tips on things to do and see, how to get, and where to stay.
Ireland is home to many mesmerizingly beautiful cliffs.
Standing high above the sea is an incredible experience, no matter which coastal destination you plan to visit in Ireland.
The smell of fresh sea air, the sound of crashing waves, the coastal walks, the uninterrupted views, the squawking birds, and the sunsets. Especially the sunsets.
If you plan to visit Ireland for the first time (or the tenth), you're in for a treat.
These cliffs are bound to find a place on every Ireland itinerary.
Ireland has many stunning cliffs that you should visit on your next trip. And as Ireland is an island with unique geology, cliffs are everywhere.
Still, the West Coast is the place to go if you want to see the most beautiful cliffs Ireland has to offer.
Especially if you decide to drive the Wild Atlantic Way, you will be spoilt for choice.
This list features the most incredible cliffs in Ireland. Let's dive into it!
Cliffs of Moher
Every list of the best cliffs in Ireland has to start with the iconic Cliffs of Moher.
These incredible cliffs are among the best things to do in County Clare and, quite rightfully, one of Ireland's top attractions.
The cliffs stretch about 14 kilometers between the small village of Doolin in the north and a rock formation known as Hag's Head in the south.
You should do the full Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk if you have time.
This is the best cliff walk in Ireland, featuring breathtaking views along the entire trail.
The most popular access point is the Cliffs of Moher Experience, where you will find a large car park, a paved trail with barriers, a large visitor center with a museum, and the highest point of the cliffs.
This access point is perfect for all visitors pressed for time who want to see the most incredible landscape Cliffs of Moher has to offer.
Either way, Cliffs of Moher is one of Ireland's must-visit places that is pretty much on every itinerary.
How to Get
Located on N67 in County Clare, Cliffs of Moher are about a 90-minute drive south of Galway and approximately a 75-minute drive north of Limerick.
The journey from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher takes about three and a half hours.
Where to Stay
When it comes to accommodation near the Cliffs of Moher, you're spoilt for choice.
The cliffs are one of the most visited destinations in Ireland, so you can be sure there is plenty of accommodation around.
Lahinch and Doolin are ideal places to find a hotel if you want to stay as close to the cliffs as possible.
Galway and Limerick are large cities that will cater to all your needs.
Lahinch | Lahinch Coast Hotel and Suites - If you want to see Cliffs of Moher without crowds, you need to start early. This modern hotel is only a short drive from the cliffs and has everything you need while on the road.
Limerick | George Limerick Hotel - Limerick has a fantastic location for exploring Ireland's southwest. This boutique hotel is one of the best options in Limerick for every type of traveler.
Galway | Imperial Hotel Galway - Galway is a lively city that is fun to visit any time of the year. This centrally located hotel is one of the best in Galway's city center.
Old Head of Kinsale
Another must-see cliffs are not too far away from the famous seaside town of Kinsale.
On the southern edge of County Cork is Old Head of Kinsale, a rugged headland with steer cliffs and incredible views.
Together with Kinsale, this is a fantastic place to kick off your Wild Atlantic Way journey.
Apart from the cliffs, you can visit the Lusitania Museum and Old Head Signal Tower here.
The 200-year signal tower from the Napoleonic Wars offers stunning views from the top, while the museum gives an insight into the story of RMS Lusitania.
Old Head of Kinsale is also home to nesting birds, so make sure to bring a pair of binoculars with you.
Unfortunately, you can't explore the tip of the headland as it's taken by private property with a hotel and an extensive golf course unless you're a guest, of course.
How to Get
The best way to get to Old Head of Kinsale is by car.
Old Head of Kinsale is about 40 kilometers south of Cork and less than 15 kilometers south of Kinsale.
Where to Stay
Kinsale is one of the most picturesque seaside towns in Ireland. The town is immensely popular, and you can find some lovely hotels there.
If you want to stay in the center of action, the city of Cork is an ideal location for any visitor to this stunning county.
Kinsale | Actons Hotel Kinsale - Set in the picturesque harbor, this hotel is a great place to stay in Kinsale on a mid-range budget.
Cork | Imperial Hotel Cork City - If you want to stay right in the middle of everything, this boutique hotel offers a serene space in central Cork.
Kerry Cliffs
The Ring of Kerry is one of the best scenic drives in Ireland.
