O'Brien's Tower - March to October 29th (weather permitting) 9.30am
to 18.00pm.
While O'Brien's Tower, which was built in 1835 by Cornelius O'Brien
is one of the best locations from which to view the Cliffs, tourists
are encouraged to explore vistas from the south as well. From
O'Brien's Tower the visitor can see the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, and
in the distance (to the north beyond the Aran Islands), The Twelve
Pins (Bens) and the Maum Turk Mountains of Connemara and southwards
along the Clare coast to Loop Head.
In addition to the spectacular views, be sure to also seek out the
great variety of birdlife. Among the species making homes on the
Cliffs are razorbills, gannets, guillemots, kittiwakes, fulmars and
shags, choughs, ravens, and puffins. The best viewing site for
puffins is on Goat Island (a promontory just beneath O'Brien's Tower
(when viewed from the south).
The dramatic cliff face to the north of the Tower is called Aill na
Shearragh, named after druids who plunged to their deaths in the form
of foals (shearragh) upon the arrival of Christianity in Ireland.
Please let this legend serve as a warning to visitors. The Cliffs
are not only dramatic, but dangerous!
Much more information, souvenirs, and welcome cups of hot tea can be
had at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre - open year round 9.30am to
17.30pm. June to Aug 29th 9.00am to 20.00pm.
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