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Slipping through the Moher Wind Wall
by Steve Bederka

The coach driver, Danny, demonstrated his superb maneuvering skills as he navigated over the curvy, narrow road to bring us to Ireland's Cliffs of Moher. I eagerly jumped off and started to climb to the top, expecting a simple hike and good photo opportunities.

Showered by Atlantic Ocean spray from 700-feet below, the Irish wind curtain forced me back along the cliff edge, where only a 3-foot high fragile slate fence kept me from the cold water below. The sudden powerfull gusts and the risk of falling into the sea forced me to abandon several great camera shots. By doubling over to cut the wind resistance, I barely overcame the force of the wind curtain and crawled up the steps to O’Brien’s Tower, a stone keep used as a tourist center.

In County Clare, these Cliffs of Moher are as impressive to view as they are inviting to dare devil. Signs warn of the wind. Looking down, the birds are white specks. They have the good sense to fly near sea level.

Layers of shale and sandstone form a verticle cliff five miles long. But sometimes a piece breaks off and drops into the ocean. The leaning slate fence and signs warn visitors but that won’t stop someone from testing the edge of the cliff. I suppose an occasional tourist is lost here.

Millions of years ago, sand and mud washed up on limestone, forming shale and flagstone. Rain continues to pour through dissolving the limestone forming potholes.

Back at the coach, Danny advised that the winds are often stronger than they were this time. But strong enough for me.