Cliffs of Moher Hacks

IMG 1779

Want to visit the beautiful Cliffs of Moher like a Galway local?
While we love a group tour, here’s our guide to taking in the Cliffs on your own time.

Lace up your shoes and pack your bag with water, SPF, a snack and your rain jacket before you leave for your Cliffs adventure.

If you’re lucky enough to have a car, just head straight on down to Doolin. But if bus life is for you, then head down to the Galway Bus Station off Eyre Square and grab the 350 Bus Eireann bus to Ennis – only €20 for a return ticket (a bit cheaper with your Leap card). After an exciting and bumpy 2 hour bus ride (be sure to stock up on some Dramamine if you’re prone to car-sickness) you’ll be at the start of your Cliff walk! For an easy and fun day hike, you have 2 choices for where to head: starting in Doolin and hiking south or starting at Hag’s Head tower heading north.

1) Doolin to the Cliffs

IMG 1759

Hop off the bus at the Hotel Doolin stop and make your way down the road to the main part of town. If you fancy a wander down the colourful main street, head right to see some lovely sweater shops, craft stores, pubs and an ice cream shop. Once you’re ready for your hike, follow the signs for the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk up the hill towards the left. The walk to the Visitor Centre takes about 2 hours depending on how many photo stops you add in. The trail takes you along the Cliffs and through some farmland so don’t forget to slow down and visit with the livestock along the way. At the Visitor Centre, you’ll find a small exhibition about the Cliffs of Moher, a lovely cafe, gift shop, toilets, and a few local vendors outside. Make your way out to the far end of the car park to find the Bus Eireann stop.

IMG 2720

2) Hag’s Head to Visitor's Centre

Stay on the bus until it passes the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre and ask if the driver wouldn’t mind letting you off at The Rock Shop. After exploring the shop, make your way across the street and down the road to your right. It’s about a 30-45 minute walk until you get to Hag’s Head Tower and you’ll see a few signs for Cliffs parking to help guide your way. Of course, for you car folks, this is the car park for you, only €5. The route from Hag’s Head to the Visitor Centre also takes about 1.5-2 hours and the trail takes you along the Cliffs the whole time without weaving into farmland. This part of the Cliffs is a favourite of the WQ Team because heading toward Doolin makes for some of the best views of the steep Cliffs. At the Visitor Centre head on out to the car park bus stop, or opt for the full Coastal Walk and go all the way to Doolin!

IMG 2869

With either route, make sure to double check those bus times back to the city and be at the pickup point at least 30-minutes early to guarantee a seat – you don’t want to be left behind! Hop on the 350 back to Galway. Once you’re back in town grab a post-hike pint and listen to some trad at Tig Coili.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest

Comments are closed.

don't miss it!

It’s cheaper to book direct with us

don't miss it!

It’s cheaper to book direct with us