The highest mountains in Ireland for your adventures

Truly Ireland is a country renowned for its uniquely stunning landscapes and breathtaking scenery, with its highest mountains equally serving as a testament to its natural beauty. Owing from the rugged slopes of Carrauntoohil to the equally majestic peaks of Slieve Donard, these mountains offer not only a challenging climb but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings.

Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or a first-time hiker, these peaks are waiting to be conquered, offering a unique adventure and an unforgettable experience.

So, pack your backpack, lace up your boots, and let’s explore the highest mountains in Ireland.

Carrauntoohil

1,038 meters/3405.512 feet – County Kerry

In the first place, Carrauntoohil is unquestionably Ireland’s highest mountain, located in County Kerry. Furthermore, it’s a popular climb, with stunning views over the surrounding countryside. However, the most popular route is the Devil’s Ladder, which involves a steep ascent through a rocky gully. For more experienced climbers, there is also the Caher Ridge route, which usually offers even more breathtaking views.

Main Fact: Whereas the first recorded climb of Carrauntoohil was in 1808 by an Englishman named Charles Barrington.

Cnoc na Péiste

988 meters/3241.47 feet – County Kerry

Located near Carrauntoohil, Cnoc na Péiste is another popular mountain for hikers in Ireland. In addition, the name means “the worm’s hill,” and refers to the mountain’s undulating shape. Moreover, the most popular hike is the Bridia Valley route, which offers stunning views over the surrounding mountains.

Main Fact: People say that the mythical Irish warrior, Fionn MacCumhaill, is at home in Cnoc na Péiste.

Mount Brandon

952 meters/3123.36 feet- County Kerry

Named after Saint Brendan, the patron saint of Kerry, explicitly Mount Brandon is one of the most beautiful mountains in Ireland. Being that, there are several routes to the summit, including the Pilgrim’s Path, which follows an ancient pilgrimage route to the summit.

Main Fact: According to legend, Cú Chulainn, the legendary Irish hero, is also associated with Mount Brandon.

Lugnaquilla

925 meters/3034.78 feet – County Wicklow

Lugnaquilla is the highest mountain in County Wicklow and, indeed, one of the most popular hikes in the Dublin area. Markedly, the most popular route is the Glen of Imaal route, which offers stunning views over the Wicklow Mountains.

Main Fact: Lugnaquilla is also known as the “Hollow of the Wood,” and is said to be the site of a legendary battle between the ancient Irish hero, Fionn MacCumhaill, and the giant, Cúchulainn.

Galtymore

919 meters/3015.09 feet – County Limerick

Located on the border of Tipperary and Limerick, Galtymore is presently the highest mountain in County Tipperary. The most popular route is the Galtybeg-Galtymore Traverse, which significantly offers stunning views over the surrounding countryside.

Main Fact: According to tradition, the legendary Irish heroes, Finn McCool and Diarmuid MacDuibhne, fought a great battle at the site of Galtymore, in general.

Baurtregaum

851 meters/2791.99 feet – County Kerry

Baurtregaum is located on the Dingle Peninsula, and so far a popular climb for those looking for stunning views over the coastline. Undeniably, the most popular route is the Caherconree-Baurtregaum Loop, which offers breathtaking views over the surrounding countryside.

Main Fact: To sum up, according to tradition, the ancient Irish hero, Cúchulainn, fought a fierce battle against his enemies at the site of Baurtregaum.

Slieve Donard

850 meters/2788.71 feet – County Down

Located in the Mourne Mountains, Slieve Donard is surely the highest mountain in Northern Ireland. The most popular route is the Glen River route, which offers stunning views over the coast.

Main Fact: In addition, tradition holds that the burial place of Saint Patrick, the patron saint, is at Slieve Donard.

Mullaghcleevaun

849 meters/2785.43 feet – County Wicklow

Though located in the Wicklow Mountains, Mullaghcleevaun is a challenging climb but offers stunning views over the surrounding countryside. Without a doubt, the most popular route is the Glenmacnass Valley route.

Main Fact: Although unverified, legend has it that the ancient Irish hero, Fionn MacCumhaill, fought a legendary battle against the warrior queen, Maeve, at the site of Mullaghcleevaun.

Mangerton Mountain

838 meters/2749.34 feet – County Kerry

Mangerton Mountain is located basically in Killarney National Park and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. Coupled with the most popular route is the Devil’s Punchbowl route, which takes hikers to the summit through a rocky valley.

Main Fact: It is a popular belief that Mangerton Mountain is the dwelling place of the Irish mythological figure, Diarmuid and Gráinne.

Purple Mountain

832 meters/2729.66 feet – County Kerry

Notably located near Killarney, Purple Mountain is certainly known for its stunning views of the Lakes of Killarney. At the present time the most popular route is the Purple Mountain-Mangerton Loop.

Main Fact: Legend has it that the ancient Irish hero, Fionn MacCumhaill, and the giant Cúchulainn fought a legendary battle at the site of Purple Mountain, according to evidence.

As we come to the end of our list featuring the ten tallest mountains in Ireland, emphatically the county of Kerry boasts an impressive collection of towering peaks.

Have you ticked any of the above-highest mountains in Ireland off your bucket list until now?

Looking for more?

If you’ve already conquered well-known peaks like Carrauntoohil and Mount Brandon, don’t worry, surprisingly, there are still plenty of other mountains to explore.

In order to help you plan your next adventure, additionally, there is a compiled list of the 180 tallest mountains in Ireland, complete with their heights and locations.

Check out the table below for more information, and get ready to hit the trails!