Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Geopark

The Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark lies in County Clare, on the west coast of Ireland. Covering around 530 square kilometres, it brings together two of the region’s most distinctive landscapes — the limestone country of the Burren and the sea cliffs at Moher — within a single area recognised for its internationally important geology. The geopark stretches from the Atlantic coast inland through villages such as Corofin, Kilfenora and Lisdoonvarna.

The Cliffs of Moher rise along the coast and are formed largely of shale and sandstone laid down in a shallow sea hundreds of millions of years ago. The cliffs are an important seabird habitat, supporting thousands of nesting pairs each year, including Atlantic puffins, guillemots and razorbills. Inland and above the cliffs lies the Burren, a glacio-karst landscape shaped during the last Ice Age, where glaciers stripped away soil and softer rock to expose the bare limestone pavement that gives the area its character.

Designated in 2011, the geopark is managed by Clare County Council with support from the Geological Survey of Ireland, working alongside local communities and businesses. Its work centres on education, conservation, sustainable tourism and community engagement, with a network of geosites, discovery points and walking trails inviting visitors to explore the landscape at their own pace. Before setting out, it is worth coming prepared for changeable weather with layers and waterproof clothing.