Near the end of the first week of my Ireland odyssey, my friend Suzanne and I drove to the Burren, a vast, sparsely inhabited area in County Clare, which is on the west coast of the country. The Burren is home to unique terrain and plant-life, including a labyrinth of underground rivers and caves.
Some of these rivers and caves are accessible from the sea at the base of the majestic Cliffs of Moher. The cliffs rise hundreds of feet above the ocean, from 702 feet at the northern tip (where we were), to just over 300 feet in other parts. They stretch along the coast for at least five miles according to one estimate we read, and are bordered primarily by undulating farmlands divided by low stone walls.
It was incredibly windy, overcast, chilly, and wet the day we visited. Precipitation ranged between annoying mist and outright umbrella-worthy rain. While it would have been more comfortable to visit the cliffs on a sunny day, the semi-inclement weather gave the cliffs an aura of mystery and splendor that sun and blue skies could not have achieved.
I was hoping for a shot without my hair blowing in my face, but this is gives you a better idea of the weather that day. In spite of it, the place was bustling with eager tourists like us.
Looking south/southwest from the main access path. Not too shabby a view, eh?
This nature-made pylon at the foot of the cliffs is aptly called "The Stack"
Check out this imposing cave entrance! It was featured in the sixth Harry Potter film.
Me braving the wind on a pile of shale.
More cliff views, stretching on and on, with the sea churning ceaselessly below.
Another one looking north/northwest. You can just make out The Stack there on the left, where the farthest cliff juts out.
Once again, Ireland did not disappoint!
1 comment:
Wow- that is just gorgeous!
Post a Comment