About the Region
The Republic of Ireland offers some of the finest mountain scenery in the British Isles. MacGillycuddy's Reeks in Kerry contain Carrauntoohil (1,038m), the highest peak in Ireland, while the Wicklow Mountains, the Twelve Bens of Connemara and the Comeragh Mountains provide outstanding walking across the country.
The Arderins list catalogues all summits over 500m in Ireland — over 300 peaks of extraordinary variety. The Vandeleur-Lynam list (mountains over 600m) is Ireland's equivalent of the Munros, covering around 273 summits across both the Republic and Northern Ireland.
"The mountains of Kerry have a light and colour that belongs to no other landscape — Atlantic, ancient, and endlessly surprising."
— Heinrich Boll
Irish Mountain Heritage
At 1,038m, Carrauntoohil in MacGillycuddy's Reeks is Ireland's highest peak — a serious mountain requiring navigation skills in poor visibility.
The 300+ Arderins (over 500m) and 273 Vandeleur-Lynams (over 600m) form Ireland's primary summit lists — a lifetime of exploration.
Just south of Dublin, the Wicklow Mountains provide excellent walking on Lugnaquilla (925m) and the wild Glendalough valley.
When to Visit
Conditions improve and crowds thin. Snow may linger on the highest tops — check before heading above 700m.
Long days and warm weather, but popular fells can be busy. Early starts reward you with empty summits.
Many walkers' favourite season. Rich colours, stable weather windows and noticeably fewer people on the paths.
A serious undertaking above the snowline. Crampons and ice-axe skills required. Views on a clear day are unmatched.
Essential Routes
The classic ascent of Ireland's highest peak — a serious mountain route requiring care on the summit ridge.
Ireland's finest ridge walk linking the highest summits of MacGillycuddy's Reeks in a single demanding day.
The highest point in Leinster — a broad, remote summit in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains.
A stunning National Park walk with views of the Atlantic coastline and the Twelve Bens.
Ready to explore Republic of Ireland?
Browse all fells, plan routes, and track your progress.