Join Pat Sweeney on a guided walk along the sea cliffs from Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre, for a unique experience of the breathtaking rural beauty of this part of the World. With the green fields of the local farmers on one side and the pounding waves of the Atlantic Ocean on the other, this spectacular walk, led by one of these local farmers is a must if you are visiting the west coast of Ireland along The Wild Atlantic Way. Pat is a local historian and walking enthusiast, an expert on local history and folklore and is passionate about the preservation of a rural lifestyle enjoyed by five generations of his family who have farmed in this area.
The guided walk takes approximately 4 hours along a gravel path and finishes at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre where transport back to Doolin is organised for you. The walk is easy (basic level of fitness required as the walk is uphill), always with the sound of the ocean in your ears, for approximately 8km along the coast and also crosses two sections of Pat’s farm along the way. Visitors will have the privilege of seeing the natural beauty of the area and hearing an interpretation of past and present life from the perspective of a guide who has an enthusiasm and passion for the locality.
The walk starts each morning at 10am at the Coffee Dock at Doolin Inn. From the start along the road towards Doonagore Castle. After approximately 0.5 Km you will leave the road and begin the walking trail along the Cliffs of Moher. You will see the gradual rise of the Cliffs in the distance ahead, Doonagore Castle to your left on a raised setting overlooking the bay and, depending on the weather the waves of the Atlantic crashing below at the base of the Cliffs.
The walk is along a gravel path with flagstone steps cut out of the terrain to cross the drains and streams and on the steeper inclines. The trail is not a difficult walk, it requires a basic level of fitness and a good head for heights.
Along your way you will cross the lands of many local farmers, where Pat will tell of how these lands have been farmed through the generations, each handed down from father to son and to grandson. Learn the history of the area and about the rural lifestyle enjoyed by the local people of Doolin with the amazing views of lush green grass, rocky cliffs and varying shades of sea and sky.
You will walk along until you reach the highest point of the Cliffs of Moher standing 214m (702 feet) above sea level, where views of the Dingle Peninsula and Loop Head in the South, the Aran Islands to the West with the Twelve Pins and mountains of Connemara to the North can be seen on a clear day. O’Briens Tower is near the highest point and serves as an excellent viewing platform, as has been the case for hundreds of years.
The walk ends at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre where you can visit the craft shops and avail of public transport back to Doolin
You will need:
A sense of adventure
A reasonable level of fitness
A light snack and some water
A rain jacket (just in case)
Walking boots/shoes
Suncream and a hat (you never know)
Camera for the amazing viewsWe regret that the walk is not considered suitable for children under the age of eight. In deference to wildlife and landowners, all dogs must be on a leash. Walkers are asked to adhere to the “Country Code” and “Leave no trace” of their visit. In the event of severe weather difficulties, the walk may need to be postponed or cancelled.
The guided walk fee is €25 per person, which includes the transport back to Doolin from the Visitor Centre by taxi.
Parking Locations
Parking available at the back of Doolin Inn for people doing the guided walk.
Free Parking also available at the Coastal Walk Trail Head at the Micho Russell Community Centre in Doolin (Approx 1.5km to Fisher Street).