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Shehy Mountains

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

Weather…

The Shehy Mountains are an extensive upland range in southwest Ireland, forming a natural boundary between County Cork and County Kerry. The highest point is Knockboy, which reaches an elevation of 706 metres, making it the highest peak in County Cork. Composed mainly of Devonian sandstone, the range is characterized by its vast blanket bogs, which serve as critical carbon sinks and unique ecosystems. These moorlands provide essential habitats for ground-nesting birds such as the hen harrier and the skylark. The area has a wealth of archaeological sites, including prehistoric stone circles and megalithic tombs that point to thousands of years of human activity. The name 'Shehy' is derived from the Irish for 'seat of the fairies', highlighting the region's deep roots in local folklore and mythology. The mountains are also the source of the River Lee, a major waterway that eventually flows through Cork City. Hikers are drawn to the Shehy Mountains for their solitude and the sweeping panoramic views they offer over Bantry Bay and the surrounding countryside. Despite the rugged terrain, the range supports a surprisingly diverse array of alpine and bog-dwelling plants.

Location: Ireland
Top sights: Douce Mountain · Carriganine · Carrigmount
Nearby: Dunmanway (11 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	5	6	8	11	13	15	15	13	11	8	6
Rain mm	117	88	87	78	84	90	96	102	89	120	124	124

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The Shehy Mountains, located along the border of County Cork and County Kerry, are best accessed via local roads winding through the nearby rural valleys. Typical starting points include small villages in the foothills where trailheads or informal paths often begin.

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Best season

The most favorable time for exploring these mountains is during the late spring and summer months when daylight is extended and the weather is generally milder. However, the Irish climate is highly changeable, so wet and windy conditions can occur throughout the year.

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Terrain & paths

Expect rugged and uneven upland terrain with frequent boggy sections, requiring careful navigation over open hillsides. Formal waymarked paths might be limited, meaning visitors should be prepared for cross-country walking through heather and marshy ground.

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What to bring

Sturdy, fully waterproof hiking boots and comprehensive rain gear are absolutely essential when navigating this region. You must also carry reliable navigation tools, such as a physical map and compass, alongside adequate warm clothing layers.

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Parking

Parking options are typically informal, often consisting of small pull-ins or wide spots along narrow country lanes near the base of the mountains. Ensure you park considerately without blocking agricultural gates, narrow access roads, or local traffic.

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Safety

Navigation can become highly challenging during low visibility or sudden mists, which are very common in these higher elevations. Always inform someone of your planned route before setting out and be cautious of hidden holes or deep streams within the boggy landscape.

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Time needed

A typical hike or extensive exploration of the mountain ridges will generally take between four to seven hours, depending entirely on the chosen route and conditions. Shorter walks in the lower valley approaches can typically be completed in around two to three hours.

Geography

Coordinates

51.78330, -9.23330

Facts

Highest peak: Knockboy (706 m)
Source of the River Lee
Name means 'seat of the fairies' in Irish
Extensive deposits of ecologically vital blanket bog
Crucial habitat for the rare hen harrier
Numerous prehistoric stone circles in the vicinity

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Dunmanway11 km · SEExplore →

Bantry19 km · SWExplore →

Glengarriff Woods22 km · WExplore →

Macroom23 km · NEExplore →

Glandore25 km · SExplore →

Unionhall26 km · SExplore →

Kenmare26 km · NWExplore →

Rosscarbery27 km · SEExplore →

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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Overnight stops

Vehicle

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

Sights in the town Shehy Mountains (3)

Douce Mountain📍 landmark

A mountain in the Shehy Mountains.

Carriganine📍 landmark

A peak in the Shehy Mountains on the border of Cork and Kerry.

Carrigmount📍 landmark

A prominent mountain peak within the Shehy Mountains in Ireland.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the highest point of the Shehy Mountains?

Knockboy is the highest peak of the Shehy Mountains and County Cork at 706 meters.

Is Gougane Barra located in this region?

Yes, the famous lakeside monastery and forest park lie on the edge of the Shehy Mountains.

Is hiking there dangerous?

Weather changes and fog are frequent; hikers should have good maps and GPS.

Are there waterfalls?

After rain, many small waterfalls appear on the steep slopes, especially near Gougane Barra.

Can wildlife be spotted?

Yes, deer and various birds of prey, such as peregrine falcons, can be found in the quieter areas.

Shehy Mountains: where is it located?

Shehy Mountains is located in Ireland.

Shehy Mountains: what is there to see?

Highlights include Douce Mountain, Carriganine, Carrigmount.

Shehy Mountains: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Shehy Mountains: why is it worth visiting?

The Shehy Mountains are an extensive upland range in southwest Ireland, forming a natural boundary between County Cork and County Kerry.

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