Purple Mountain NE Top [Tomies South]

About Purple Mountain NE Top [Tomies South]

Sitting high above the Gap of Dunloe, this rugged Hewitt forms a key part of the Purple Mountain massif. The terrain is often pathless and defined by purple-hued Devonian sandstone scree. It offers a quieter alternative to the main Reeks, with staggering views down to the Killarney lakes and across to Carrauntoohil.

Key Statistics

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Did You Know?

• •The name Purple Mountain (An Sliabh Corcra) originates from the Old Red Sandstone scree that blankets the upper slopes, which takes on a distinct violet hue under certain light conditions or when wet.
• •This summit is typically reached as part of a ridge traverse that connects Tomies Mountain to the main peak of Purple Mountain, often starting from the famous Kate Kearney’s Cottage.
• •From this specific northeast vantage point, the view directly down into the narrow, glaciated notch of the Gap of Dunloe is unparalleled, looking straight over the Head of the Gap towards the Black Valley.
• •Despite being separated from the central Macgillycuddy's Reeks by the deep breach of the Gap of Dunloe, this peak remains a significant member of the range's eastern reaches.
• •If the scree doesn't look purple to you, simply wait five minutes for the Kerry weather to change; the rocks are much better at color-shifting than the local sheep.