The Cliffs of Moher & The Burren

If you are backpacking through Ireland, then a visit to the Cliffs of Moher and The Burren is highly recommended. The two ecological marvels are located on Ireland’s west coast, in County Clare. Visitors throng these breathtaking attractions, which are situated in close proximity to each other, in large numbers. In fact, you can plan an entire day’s tour around the Cliffs and Burren – it will definitely be an experience you will never forget.

The Cliffs of Moher

Despite the constant flow of visitors, which was close to a million back in 2006, the Cliffs of Moher do not have the typical ‘touristy feel’ that detracts from the overall experience. Here, the unique and mind-boggling landscape takes precedence over everything else. Towering 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and rising from the seaside town of Doolin, the Cliffs of Moher have been the setting of blockbuster movies. Sandstone and shale form the cliffs’ base, with river channels dating back millions of years, cutting through them.

The views from the Cliffs are magnificent, and include the famous Aran Islands, Galway Bay, Maumturk Mountains and the quartzite mountain range of The Twelve Pins. At the Cliffs’ highest point is O’Brien’s Tower, built by the ingenious descendant of King Brian Boru, Cornelius O’Brien in a bid to encourage tourism and support the regional economy. The birdlife there is amazing, boasting close to 29 species of seabirds that nest in the cliffs.

You have two options to bask in the beauty of these cliffs – you can walk along them or opt for a view from the ocean via a cruise. If you prefer to walk, keep the strong winds in mind and be attired suitably. The visitor centre at the Cliffs of Moher houses a restaurant, gift shop and café. For an interactive tour of the cliffs, its marine-life and wildlife, the award-winning Atlantic Edge Exhibit at the centre is just right. As far as accommodation goes, there are quite a few hotels and B&Bs located at the small towns located very close-by.

The Burren

The Burren is a majestic limestone landscape set against meandering streams and valleys, it is a little more than an hour’s drive from the Cliffs of Moher. Fissured limestone underground caves and terraced mountains, all form part of the landscape, the most famous one being the Aillwee Cave, which is home to an underground river, waterfall, stalagmites and stalactites. These water-carved 200-million year old caves enter more than 500m into the mountains. A raptor exhibit with owls and hawks is held at Aillwee. This is especially popular with the younger visitors touring and backpacking across Ireland.

The 123m long Burren Way walking route offers scenic views of limestone terraces adorned with wildflowers and Neolithic remains and Christian churches dating back hundreds of years. The megalithic monuments and tombs at the Burren also add an aura of magic and leave behind an indelible impression.

The limestone cliffs are a popular haunt of rock climbers and the cave explorations also attract visitors in large numbers. There are many hostels, B&Bs, caravan sites, hotels and guesthouses that make accommodation in the region very convenient.

Make some time for a visit to Doolin

Trekking in Ireland is incomplete if you cannot experience a bit of good old Irish music and pub culture. The good news is that the coastal town of Doolin is easily accessible by bus and ferry from the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren. Doolin is a musical hub of sorts and you can enjoy traditional Irish music at its much-loved pubs. These pubs are also starting points for trips to the famed Doolin Cave, the Northern Hemisphere’s longest stalactite. There are excellent surfing opportunities in this quaint sea-side destination, more notable being Crab Island. A visit to the nearby Aran Islands to see forts and architecture from the Iron Age, is also recommended on your Ireland backpacking tour.