Highlight • Summit
Croaghaun
Hiking
5.0
(12)
Croaghaun mountain itself has two distinct summits, one to the southwest and its principal top. The southwestern summit is an impressive pyramid when viewed from Achil Head and is a beguiling objective. Care must be taken when crossing the saddle between the two peaks, a slip on the slabs of sloping rock could have serious consequences. The views across Achil Island, particularly of Slievemore, and out across the Atlantic are incredible.
Astonishing views from a mountain that’s home to Europe’s third highest sea cliffs
Routes along the cliffs and to the summit usually begin from Keem Bay’s beautiful Blue Flag beach. There are parking and toilet facilities here, but little by way of accommodation options. The nearby village of Keel is your best bet for lodgings. Another possible approach begins from the dramatic Lough Acorrymore and ascends the mountain via its broad southeastern ridge.
Staggering viewpoint after staggering viewpoint reveal themselves along the cliff paths while bottlenose dolphins, porpoises and basking sharks can often be seen offshore. If you’re really lucky, you might even spot humpback or killer whales. There are a number of paths that take you up from the cliffs towards the towering summits.
Its great height and obvious exposure to winds coming in off the Atlantic mean that Croaghaun can experience challenging conditions, so make sure you dress appropriately.
Tips
March 25, 2021
Hiking
September 14, 2025
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Croaghaun
4.1
(13)
72
hikers
11.0km
04:39
900m
900m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.0
(3)
20
hikers
10.8km
03:17
620m
620m
This difficult 6.7-mile (10.8 km) loop on Croaghaun Mountain offers challenging terrain and Ireland's highest sea cliffs.
8
hikers
16.5km
05:34
880m
880m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 720 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
no
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Saturday 9 May
13°C
7°C
11 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 30.0 km/h
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