Cliffs of Moher & Burren: Private Day Tour with Flexible Stops

Summary

Cliffs of Moher day trip with Burren stops and Irish pub lunch

You’ll feel Ireland under your skin on this private day trip from Galway: castle ruins by quiet water, ancient stones in The Burren’s silence, a hearty pub lunch in Doolin, and wild air at the Cliffs of Moher. Let your local guide handle all the driving so you can just watch clouds move across the Atlantic.

What’s the experience like?

You know that feeling when you wake up somewhere new and it’s just—quiet? That’s how it started, rolling out from Galway with our guide (Paul, who somehow knew every backroad). I barely finished my coffee before we were winding past stone walls and sheep that looked like they’d been painted onto the green. We stopped at Dunguaire Castle first—mist still hanging over the water, and Paul told us a story about the O’Flahertys that made me laugh, though I’m not sure I got all the details right. It smelled like wet grass and old stone, which is oddly comforting if you grew up anywhere rainy.

The drive through The Burren felt almost lunar—gray rocks everywhere, but then these tiny wildflowers poking through. We pulled off for Poulnabrone Dolmen (I definitely pronounced it wrong; Paul didn’t judge), and there was this hush around the stones. Just wind and a few crows. Later, we watched a sheepdog demo—honestly, those dogs are smarter than most people I know. Lunch was in Doolin at Gus O’Connor’s Pub; my hands still smelled like peat smoke after holding the door open for an older couple. The stew was heavy but perfect for that kind of damp chill.

And then finally—the Cliffs of Moher. I thought I’d be ready for them after seeing so many photos, but standing there with the spray on my face and gulls wheeling overhead? Different thing entirely. The cliffs just drop away into all that blue-gray sea. There were kids running ahead of their parents, everyone kind of whispering even though it was windy enough to steal your hat. On the way back along the coast road, Paul pointed out Fanore Beach where surfers were trying their luck (looked freezing). We stopped for photos when someone spotted a rainbow over Ballyvaughan—not sure any camera could catch how weirdly hopeful that felt.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Burren and Cliffs of Moher

• Visit Dunguaire Castle
• See Poulnabrone Dolmen
• Explore ancient ring forts and sheepdog demo
• Lunch at Gus O'Connor's Pub
• Visit Cliffs of Moher
• Drive home via Burren Coast road

Top questions

How long does the Cliffs of Moher & Burren private tour take?

The day trip typically lasts a full day, with flexible timing depending on stops and interests.

Is lunch included on this Cliffs of Moher day trip?

Lunch is not included but there is a stop at Gus O'Connor's Pub in Doolin where you can purchase food.

Are there stops besides the Cliffs of Moher?

Yes, you'll visit Dunguaire Castle, Poulnabrone Dolmen, The Burren region, Doolin village, and can request photo stops along the coast road.

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?

Yes, pickup is included as part of your private guided tour experience.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children are welcome; infant seats are available if needed.

Can I bring a stroller or pram?

Yes, strollers or prams are allowed on this tour.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it's suitable for all physical fitness levels as most stops are accessible by car with short walks.

Are service animals permitted?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this private day trip.

What’s included

Your day includes comfortable private transport with pickup from your chosen location in Galway or nearby areas. A local guide will lead you through The Burren’s landmarks and arrange stops at places like Poulnabrone Dolmen and Doolin for lunch (not included), before time to explore the Cliffs of Moher at your own pace—and photo breaks whenever you want before returning home in comfort.