During my recent five-country European trip, I wrapped up with a four-day stay in Ireland. While its capital, Dublin, was my base, I ventured out on a full-day trip to see the Cliffs of Moher. It was a long journey, but this natural wonder with its sheer cliff faces, winding paths (some stone, some just hard sand), and iconic stone fences marking old farm borders made it all worthwhile.
The Background
Though I had only four days in Ireland, I decided to undertake two full-day tours and a couple of shorter ones. The longer tours were to the Giant’s Causeway and the Cliffs of Moher.
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The Long Drive West to the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland
One of my challenges was that this trip, just like the Giant’s Causeway tour, would last over 12 hours. As I grow older, I find myself losing interest in these marathon excursions, but I still booked them, with a rest day in between.
My Experience Flying WestJet Premium Class Dublin – Toronto
For the Cliffs of Moher tour, I arrived at the meeting point (within walking distance from my hotel) just before 7 a.m. The large tour bus pulled in shortly after. Following a quick check of our tour confirmations, we boarded and departed.
As we rolled out of Dublin, we passed Georgian-era buildings and sleek modern facades before the city gradually gave way to the countryside.
Around 9 a.m., we stopped for coffee and snacks. Then came the real treat; the Irish countryside.
Rolling green fields bordered by traditional hedgerows and stone fences, clusters of homes with dark roofs and pale walls, small sleepy towns, and open pastures dotted with sheep and cattle; this was Ireland in all its rural charm.
The Cliffs of Moher: Rugged, Grand, and Unforgettable
We reached the Cliffs of Moher around 11 a.m. It wasn’t the best day for an outdoor trip; it drizzled intermittently, but the cliffs delivered nonetheless.
Stretching for 14 kilometers and rising more than 700 feet at their highest point near O’Brien’s Tower, the cliffs stood majestic, shrouded in mist and mystery.
There is a paved trail that runs along the edge, with a safety barrier that, thankfully, doesn’t obstruct the jaw-dropping views. I walked the trail, occasionally dodging puddles thanks to the summer rain. The cliffs themselves seemed alive; craggy, wind-swept, and thunderous with waves crashing below.
I skipped the climb up O’Brien’s Tower due to the long line, choosing instead to wander farther along the trail. At one point, the ocean lay to my left while farmlands with grazing cows stretched out to my right. The juxtaposition of wild sea and quiet pasture was poetic; something one reads a lot in those old works of fiction.
The weather was moody, typical of an Irish summer, but the landscape more than made up for it. I also spent time in the Visitor Centre, cleverly built into the hillside. Inside were interactive exhibits and shops selling everything from hand-knit scarves to Celtic jewelry.
A unique surprise; nearby stood two charming stone structures, one housing a snack bar, the other a quiet meditation room, offering a rare moment of zen amidst the tourist bustle.
Onward to Galway
By mid-afternoon, we were back on the bus, heading north along the Wild Atlantic Way toward Galway. I had assumed it was a short hop, but the journey took over 90 minutes, winding through coastal roads and quaint villages.
It rained heavily en route, but cleared by the time we reached Galway.
Known as the Cultural Heart of Ireland, Galway is vibrant even under grey skies. As I stepped onto its cobblestone streets, I was swept into a swirl of music, pubs, street performers, and a mingling of accents and languages.
Many of the restaurants and pubs had outdoor seating, but I am not fond of eating in chilly weather.
I eventually found a cozy spot indoors and settled in for a traditional Irish lunch; seafood chowder with soda bread. And of course, a pint of Guinness.
Back to Dublin
Around 5 p.m., we boarded the bus for our return journey. After a brief break en route, we reached Dublin by 7 p.m.
A Few Tips
Be punctual: Tour guides are strict about timings, especially at the Cliffs. This popular tourist spot gets crowded during summer, so timings are enforced rigorously.
Pack for all seasons: Even in summer, Irish weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, waterproof gear, and good walking shoes.
Connectivity: The onboard Wi-Fi was patchy at best, but my eSIM package helped.
Pace yourself: These full-day trips are long. If you’re midlife like me and not into marathon sightseeing, plan a rest day in between to recharge.