If you're exploring Connemara with your four-legged companion, you may be wondering whether you can visit Kylemore Abbey with a dog, at least that's what I wondered. Nestled in the heart of Connemara National Park, Kylemore Abbey is one of Ireland's most iconic attractions, drawing in visitors from around the world with its stunning lakeside setting, Victorian Walled Garden, and rich history.

The good news is that while dogs are not permitted inside the abbey buildings, there are still ways to enjoy parts of the estate with your canine companion. It is worth noting that there is a fee to enter the estates woodland trails and walled garden, which I will dive into further along. 

Are Dogs Allowed at Kylemore Abbey?
Like many Irish attractions and establishments, Kylemore Abbey welcomes assistance dogs throughout the estate, however things get trickier when it comes to pet dogs and access is more limited. But that does not mean you need to leave them behind. 

Dogs are generally permitted in the outdoor areas of the estate provided they are kept on a lead and under control at all times. However, dogs are not allowed inside the abbey, the Victorian Walled Garden, the visitor centre, cafés, shops, or other indoor attractions.
Because policies can change, it's always worth checking the latest visitor information before your trip.

Things to Note When Visiting Kylemore Abbey With a Dog

• Dogs are not permitted on the courtesy shuttle bus
• Dogs must be kept on a lead and under control
• Doggy bags are available at the Visitors Centre 
• There are fees to enter Kylemore Abbey but dogs are free.

Your ticket includes:

• Restored rooms and multi-media Abbey experience
• Victorian Walled Garden (dogs allowed)
• Neo-Gothic Church & Mausoleum
• Kylemore Woodlands Trails & Tales (dogs allowed)

​Prices are as follows: 

• Adult: €18
• Student: €15.50
• Senior: €15.50
• Family ticket: €45
• Dog entry: Free (lead required)

​​Check Availability Here
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What Can You See With a Dog at Kylemore Abbey?
Although your dog won't be able to enter the main attractions, the surrounding scenery is one of the biggest reasons people visit Kylemore Abbey in the first place. The approach to Kylemore Abbey offers breathtaking views of the famous castle-like building reflected in Pollacappul Lake.

​There are several outdoor areas where you can appreciate the landscape, take photographs, and enjoy the fresh Connemara air with your dog. In my opinion, these are the best photograph spots and I saw many dog owners taking snaps of their dog with the iconic Abbey in the background. 

The area surrounding Kylemore Abbey is a paradise for walkers so if you and your pup want to get your steps in while enjoying some sensational views, then this is well worth it. That is why many visitors (like us) combine a stop at the abbey with walks around Connemara National Park.

​Popular nearby walks include:

• Diamond Hill Loop Walk (we did this trail before visiting Kylemore Abbey)
• The Western Way
• Connemara National Park nature trails
• Woodland and lakeside walks around the region

​Discover the Connemara Scenery
Even if you don't enter the abbey itself, the drive through Connemara is an attraction in its own right. Mountain views, peat bogs, lakes, and winding coastal roads make this one of the most scenic areas along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Is Kylemore Abbey Worth Visiting With a Dog?
In my opinion, Kylemore Abbey is worth including in a dog-friendly Connemara itinerary, but with realistic expectations. If your goal is to tour the abbey interior, browse the gift shop, or visit the Victorian Walled Garden, you'll need someone to stay outside with your dog while you explore. However, if you're already travelling through Connemara, the spectacular scenery surrounding Kylemore Abbey makes it a worthwhile stop for photographs and a short stroll.
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Many dog owners choose to admire the abbey from the estate grounds before continuing on to nearby dog-friendly attractions such as Connemara National Park, Letterfrack, Glassilaun Beach, or the Renvyle Peninsula. Dog-Friendly

Attractions Near Kylemore Abbey
If you're travelling with a dog, consider combining your visit with these nearby attractions:

• Connemara National Park
• Diamond Hill Walk
• Letterfrack Village
• Renvyle Peninsula
• Glassilaun Beach
• Dog's Bay Beach
• Killary Fjord Boat Tours
• Dog-friendly eateries in the region

These locations offer plenty of opportunities for dogs to stretch their legs while you experience some of Connemara's most beautiful scenery.

