Cliffs of Moher vs. Slieve League

(390 Reviews)
98% Recommended

Pam MacIntyre

Maple Grove, MN
Australia & New Zealand Specialist

New Zealand

In all my years as a Travel Professional, with curiosity I've asked several the question "What are your must see countries?"  I was hard pressed to find one that did not list New Zealand!  I mean who wouldn't wa...

Cliffs of Moher

I am guessing that you’ve heard of Cliffs of Moher? What about Slieve League?


The Cliffs of Moher remarkable and surely a must visit, but believe me when I tell you that the Slieve League is even more majestic & breathtaking.


First we’ll start with the ever famous, Cliffs of Moher. 


Due to its overwhelmingly popularity there are a lot of people visiting there. It’s worth taking on the crowds and you must make a stop there when visiting Ireland. The views are undeniably gorgeous! When you first arrive, it really has the feeling of … “Wow, I’m actually seeing this in person!” You’ll notice a concentration of many tourists up at O’Brien’s Tower. From here you have a great vantage point for some fantastic photos.  


Just beyond O’Brien’s Tower you’ll notice a “Caution beyond this point” sign. If you’re physically able I highly encourage you to go beyond this area. The further you go obviously the less touristy it’ll be. Do so with caution as the sign says as there are many points close to the edge of the cliff, so be mindful of you surroundings. We absolutely loved seeing the Cliffs of Moher further down. This is where you will get unique photographs of this iconic cliff.


Now onto my personal favorite, Slieve League.  


Slieve League is located about 1 hour west of Donegal. You’ll drive along the coastline and wind through some small towns. When you arrive, you’ll notice a small parking lot. Do not park here, instead you’ll see a gate. Hop out of the car to open it up and drive on through. Be sure to close the gate after entering as there are sheep inside. You’ll drive up a high and windy road until you see another small parking lot. Here’s where you’ll park to start your hike. Bring on the incredible views! 


While walking Slieve League, we encountered maybe a dozen people. The Slieve League cliffs are not as well-known and not as many tourist head to this part of Ireland. It’s undoubtedly worth making it a part of your itinerary. There are several sheep scattered on the hillside and they will walk right alongside of you. Making it additionally that much more unique of an experience. 


On our way back, about halfway back to Donegal we stopped at Mary Murrin’s Bar/Pub which is a Family owned traditional bar and restaurant located in Bruckless. We found the seafood to be especially delicious! 


To sum it up, both are notable & worthy in their own right. You should certainly experience them both if time allows. If pressed to choose, I’d have to vote Slieve League—truly an area I’ll never forget! 

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