Cliffs of Moher - Feel the Power of the Edge. The awesome Cliffs of Moher – the location of Ireland's Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark, is an UNESCO site which defines the meaning of wow!  

Here’s the scoop. There are no words to adequately describe the awesome natural beauty created where the land, sea, rock and sky meet the presence of humans. The synergy of the wind and the sounds of the waves crashing against the rocks creates an energy that can be felt if one stands still for just a bit. The take away is memorable.

Cresting more than 700 feet above the North Atlantic, the Cliffs of Moher is a testimony to Mother Nature’s penchant for beauty. The name originates from Fort “Mothar” which was demolished during the Napoleonic wars. The view is world class by anyone’s definition. For visitors with binoculars on a clear day it is possible to see the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, and The Twelve Pins, as well as the Maum Turk Mountains in Connemara.

For families with youngsters the actual view may not be as compelling but the interactive explanations provided within the earth-friendly interpretive centre will ignite young imaginations. The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre is located in an underground domed-cave space on the heath above the sea. 

The Centre was created without destroying the dramatic horizon line and remarkable view of the sea. It is an understatement to say it is a rewarding place. It is a museum wow! The earth-friendly complex relates several stories with images, interactive exhibits, and energizing films. My favorite part of the Centre is the LEDGE – an amazing virtual reality cliff-face adventure that allows viewers to see the cliffs from the point of view of a seabird. Within the dedicated children’s area allows young visitors to play a game which features the wildlife of the Cliffs and results in digital artwork to e-mail to friends or family. Bonus Points: In 2014 the Centre initiated “Postcard from the Edge.” Which enables visitors to choose a backdrop and create a mini movie to share with friends and family back home. 

Almost everyone follows the pathway along the cliff top to enjoy the views so it can be crowded as well as windy, noisy, wet, and depending on the time of year cold. But it is so beautiful, who cares, right? Bonus Points: O'Brien's Tower defines the skyline of the majestic Cliffs and it is worth the effort to secure a ticket which provides access to the rooftop area.

 
The Cliffs area is home to a colony of cliff-nesting seabirds and is designated as a Special Protection Area (SPA) for the feathered residents. To learn more about area guided nature walks are available. The mini field trip sessions are conducted by the Cliffs of Moher Rangers & Guides and must be pre booked during the busiest months. 

One of the Global Network of National Geoparks. While I have described the location’s worthiness it is important to know that The Burren and Cliffs of Moher is now part of a unique group of world geopark locations.  Presently there are 78 geoparks in 26 countries worldwide. Each member offers not just remarkable geological interest but also environmentally-conscious tourism initiatives and a calendar of relevant events and activities.

Films to share before departure. Our family has long had a tradition of sharing stories and reading books and watching films about our next family vacation destination. So it was terrific for me to learn that the Cliffs of Moher have been featured on film several times, The Princess Bride (1987) Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009), and Leap Year (2010) but they were referred to as "The Cliffs of Insanity" in the film. 

It is useful to remember Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark is the most popular attraction in the country. For more details go to Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark visit www.burrengeopark.ie

The Visitor Centre Experience Cliffs of Moher. Adult price €6.00, children younger than 16 years of age enter for free. There are also discounts for students and seniors. It is best to call the visitor centre for exact opening hours. Here's the deal. Book tickets online for the Cliffs online and receive a 10% discount at www.cliffsofmoher.ie or call+353 (0)65 7086141.   Remember to download the Free Cliffs of Moher Audio Guide App for Apple and Android devices before you arrive.

Location on the planet. Cliffs of Moher and Visitor Centre are located in the Burren area near Doolin in County Clare. From Galway it takes about 90 minutes while from Dublin plan on almost four hours. 

Make it happen. Discover Ireland provides free vacation planning kits. Simply contact them online at www.discoverireland.com or call from USA or Canada toll-free 1-800 SHAMROCK (1-800-742-6762 FREE).