Cliffs of Moher & Burren Day Tour with a 2 hour stop at Cliffs

The Cliffs of Moher & Burren Day Tour with Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours offers an ideal way to explore some of Ireland’s most iconic sights without the need for a car. Priced at $59.25 per person and lasting around 8 hours, this tour is perfect for those short on time but eager to experience the breathtaking landscape of County Clare. With a high rating of 5.0 from 517 reviews, it’s clear that visitors find this trip reliable, well-organized, and filled with memorable moments. The tour includes a 2-hour stop at the Cliffs of Moher, giving ample time to walk along the cliffs and take in the spectacular views.

A notable feature is the chance to visit landmarks such as Dunguaire Castle and Corcomroe Abbey, along with stops at charming towns like Doolin, Ballyvaughan, and Lisdoonvarna. The tour also includes a sweet break at Hazel Mountain Chocolates, and a lunch stop at Hotel Doolin, making this experience both scenic and satisfying. While food and drinks are not included, the well-paced itinerary balances sightseeing, photo opportunities, and leisure with practical considerations like a large coach bus and expert guides.

This tour suits first-time visitors and those with limited time, offering a comprehensive taste of Ireland’s wild Atlantic coast and rural charm. Keep in mind that the bus seats can be tight for taller travelers, and the group size can reach up to 53 people. The value for money and positive reviews suggest this is a solid choice for exploring County Clare comfortably and with expert narration.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $59.25 per person for 8 hours, this tour provides an affordable way to see the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren.
• Highlights: Includes a 2-hour stop at the Cliffs of Moher, visits to Dunguaire Castle and Corcomroe Abbey, and scenic passes through Ballyvaughan, Doolin, and Lisdoonvarna.
• Stops with Character: Enjoy sweet treats at Hazel Mountain Chocolates and a lunch break at Hotel Doolin.
• Scenic Routes: Travel along the Wild Atlantic Way and along County Clare’s stunning coast, passing Fanore Strand and Black Head lighthouse.
• Expert Guides and Commentary: Guides like Paddy and Gerry are praised for their knowledgeable storytelling and engaging personalities.
• Comfort and Practicalities: The air-conditioned coach keeps you comfortable, but seats may be tight for taller guests; no hotel pickup is included, so plan your meeting point.

Exploring County Clare’s Landmarks

This day tour features visits to several standout sites, starting with Dunguaire Castle, which dates back to the 7th century and offers insights into Ireland’s noble past. The guide explains the castle’s role from 1520 to modern times, providing a snapshot of Irish history without the need for an entry fee. As the bus passes Kinvara Harbour, look out for traditional Galway Hookers, traditional sailing boats that add maritime charm.

Next, the tour makes a special stop at Hazel Mountain Chocolates. Here, visitors enjoy a tour of the chocolate factory and the chance to purchase delicious handmade chocolates—a sweet interlude in the day’s sightseeing. This stop is free of charge and often praised for its friendly staff and quality treats.

Discovering the Burren’s Unique Landscape

The Burren, a fascinating 12th-century Cistercian monastery, is one of the highlight stops on this trip. Set amidst the grey hills of the Burren, the monastery offers a glimpse into Ireland’s religious history. The landscape surrounding the monastery is glacio-karst, characterized by its striking limestone formations that create a distinctive terrain stretching around the coast road.

Traveling through the Burren, the guide points out the distinctive limestone landscape and shares insights about this karst region, renowned for its diverse flora and geological features. This scenery provides a dramatic backdrop for photos and a sense of Ireland’s natural diversity.

Village Life and the Wild Atlantic Way

The tour turns right at Ballyvaughan, a charming village that serves as a gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way. From here, the scenery shifts to coastal vistas, with impressive views over Fanore Strand and Black Head lighthouse, built in the 1930s to help ships navigate the rugged shoreline. These spots are ideal for photo stops and soaking in the raw beauty of Ireland’s Atlantic coast.

The route also passes Doolin, a lively village known for traditional Irish music, where a lunch stop at Hotel Doolin provides a relaxed setting for a meal or refreshments. The 1-hour break allows visitors to stretch, explore, or sample local cuisine before heading to the Cliffs of Moher.

Experiencing the Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are the tour’s climax, renowned as Ireland’s most visited natural attraction. The 2-hour stop at the visitor center and cliffs gives ample time to walk along the spectacular edge and take in the mighty Atlantic Ocean crashing below. The cliffs offer stunning views and plenty of space for photos.

Despite some safety closures, the cliffs remain a breathtaking sight, especially on a clear day. The guide provides plenty of commentary about the geology and local folklore, enriching the experience. The visitor center includes amenities and exhibits, helping visitors understand the significance of this world-famous site.

Coastal Views on the Return Journey

On the way back to Galway, the tour offers additional scenic stops. You pass Lisdoonvarna, known for its annual matchmaking festival, adding a touch of local culture. The route along the coast provides picturesque views over Fanore Strand and the Black Head lighthouse, with opportunities to capture the rugged beauty of County Clare.

The journey concludes back at the original meeting point on Merchants Road in Galway around 5:30 pm, leaving plenty of time for evening plans.

Practical Details and Booking

This day tour departs at 9:30 am from Galway’s Merchants Road, with no hotel pickup included, so guests should meet at the designated spot. The large coach bus can seat up to 53 travelers, making it suitable for groups but possibly less intimate than smaller tours. The air-conditioned vehicle keeps comfort high, and the driver/guide provides live commentary, sharing historical and cultural insights throughout the trip.

The tour is flexible regarding children, who must be accompanied by an adult, and service animals are permitted. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind for planning.

Why Choose This Tour?

The Cliffs of Moher & Burren Day Tour delivers a comprehensive experience of County Clare’s stunning landscape, historic sites, and charming villages. The expert guides like Paddy and Gerry are highly praised for their knowledge and storytelling, making the journey more engaging. The 2-hour cliff stop allows enough time to explore without feeling rushed, and the scenic drives along the Wild Atlantic Way highlight Ireland’s rugged coastline.

While the bus size might be a downside for those seeking intimacy, the overall value for money, excellent reviews, and thoughtfully planned itinerary make it a reliable choice for first-time visitors. The chocolate stop and lunch at Hotel Doolin add a personalized touch, making this tour more than just sightseeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour starts at Merchants Road in Galway; hotel pickup is not provided.

How long is the stop at the Cliffs of Moher?
The stop lasts 2 hours, allowing plenty of time to walk along the cliffs and visit the visitor center.

What landmarks are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Dunguaire Castle, Hazel Mountain Chocolates, Corcomroe Abbey, Ballyvaughan, Doolin, and Lisdoonvarna.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is a lunch stop at Hotel Doolin.

What should I bring for the visit to the cliffs?
Bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing, as natural shade is limited at the cliffs.

Can children participate?
Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

What is the size of the tour group?
The maximum group size is 53 travelers, which offers a comfortable coach experience but less intimacy than smaller groups.

How do I cancel this tour?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
While the tour is generally accessible, the tough terrain at the Cliffs and some walking involved may pose challenges for those with mobility limitations.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done online through the provider, Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours, and the tour features a mobile ticket for convenience.