Ireland Mountains: Best Hikes, Climbs, and Basic Facts

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Ireland has some of the most dramatic and beautiful natural formations that you may ever see. This tiny but mighty country has beautiful coasts with unique cliff features, gorgeous greenery throughout, valleys, lakes, and of course… the beautiful Ireland mountains!

This guide covers the basic facts about Ireland’s mountains and includes information on the most beautiful mountains and the best hikes, climbs, and guided visits to a few of the popular mountains.

Jump to…
• How Many Mountains Are in Ireland?
• What Are the Major Mountain Ranges in Ireland?
• What Is the Highest Mountain in Ireland?
• What Are the Main Mountains in Northern Ireland?
• The Most Beautiful Ireland Mountains
• Best Hiking in Ireland
• Best Guided Hiking Tours in Ireland
• Best Mountains in Ireland for Climbing
• A Complete List of Ireland Mountains

How Many Mountains Are in Ireland?

There are 31 mountain ranges across Ireland and 209 mountains. These are considered mountains by the widely-accepted 2,000 ft (610 m) minimum height requirement and the UIAA 98.5 ft (30 m) prominence recommendation (the elevation of a summit relative to its surrounding terrain).

What Are the Major Ireland Mountain Ranges?

Ireland’s most popular and better-known mountain ranges are the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the Wicklow Mountains.

The first is best known for holding the highest peak in Ireland and the Wicklow mountains are popular due to their proximity to Dublin and for the many ancient monastic sites found within them.

What Is the Highest Mountain in Ireland?

Carrauntoohil is the highest peak within the highest mountain range in Ireland – MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. Carrauntoohil, found in County Kerry, is made of sandstone and is 1,038 m (3,407 ft) tall. It has steep ridges that make it difficult to climb, though experienced hikers can still make it to the summit using various trails.

*NOTE: For a unique place to visit and stay near Carrauntoohil, check out the adorably quaint town of Kenmare, Ireland.

The Top 5 Tallest Ireland Mountains:

Carrauntoohil – MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Kerry – 1,038 m (3,407 ft)
Knocknapeasta – MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Kerry – 988 m (3,241 ft)
Brandon – Brandon Group, Kerry – 952 m (3,123 ft)
Lugnaquilla – Wicklow Mountains, Wicklow – 925 m (3,035 ft)
Galtymore – Galty Mountains, Limerick/Tipperary – 918 m (3,012 ft)

What Are the Main Mountains in Northern Ireland?

While this guide mainly covers mountains in the Republic of Ireland, there are still some incredible mountains and natural formations in Northern Ireland (part of the UK). The main mountains in Northern Ireland are actually taller than the highest mountains in Ireland, the top 5 tallest mountains being:

Slieve Donard – 850 m (2,789 ft)
Slieve Commedagh – 767 m (2,516 ft)
Slieve Binnian – 747 m (2,451 ft)
Slieve Bearnagh – 727 m (2,385 ft)
Slieve Mael Beg – 704 m (2,310 ft)

The Most Beautiful Ireland Mountains

1. Croagh Patrick

Height: 764m (2,507ft)

Croagh Patrick is known for being one of the most beautiful mountains in Ireland, overlooking Clew Bay in County Mayo. It is also the most popular place of pilgrimage for over 5,000 years. It is said that Saint Patrick fasted for 40 days on this mountain in 441 AD.

2. Benbulben

Height: 526 m (1,726 ft)

This beautiful Irish mountain is noticeable for its flat-top formation. The south side slopes gently for an easy walk, and from the summit, you will see views over the coastal plain of north County Sligo and out to the Atlantic Ocean.

3. Slieve Bearnagh – Northern Ireland Mountains

Height: 739 m (2,425 ft)

Slieve Bernagh has some of the best views in Northern Ireland and features the incredible Mourne Wall. The seven-mile walk is reasonable enough, but it does have some steep climbs and pitches, along with scrambles and ridges that can make it a hard day of walking. The peak is well worth it and provides dramatic views.

