The Cliffs of Moher maybe steeped in history and natural wonder, but my reason for traveling to Ireland's most visited natural attraction is its leading role in the blockbuster, Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince.

Others must have felt the same, as in 2010 the Cliffs received some 750,000 visitors, but even for non-Potter fans, it offers breathtaking views across County Clare, and on a clear day one can see as far as the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, Maum Turk Mountains and The Twelve Pins.

The natural rock layers formed 320 million years ago, and is set to host its first ever musical performance when the Lord of the Dance himself, Michael Flatley takes centre stage in September.

Guests can expect to spend a few hours at the Cliffs, taking in the history at the Visitor Centre which has been built by cutting into the mountainside before heading out to walk the path alongside the area.

The Cliffs of Moher are in the running to become one of the new natural wonders of the world, currently ranked 28 with the winners to be announced on 11-11-11.

The towns on the way to and from the Cliffs are also worth a visit, especially if you're single in September.  The Matchmaking pub in Lisdoonvarna draws people looking for love from all over the world to its annual Matchmakers Festival, where guest of honour and fourth generation matchmaker, Willie, pairs up the lonely hearts, with apparently high success rates.

The Tomb at the Burren, another historic archeological find, is also an important Irish icon to visit along the way.  The limestone slabs provide an amazing view from the ground and is interestingly, also a natural wonder visible by satellite.

For more information on the Cliffs of Moher, visit www.tourismireland.com

GETTING HERE:
The Cliffs of Moher are approximately 3 hours drive from Dublin, and an hour from Shannon Airport.

Fly to Dublin from Australia via Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways www.etihad.com