Looking for the perfect dog-friendly day out in Cong, County Mayo? Nestled between Lough Corrib and Lough Mask, Cong is one of the most charming villages in the West of Ireland and an ideal stop on a Wild Atlantic Way road trip with a dog. This was my first visit, but certainly not my last - and I can safely say that if you re travelling with a dog, this is a fantastic place to check out.

From woodland walks and historic landmarks to cosy cafés and traditional Irish pubs, here's my tried-and-tested itinerary for spending a day exploring dog-friendly Cong with your four-legged companion.

​Enjoy a Morning Walk Through Cong Woods
​After a morning coffee, start your day with a walk through Cong Woods. The woodland walks around Cong are particularly enjoyable with a dog, offering shaded trails, riverside paths, and plenty of opportunities to burn off some energy while taking in the beautiful scenery. It's an easy and rewarding way to begin a dog-friendly day out in this quaint little village. 

Cong Woods has a few waymarked trails which are mapped throughout, and lead you through lush, jungle like landscapes, defined by giant Redwoods, birdsong and cool underground caves like Pigeon Hole. The walks are usually looped, taking you to and from town, which is a great way to start the day. 

Grab a Hearty Brunch at McHugh's Café
McHugh's Café is one of the most popular cafés in Cong, where your dog is welcome too. Located in the heart of the village, it's a great place to fuel up before or during a day of exploring, but because of it's popularity it can get quite busy. The café is known for its welcoming atmosphere and convenient location, making it an ideal stop before heading out on foot around the village and beyond.

I started the morning with a long walk, which tired Gimli out and helped me build up an appetite, so I went for a hearty Saturday brunch. The café was lively but not overcrowded, with locals popping in for takeaway coffee while others, like me, enjoyed a sit-down meal. Unsure if dogs were welcome, I asked politely and was told the seating area at the front was fine for owners with dogs—perfect for us.

I browsed the extensive menu and settled on “The Whole Hog” sandwich, easily one of the best I’ve had in a long time. I can only imagine there’s no wrong choice here—everything sounded delicious. Gimli was treated to a bowl of water, which he eagerly lapped up after a long morning walk through Cong Woods - and I have to say the music playlist was fab!

Explore Cong Village on Foot
Cong Village, straddling County Mayo and County Galway, is often hailed as one of Ireland’s prettiest villages—and it’s a title well deserved. The energy here is unmistakable, and despite being a popular tourist spot, the abundance of open space and nature means it never feels too crowded, which was a pleasant surprise. The village is quite small, so it doesn’t take long to see the highlights, but you might find yourself wanting to linger longer than you expected.

The village is famous for:

• The filming location of The Quiet Man (you can even take a Quiet Man walking tour)
• Historic stone bridges
• Woodland trails
• Scenic river walks
• The grounds surrounding Ashford Castle
• Historic sites like Cong Abbey, The Guinness Tower and the Monks Fishing House.

Tip: Keep your eyes peeled for the statue of John Wayne and Maureen O' Hara who starred in the 1951 movie The Quiet Man, filmed in Cong. ​

Marvel At Cong Abbey
No visit to Cong would be complete without stopping at Cong Abbey, one of the village's most impressive historic landmarks. Dating back to the 12th century, the ruins of this Augustinian abbey sit in a picturesque setting beside the river and are completely free to visit.

The abbey is remarkably well preserved, with beautiful stone archways, intricate carvings, and peaceful grounds that make it one of the most photogenic spots in Cong. It's also located just a short walk from the village centre, making it easy to include as part of your morning stroll.
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Dogs are welcome on the surrounding grounds, and the riverside setting provides plenty of opportunities for a scenic walk while soaking up a piece of Irish history. This is such a peaceful spot to sit, reflect and step back in time. 

