Republic of Ireland
Ben Creggan South Top [Meall Lair]
689M
2260FT
About Ben Creggan South Top [Meall Lair]
Rising above the deep waters of Doolough near Leenaun, this rugged Hewitt forms a significant shoulder on the Ben Creggan massif. The terrain is characteristically stony and wild, typical of the South Mayo highlands, offering a quieter alternative to the popular Mweelrea while maintaining a sense of immense scale and isolation.
Key Statistics
Rank
18th Highest in Region
Parent Range
Data coming soon
Prominence
?
73m
Nearest Town
Leenaun
Geology
Geological data pending update.
Classifications
Find It
OS Grid Reference
L858661
Latitude
53.6324°N
Longitude
9.7271°W
Did You Know?
- •The name Meall Lair is derived from the Irish Meall Láir, meaning 'middle mound', an apt description for its position situated on the broad ridge between Ben Creggan’s main peak and the steep descent to the east.
- •It is often climbed as part of the 'Ben Creggan Horseshoe', a strenuous circuit that usually begins near the head of the Killary Fjord and traverses the high ground overlooking the Delphi estate.
- •The summit provides an exceptional perspective of the massive eastern corries of Mweelrea, particularly the dark, towering cliffs that surround the waters of Lough Bellawaum.
- •While officially classified as a Hewitt, this top is often treated as a navigational handrail for walkers moving between Ben Creggan and the Sheeffry Hills to the northeast.
- •Despite its height, it rarely sees the crowds of nearby peaks, meaning the only company you are likely to have is the occasional hardy Blackface mountain sheep.
![Ben Creggan South Top [Meall Lair]](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4c/Ben_Lugmore_%28near%29%2C_and_Mweelrea_%28far%2C_left%29_from_Ben_Creggan_South_Top2.jpg)