If you can't get enough of the coastal scenery, consider extending your trip to include Skellig Ring.
This is another scenic drive, though much shorter than the Ring of Kerry.
Nevertheless, this circular route is home to Kerry Cliffs, a stunning mass of rock that rises from the Atlantic Ocean on its western edge.
The cliffs along the western shores of Skellig Ring are particularly dramatic and photogenic.
The best place to enjoy the scenery is by stopping by the area known as the Kerry Cliffs.
Several viewpoints are connected by a well-maintained trail suitable for all ages and abilities.
The views from the cliff's edge will blow you away, as well as the strong wind gusts blowing from the sea.
There is a small parking fee, but the cliffs are worth the money.
How to Get
Kerry Cliffs is located on the Skellig Ring in West Kerry, about 80 kilometers west of Killarney Town.
It takes about 25 minutes to get to Kerry Cliffs from Waterville or Cahersiveen.
The cliffs are about 80 kilometers from Kenmare and Tralee. Kerry Cliffs is about a 3-hour drive from both Cork and Limerick.
Where to Stay
Kerry Cliffs are best explored from one of the nearby seaside villages such as Portmagee, Ballinskelligs, Cahersiveen, or Waterville.
However, the most popular towns are Killarney, Tralee, or Kenmare, just outside the Iveragh Peninsula.
The nearest large cities to the Kerry Cliffs are Cork and Limerick.
Waterville | The Smugglers Inn - With cozy rooms overlooking Ballinskelligs Bay, an amazing location, and free parking, this is one of the most popular hotels in Waterville.
Cahersiveen | Quinlan and Cooke Boutique Townhouse - If you're looking for a beautiful hotel with modern rooms and a seafood restaurant located only a short drive from Kerry Cliffs, this property should check all your boxes.
Dun Aonghasa
Located on Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands, Dun Aonghasa is another incredible place to visit.
These rugged cliffs rise steeply from the restless waters of the Atlantic Ocean to 100 meters, forming a majestic rock wall.
Atop the cliffs is perched an ancient fort that was built about 3000 years ago. The scenery around you is simply breathtaking.
You can either walk or cycle to Dun Aonghasa from the harbor.
As Dun Aonghasa is located about 8 kilometers from the pier, cycling is a better way to get around.
There are no barriers, so avoid getting too close to the edge.
If you're short on time, you can always take an Aran Islands Cruise to see the most beautiful places this destination has to offer.
How to Get
Aran Islands are located in Galway Bay. You can get to the Aran Islands by ferry, plane, or organized tour.
Each option has its pros and cons, so it mostly depends on your itinerary and preferences which mode of transport you choose.
Where to Stay
If you want to explore the Aran Islands on a day trip, you can stay in Galway or Doolin.
However, spending a night on the islands is always recommended to immerse yourself in the experience.
Aran Islands | Aran Islands Hotel - Aran Islands are a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Located in Inishmore, this hotel offers good access to Dun Aonghasa.
Downpatrick Head
This list is full of stunning cliffs, but Downpatrick Head is a bit more special.
Even though this site is not that well-known, it's one of the most mind-blowing places you can visit in Ireland.
This headland in County Mayo is home to some of the most dramatic features on the Mayo's coastline.
Downpatrick Head is a rocky promontory with vertical cliffs, an impressive Dun Briste sea stack, a large EIRE sign, an old lookout post, and nesting sea birds.
That's a pretty awesome list of things to see, but Downpatrick Head has one more ace up its sleeve.
The most incredible rock formation you can see here is the giant blowhole that dominates the central area.
Once you realize that there is a huge system of collapsed caverns below, you will start to see Downpatrick Head from a completely new perspective.
How to Get
Downpatrick Head is located in the northeast of County Mayo. The only way to get there is by car or guided tour.
Downpatrick Head is about 75 kilometers north of Westport, 30 kilometers northeast of Ballina, and 90 kilometers east of Sligo.
Where to Stay
There are several small towns within a driving distance from Downpatrick Head.
Westport, Ballina, and Sligo are some of the most popular places to stay in these parts of Mayo and Sligo counties.
Ballina | Belleek Castle - With 17th-century nautical decor and stylish rooms, this neo-gothic castle hotel is one of the most romantic places to stay in County Mayo.