Finish the Day at Pat Cohan's Bar
After a day of exploring, head to Pat Cohan's Bar, one of the most famous pubs in Cong. Known for its connection to The Quiet Man, this traditional Irish pub is packed with character and history - and your pooch is welcome too. It's the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of the village, enjoy a pint and some delicious food, and reflect on a day spent exploring one of Mayo's most beautiful destinations.

The pub remains one of Cong's most recognisable landmarks and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Irish culture and local history. The atmosphere there is fantastic, especially when there are other visitors around and when we stopped by, Gimli was the star of the show. 

Note: The pub have two designated tables near the door for pets and their owners, but there are also outdoor seats too. We sat outside because the weather was glorious, but were happy to learn that dogs are welcome indoors too. 

How To Get To Cong & Where To Stay?
​The best way to reach Cong in your own vehicle (rental car, motorhome or car) as public transport options are limited in this rural part of Ireland.

From Galway City

• Approx. 1 hour drive
• Follow the N84 towards Headford, then signs for Cong
• Scenic countryside route through East Galway and Lough Corrib

From Dublin

• Approx. 2.5–3 hours drive
• Take the M4/M6 motorway to Galway
• Continue via Headford to Cong

From Westport or Connemara

• Approx. 1–1.5 hours
• Easy connection via regional roads through Mayo and Galway

Cong is also a popular stop on Wild Atlantic Way itineraries, especially for travellers exploring both Connemara National Park and Mayo’s lake district.

Where To Stay In Cong?

​Cong Camping, Caravan & Glamping Park (we stayed here, check out our review)
A popular dog-friendly choice for road trippers and campers, offering:

• Camping pitches and motorhome spaces
• Glamping pods
• Clean, modern facilities
• Dog-friendly stays
• Great base for exploring Lough Corrib and Connemara​

Lakeland House (Hostel & Self-Catering Accommodation)
Ideal for budget travellers, Lakeland House offers:

• Hostel-style rooms
• Private self-catering options
• Group-friendly accommodation
• Walking distance to Cong village

Michaeleen’s Manor B&B
A traditional Irish bed and breakfast in Cong, offering:

• Comfortable en-suite rooms
• Homely, local hospitality
• Close proximity to the village centre and Ashford Castle

Ashford Castle (Luxury Stay)
For a premium dog-friendly experience
Ashford Castle is one of Ireland’s most famous luxury hotels. While not budget-friendly, it offers a unique castle stay experience with world-class dining and activities.

This is a piece I have wanted to write for a while, so let's get started!

I’ve travelled to 104 countries, with Gimli joining me for 35 of them. Along the way, I’ve realized that some places are incredibly dog-friendly, while others aren’t at all. This has a big influence on how I travel, since living full-time on the road with my dog means I plan where I visit, stay, and eat based on how welcoming each destination is to dogs.

Simply put, if my dog isn’t welcome, I’m not interested.

Honestly. Ireland doesn’t often make the cut for the world’s most dog-friendly spots, mainly because there are plenty of restrictions on where dogs are allowed. Sure, it has breathtaking beaches like Keem Bay, rugged mountain trails, and charming towns you can sometimes enjoy with your pup—but honestly, I think those should be the baseline for dog-friendliness, not the end goal.

But after travelling extensively with my dog and comparing Ireland with countries such as the UK, Italy, Norway and the Netherlands, I've discovered that the reality is a little more complicated.

So, how dog-friendly is Ireland really?
The answer really depends on where you go, what you’re looking for, and how you define “dog-friendly.” For me, dog-friendliness has its own meaning—because, after all, everyone sees it a little differently. In my opinion, simply tolerating my dog or letting us sit hidden away in a corner doesn’t qualify as “dog-friendly,” and I know I’m not the only one who feels this way.

