Lights, Camera…Action! The Cliffs of Moher in Pop Culture

Granted, we may be slightly biased when it comes to suggesting that the Cliffs of Moher are the world’s most impressive cliffs, but there’s good reason to be proud and shout it loud.

The Cliffs of Moher rock! Pun intended.

And it’s not just the team at Galway Tour Company who think so. Their beauty has captivated visitors and won new fans all over the world. In fact, you may have recognised their appearance in TV, movies and video games, not to mention, books, songs and other media.

Movies

  • Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009)
    The Cliffs of Moher were featured as the location for the cave where Harry and Dumbledore search for Voldemort’s Horcrux. The dramatic, otherworldly cliffs provided the perfect backdrop for this pivotal scene in the film.
  • The Princess Bride (1987)
    The cliffs appear as the “Cliffs of Insanity” in this beloved cult classic. They are prominently featured during the scene where characters scale the cliffs using a rope, with breathtaking shots of the towering rock faces. Don’t Look Down!….
  • Leap Year (2010)
    In this romantic comedy starring Amy Adams, the Cliffs of Moher are one of the picturesque Irish locations featured as the main character embarks on a journey to propose to her boyfriend.
  • Ryan’s Daughter (1970)
    This David Lean film set in Ireland uses the Cliffs of Moher to capture the rugged beauty of the Irish coastline.

Music

  • “The Cliffs of Dooneen”
    This traditional Irish ballad, often associated with The Cliffs of Moher, captures the romanticised beauty of Ireland’s cliffs and coastlines. Technically, the song was written about the cliffs in County Kerry, but the song is often performed in reference to the Cliffs of Moher due to their fame.
  • “Cliffs of Moher” by Celtic Thunder
    This Irish musical group has performed instrumental pieces and songs inspired by the Cliffs of Moher, reflecting their mystical allure.

TV

  • The Amazing Race (Season 12)
    The Cliffs of Moher served as a pit stop on this popular reality competition show, showcasing their dramatic and awe-inspiring setting to a global audience.
  • Rick Steves’ Europe
    In his travel series, Rick Steves explores the Cliffs of Moher in his episode on the best of Ireland, emphasising their historical and cultural significance.

Literature

  • “Star of the Sea” by Joseph O’Connor
    This historical novel is set during the Irish famine and features vivid descriptions of the Irish landscape, including references to the Cliffs of Moher as a symbol of Ireland’s untamed beauty.
  • Irish Folklore
    The cliffs are tied to many local legends and myths, including stories of lost lovers, mermaids, and enchanted beings, making them a recurring symbol in Irish storytelling. Check out our post about stories inspired from the Wild Atlantic Way, here.

Video Games

  • Assassin’s Creed Valhalla: Wrath of the Druids (2021)
    The Cliffs of Moher are featured in this video game expansion, where players can explore a fictionalised version of Ireland, including the stunning cliffs, blending real-world landmarks with Norse mythology.

 

So there you have it. The Cliffs lighting up the silver screen and reaching the hearts of moviegoers, readers, listeners and viewers on an international stage.

Interested in learning more about what makes the Cliffs so special? Sure you do. Alternatively, come and see the cliffs yourself by booking in for one of our tours.

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