Welcome to the Harry Potter cliffs in Ireland!

In this blog post, we’re focusing on the CLIFFS OF MOHER, a real-life location that played an IMPORTANT role in the movie “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince”.

We’ll talk about the story behind the Harry Potter Cliffs, the location, the best time to visit, the Cliffs of Moher hike, how to get there… and we’ll give you INSIDER TIPS and tricks!

Let’s get started!

The Cliffs of Moher Harry Potter scene

In the film, Harry Potter and Albus Dumbledore embark on a DANGEROUS JOURNEY to retrieve the Horcrux. The dramatic scene involves them standing on the edge of these breathtaking Cliffs of Moher Harry Potter before they dive into the icy waters below and enter the cave.

However, it’s important to note that the interior scenes of the cave were not filmed at the Cliffs of Moher Harry Potter but were created using sets and CGI in a studio. Despite this, the Cliffs of Moher Harry Potter have become a popular tourist destination for Harry Potter fans wanting to see the real-life location of this pivotal scene.

Read further below the picture about the story behind the cliffs and the cave!

The story behind the Harry Potter Cave

The Harry Potter Cave is NOT AN OFFICIAL LOCATION in the Harry Potter series. However, you probably mean the CRYSTAL CAVE next to the Cliffs of Moher. They were visited by Harry and Dumbledore in “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince“.

In the story, the cave is a hidden place that Voldemort used to hide a HORCRUX, specifically Salazar Slytherin’s locket. The cave is protected by enchantments and obstacles, including an invisible boat, a potion that induces thirst, and Inferi (reanimated corpses controlled by Dark Magic).

Check below for the location of the Cliffs of Moher!

Location of the Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are located on the WEST COAST of Ireland, near the village of Liscannor in County Clare. They can be found at the southwestern edge of the Burren region. This stunning location forms part of Ireland’s famous Wild Atlantic Way.

The cliffs run for about 14 KILOMETERS (approximately 9 miles), towering over the wild Atlantic coastline. The region is known for its extraordinary natural beauty and is considered one of Ireland’s TOP visitor ATTRACTIONS.

One notable feature of the Cliffs of Moher is the MOHER TOWER, a square stone ruin located at Hag’s Head. This structure appears to be the remains of a watchtower placed during Napoleon’s reign in Europe.

Hike to the Cliffs of Moher

What you maybe did not know is that you can make AMAZING HIKES next to the cliffs.

We recommend doing the Cliffs of Moher-Dooling hike. You can download it FOR FREE via AllTrails.

There are the FEATURES of the hike:

• Distance: The trail is a 7.1-km loop.
• Location: The trail is located near Ballysteen, County Clare.
• Difficulty: The trail is considered moderately challenging.
• Duration: It takes an average of 2 hours and 14 minutes to complete the trail.
• Activities: The area is popular for birding, fishing, and hiking.
• Dog Policy: Dogs are not allowed on this trail.
• Scenery: The trail offers views of spectacular cliffs that sit 700 meters over the Atlantic coast.
• Conservation: The area is part of the Moher UNESCO Geopark Burren and the Wildlife Special Protected Area, which protects 35 species of birds.
• Attractions: A short walk leads to O’Brien’s Tower, which offers great views of Ireland’s west coast. The Visitor Center offers an exhibition, two cafés, a gift shop, restrooms, a first aid station, information centres, and a luggage shop.

How to get there?

There are a few ways you can reach the Cliffs of Moher. We recommend you rent a car.

By Car: If you’re driving from Dublin, it’s about a 3 to 3.5-hour journey via the M7 and M18. From Galway, it’s roughly a 1.5-hour drive via the N67. The roads are in good condition! The main (PAID) car park for the Cliffs of Moher is located on the opposite side of the road from the cliffs. This parking lot is easily accessible by road.

By Bus: There are also bus services from major cities. Bus Éireann operates several daily services to the Cliffs of Moher Harry Potter from Galway and Limerick.

By Bike or On Foot: For the more adventurous, cycling or walking to the Cliffs of Moher Harry Potter is also an option, typically from nearby towns like Doolin or Liscannor. This gives you the chance to enjoy the beautiful Irish countryside.

Travel agencies to book with

We recommend you book with Daytours Ireland. Their Cliffs of Moher tour is amazing! You will meet your guide at 6:50 in the morning, and you will be transported to the cliffs in a comfortable coach bus.

At 10:30 you can start your walk to the cliffs where you will stay for around 2 hours (more than enough for a visit).

After lunch they will take you to Burren (a lunar-like landscape) and you’ll end the day with a stop in the medieval town of Galway. At 7:30pm they will drop you off in Dublin. You can find the activity here.

Best time to visit the Cliffs of Moher Harry Potter?

The best time to visit the Cliffs of Moher Harry Potter, especially for Harry Potter fans, would be during the OFF-PEAK times which are before 11 AM and after 4 PM. This period allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience as you avoid the crowds.

It’s also worth considering that the HIGH SEASON spans from May through to September. If you are visiting during this time, it might be quite crowded. However, a visit at sunrise or sunset could offer a very special and memorable experience. Just check out the picture above!

How long is the experience?

The length of your visit to the Cliffs of Moher Harry Potter can greatly vary depending on what you want to do and see.