The DogsTrust Dog Census 2024, revealed that there were over 23,000 dog owners in Ireland and that number is growing steadily. They also revealed that the most popular breeds of dog in Ireland were 

1. Jack Russell (10%)
2. Labrador (8%) - & Gimli is one of them
3. Collie (7%)

So, with so many dog owners in Ireland actively looking for dog-friendly spaces, plenty of businesses are missing out on a big opportunity. Compared to other countries, this is a significant gap in the market.

Like me, it is DogsTrust mission to advocate for more dog-friendly spaces in Ireland and my challenge this summer is to seek out, review and document the best dog-friendly finds that pet pawrents can actually rely on. 

​What Makes a Country Dog-Friendly?
In my experience when people talk about dog-friendly destinations, they're usually referring to several factors:

• Whether dogs are welcome indoors in cafés, pubs and restaurants
• Access to accommodation
• Public transport policies
• Availability of off-lead spaces
• Dog-friendly attractions and activities
• Cultural attitudes towards dogs​

Don't get me wrong, Ireland performs very well in some of these areas but still lags behind countries such as the United Kingdom (one of the most dog-friendly countries I've ever been to) when it comes to everyday access. 

Things Ireland does right?

• Fantastic dog-friendly walks
• Access to popular beaches during dedicated times in the peak season (usually before 11am and after 6pm)
• Access to most beaches at any time during the off peak season
• A growing number of dog-friendly accommodation options
• Dogs are allowed on some transport in Ireland (but this is inconsistent and often restrictive)
• A growing number dog-friendly cafes and visitor attractions

​
Where Ireland can improve?

• Public transport access for dogs is still very limited compared to countries like the UK
• Inconsistent policies for dogs in cafés, pubs, and restaurants despite regulations allowing businesses to decide
• Lack of clear signage or online information showing where dogs are actually welcome
• Patchy beach rules that vary by county and are not always clearly communicated
• Few indoor dog-friendly spaces, making rainy days more difficult when travelling (If you have seen my Instagram reel, I mention how I was refused entry into a Sligo pub with my dog during a storm)
• Limited “official” dog-friendly listings or national certification system for businesses
• General uncertainty for travellers, often requiring phone calls or guesswork before visiting places (believe me, i have been there and done that many times)
• Less cultural normalisation of dogs in everyday indoor public spaces compared to the UK

​The Rule Change That Many People Still Don't Know About
One of the biggest misconceptions about travelling with a dog in Ireland is that dogs are not allowed inside cafés, pubs and restaurants. For decades, that was largely true and it seems from my experience, many business owners still don't realise they can make the decision. 

A few years ago, my mum asked a business owner if she could bring her dog inside. The owner explained that, while they loved dogs and wished they could allow them, unfortunately, they couldn’t. But the truth is, they actually can!

In November 2017, regulations dating back to the 1950s were repealed, allowing food businesses to decide for themselves whether they wanted to permit dogs in customer dining areas. Dogs are still prohibited from food preparation and storage areas, but businesses can now welcome dogs into seating areas if they choose to do so.
This was a significant step forward for dog owners and today we can see a rise in the number of cafes, pubs and restaurants allowing dogs to enter with their owner. 

Yet nearly a decade later, many people – including some business owners – still believe dogs are prohibited indoors due to "health regulations". In reality, the decision usually comes down to individual business policy rather than Irish law. And what about retail establishments where there is no food? Unlike the UK, where dogs can go shopping with you to places like Regatta, Lush, TK Maxx and Mountain Warehouse to name but a few, Ireland rarely allows dogs of all sizes into shops (small dogs that can be carried are a different story).

Things are slowly starting to change, and it’s great to see.

​Big shoutout to The Range for leading the way with their amazing dog-friendly policy across Ireland and The UK —we absolutely love it!

Where Dogs Are Allowed?
Businesses may permit dogs in customer seating areas provided they have procedures in place to ensure food safety and prevent access to food preparation areas.
This means:

• Dogs can potentially be allowed inside cafés.
• Dogs can potentially be allowed inside pubs.
• Dogs can potentially be allowed inside restaurant dining areas.
• Dogs cannot enter kitchens or food preparation areas.

