Highlight • Summit
Purple Mountain
Hiking
5.0
(5)
With one foot in the incredible Killarney National Park and one out, Purple Mountain certainly holds court in a dramatic setting. You’ll find this peak in the south west of Ireland, just east of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks range. This is a landscape of wilderness and awe, with jagged peaks, sparkling loughs and narrow ribbon valleys in every direction.
This is a fantastic adventure which has just the right amount of exertion balanced with astounding views. The ascent isn’t straightforward, but it’s also not too complicated, making you work a little for your summit bag.
A stunning mountain ascent in south west Ireland
A popular place to start is at Kate Kearney’s Cottage, and heading south through the phenomenally beautiful Gap of Dunloe before turning north east to begin the ascent proper. The going is strenuous with steep sections but there’s nothing technically challenging so those with good fitness should be quite happy. All around you as you ascend is tufty grass and rock. The mountain gains its name from its composition of old red sandstone, which has a purplish hue.
Heather also coats the mountainside, turning it a true shade of purple in the summer. Ancient oak woodland covers Purple Mountain’s eastern flanks as it flows into the national park, although most people ascend via the west. When you reach the summit, the Gap of Dunloe sprawls before you, but it’s the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks summits that will draw your eye as they puncture the sky.
You can reach the summit of Purple Mountain throughout the year but only experienced winter mountaineers should attempt the climb in winter conditions. Bear in mind that the weather can change quickly, even in summer, and this coastline is extremely exposed. Wear appropriate clothing and be prepared to turn back if the weather becomes untenable.
This is a fantastic adventure which has just the right amount of exertion balanced with astounding views. The ascent isn’t straightforward, but it’s also not too complicated, making you work a little for your summit bag.
A stunning mountain ascent in south west Ireland
A popular place to start is at Kate Kearney’s Cottage, and heading south through the phenomenally beautiful Gap of Dunloe before turning north east to begin the ascent proper. The going is strenuous with steep sections but there’s nothing technically challenging so those with good fitness should be quite happy. All around you as you ascend is tufty grass and rock. The mountain gains its name from its composition of old red sandstone, which has a purplish hue.
Heather also coats the mountainside, turning it a true shade of purple in the summer. Ancient oak woodland covers Purple Mountain’s eastern flanks as it flows into the national park, although most people ascend via the west. When you reach the summit, the Gap of Dunloe sprawls before you, but it’s the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks summits that will draw your eye as they puncture the sky.
You can reach the summit of Purple Mountain throughout the year but only experienced winter mountaineers should attempt the climb in winter conditions. Bear in mind that the weather can change quickly, even in summer, and this coastline is extremely exposed. Wear appropriate clothing and be prepared to turn back if the weather becomes untenable.
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Purple Mountain
5.0
(1)
25
hikers
5.55km
02:36
570m
570m
Hike the moderate 3.5-mile Purple Mountain Trail in Killarney National Park, gaining 1870 feet for views of Glas Lough and the Gap of Dunloe
Moderate
Details
Informations
Elevation 800 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
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Tuesday 9 June
14°C
8°C
62 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h
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