Slieve Bearnagh mountain in Northern Ireland

Best Hiking in Ireland

1. Carrauntoohil

The most popular route to the top of Carrauntoohil (the highest peak in Ireland) is The Devils Ladder, which takes around 6 hours. It has seen some erosion in more recent years, so alternate routes are either The Brother O’Shea’s Gully route which also takes around 6 hours, or the Caher route which takes 6 to 8 hours.

*For less experienced hikers, consider taking this guided climb.

Carrauntoohill summit view — ^{View from the summit}

2. Lugnaquilla

The Wicklow Mountain range should be on every Ireland hiker’s bucket list and Lugnaquilla is the tallest peak. The peak stands at 925 m (3,035 ft) and it can take up to 7 hours to get up and back. However, on a clear day, you might be able to see all the way out to Wales!

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3. Sugar Loaf in the Wicklow Mountains

Another classic day hike for visitors to the Wicklow Mountains is Sugar Loaf. It is possible to admire the peak from the bottom, but the trail is a nice mix of mountain and woodland. There are a few different Sugar Loaf trails, so you can do your research and find one that fits your comfort level and ability.

4. Slieve League

At 1,955 ft (596 m) high, the Slieve League Cliffs in County Donegal (NW Ireland) are some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. The cliffs offer gorgeous scenery along the way and never-ending views over Donegal’s rugged coastline.

You can drive up to the main viewing area of the cliffs or go on foot from the parking lot by the visitor center. You can continue exploring the cliffs from the viewpoint, though the paths do become rockier. For experienced hikers who want to make it to the summit of the cliffs, take the Pilgrim’s Path along One Man’s Pass.

Best Guided Hiking Tours in Ireland Mountains

1. Guided Climb of Carrauntoohill

Best for those interested in climbing the tallest peak in Ireland, but not ready to take it on by yourself. You will learn stories and history about the region along the way to the summit and back down.

✔️ CLICK HERE TO BOOK – CARRAUNTOOHILL

2. The Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough

This day trip excursion from Dublin is perfect for those who want a nice day experiencing Ireland’s gorgeous nature with an easy 1.5-hour hike that ends overlooking the coast. After lunch, your tour will take you to Sally Gap, Guinness Lake, and the Glendalough Monastic Settlement.

✔️ CLICK HERE TO BOOK – WICKLOW MOUNTAINS AND GLENDALOUGH

3. 8-Day Adventurer’s Tour of the Atlantic Way Ireland Mountains

Are you looking to spend the majority of your trip to Ireland hiking and exploring? This 8-day tour for adventurers is the best off-the-beaten-path tour with a guided hike or cycle in an amazing location each day.

A few of the incredible sites you will see include: Killarney National Park, the Blarney Stone, the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara National Park, and Achill Island. One of the best-rated tours of Ireland, the small group size offers a deeper level of physicality, exploration, and intimacy.

✔️ CLICK HERE TO BOOK – ADVENTURER’S TOUR

4. For the best hiking in the Gap of Dunloe, click below:

Best Gap of Dunloe Tours and Important Visitor Information

NOTE: Those looking to adventure and explore in Ireland should always purchase travel insurance, especially those taking more challenging routes.

I use and recommend SafetyWing for medical and travel insurance. It is affordable, reliable, and flexible to cover you in emergency situations.

✔️ To purchase insurance directly from SafetyWing, CLICK HERE.

Best Mountains in Ireland for Climbing

1. The Mourne Mountains

Located in the southeast of Northern Ireland in County Down, The Mourne Mountains are known as the best for climbing. With the highest mountains, over 20 different climbing areas, and over a thousand routes, it’s the largest and most impressive mountain climbing area in Ireland. Many routes have a long walk-in, but there is plenty of opportunity for any level of climber.

2. Glendalough

Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains is known for being the best area to boulder in Ireland. There are over 150 routes ranging from V0 to V13.

3. The Gap of Dunloe

Situated in between the Purple Mountains and MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, the Gap of Dunloe in County Kerry offers endless courses with amazing scenery.

☘️ Interested in what else to do in the Gap of Dunloe? Click here!

Bonus: Dalkey Quarry

This is one of the more popular rock climbing areas in Ireland due to its proximity to Dublin. If you are staying near the city, this would be the perfect quick adventure!