The key word is "potentially".

Unlike some countries where dog access is commonplace, Irish businesses are not required to allow dogs but thankfully places like Rye River Café in Kilcock County Kildare are more than happy to welcome pooches and their pawrents. 

Ireland vs The UK: Which Is More Dog-Friendly?
As someone who has travelled extensively with a dog, the UK remains one of the most dog-friendly countries I have visited.

Dogs in Pubs

• In the UK, walking into a country pub and finding several dogs asleep beside the fire is completely normal. You often don't need to ask for permission, since it would be very rare (and possibly frowned upon) to be refused with a dog. 
• In Ireland, dog-friendly pubs certainly exist and their numbers are growing, but they are still far less common and often concentrated in larger cities or tourist destinations. You definitely need to ask each place before entering which is a key difference. 

Dogs in Cafés and Restaurants

• While Ireland's laws are now similar to the UK's, the culture hasn't fully caught up, but the number of dog-friendly eateries are growing - slowly but surely.
• Many UK businesses actively advertise themselves as dog-friendly and provide water bowls, treats and designated dog areas.

Public Attitudes
Perhaps the biggest difference is cultural. In fact, locals in the UK, were utterly shocked when i told them about or dog policy in Ireland, which honestly puts people off traveling here. This has to change! 

• In the UK, dogs are cherished as loyal companions who are part of their owners’ everyday lives. It’s something rarely taken for granted. After spending the winter of 2025 there, I learned from locals that it would be unthinkable not to welcome dogs, as they’re considered family—a mindset that still has some catching on to do in Ireland.
• In Ireland, attitudes are changing rapidly, particularly among younger generations, but there is still more hesitation around dogs in indoor public spaces. Out and about, dogs are adored by Irish people and I have experienced this first hand, but incorporating them into your daily life is tricky. 

​So, Is Ireland Really Dog-Friendly?
My honest answer is kind of — but with an asterisk. While the UK (the most dog friendly country I've visited gets a 9/10, I would give Ireland a 5/10.

Ireland is incredibly dog-friendly when it comes to outdoor adventures, scenic walks, beaches and pet-friendly accommodation. However, it is not yet as seamlessly dog-friendly as the UK, where bringing your dog into a pub, café or shop often feels entirely normal.

The good news is that things are changing and that is the aim of our Dog-Friendly Wild Atlantic Way Travel Series. I want to discover the hidden spots in Ireland that are excited to welcome both you and your dog. Ireland has so much to offer, but unfortunately, when I talk to fellow dog owners from abroad, many are hesitant to visit if it means their furry friends aren’t welcome—and I completely get that.. 

The 2017 rule change opened the door for businesses to welcome dogs, and every year more cafés, pubs, hotels and attractions are embracing dog owners. The demand is clearly there, and attitudes are becoming more positive.

For now, Ireland sits somewhere between a traditional pet-owning culture and a modern dog-friendly travel destination. And if that progress continues, Ireland could become one of Europe's best destinations for travelling with a dog.

Just 6 minutes—yes, only 6 minutes—from the famous surf town of Lahinch in County Clare lies a hidden gem. Take a short detour from the Wild Atlantic Way and you’ll find a town brimming with an artsy charm, breathtaking waterfalls, and warm hospitality.

Welcome to Ennistymon - where art, delicious food, incredible scenery and local vibes await. 

This wasn’t my first time here, but since it was a place etched in my memory, I knew I had to return—and I was more than happy to take the short detour. One thing I was certain about was grabbing some delicious bites at The Cheese Press, a spot I’d previously written about for serving “the best cheese toastie in Ireland.”  

Beyond the food, I was excited to check out the cascades—a well-known feature of the town—and rack up some steps along the local hiking trail. Thankfully, the weather was on my side, with Ireland enjoying a rare summer heatwave, and I had no complaints about that.. 

