Climb Mount Brandon
Climb Brandon with Morrison Tours
Majestic Mount Brandon – a Hiker’s Haven on the Dingle Peninsula, dominating the landscape of the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, Mount Brandon stands as Ireland’s second-highest peak outside the MacGillycuddy Reeks. Reaching a proud 952 meters (3,123 feet), this majestic mountain offers more than just a challenging climb; it provides an unforgettable experience for hikers of all levels, rewarding their efforts with breathtaking panoramic views. A popular destination for hikers, Mount Brandon features several routes, each providing a unique experience.
Key Highlights
- Location: Part of the Slieve Mish Mountains, on the western side of the Dingle Peninsula.
- Summit Views: Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Dingle Bay, the Blasket Islands, the Ring of Kerry, and surrounding mountain ranges.
- Difficulty: Routes range from easier walks to more challenging scrambles, accommodating hikers of varying abilities.
Hiking route options
The Saint's Road
- Starting Point: Car park in Baile Breac, on the western side of Mount Brandon.
- Distance: 7km (4.3 miles) out and back.
- Time: 4-5 hours.
- Ascent: 770m.
- Route Description: The Saints Road is the most popular route to the summit. This 7km out-and-back trail, while mostly grassy with some boggy slopes, includes steep sections and uneven terrain.
- Scenic Highlights: The views along the trail and from the summit are well worth the effort, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside and coastline.
The Pilgrims Path
- Starting Point: The Faha Grotto, located 2.5km from Cloghane village on the eastern side of Mount Brandon.
- Distance: 10km (6 miles) round trip.
- Time: 6-7 hours
- Ascent: 980m
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging. While not as steep as the Southern Route, this path presents some rougher terrain, particularly on the upper slopes.
- Route Description: This alternative ascent of Mount Brandon begins along Faha Ridge, traversing lush valleys and pasturelands before climbing the mountain’s eastern slopes. It offers a quieter, less-trafficked experience compared to the more popular Northern Approach.
- Scenic Highlights: The ascent offers picturesque views of Faha Ridge and the surrounding valleys. As you climb, the landscape opens up, revealing stunning panoramic scenes of Dingle Bay and the vast Atlantic Ocean. The summit provides some of the most breathtaking views on Mount Brandon, including the beautiful Paternoster Lakes (a series of glacial lakes named after the Lord’s Prayer).
The Faha Ridge
- Starting Point: The Faha Grotto, 2.5km from Cloghane village on the eastern side of Mount Brandon.
- Distance: 8km
- Time: 6-7 hours
- Ascent: 900m
- Difficulty: Strenuous, with some sections of Grade 2 scrambling. This route is not recommended for inexperienced hikers or those with a fear of heights.
- Terrain: Varied, including grassy paths, rocky ridges, and exposed sections.
- Views: Panoramic views of the Dingle Peninsula, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding mountains.
Important Considerations
- Experience: This is a strenuous hike with challenging sections. Prior hiking experience and a good level of fitness are essential before attempting the Faha Ridge Route.
- Alternative Descent: Some hikers opt for a different descent route, such as the Pilgrim’s Path, to create a loop. If choosing this option, thorough research of the descent route is crucial.