Ireland provides endless exploration opportunities for every level of adventurer. Whether you are moving to Ireland and excited to explore your new home, or are just visiting and looking to check some items off your adventure bucket list… you will certainly find what you are looking for within the Ireland mountains.

Looking for resources to use for your next trip or move abroad?
CLICK HERE for my favorite travel and expat tools!

A Complete List of Ireland Mountains

This list follows the Irish Hewitt list that is recognized as the official All-Ireland mountain list based on the 2,000 ft (610 m) minimum height requirement and the UIAA 98.5 ft (30 m) prominence recommendation.

Carrauntoohil (1,039m)
Beenkeragh (1,010m)
Caher (1,001m)
Cnoc na Péiste (988m)
Maolán Buí (973m)
Cnoc an Chuillin (958m)
The Bones Peak (957m)
Brandon Mountain (952m)
The Big Gun (939m)
Cruach Mhór (932m)
Lugnaquillia Mountain (925m)
Galtymore Mountain (918m)
Knockbrinnea (854m)
Baurtregaum (851m)
Slieve Donard (850m)
Mullaghcleevaun (849m)
Skregmore (848m)
Cnoc na Toinne (845m)
Brandon Peak (840m)
Mangerton Mountain (838m)
Caherconree (835m)
Purple Mountain (832m)
Beenoskee (826m)
Lyracappul (825m)
Benagh (822m)
Tonelagee (817m)
Mweelrea (814m)
Faha Ridge (809m)
Nephin (806m)
Ben Lugmore (803m)
Greenane (801m)
Galtybeg (799m)
Stradbally Mountain (798m)
Ben Bury (795m)
Mullaghcleevaun East Top (795m)
Mount Leinster (794m)
Corrigasleggaun (794m)
Knockmealdown (793m)
Ben Lugmore East Top (793m)
Kilclooney Mountain (792m)
Ben Lugmore West Top (790m)
Greenane West Top (787m)
Temple Hill (783m)
Stumpa Dúloigh (784m)
Mangerton North Top (782m)
Mullaghanattin (773m)
Barrclashcame (772m)
Coomacarrea (772m)
Knockmoylan (767m)
Slieve Commedagh (765m)
Croagh Patrick (764m)
Masatiompan (763m)
Shehy Mountain (762m)
Tievummera (762m)
Slievemaan (759m)
Camenabologue (758m)
Kippure (757m)
Purple Mountain Northeast (757m)
Knockanaffrin (755m)
Beann (752m)
Errigal Mountain (751m)
Piaras Mór (748m)
Cnoc Íochtair (747m)
Slieve Binnian (746m)
Broaghnabinnia (745m)
Coumfea (742m)
Tievenabinnia (742m)
Slieve Bearnagh (739m)
Blackstairs Mountain (735m)
Tomies Mountain (735m)
Conavalla (734m)
Cnoc an Bhráca (731m)
Benbaun (729m)
Seefin (726m)
Djouce Mountain (725m)
Seefingan (724m)
Slieve Carr (721m)
Slievenamon (721m)
Duff Hill (720m)
Gravale (718m)
Corranabinnia (716m)
Meenteog (715m)
Bencorr (711m)
Knockboy (706m)
Stoompa (705m)
Moanbane (703m)
Binn idir an dá Log (702m)
Slievelamagan (702m)
Slieve Meelbeg (702m)
Ben Gorm (700m)
Birreencorragh (698m)
Camaderry (698m)
Silsean (698m)
Bencollaghduff (696m)
Caoinkeen (692m)
The Paps East (694m)
Keeper Hill (694m)
Ben Creggan (693m)
Knockaterriff (692m)
Beann North Top (692m)
Benbreen (691m)
Knocknadobar (690m)
The Paps West (690m)
Croaghaun (688m)
Slieve Meelmore (687m)
Ben Creggan South Top (687m)
Corranabinnia Southwest Top (687m)
War Hill (686m)
Hungry Hill (685m)
Knockmoyle (684m)
Maumtrasna (682m)
Carrigvore (682m)
Turlough Hill (682m)
Caherbarnagh (681m)
Colly (679m)
Sawel Mountain (678m)
Slieve Snaght (678m)
Knocksheegowna (678m)
Slieve Binnian North Top (678m)
Knocknagantee (676m)
An Bheann Mhór (675m)
Croaghgorm (674m)
Derryclare (673m)
Slievemore (671m)
Lavagh More (671m)
Slievanea Northeast Top (670m)
Slieve Muck (670m)
Letterbreckaun (667m)
Finnararagh (667m)