My Dog-Friendly Day Out in Ennistymon

Step 1: Food  
Stepping out of our campervan, easily parked in the new local carpark (also overnight friendly), we strolled into town—just a relaxed five-minute walk from our door. Ennistymon charms with its small-town vibe, vibrant murals, and warm, smiling locals who always greet you. I adore that about Ireland.  

After wandering around, we popped into The Cheese Press for a delicious sandwich—their freshly baked focaccia is divine. Gimli lounged under the table with a bowl of water while I enjoyed my late breakfast and a cup of locally roasted coffee. 

Step 2: Pack and get ready  
After a quick chat with Joshua Nueva, an inspiring travel content creator I’ve followed for a while and happened to spot in town, I stopped back at the van to grab my trail shoes, some water, and all the essentials for traveling with a dog before we headed down to the waterfalls once again.
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Step 3: Get into nature  
The Glen Walk starts near The Falls Hotel and feels like stepping into Narnia. With countless chances to explore the waterfalls and trickling streams, Gimli was in his element, and it turned out to be the perfect dog-friendly adventure for a hot day. The shade from the trees and easy water access were ideal for my black, water-loving dog.  

​An Overview of the Glen Walk

The Glen Walk in Ennistymon is one of the most scenic short walks in North County Clare, with its peaceful riverside setting along the River Inagh. It meanders through wooded paths, stone bridges, and quiet countryside just outside the town, with a few picnic tables and benches tucked away for a scenic snack or a moment of reflection.

​It’s an easy, accessible route suitable for most fitness levels and a great choice if you’re travelling with a dog. Expect a mix of shaded woodland, gentle river views, and the soothing sound of cascading water along the way. Dogs are welcome but should be kept on a lead at all times - there is a hefty fine (a staggering and very random €1,269.74), if you don't. My advice is to pick up a hands-free dog lead from Madra World, an Irish-owned company, so you can focus on taking photos and enjoying the moment.

The Glen Walk is also a fantastic addition to a day in Ennistymon, especially if you’ve already taken in the town’s cascades or nearby Lahinch Beach. The only drawback is the lack of bins (common in Ireland) along the trail, which isn’t ideal if you need to dispose of dog waste, so keep that in mind.

Where to Stay in Ennistymon?
​Ennistymon in North Clare has a great mix of places to stay, from cosy guesthouses and boutique hotels to peaceful rural retreats. If you’d rather be near the sea, Lahinch is just nearby with plenty of coastal charm.

Staying in Ennistymon’s town centre puts you within easy reach of cafés, riverside walks, and local pubs, while many spots in the surrounding area offer quick access to Lahinch Beach and the Burren National Park.
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Bringing your dog along? Always check with the accommodation about their pet policy, as it can differ from place to place. Some welcome dogs in rooms or cottages, while others may have certain restrictions or require notice in advance.

Some great local options include:

• The Falls Hotel & Spa - 4* luxury by the falls
• Station House B&B - A cosy home from home experience

Some great dog-friendly options include:

• The Imperial Hotel (around 10 minutes away)
• Rathbaun Hotel (around 10 minutes away)
• Gregans Castle Hotel (around 25 minutes away)

Top Tips for Visiting Ennistymon

• The best parking for all vehicles is at the new free 24-hour car park on Monastery Lane, where I and two other campervans enjoyed a quiet night—highly recommended.
• Pick up some takeaway from one of the cafes and enjoy it by the river during your walk. The full trail takes about two hours, but we took a shortcut and returned earlier, so there are options.
• Ennistymon is a fantastic base for exploring The Burren, Clare’s stunning coastline, the Cliffs of Moher, and Doolin.
• The 5km Ennistymon Historic Town Walk is perfect for history buffs like me, with so much to discover about the town.
• This is the place for locally sourced food, live Irish music, and a lively pub culture, so stay a few days to soak it all in.
• The town is also known for its galleries, food, and local crafts, found both around town and at the regularly held local fair.

