The Cliffs of Moher are probably one of Ireland’s most famous natural attractions.  In fact, the entire stretch of southwest Ireland is packed with dramatic cliffs on distance peninsulas.  But never the less, the Cliffs of Moher deserves its place as one of Ireland’s most popular destinations.

What Are The Cliffs of Moher?

The Cliffs of Moher are basically a stretch of grassy sheep filled cliffs that drop abruptly over 200 meters down into the angry ocean below.  On a clear day, the views are amazing!  On a foggy day, its an odd and surreal experience.  Its important to note, that there are no ticket takers, no lines, and no “main attractions”.  This is basic Irish country side, with a few small parking lots to facilitate.  Here, you’ll be walking along side functioning farm land.  So try to act sober.

Where To Stay Around The Cliffs of Moher:

Since this is working farmland, there aren’t actually hotels in the immediate area.  So you’ll need to stay in a nearby Town or city and then drive there.  As you’ve probably realized, a rental car in Ireland makes things a lot easier!  Here are some of the best options for accommodation around the Cliffs of Moher.

• Galway:
  • This is your best “big city” option.  It’s not super close (1.5 hour drive) but if you want to base yourself out of a big city or are limited to taking tours around the country, this is probably where you will find yourself.  Here you have tons of hotels, hostels and AirBnBs to pick from….and all the nightlife you can handle to keep you properly drunk.
• Doolin:
  • Doolin is going to be the closest town to the cliffs.  Its a small village with a scattering of hotels, restaurants and bars.  These days you’ll also be able to find a good number of AirBnBs in the area.  Here, you’re looking at a 15 minute drive to the center of the Cliffs.  But for the north hiking entrance, you’re practically right there.
• Lahinch:
  • Lahinch is a great picturesque little Irish town that is a close proximity to the Cliffs.  Its got a nice downtown and a good number of hotels and B&Bs.  Overall, its a great place to hang out for a few days.
• Miltown Malbay:
  • An easy drive to the Cliffs of Moher or the Burren, this tiny Irish town has a grocery store and a small strip of restaurants and bars.  But be warned they close by 10PM.  We stayed in an old converted railway station that is now an AirBnB, so that made the experience all that much more interesting.

In addition to the towns mentioned above, there are tons of AirBnBs popping up all over the country side.  So these days, you have a lot more options if you don’t need to be close to amenities like restaurants, groceries and bars.  Regardless of where you stay, a rental car is almost a necessity since half the experience of being in Ireland is driving around the countryside and taking in all that it has to offer.  Have fun and don’t drive drunk!