Special status for natural treasures

Donal Hickey on Ireland’s rich ‘geopark’ potential.

THE popularity of the Cliffs of Moher is proof more people can be drawn to natural, rather than man-made, attractions. One of the country’s leading tourist attractions, the cliffs are visited by a million people each year.

The impressive new visitor centre at the cliffs, in west Clare, uses the latest communications technology to inform visitors about the area’s natural history, and is an additional draw. But the cliff-top walks, wildlife, and ocean views are worth experiencing alone. In any case, there is growing interest in exploring and connecting with the ground under our feet.