I recently stayed in the Cliffs of Moher area while travelling Ireland by motorhome, and it ended up being one of the most memorable stops along my route - especially once the crowds dispersed. So much so that I decided to return for a second night - because why not?
The cliffs themselves are one of Ireland’s most famous attractions, but what surprised me most was how much your experience changes depending on where you stay, what time you visit, and how you plan your trip.

For campervan and motorhome travellers, this area of County Clare is perfect for slow travel along the Wild Atlantic Way — and this is a hack I wish i knew sooner. 

Visiting the Cliffs of Moher: What You Need to Know
The Cliffs of Moher are a managed visitor site on Ireland’s west coast, with:

• designated viewing platforms
• cliff walking paths near the visitor centre (some of which are closed)
• a visitor centre with facilities i.e a gift shop, immersive exhibitions, a café etc.
• official paid parking at the main entrance (between 8 euro - 15 euro)

What many don't realise is that the cliffs are free to visit, and there is no fee for visiting the viewpoints or walking the trails. If you purchase a ticket either online or in person, you gain access to the main carpark as well as the visitors centre.

Tickets are valid for a single day, from opening to closing time - but motorhomes can stay after hours and leave the following morning. The exit barrier is automatic. 

Motorhome Travel and Where to Stay
One of the key things I learned while staying in the area is that you don’t actually need to stay elsewhere and visit the cliffs during the day - it can be combined. Overnight parking at the visitor centre is not officially advertised but when asked, staff said it was permitted as long as you leave before 9am when the first tours begin to arrive.

Alternatively, this is also a great area for well known serviced campsites which most motorhome travellers stay at.

These are located in nearby locations such as:
Doolin (to the north of the cliffs)

• Nagles Camping & Caravan Park

Lahinch (to the south)

• Ocean View Park

​From here, it’s only a short drive to the cliffs, which makes it easy to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon when it’s much quieter. However, the overnight option is a little known hack that I would highly recommend - and staff are more than happy to welcome motorhomes. This approach also gives you more flexibility to explore the surrounding Wild Atlantic Way without rushing, which I loved.

If you have been on the road for a while and want to book a hotel or guesthouse for a night or two - like I usually do, there are plenty of charming options in the region. In my opinion, this would be the most magical place to rent a traditional Irish cottage. ​

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Best Time to Visit the Cliffs of Moher
Timing completely changes the experience. The busiest period is usually mid-morning through early afternoon, 11am -4pm to be precise, especially in summer when coach tours arrive. However from my experience, tours starting arriving just before 9am. 
The best times I found were:

• early morning around 7/8am
• late evening 9/10pm when the sun is setting

At these times, the cliffs feel far more peaceful and you get a better chance to enjoy the views without crowds. If you want to enjoy the Cliffs of Moher Experience which is included in your ticket, it is open from 8am - 9pm in the summer and is best visited in the early morning or late afternoon. I visited around 5pm in mid June and it was not that busy. 

Top tip: Grab a 99 (a delicious Irish ice cream) from the Puffins Nest Café in the visitors centre for 3.50) or enjoy a locally sourced Irish meal at the Cliffs View Café upstairs. 

Saving Money on Your Visit
One thing I noticed is that prices vary depending on how you book.
In general:

• booking online and in advance is usually cheaper than paying on arrival
• online tickets also help reduce waiting time and avoid disappointment (I arrived in the late afternoon as the earlier tickets were sold out)
• entry includes access to parking and facilities for the day
  
• If you’re travelling the Wild Atlantic Way, it also makes sense to combine the Cliffs of Moher with nearby stops like Doolin or the Burren to get more value from your trip.
  
• In high season tickets start from 8 euros per person depending on the time slot you choose (the cheapest is early morning or late afternoon) and if you arrive and pay onsite, expect to pay a bit more.
  
• It is worth noting that it is charged per person, not per vehicle.