Sligo | The Glasshouse - If you're looking for an affordable option in Sligo, this centrally located hotel on the Garravogue River has a modern design, chic rooms, and great food.
Westport | The Wyatt Hotel - Westport is a great base for exploring County Mayo. This hotel has free private parking, a bistro-style restaurant, and cozy rooms.
Croaghaun Sea Cliffs
One of Ireland's grandest sea cliffs is located on Achill Island in County Mayo.
With 688 meters, Croaghaun is often described as the highest cliffs in Ireland. Furthermore, these are some of the highest cliffs in Europe.
The cliffs are accessible from Keem, home to Colm Doherty's Cottage and Keem Beach.
This Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point is worth seeing on its own, but the walk along the cliffs will elevate your visit to a new level.
There is no doubt that Croaghaun is one of the most beautiful places in Ireland.
The cliff walk is fairly rugged, and as the weather is often harsh in this area, you need to come prepared.
If you're unsure about hiking along the cliffs with no barriers, you can consider taking a boat trip to see Croaghaun Sea Cliffs from a different perspective.
How to Get
If you want to see Croaghaun Cliffs, you will need a car.
Croaghaun Cliffs is located about 150 kilometers northwest of Galway. Westport is only 60 kilometers from here.
Where to Stay
Achill Island is home to one of Ireland's most dramatic landscapes. If you're unsure where to stay, this area offers some charming bed and breakfasts.
Just remember that the availability is limited, and you need to book early if you want to stay on the island, especially in the peak season.
Achill Island | Ferndale - This stylish bed and breakfast is only a short drive from Keem Bay. The rooms have individual themes and offer stunning views of the island.
Mizen Head
Driving to the western tip of the Mizen Head peninsula is a great experience.
Mizen Head is known as Ireland's southwesternmost point. As you would expect, this peninsula has some really stunning cliffs.
The area you should visit marks the most southwesterly point of the headland and is known as Mizen Head Signal Station.
As the name suggests, this popular tourist site is home to a signal station packed with information on navigating ships through treacherous waters and modern communications.
There is also one of the most dramatic cliffs in this area.
The best part about Mizen Head Signal Station is that the trails are paved and have safety barriers.
Therefore, the well-maintained paths are suitable for most ages and abilities, though there are steps in certain sections.
If you're lucky, you might be able to spot seals, basking sharks, dolphins, or even whales here.
How to Get
As Mizen Head is Cork's most southwesterly point, you will need a car to get there.
Cork is about 120 kilometers east of Mizen Head. The small town of Schull is about 20 kilometers from here.
Where to Stay
Mizen Head is a relatively remote peninsula that is home mostly to small bed and breakfasts.
If you're seeking a luxury or some really nice 4-star hotel, consider staying in Cork overnight.
Schull | Schull Harbour Hotel - Situated only a short drive from Mizen Head Signal Station, this is one of the most popular hotels on the Mizen Head.
Cork | Imperial Hotel Cork City - Cork has several great hotels for every traveler. This centrally located boutique hotel offers great value for your money.
Fogher Cliffs
Situated on Valentia Island, Fogher Cliffs is one of the hidden gems of West Kerry.
The rugged cliffs hug the western slopes of Geokaun Mountain, which offers an easy, well-maintained trail and incredible 360 views of the coastal landscape.
This is a relatively easy trail, but the top of the mountain gets pretty windy at times.
While the coastal scenery is breathtaking, Valentia Island is also known for its telecommunications history.
You can also visit an old lighthouse and see the ancient tetrapod's footprints here.
Even though Valentia is technically an island, you can use a road bridge to get there.
Or just take a short ferry ride from Reenard Point to Knight's Town.
How to Get
Fogher Cliffs are located in County Kerry, about 80 kilometers from Killarney, 90 kilometers from Kenmare, and 170 kilometers from Cork.
As mentioned above, you can reach the island by car or ferry.
Where to Stay
Kenmare, Killarney, and Tralee can be used as a base for exploring the Ring of Kerry. An even better option is to stay on Valentia Island, though there are not that many accommodations.
Lastly, you can stay in one of the many villages along the Ring of Kerry.
Knight's Town | Royal Valentia Hotel - Situated in the picturesque village of Knight's Town on Valentia Island, this charming hotel is one of the best options in the area.