For a standard visit, which includes taking in the stunning views, walking along the cliffs, and visiting the visitor center, you should allocate at least two hours. This allows you to truly appreciate the beauty of the location without feeling rushed.

However, if you plan to do more extensive exploring, such as hiking the coastal walk, you could easily spend half a day or even a full day there. The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk is approximately 18km (11 miles) and takes around 4-5 hours one way.

There are also boat tours available from the nearby village of Doolin which offer a different perspective of the cliffs from the sea. These tours typically last about an hour.

Read further below the picture!

What to bring?

When visiting the Cliffs of Moher, it’s important to be prepared for varying weather conditions and the nature of the site. Here are some items you might consider bringing:

• Appropriate Clothing: The weather on the west coast of Ireland can be unpredictable. It’s advisable to dress in layers so you can adjust accordingly. A waterproof jacket is a must as rain showers can occur.

• Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, and the paths can be uneven, so comfortable, sturdy footwear is important.

• Sunscreen and Hat: Despite Ireland’s reputation for cloudy weather, the sun can be strong when it does come out. Protect your skin and eyes.

• Camera: You’ll want to capture the breathtaking views.

• Binoculars: If you’re interested in bird watching, binoculars can enhance your experience. The cliffs are home to many species of birds, including puffins.

• Water and Snacks: There are facilities at the visitor center, but if you’re planning on extensive hiking, it’s a good idea to bring your own refreshments.

• A Map or Guidebook: While the main paths are well-marked, a map or guidebook can help you explore further and understand more about the area’s history and wildlife.
• There are other must-have travel accessories that we recommend for a visit like the Cliffs of Moher. Check them out here!

Where to eat?

There are several places to eat near the Cliffs of Moher Harry Potter, both on-site and in nearby towns:

• Cliffs View Café: Located in the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre, the Cliffs View Café offers a variety of food options with stunning views of the cliffs. It serves sandwiches, soups, hot meals, pastries, and beverages.

• Doolin: This nearby village is a popular spot for visitors to the Cliffs of Moher Harry Potter. There are several pubs and restaurants here that serve traditional Irish fare. Gus O’Connor’s Pub is renowned for its seafood and live Irish music.

• Liscannor: Another nearby town, Liscannor has a few eateries worth checking out. The Rock Shop serves light meals and homemade cakes, and Vaughan’s Anchor Inn is known for its seafood dishes.

• Lahinch: A short drive from the Cliffs of Moher Harry Potter, Lahinch offers a range of dining options. From fine dining at The Atlantic Hotel to casual bites at Flanagan’s Seafood Bar & Steak Grill, there’s something for everyone.

Where to stay?

There are a variety of accommodation options near the Cliffs of Moher Harry Potter to suit different budgets. Read our blog post on insider tips for cheap hotels without compromise.

Here are our ABSOLUTE FAVORITE accommodations:

Luxury

Gregans Castle Hotel: Located in Ballyvaughan, about 30 30-minute drive from the Cliffs of Moher Harry Potter, this is a luxury country house hotel with beautiful gardens and gourmet dining. It’s known for its tranquil setting and exceptional service.

Mid-range

Ballinalacken Castle Country House: This 15th-century castle turned hotel offers comfortable rooms with stunning views. While it has a touch of luxury, it’s more affordable than a high-end boutique hotel. It’s located about 15 minutes drive from the Cliffs of Moher Harry Potter.

Budget

Doolin Hostel: For budget travelers, Doolin Hostel provides clean, comfortable accommodation in a friendly atmosphere. It’s conveniently located in the village of Doolin, just a short drive from the Cliffs of Moher Harry Potter.

Conclusion

That’s it, now you know everything there is about the Cliffs of Moher from Harry Potter!

We hope you have just a nice time like we did!

Let us know in the comments!

FAQ

Was Harry Potter filmed at Cliffs of Moher?

Yes, the Cliffs of Moher were used as a filming location for “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince”.

Where on Cliffs of Moher was Harry Potter filmed?

The exact location on the cliffs is not disclosed, but scenes featuring the cliffs were used to depict the exterior of the cave where Voldemort hid a Horcrux.

Where is the cave from Harry Potter?

The cave from “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” is a product of movie magic. The exterior shots were filmed at the Cliffs of Moher and Lemon Rock in Ireland, while the interior was a set built at Pinewood Studios in England.

Where is the cave of Voldemort?

In the Harry Potter series, Voldemort’s cave is depicted as being along a coastline. The exterior shots for the cave in “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” were filmed at the Cliffs of Moher and Lemon Rock.

Where is Tom Riddle buried in Harry Potter?

Tom Riddle Sr., Voldemort’s father, is buried in the fictional village of Little Hangleton in the Harry Potter series. In the films, these scenes were shot in the English village of Lavenham.

How do I get to Tom Riddle’s grave?

As Tom Riddle’s grave is part of the fictional universe of Harry Potter, it does not exist in real life. However, fans can visit Lavenham in England, which served as the film location for the village of Little Hangleton. Please note that there are no specific Harry Potter attractions or Tom Riddle’s grave in Lavenham. It’s a historic village with well-preserved medieval architecture that was used to create the setting for these scenes in the films.