Brandon is the second highest mountain in Ireland, rising to 925Mtrs/2775Ft, which is situated on the northern edge of the Dingle Peninsula, considered by many walkers as one of the finest mountain in Ireland. The mountain is made up of a fantastic arrangement of corrie lakes, spectacular cliff faces,
a glaciated landscape of rocky slabs and outstanding wild scenery.
According to legend St. Brendan the navigator lived on or near the summit, so the mountain is most probably named after him. The remains of a ruined sixth century cell near the summit suggest that this may be a true legend.
Day 1 Dublin to Cloghane
Depart Dublin at 12 noon for Cloghane; driving time is approximately 4hrs depending on traffic weather etc.
Cloghane is located on the northern tip of the Dingle Peninsula overlook beautiful Brandon Bay.
This is a Gaeltacht region, where the Irish language is spoken by almost everyone, rich in music and dance.
Cloghane has received a Beatha Environmental Quality Award which shows that this area has an excellent environment and that is being managed in a sustainable way.
Day 2 Brandon Mountain
Our walk takes us direct from our accommodation, taking us along a narrow country road to reach Faha Grotto. From here amazing views of Brandon Bay and surrounding countryside start to open up before you. This is also a spot to sit and rest a while to absorb the tranquil atmosphere that surrounds the grotto.
Our route continues along the flank of the mountain slopes to reach large glaciated valley. A valley that is made up of towering cliffs, giant slabs of rocks and boulders. The valley floor consists of a series of small punchbowl corrie lakes, one flowing gently into the next.
A short scramble takes us out onto the Col on the side of Brandon, followed by a short easy walk to the summit.
If the day is clear, our rewards of magnificent views in all directions from the highest point on the Dingle Peninsula will ease away any suffering that you may have from the climb upJ
Our descent takes us along by Piaras Mór to join the Dingle Way, that takes us right to connect with an old bog road and down to Teer, where we will be picked up and taken back to our accommodation.
Distance: 17 km/10.6 miles, Ascent: 595 m/1789 ft
Day 3 The Dingle Way & Brandon Bay
After a hearty breakfast we will pack our belongings and get ready for home.
But before we leave we will do a relaxing and therapeutic walk along part of Ireland’s longest beach, “Brandon Bay” which starts in Cloghane and runs unbroken through Fermoyle, Castlegregory, and down the Maharees peninsula.
Distance: 10 km/6 miles, Ascent: little to none
If
you would like more information or a detailed itinerary, please e-mail us at: info@walkinghikingireland.com