Waterville | Butler Arms Hotel - Situated only a short drive from Fogher Cliffs, this traditional hotel with an award-winning restaurant offers a perfect retreat after a tiring day on the road.
Kenmare | Brook Lane Hotel - The small seaside village of Kenmare is known for its fantastic location and great hotels. This boutique hotel offers beautiful rooms, excellent food, and great value for money.
Dunmore Head
Dingle Peninsula is one of the most popular places you can visit in County Kerry.
The peninsula consists of mountains, beaches, cliffs, and the ocean.
The most beautiful area is arguably the westernmost section of the peninsula, home to Slea Head Drive.
So if you want to see some stunning cliffs, you need to go there.
One of the main highlights of Slea Head Drive is Dunmore Head, which contains a beautiful coastal landscape and cliffs.
Dunmore Head should be on your itinerary if you're a fan of Star Wars, epic views, and spectacular scenery.
At the furthest point of a trail that goes around the headland, you should be able to see Blasket Island and treacherous sea stacks poking out of the sea.
How to Get
The best way to get to Dunmore Head is by car.
The entire stretch of Slea Head Drive is incredibly scenic, so it's easy to say that this is one of the best road trips in West Kerry.
Dunmore Head is about 80 kilometers west of Killarney and 70 kilometers west of Tralee. Dingle Town is less than 20 kilometers from here.
Where to Stay
Dunmore Head is best explored from Dingle Town.
Thanks to its great location, this lovely seaside town is often used as a base for exploring the Dingle Peninsula.
If you decide to do the Dingle Peninsula in one day, you should consider staying in Tralee or Killarney. Both towns serve as a gateway to the Dingle Peninsula.
Dingle | Murphy's Hotel - Dingle Town is an obvious choice if you want to stay as close to Dunmore Head as possible. This family-run bed and breakfast by the waterfront offers affordable rooms and warm hospitality.
Tralee | Ashe Hotel - Tralee has some really nice hotels. This boutique hotel has modern, beautiful rooms and a modern restaurant.
Killarney | Earls Court House - Killarney is a gateway to both Dingle and Ring of Kerry. This stylish hotel has a rustic charm and an amazing location.
Howth Cliffs
You basically have two options to see some beautiful cliffs if you base yourself in Dublin.
You can take a Cliffs of Moher Tour or visit nearby Howth Head by train.
The starting point to Howth Cliffs is from the seaside town of Howth, known for its lovely market and a few excellent seafood restaurants.
There are a few trails to choose from, though the most popular hike is the 6-kilometer Cliff Path Loop.
Howth Cliffs Walk is a great way to escape the city and get a taste of the Irish coastal landscape.
As DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) runs between Howth and the capital, this is one of the best free things to do in Dublin.
Another alternative is Bray Head, which is located south of Dublin. This area also has lovely cliffs and is also serviced by DART.
Therefore, it's another great place to visit on a day trip from Dublin.
How to Get
Howth is only 15 kilometers northeast of Dublin. This is one of the very few places on this list that is easily accessible without a car.
In fact, taking a train from Connolly Station to Howth is a better option, as the capital city is known for traffic congestion.
Where to Stay
When it comes to accommodation near Howth Cliffs, you can stay in Dublin or Howth.
If you're looking for a more peaceful stay, you should find a hotel in Howth. Downtown has the best selection of hotels in Dublin.
Howth | King Sitric - This lovely guest house has a fantastic location in the center of Howth, offers seaside accommodation, and their restaurant specializes in seafood dining.
Dublin | Wren Urban Nest - This contemporary and stylish hotel is a perfect choice for every modern-day traveler seeking comfort and a central location for sightseeing.
Malin Head
Located on the Inishowen Peninsula, the most northerly point of Ireland is known as Malin Head.
As you expect, there are some lovely cliffs in the area, though not as spectacular as some others on this list.
As this area marks the end of the Wild Atlantic Way, it's absolutely worth seeing.
Malin Head is a perfect conclusion to a 2500-kilometer journey along the Irish western coast.
If you're driving around Ireland in a counterclockwise direction, this is where your epic adventure will start.
There is an old signal tower from the Napoleonic Wars, a WW2 Lookout Post, and a huge EIRE sign.
