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Slieve Mish
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Mountain
Slieve Mish is an impressive mountain range on the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, rising steeply from the surrounding coastal plain. The range extends for approximately 19 kilometers and is primarily composed of Old Red Sandstone from the Devonian period. The highest peak is Baurtregaum at 851 meters, a mountain often shrouded in mist that provides a dramatic backdrop to the landscape. The northern slopes are characterized by deep glacial corries, carved into the hard rock during the last Ice Age. Archaeologically, the region is of great significance, particularly due to the Caherconree stone fort situated on a high rocky spur. The mountains offer spectacular views of Tralee Bay to the north and Castlemaine Harbour to the south. Hikers value the Slieve Mish Mountains for their rugged beauty and the challenge presented by their steep ridges. These peaks are a key feature of Kerry's mountainous terrain.
- Location: Ireland
- Top sights: Killeen Old Burial Ground · Lisnahown · Lissymaddigan
- Nearby: Fenit (13 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
Getting there
The broader Slieve Mish range is accessible from multiple points along the main roads traversing the Dingle Peninsula. Hikers frequently start their treks from points near Camp village or along the scenic short cuts across the hills.
Best season
May through September generally provides the best balance of daylight and drier conditions for sustained ridge walking. Winter transforms the range into a serious undertaking with high winds, heavy rain, and challenging low-light conditions.
Terrain & paths
The central backbone of the range consists of a sweeping, elevated ridge combining rocky outcrops with large expanses of bog grass. Completing a full traverse requires excellent stamina and comfort with long distances on uneven ground.
What to bring
Stiff-soled hiking boots are critical to handle the rocky terrain and protect against the continuous moisture of the bogs. Due to the rapid weather shifts from the Atlantic, carrying full storm gear is always recommended.
Parking
Walkers usually use informal lay-bys, widening points on mountain pass roads, or designated spots in nearby settlements. It is crucial to respect the local community by never blocking access to fields or rural properties.
Safety
Thorough navigation skills are essential, as the expansive plateau can become utterly featureless and confusing in low cloud. Additionally, be prepared to navigate carefully around livestock grazing freely on the open hills.
Time needed
A hike to a single prominent peak usually occupies three to four hours for a reasonably fit walker. However, tackling the entire Slieve Mish ridge is a major commitment requiring a full day of arduous trekking.
Geography
Facts
- Baurtregaum is the highest point of the Slieve Mish Mountains at 851 meters.
- The mountain range is composed almost entirely of Devonian sandstone.
- Caherconree is one of the highest stone forts in Ireland.
- The mountains were formed during the Variscan orogeny 300 million years ago.
- Glacial erosion created deep, amphitheater-like corries on the northern side.
- The range acts as a drainage divide between Tralee Bay and Castlemaine Harbour.
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.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Slieve Mish (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Slieve Mish range located?
It is located at the eastern end of the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry.
Which is the most famous peak?
Baurtregaum is the highest point at 851m, but Caherconree is more historically significant.
What is the Caherconree fort?
An ancient stone promontory fort on a high rocky outcrop with wide sea views.
What is the view like from the summit?
You can see Tralee Bay, the MacGillycuddy's Reeks, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Is hiking safe there?
Due to sudden fog and steep cliffs, caution and a good map are necessary.
Slieve Mish: where is it located?
Slieve Mish is located in Ireland.
Slieve Mish: what is there to see?
Highlights include Killeen Old Burial Ground, Lisnahown, Lissymaddigan.
Slieve Mish: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Slieve Mish: why is it worth visiting?
Slieve Mish is an impressive mountain range on the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, rising steeply from the surrounding coastal plain.
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