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Comeragh Mountains
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The Comeragh Mountains are a spectacular mountain massif in County Waterford, famous for their dramatic glacial landscapes. The range is composed of Old Red Sandstone shaped by massive glaciers during the last Ice Age. The highest peak is Fauscoum, which rises 792 meters above sea level. The most distinctive feature of the Comeraghs is the 13 deep corries (cirques), cut into the mountain flanks. The most famous of these lakes is Coumshingaun, a dark, deep lake enclosed by nearly vertical rock walls. Also well-known is Mahon Falls, an impressive waterfall that plunges over the eastern cliffs into the valley. The mountains provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including feral goats and rare birds of prey. Hikers find a wild, untouched environment here that has both gentle walks and challenging climbing routes. The range remains one of Ireland's most impressive glacial legacies.
- Location: Ireland
- Top sights: Kilclooney Mountain · Coumfea · Knockaunapeebra
- Nearby: Stradbally (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 7 | 7 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 14 | 16 | 15 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 8 |
| Rain mm | 108 | 83 | 85 | 75 | 75 | 83 | 87 | 95 | 82 | 120 | 122 | 123 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Driving into this region is predominantly via rural lanes originating from the broader Waterford area, with specific sights possessing dedicated access. Popular starting hubs are often adequately signposted, facilitating an easy entry into the hills.
Best season
The most optimal conditions for sustained hill walking occur from late spring well into the early autumn. Following substantial rainfall during autumn and winter, the cascading local waterfalls can be viewed at their most impressively powerful.
Terrain & paths
The environment is characterized by a sweeping, often highly waterlogged upper plateau and staggeringly deep corries featuring almost vertical rock walls. Navigating near the lip of these dramatic drops demands relentless, constant attention.
What to bring
Because of the chronically boggy plateau, waterproof footwear sporting a deep aggressive tread for solid grip is absolutely mandatory. Layering your clothing is highly sensible, as the plateau is frequently colder and far windier than the valleys.
Parking
Purpose-built car parks exist serving the most famous natural attractions here, but they fill substantially during summer days. Those seeking extreme solitude often utilize much smaller, lesser-known gravel pull-offs skirting the massif's edges.
Safety
Dense hill fog can descend upon the broad plateau with terrifying speed, totally obscuring the immensely dangerous cliff edges. Maintaining a rigorously safe distance from the drops is a matter of strict survival under such conditions.
Time needed
Visiting a prominent waterfall directly from its dedicated parking area typically requires only one to two hours round trip. Conversely, extensive circular plateau hikes demand roughly five to seven hours of solid physical endurance.
Geography
Facts
- Fauscoum is the highest elevation in the Comeragh Mountains at 792 meters.
- The massif contains 13 deep glacial corries or 'coums'.
- Coumshingaun is considered one of the best-formed corrie lakes in Ireland.
- The Mahon Falls plunge from a height of approximately 80 meters.
- A permanent population of feral goats lives within the mountains.
- The geology is primarily composed of Devonian Old Red Sandstone.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Comeragh Mountains (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where are the Comeragh Mountains located?
In County Waterford, in the southeast of Ireland.
What is the main attraction?
The Mahon Falls waterfall and Coumshingaun Lough, an impressive glacial cirque lake.
How high is the highest point?
Fauscoum is the highest peak in the Comeraghs at 792 meters.
Is Coumshingaun difficult to reach?
The hike is steep and strenuous but provides one of the best views in Ireland.
What is the 'Magic Road'?
A road near Mahon Falls where cars appear to roll uphill due to an optical illusion.
Comeragh Mountains: where is it located?
Comeragh Mountains is located in Ireland.
Comeragh Mountains: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kilclooney Mountain, Coumfea, Knockaunapeebra.
Comeragh Mountains: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Comeragh Mountains: why is it worth visiting?
The Comeragh Mountains are a spectacular mountain massif in County Waterford, famous for their dramatic glacial landscapes.
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