If you want to see some beautiful cliffs, make sure to walk the coastal trail to Hell's Hole.
The waters around Malin Head are known for rich marine life, and you can spot grey seals and basking sharks here.
If you're in the area, you can also visit nearby multi-layered Ballyhillin Beach.
How to Get
Malin Head is a fairly remote place, and you will need a car to get there.
The nearest town is Letterkenny, about 80 kilometers south of Malin Head.
If you're heading to Northern Ireland, the city of Derry is only 50 kilometers from here.
Where to Stay
There are several places to stay overnight when visiting Malin Head. Letterkenny offers the best hotels and restaurants in this part of Donegal.
Inishowen Peninsula is perfect for travelers who seek peace and solitude.
As suggested above, you can also stay in Derry, one of Northern Ireland's largest cities.
Malin Head | The Seaview Tavern - If you want to stay as close to Malin Head as possible, this accommodation has amazing sea views and a seafood restaurant.
Inishowen Peninsula | The Ballyliffin Lodge and Spa - For those seeking a 4-star hotel, this property has everything you will need after a tiring day.
Letterkenny | Radisson Blu Hotel Letterkenny - Letterkenny has an ideal location for exploring Inishowen. This mid-range property is a perfect choice for all travelers who want to spend a few nights in a beautiful hotel with modern amenities and a fantastic location.
Derry | Holiday Inn Express - Derry offers a great selection of hotels for every budget. This hotel offers affordable and comfortable rooms.
Horn Head
County Donegal is home to many incredible cliffs. If you plan to explore this county fully, ensure the Horn Head is on your itinerary.
The 180-meter cliffs at the Horn Head are a sight to behold. Not surprisingly, the views from the top are breathtaking.
If the weather permits, you should see Tory Island, Sheephaven Bay, Inishbofin, Inishdooey, and Inishbeg islands, and Malin Head in the distance.
The cliffs are accessed from the small village of Dunfanaghy.
If you're an avid hiker, Horn Head Walk features a Napoleonic wars signal tower and WW2 lookout post.
Horn Head is a Natural Heritage Area. There is a bog everywhere, and you should be able to spot seabird species such as the razorbill and cormorant.
A great reason to visit Horn Head is that the area is less visited than other nearby attractions such as Fanad and Inishowen.
How to Get
The peninsula is best explored by car. The road is very scenic but often narrow and winding, so drive slowly.
Horn Head is about 35 kilometers northwest of Letterkenny.
Where to Stay
Fanad, Inishowen, and Horn Head can be easily explored from Letterkenny. Therefore, this small town is a perfect place to stay overnight.
Alternatively, you can stay directly in Dunfanaghy, as there are some nice accommodations.
Horn Head | Shandon Hotel - Situated in Dunfanaghy, this hotel offers cozy rooms, great views of Sheephaven Bay, and a calming spa.
Letterkenny | Station House Hotel Letterkenny | This traditional hotel in the center of Letterkenny offers affordable rates, a great location, and comfortable rooms.
Slieve League
Located in County Donegal, the 600-meter Slieve League is one of Ireland's highest cliffs.
The cliffs rise from the Atlantic without any warning, offering some of the most spectacular views on Ireland's coast.
While you can get some of the best views right from the first lookout near the parking, we strongly suggest walking a bit further up the trail.
The views from the Slieve League Cliff Walk are spectacular, even on a cloudy day. On a clear, windless day, you can tackle the challenging One Man's Path.
The cliffs are either accessible by car or by shuttle bus from the nearby visitor center.
This option is more convenient during the peak season when the parking near the cliffs is often full.
How to Get
Slieve League is located in the southwestern tip of County Donegal, about 50 kilometers west of Donegal Town and 80 kilometers southwest of Letterkenny.
Where to Stay
When visiting Slieve League, you can consider staying in Donegal, Killybegs, or near the cliffs.
There are also plenty of affordable bed and breakfasts along the coast.
Slieve League | The Rusty Mackerel - Situated in Teelin, this is probably the best hotel near Slieve League.
Killybegs | Tara Hotel - Overlooking the harbor, this is one of the most popular hotels in Killybegs. Expect comfortable rooms, a great restaurant, and leisure facilities.
Donegal | Central Hotel Donegal - This is a traditional hotel with cozy rooms and a good restaurant in the Donegal town center.
