Cliffs in Ireland are just as much a part of the country’s identity as its rolling green hills and beautiful beaches. They stand tall along the wild Atlantic coast, shaped by time, wind, and waves, offering some of the most breathtaking views you’ll ever see.
If you’ve ever stood on the edge of a towering cliff, feeling the salty breeze and listening to the roar of the ocean below, you know there’s something truly magical about it.
I’ve been lucky enough to visit several cliffs across Ireland, each with its unique beauty and character. In this list, you’ll be exploring cliffs as famous as Cliffs of Moher and some others that fewer people know about.
Cliffs in Ireland
Cliffs of Moher (Clare)
The Cliffs of Moher are easily the most famous in Ireland—and for good reason. Towering up to 214 meters above the Atlantic Ocean and stretching for about 14 kilometres.
On a clear day, you can see as far as the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, and even the mountains of Connemara in the distance.
The cliffs have also appeared in movies like Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and The Princess Bride, making them even more famous.
Kerry Cliffs (Kerry)
The Kerry Cliffs are truly one of Ireland’s hidden gems, and my visit here was nothing short of unforgettable. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by their raw beauty and towering presence.
Nestled on the Iveragh Peninsula, these cliffs rise to an incredible 1,000 feet, standing proudly over the Atlantic and offering a breathtaking alternative to the more famous Cliffs of Moher.
Standing at the edge, with the endless ocean stretching before me and the waves crashing far below, I felt completely immersed in the wild, untamed beauty of Ireland’s coastline.
Check out my detailed guide to Kerry Cliffs.
Gobbins Cliff Path (Antrim)
The Gobbins Cliff Path is one of the most thrilling coastal walks in Ireland, offering an up-close experience with the rugged cliffs of Northern Ireland like no other.
Unlike typical cliff walks where you admire the view from above, The Gobbins takes you right along the cliff face, with pathways carved into the rock, suspension bridges over crashing waves, and narrow tunnels leading through the cliffs.
Check out my detailed guide to the Gobbins Cliff Path.
Howth Cliff Walk (Dublin)
The Howth Cliff Walk is one of Dublin’s most stunning and accessible coastal hikes, offering breathtaking sea views, rugged cliffs, and a refreshing escape from the city.
Located just a short train ride from Dublin city centre, Howth is a charming fishing village that feels like a world away from the urban hustle.
The walk offers panoramic views of Dublin Bay, the Irish Sea, and even as far as the Wicklow Mountains on a clear day.
Check out my detailed guide to Howth Cliff Walk.
Slieve League (Donegal)
If you’re looking for some of the most breathtaking cliffs in Ireland, Slieve League in Donegal is a must-see. Known for being one of the highest and most impressive cliff faces in Europe, Slieve League offers spectacular views, dramatic drops, and an unforgettable hiking experience that truly stands out.
Slieve League cliffs rise up to 601 metres, making them nearly three times the height of the Cliffs of Moher, offering stunning panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Unlike the more crowded spots, Slieve League is relatively untouched by mass tourism, providing a peaceful and serene experience.
Check out my detailed guide to Slieve League.
Dún Aonghasa (Galway)
Dún Aonghasa, located on Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands, is one of Ireland’s most impressive ancient sites.
This fortress perched dramatically on a cliff, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, offers not only a step back into Ireland’s ancient past but also some of the most stunning coastal views I’ve ever encountered.
What makes this fort so unique is its dramatic location on the edge of a cliff that rises about 100 meters above the sea. Unlike many ancient ruins, Dún Aonghasa is remarkably well-preserved, with a visitor-friendly path that allows you to walk right up to the fort
Mizen Head Cliffs (Cork)
The cliffs at Mizen Head rise sharply from the Atlantic Ocean, offering some of the most dramatic views in Ireland.
Standing at the edge, you’re greeted with uninterrupted views of the wild ocean, the Mizen Head peninsula, and, on clear days, the distant Fastnet Rock, known as Ireland’s teardrop.
One of the most striking features of the site is the Mizen Head Bridge, a arched bridge that connects two parts of the cliffs, offering you an up-close view of the cliffs and the sea below.
Downpatrick Head (Mayo)
If you’re looking for breathtaking cliffs in Ireland without the usual crowds, Downpatrick Head in County Mayo is the perfect spot.
I visited this beautiful location twice with my friends, and its beauty is just breathtaking. When I visited, I was captivated by the striking sea stack known as Dun Briste, which rises 50 meters (164 feet) above the ocean, standing isolated from the mainland—a stunning result of centuries of relentless waves and wind.
Kilkee Cliffs (Clare)
If you’re searching for stunning cliffs in Ireland without the overwhelming crowds, Kilkee Cliffs in County Clare are another must-visit option.
The 5km coastal loop walk takes you past highlights like Intrinsic Bay, Poulleen Bay, and the breathtaking Diamond Rocks, named for the way the slate rock formations glisten in the sunlight.
Kilkee Cliffs are completely free to visit, with no entrance fees or major crowds blocking the best viewpoints.
The Cliffs at Loop Head (Clare)
Standing at the edge of Loop Head Cliffs, with the Atlantic waves crashing below and the salty sea breeze in the air, I felt completely immersed in the raw beauty of Ireland’s west coast.
The cliffs stretch into the horizon, shaped by centuries of relentless ocean winds, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. What makes Loop Head truly special is its sense of remoteness and untouched charm.
The Cliffs at Whiterocks (Antrim)
When I first visited, I was struck by the sheer beauty of the chalk-white cliffs contrasting against the deep blue Atlantic Ocean. Stretching from Portrush to Dunluce Castle, these cliffs are carved by centuries of wind and waves, forming dramatic arches, caves, and limestone formations that make this spot truly unforgettable.
One of the most unique features of Whiterocks is its striking rock formations, including Elephant Rock, the Wishing Arch, and the Lion’s Paw—each sculpted naturally over time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the biggest Cliffs in Ireland?
The biggest cliffs in Ireland in terms of height are the Slieve League Cliffs in County Donegal. They rise to an impressive 601 metres above sea level.
Other Notable High Cliffs in Ireland:
- Cliffs of Moher (Clare) – 214 metres
- Kerry Cliffs (Kerry) – ~305 metres
- Ceide Cliffs (Mayo) – 365 metres
Where are the most beautiful Cliffs in Ireland?
In our opinion, the most beautiful cliffs in Ireland include Slieve League (Donegal), Cliffs of Moher (Clare), Kerry Cliffs (Kerry), Mizen Head Cliffs (Cork), and Loop Head Cliffs (Clare).
Can you visit the cliffs in Ireland for free?
Many cliffs, like Slieve League, Ceide Cliffs, and Kilkee Cliffs, can be visited for free, while places like Cliffs of Moher and The Gobbins have entrance fees for maintenance and guided tours.
Which cliffs in Ireland offer the best hiking experience?
The Howth Cliff Walk (Dublin), Slieve League Cliffs (Donegal), and Kilkee Cliff Walk (Clare) provide some of the best hiking experiences, offering breathtaking views and varying levels of difficulty.
Conclusion
Ireland’s cliffs, from the towering Slieve League to the iconic Cliffs of Moher and hidden gems like the Kerry Cliffs, showcase the country’s rugged coastal beauty, dramatic landscapes, and untamed Atlantic charm.
Hope you enjoyed reading this guide. If you have any more questions, please comment below and also share your experience with me if you’ve visited any of these cliffs. Have fun and be safe!