Beenmore (667m)
Muckish (666m)
Knocknafallia (666m)
Coomura (666m)
Cuilcagh (665m)
Mullaghnarakill (665m)
Croaghanmoira (664m)
Bengower (664m)
Croaghaun West Top (664m)
Sugarloaf Hill (663m)
Stumpa Dúloigh West Top (663m)
Camenabologue East Top (663m)
Binn Mhór (661m)
Binn idir an dá Log Southeast Top (659m)
Knockowen (658m)
Mullacor (657m)
Beann West Top (657m)
Mount Leinster East Top (657m)
Chimney Rock Mountain (656m)
Cove Mountain (655m)
Knocknagnauv (655m)
Cnoc na dTarbh (655m)
Muckanaght (654m)
Keadeen Mountain (653m)
Dooish (652m)
Knockshanahullion (653m)
Lugduff (652m)
Been Hill (651m)
Crohane (650m)
Coomcallee (650m)
Lavagh Beg (650m)
Dromderalough (650m)
Mullaghanish (649m)
Gowlanebeg (649m)
Seahan (648m)
Truskmore (647m)
Devilsmother (645m)
Musheramore (644m)
Coomnadiha (644m)
Tonduff (642m)
Ardnageer (642m)
Knocklomena (641m)
Scarr (641m)
Banoge North (641m)
Croaghbann (641m)
Drung Hill (640m)
Knocknacappul (639m)
Cush (641m)
Beann South Top (639m)
Eagle Mountain (638m)
Benfree (638m)
Knocknamanagh (637m)
Lobawn (636m)
Coomanassig (636m)
Mullaghclogha (635m)
Kells Mountain (633m)
Binn Chaonaigh (633m)
Bencullagh (632m)
Boughil (631m)
Laghtshanaquilla (629m)
Knocknalougha (629m)
Monabrack (630m)
Glennamong (628m)
Nephin Beg (627m)
Mullaghaneany (627m)
Shanlieve (627m)
Meenard Mountain (625m)
Gullaba Hill (625m)
Ballysitteragh (623m)
Mullach Glas (622m)
Maulin (621m)
Dart Mountain (619m)
Leenaun Hill (618m)
Slieve Loughshannagh (617m)
Coumaraglin Mountain (617m)
Slieve Snaght (615m)
Corcóg (611m)
Tievebaun (611m)
Knockbrack (610m)
Coumbaun (610m)

☘️FAQs About Ireland☘️

✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to Ireland?
1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible
2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal

❗Is Travel Insurance Required in Ireland?
No, it’s not.
However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing.
>>>CLICK HERE FOR INFO

☔️ When Is the Best Time to Visit Ireland?
Summer (June-August) – is the warmest and rains the least but you will have the most crowds.
Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have more rain but you will beat the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).

🏠 Where Should You Stay in Ireland?
Hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, and house sitting are all available in Ireland for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are:
• Booking.com
• Hostelworld
• Vrbo (usually better options than Airbnb in Ireland)
• Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay)

☘️ Where Can You Find Tours?
I found incredible tours in Ireland >>>HERE for private and guided group tours of both the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests.

🚘 Should You Rent a Car in Ireland?
I always tell my friends and family to rent a car in Ireland so that they don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! However, if you plan to stay only in the cities, then you should be fine getting by with buses and walking.
>>> What to know about driving in Ireland
>>> The best car rental in Ireland

🍻 Make sure to try out the pubs! Even if you don’t drink, the atmosphere, live music, and friendly people are very uniquely Irish.

Ireland Mountains: Best Hikes, Climbs, and Basic Facts

How Many Mountains Are in Ireland?