Loop Head
A visit to County Clare is not just about Cliffs of Moher and the Burren.
In fact, there are several amazing places that may not be as famous but almost as beautiful.
Loop Head is a great example of a place you should not miss. This remote headland is mostly flat, at least when compared to some mountainous peninsulas on this list.
Nevertheless, the lighthouse and the cliffs at the western tip of the peninsula are well worth the drive.
Combine that with panoramic views, natural limestone arches, a big EIRE sign, and abundant bird life, and you have an amazing place to visit.
If you want to see even more cliffs in this area, make sure to also stop at Kilkee Cliffs.
The 2-kilometer Loop Head Walk will take you along the cliffs and reward your effort with stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
The cliffs are accessible from the town of Kilkee and are best explored via a 5-kilometer Kilkee Cliff Walk.
These cliffs are a great alternative to Loop Head for visitors strapped for time.
No matter if you visit Loop Head or Kilkee Cliffs, this area is worth exploring.
How to Get
The best way to get to Loop Head is by car. The local roads are relatively straight but quite narrow. Drive slowly.
Loop Head is only 30 kilometers west of Kilkee and about 120 kilometers west of Limerick. Ennis is 80 kilometers east of Loop Head.
Where to Stay
Location-wise, the best place to stay before visiting Loop Head is the small seaside town of Kilkee.
Furthermore, there are some nice bed and breakfasts between Loop Head and Kilkee.
Or you can decide to spend a night in Ennis, which is a great place for exploring the whole of County Clare.
Kilkee | Bay View Hotel - Offering views of Kilkee Bay, this lovely hotel is one of the most popular options in Kilkee.
Ennis | Old Ground Hotel - This former manor house dating back to the 18th century is a perfect choice for all visitors seeking a more luxurious mid-range hotel.
Skellig Michael
If you have time and plan your visit correctly, you can see some of Ireland's most impressive cliffs on Skelligs Islands.
This pair of islands is home to an ancient monastic site, a rugged landscape, steep cliffs, and a large colony of nesting birds.
The landing boat tours allow access to Skellig Michael, where you can climb steep stairs to a ruined monastery and beehive huts.
The scenery is simply breathtaking, as well as the steep cliffs.
Together with Bru na Boinne, it's one of Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Recently, the site has been popularized by Star Wars, as the site was used as a filming location for Luke Skywalker's island sanctuary.
How to Get
The only way to get to Skellig Michael is by boat.
The boat trips that include landing on the island run only in the peak season and depart from Portmagee.
Portmagee is about 80 kilometers west of Killarney and 160 kilometers from Cork.
Where to Stay
As the boat trips often depart early in the morning, it makes sense to stay in Portmagee to have a stress-free start to your day.
Portmagee | The Moorings Hotel - Situated in the heart of Portmagee, this popular hotel is a great option for all travelers.
Giant's Causeway
Sure, Giant's Causeway is technically located in Northern Ireland.
But there's no way we could leave Giant's Causeway off our list of the most beautiful cliffs in Ireland.
Chances are you will want to explore both countries on your visit. In this case, Giant's Causeway is an excellent addition to your itinerary.
These iconic cliffs are known for ancient basalt columns, epic views, and great bird-watching.
The cliffs are one of the highlights of Causeway Coastal Road, the most scenic road in Northern Ireland.
Apart from Giant's Causeway, some of the most stunning cliffs in Northern Ireland are located at Fairhead and in the Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne area.
Another nearby place is Dunluce Castle, a ruined fortress perched atop cliffs.
How to Get
Giant's Causeway is located near Bushmills in County Antrim, about a 60-minute drive from Derry and a 75-minute drive from Belfast.
Where to Stay
Causeway Coastal Route can be easily done in two days.
You can start your road trip in Derry. Located roughly halfway between Derry and Belfast, Ballintoy is a great place to stay overnight.
You can finish your adventure with a visit to Belfast.
Derry | Holiday Inn Express - With a great location, comfortable beds, and reasonable prices, this is one of the best budget hotels in Derry.
Ballintoy | The Fullerton Arms - This lovely guesthouse is located in the center of Ballintoy. This small village is a perfect base for exploring some of the most beautiful places on Causeway Coastal Road.
