Cliffs of Moher - taking it to the top

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Today I went to view the Cliffs of Moher from the top. This is a place of wild majesty. The cliffs are the highest in Europe, towering over the water - dropping dramatically into the sea. This has been a popular attraction for a long time, and one that has been dangerous (even deadly) to those whose sense of adventure outruns their common sense. It is a very long way down if you fall.

The site has been developed into one that manages huge numbers of tourists (the Cliffs of Moher is on almost every west country bus tour itinerary) with efficiency, safety, and a sense of respect for the location itself. There are broad, stone-paved walkways with an barrier wall that keeps tourists securely from the ledge without limiting the views of the cliffs. (Of course, there are throngs who climb over the barriers at the end of the path to extend their hikes.) Along the extensive walkways Irish musicians take up posts so that the sounds of harp or pipe or vocalist float along the cliffs edge, mingling with the cries of the sea birds. It is a truly wonderful, multi-sensory experience. Even the visitors center is well designed - nestled in a hill in sensibly, Hobbit fashion. It was three plus hours of pure wandering joy.

Last on my agenda was to visit the Burren. This is an area north of Doolin that claims almost moon scape terrain. The Burren actually covers many miles with the occasional specialty shop or attraction capitalizing on its name. It was interesting to see the harsh landscape - so jarring in contrast to what I've seen in recent days. All-in-all, though, I am a bit tired of driving and headed back to Doolin without too much more exploration. Walked about half a mile to a great pub for dinner. Have to get the car back to Dublin before 11 a.m., so it is off to bed.

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