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Mount Leinster

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

peak

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Mount Leinster is the highest peak in the Blackstairs Mountains in southeast Ireland, reaching an elevation of 796 meters. It is situated on the border between counties Carlow and Wexford and dominates the local landscape. Geologically, the mountain is composed of granite, formed during the Caledonian orogeny. On its summit sits a prominent television transmitter, which is visible for miles and makes the mountain easily identifiable. A special highlight for visitors is the 'Nine Stones' viewpoint on the northern slopes, from which up to eight counties can be seen on a clear day. The mountain is a haven for outdoor activities, including challenging hikes and paragliding. The flora is characterized by heather and moor grasses, lending a wild beauty to the barren summit region. Historically, the mountain marks an important boundary and is the setting for numerous local legends. Mount Leinster remains a key symbol of the Blackstairs region's natural heritage and a landmark for the entire southeast of the country.

Location: Ireland
Top sights: Rathnageeragh castle · Mount Leinster · Slievebawn
Nearby: Muine Bheag (12 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	5	5	6	8	11	14	15	15	13	11	7	6
Rain mm	92	74	76	68	70	82	88	93	81	112	110	106

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Access to Mount Leinster is typically via local rural roads near the Blackstairs. A physical map is highly recommended as exact starting points for this area vary greatly.

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Best season

The best season to visit is typically from late spring to early autumn, offering longer daylight hours. Winter brings harsh weather and poor visibility.

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Terrain & paths

Expect rough, uneven terrain and open moorland typical for the region. Navigation skills are essential, as clear and marked trails are often non-existent.

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What to bring

Waterproof hiking boots are necessary for the boggy ground. Always pack warm, layered clothing, a reliable map, compass, and sufficient food and water.

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Parking

Parking is generally informal along quiet country roads or small lay-bys. Visitors should ensure they never block local traffic or agricultural entrances.

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Safety

Weather conditions in the mountains can change rapidly. Always check the local forecast before departing and inform someone of your planned hiking route.

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Time needed

A typical visit to explore the higher elevations takes around three to five hours. Always allow extra time for navigating pathless sections safely here.

Geography

Coordinates

52.65000, -6.78330

Facts

Mount Leinster is the highest point in the province of Leinster at 796 meters.
The television transmitter on the summit was commissioned in 1961.
Geologically, the mountain belongs to the Leinster granite batholith.
The 'Nine Stones' point is named after a row of nine small stones by the roadside.
The summit is the fifth-highest county peak in Ireland.
Paragliders frequent the slopes due to the excellent thermal conditions.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Ballymoon Castle6 km · NWExplore →

Muine Bheag12 km · WExplore →

National Reptile Zoo16 km · WExplore →

Graiguenamanagh17 km · SWExplore →

Alphonse Island18 km · NWExplore →

Ferns Castle21 km · EExplore →

Carlow Technology Park22 km · NWExplore →

Jerpoint Abbey29 km · SWExplore →

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 Mount Leinster (6)

Rathnageeragh castle 🏰 castle

The remains of a historic castle fortification near Mount Leinster.

Mount Leinster 📍 landmark

The highest peak in the Blackstairs Mountains on the border of counties Carlow and Wexford.

Slievebawn 📍 landmark

A prominent peak in the Mount Leinster mountain region.

Kilbrannish Hill📍 landmark

A hill in the Mount Leinstar area.

Saint Finian's Church ⛪ religious

A church in the Mount Leinstar area.

Saint Laserian's Church ⛪ religious

Saint Laserian's Church (Killoughternane Church) is a heritage-listed medieval church ruin (Grade 2).

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Mount Leinster located?

On the border between counties Carlow and Wexford in southeastern Ireland.

How high is the mountain?

It is the highest peak in the Blackstairs Mountains at 794 meters.

What is located on the summit?

A prominent television transmitter mast belonging to RTÉ.

Can you drive to the summit?

There is a narrow service road, but it is generally closed to public vehicle traffic.

What sports are popular there?

The mountain is a well-known center for hang-gliding and paragliding.

Mount Leinster: where is it located?

Mount Leinster is located in Ireland.

Mount Leinster: what is there to see?

Highlights include Rathnageeragh castle, Mount Leinster, Slievebawn.

Mount Leinster: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Mount Leinster: why is it worth visiting?

Mount Leinster is the highest peak in the Blackstairs Mountains in southeast Ireland, reaching an elevation of 796 meters.

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