Belfast | Grand Central Hotel Belfast - If you're seeking a luxurious stay, this beautiful hotel in the central area of Belfast is your best bet.
Things to Know Before You Go
Even though a visit to most Ireland cliffs is very straightforward, there are a few essential things you should know about this topic before you go.
Some of the most stunning cliffs are located on the island's western side. So, if you're not sure where to start, this is a great place to go and explore.
You will find some of the most stunning destinations there, such as Cliffs of Moher, Kerry Cliffs, and Slieve League.
How to Get There
As you have probably already noticed, the most famous cliffs are located on Ireland's western coastline, though you can also find some along the east and south coast.
There are several ways to reach every single cliff on this list.
As the most beautiful Irish cliffs are often located in remote areas, driving is the easiest way to see them all during your holiday.
Car
Ireland is a compact country that can easily be covered by car.
Renting a car in Ireland is very simple, though there are a few things to know, so read our guide on this topic.
We suggest choosing a small compact car with an automatic transmission.
Another important thing we need to mention is that driving in Ireland can be a bit more difficult, at least if you're not used to narrow and winding roads.
Remember that you will drive on the left side of the road, which can be particularly tricky for first-time visitors.
Some cliffs are located on the edge of remote peninsulas, so you must pay special attention when driving there.
Travel Resources
When renting a car, we use Rentalcars.com.
Public Transport
You will have a hard time visiting most of the cliffs on this list when relying on public transport.
It's not that it's not doable in some cases, but it's very time-consuming and, quite frankly, fairly inconvenient.
If you want to get around Ireland by public transport, you should stick to inter-city buses and trains.
And if you want to see the best Ireland's coastline has to offer, you should rent a car.
Tours
If driving is not an option, you should consider taking a guided tour.
The most accessible cliffs are undoubtedly the Cliffs of Moher, as you can visit this area pretty much from every major city.
One of the most popular trips is the Cliffs of Moher Tour from Galway, which includes the Aran Islands and a cruise.
Obviously, you can also visit the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin. This super popular tour includes a visit to the Burren region and the City of Galway. Just be prepared for a long day on the road.
Another popular departure point is Cork. This Cliffs of Moher Tour from Cork also includes stops at Bunratty Castle and the Burren.
Obviously, you can visit many other cliffs with a tour operator.
Staying Safe
Even though they look calm and steady, cliffs are notoriously dangerous. As cliffs can collapse anytime and without warning, they pose a risk to all visitors.
Therefore, staying safe is crucial to enjoy all your coastal walks.
There are a few basic rules you should follow when visiting the cliffs of Ireland.
Firstly, always stay away from the cliff's edges.
Slips and falls from cliffs are real, so stick to the designated trails. Remember that the cliff trails are often wet, muddy, slippery, and exposed to strong wind gusts.
Some cliffs in Ireland will have safety barriers, and you should always stay behind them.
You should also avoid the base of cliffs when walking along the beach or rocky platforms.
Another essential thing to do is to look for safety signs and follow advice to stay in the cliff areas.
In general, Ireland is a safe country to visit. The Emerald Isle is as safe as it can be, which is great news for all visitors seeking a stress-free trip.
If done properly, coastal walking is a relatively safe activity.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
Entrance Fee
One of the best parts is that you can see most of the cliffs in Ireland for free, though a few places charge a small parking fee.
If you're traveling around Ireland on a budget, make sure to add a few places from this list to your itinerary.
What to Pack
Ireland's changeable climate can make packing for a trip a bit more challenging. The weather along Ireland's cliffs is often even more unpredictable.
Some walks are short and easy, while some trails offer proper hiking adventures.
The rule of thumb is to come prepared, no matter how long you spend on the trail. Think layers and use wind and rainproof gear.
A good quality rain jacket is the most essential item on every Ireland packing list.
Wear a comfortable pair of walking shoes. Hiking boots may be an even better option, as the terrain can often be tough.
We try to avoid jeans even for short hikes, as they are unsuitable for outdoor activities. Wear comfortable hiking pants instead.
As Irish cliffs are home to many nesting sea birds, make sure to pack a pair of binoculars or a telephoto lens with good reach.
If you visit Ireland in summer, you should also pack good sunscreen.
If you're unsure when to visit Ireland, read this guide.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
