The Kilkee Cliffs and Loop Walk
Ireland has some incredible coastline and cliffs to enjoy. Looking to explore some cliffs on your next trip to Ireland? Look no further than the Kilkee Cliffs in County Clare. Located on the west coast of Ireland, the Kilkee Cliff walk offers such incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and show off unique geological formations that are sure to leave you in awe. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know about the Kilkee loop walk to make the most of your visit to the Kilkee Cliffs.
Getting to the Kilkee Cliffs – Where is Kilkee?
The Kilkee Cliffs are located on the Loop Head Peninsula in County Clare. You can reach Kilkee by car, with the nearest airport being Shannon Airport, which is approximately an hour and a half away. Once you arrive in Kilkee, there is a big car park at the base and you can get to the cliffs easily by foot. There’s a path the whole way along the coast. The main car park is located at the Diamond Rocks Cafe, which is just a short walk away from the cliffs.
Exploring the Kilkee Cliffs – The Kilkee Cliffs Loop Walk
Once you arrive at the Kilkee Cliffs, you’ll be blown away by the views of the Atlantic. The cliffs reach heights of up to 90 meters and stretch for over 8 kilometers along the coastline. As you explore the cliffs, not only are they just stunning themselves, you’ll be able to see the banding in the sheer cliff face as well as sea stacks and blowholes. The most popular of these is Dunlicky Rock, which is a massive sea stack that stands tall against the crashing waves of the Atlantic.
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Things to Do at the Kilkee Cliffs
Aside from taking in the stunning views, there are plenty of things to do at the Kilkee Cliffs. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a dip in the Pollock Holes. These are natural rock pools at the base of the cliffs. These are sheltered so they are safe for swimming but please be careful of the conditions and make sure it’s safe to get in first. These pools are perfect for swimming or simply soaking up the sun on a warm day.
For those who prefer to NOT freeze yourselves in the water, there’s several walking trails to take in the stunning views of the cliffs and the surrounding coastline. The Kilkee Cliff Walk is a very popular trail that stretches for 5 kilometers along the cliffs and offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Things to do near Kilkee
- Visit the Cliffs of Moher
- Visit Spanish Point
- Visit the Bridge of Ross
- Visit Loop Head Lighthouse
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Tips for Visiting the Kilkee Cliffs
If you’re visiting the Kilkee Cliff Walk, here are some tips!
- Wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as the paths can be uneven and slippery in places.
- Wear a windproof jacket because it can be so blustry at the coast and the wind can be bitter!
- Keep a safe distance from the cliff edge and follow any warning signs.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as high winds can make the cliffs dangerous.
- If you plan on swimming in the Pollock Holes, be sure to bring a towel and a change of clothes.
Beaches Near Kilkee – The Kilkee Cliff Walk
There are absolutely STUNNING beaces in in Clare, including the Kilkee beach not far from the cliffs. Why not take some time to visit a few on your trip?
- Kilkee Beach – This is the main beach in Kilkee and it is absolutely gorgeous. The beach is sheltered by a bay and is patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months.
- Doughmore Beach – Located just a few kilometers from Kilkee, Doughmore Beach is a long, sandy beach that is popular with surfers and windsurfers. You’ll even have views of the Cliffs of Moher in the distance.
- Spanish Point – Spanish Point is a popular beach and surfing spot located approximately 15 kilometers from Kilkee. The beach is known for its long, sandy shoreline and picturesque views. It is very busy in the summer months.
- White Strand – White Strand is a small, sheltered beach located just outside the village of Miltown Malbay, approximately 25 kilometers from Kilkee. It’s a great spot for swimming and relaxing, with calm waters and a peaceful atmosphere.
These are just a few of the beaches near Kilkee in County Clare. Whether you’re looking for a bustling beach with lots of amenities or a quiet, secluded spot to relax, there’s a beach near Kilkee that’s sure to meet your needs.
Kilkee Cliffs VS The Cliffs of Moher
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The Kilkee Cliffs in Clare were not on my radar at all. I came across them on a trip around Loop Head Peninsula and they blew me away. But are they better than the famous Cliffs of Moher?
There is no visitor centre, fees or busy queues. There are also no barriers. I could not believe how quiet it was considering the Cliffs of Moher are just an hours drive north. It is certainly more peaceful and easier to explore than the Cilffs of Moher.
Without trying to be annoying, I would say they are both worth visiting for different reasons, I wouldn’t miss either!
The Kilkee to the Cliffs of Moher
It’s just an hours drive from the Kilkee cliffs to the Cliffs of Moher. If you’re on a vacation to this part of the country, you’ll undoubtedly need a car. Unless you’re on a day trip from Dublin or Galway. So with a car, it is easy to fit both into one day.
Conclusion – The Kilkee Cliffs and Loop Walk
The Kilkee Cliffs are a must-see natural wonder that should not be missed on your trip to Ireland. From the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean to the unique geological formations, there’s something for everyone at the Kilkee Cliffs.
Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture all the stunning views and share your experience with the world!
FAQS
1. How high are the Kilkee Cliffs? Kilkee Cliffs Height
The cliffs reach heights of up to 90 meters and stretch for over 8 kilometers along the coastline.
