Brassel Mountain [Cnoc Breasail]

Sitting on the eastern edge of the Macgillycuddy's Reeks, this rugged Tump offers a quieter perspective than its famous neighbours. The ascent involves steep, heathery ground, rewarding walkers with clear views across the Gap of Dunloe and a striking profile of the main ridge leading toward Carrauntoohil.

• •The Irish name Cnoc Breasail translates to 'Breasal’s Hill', likely referring to an ancient Gaelic personal name common in Irish mythology rather than a specific landscape feature.
• •Positioned as a northern outlier of the Cruach Mhór massif, the summit provides a dramatic, bird's-eye view into the Black Valley and the winding road through the Gap of Dunloe.
• •While many walkers stick to the main Reeks ridge, Brassel Mountain is frequently visited by those looking for a direct, albeit steep, ascent from the east near the Head of the Gap.
• •From this height, the scale of the Hag’s Glen becomes clear, offering a unique angle on the 'Devil’s Ladder' and the towering eastern faces of the higher peaks that are often lost when standing directly beneath them.
• •Despite standing at a respectable 573 metres, Brassel Mountain suffers the relative indignity of being treated as a mere foothill by those fixated on the nearby 1,000-metre giants.