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MacGillycuddy's Reeks

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

Weather…

MacGillycuddy's Reeks is the highest mountain range in Ireland, situated on the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry. The range extends for approximately 19 kilometres and is home to the country's three highest peaks, including Carrauntoohil, which reaches an elevation of 1038 metres. Geologically, the mountains are primarily composed of sandstone, deeply incised by glacial movements that created sharp ridges and deep U-shaped valleys such as the Gap of Dunloe. The area is part of the Kerry UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and provides a sanctuary for rare alpine flora and fauna, including the peregrine falcon. The Reeks are a magnet for climbers and hikers who value the challenging routes and dramatic views over the Atlantic Ocean. The range is named after the MacGillycuddy of the Reeks clan, who have been landowners in the region for centuries. Despite their relatively modest height compared to continental Alps, the rapid weather changes and rugged terrain require careful preparation.

Location: Ireland
Top sights: Maolán Buí · Cnoc an Chuillinn · The Big Gun
Nearby: Templenoe (15 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	6	6	6	8	11	13	15	15	13	11	8	6
Rain mm	138	104	95	84	91	94	105	110	101	128	142	143

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The most well-known and frequently used starting point for the challenging ascent of the mountain range, including the highest Carrauntoohil, is the Cronin's Yard car park or the remote Hag's Glen in County Kerry.

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Best season

The bright summer, with significantly longer daylight, gives the only truly safe conditions for these very high peaks. Harsh winter climbing here should be undertaken exclusively by extremely experienced mountaineers.

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Terrain & paths

This is an absolutely demanding, unforgiving mountain terrain featuring steep ascents, dangerously loose scree, and highly exposed rocky ridges. Excellent navigation skills are absolutely crucial here at all times.

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What to bring

High-quality, stiff mountain boots, multiple well-insulating warm clothing layers, and extremely reliable rain protection are strictly mandatory. A physical map, a compass, and a loud emergency whistle are essential.

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Parking

Specialized hiker car parks like the popular Cronin's Yard usually charge a small fee and offer useful basic facilities, but on good summer days they are completely filled up extremely early in the morning.

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Safety

The harsh weather can deteriorate dramatically here within a few minutes, and the narrow ridges are exposed to extreme, dangerous winds. Turn back immediately if visibility drops or if conditions begin to become hazardous.

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Time needed

A complete traverse of the range or a direct ascent to the highest peaks demands a grueling six to eight hours of hard work. Absolutely plan for a full, long day dedicated to this very strenuous physical activity.

Geography

Coordinates

51.99600, -9.73300

Facts

Carrauntoohil is the highest mountain in Ireland at 1038 metres.
Beenkeragh is the second-highest peak at 1010 metres.
The range contains a total of eleven peaks over 3000 feet.
A metal cross was first erected on Carrauntoohil in 1976.
The mountain range was formed approximately 300 million years ago.
The Gap of Dunloe separates the Reeks from the Purple Mountains.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Carrauntoohil1 km · NWExplore →

Gap of Dunloe7 km · EExplore →

Mangerton9 km · EExplore →

Ring of Kerry12 km · SWExplore →

Ross Castle15 km · EExplore →

Templenoe15 km · SExplore →

Killarney Oak Forests15 km · EExplore →

Glenbeigh16 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town MacGillycuddy's Reeks (3)

Maolán Buí📍 landmark

A peak in the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range in Ireland.

Cnoc an Chuillinn📍 landmark

A peak in the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, part of Ireland's highest mountain range.

The Big Gun📍 landmark

A steep mountain peak in the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks in southwest Ireland.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What are the MacGillycuddy's Reeks?

It is Ireland's highest mountain range, located in County Kerry on the Iveragh Peninsula.

Which is the highest peak?

Carrauntoohil is the highest point of the range and all of Ireland, standing at 1,038 meters.

How difficult is the hiking?

Climbing Carrauntoohil via the 'Devil's Ladder' is challenging and requires good gear and experience.

Where is the best place to start the hike?

Cronin's Yard is the most popular starting point for hikes to the summit of Carrauntoohil.

Are there guided tours available?

Yes, due to unpredictable weather and tough terrain, guided tours are highly recommended.

MacGillycuddy's Reeks: where is it located?

MacGillycuddy's Reeks is located in Ireland.

MacGillycuddy's Reeks: what is there to see?

Highlights include Maolán Buí, Cnoc an Chuillinn, The Big Gun.

MacGillycuddy's Reeks: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

MacGillycuddy's Reeks: why is it worth visiting?

MacGillycuddy's Reeks is the highest mountain range in Ireland, situated on the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry.

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