Cliffhangers

As an ancient island weathering the might of the Atlantic Ocean, the Celtic Sea and the Irish Sea for millennium, Ireland has some of the most dramatic cliffs anywhere in the world!  Shorn by weather, wind and water and also by human intervention, visitors marvel at these powerful land masses jutting into the water and mist.  Here are a few Irish cliffhangers you don’t want to miss.

Cliffs of Moher:

Located on the west coast of Clare, the Cliffs of Moher are entirely vertical, and the cliff edge is abrupt. On a clear day, the views are tremendous, with the Aran Islands etched on the waters off Galway Bay.

Cliffs of Kilkee:

An hour further south in Co. Clare, and located on Loop Head Peninsula, the Cliffs of Kilkee are equally dramatic and beautiful.  The Pollock Holes at the base of the cliffs are natural sea pools and favorite swimming and sun-bathing spots.

Slieve League:

These cliffs of Donegal are among the highest in Europe, reaching heights of nearly 2,000 feet, with rugged paths, local wildlife and soaring views of the Atlantic. Take the One Man’s Path, one of the most remarkable walks in Ireland.

Kerry Cliffs:

Standing more than 1,000 feet high with breathtaking views of the Skellig Islands and Puffin Island, the Kerry Cliffs are located near Portmagee Village in Co. Kerry. Explore two abandoned stone forts, once built to defend this corner of Ireland.

Giants Causeway:

Located in Co. Antrim, along the Causeway Coastal Route, this UNESCO World Heritage site features unique hexagonal basalt columns and dramatic cliffs looking out over the Irish Sea. Nearby, visit the castle ruins of Dunluce Castle, Whiterocks Beach and stunning views of nearby Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.

Howth Cliff Walk:

This scenic walk near Dublin offers beautiful coastal views and is easily accessible.  Setting off from the harbor village of Howth, explore some of Dublin’s most spectacular coastline on a cliff-top loop with idyllic island vistas and views of Baily lighthouse.

Inishmore Sea Cliffs:

Located on the Aran Islands, about 30 miles off the coast of Galway, Inishmore has vertigo-inducing vertical cliffs near Dun Aonghasa, the famous prehistoric stone fort perched precariously on the edge of the cliff, defiantly facing the Atlantic Ocean.

ireland.com