Great Hikes

Mount Brandon

Ireland’s Highest Coastal Summit on the Wild Dingle Peninsula.

Distance

8 mi / 13 km

Elevation Gain

1,511 ft / 461 m

Best time to hike

Spring/ Summer

Difficulty

Level 3

Towering above Ireland’s dramatic Dingle Peninsula, Mount Brandon rises 3,123 ft (952 m) over the Atlantic Ocean. This is not just a hike around Mount Brandon, it’s a walk into Ireland’s wild edge. Grassy farmland gives way to steep stone paths, windswept ridgelines, and expansive ocean views that stretch toward the Blasket Islands.

Route Overview

Mount Brandon is part of the famed 111-mile (179 km) Dingle Way, a circular long-distance route that blends Atlantic coastline, sandy beaches, farmland, and remote mountain passes.

The ascent begins on rolling grassy slopes above quiet farmland before turning steep and rugged. The terrain becomes rocky and uneven, with bog underfoot and loose scree near the summit. The final stretch climbs steadily across exposed stone before reaching the summit cross — a reward earned step by step.

On a clear day, the summit reveals one of the most spectacular coastal panoramas in all of Ireland. On a misty day, it feels moody, raw, and unmistakably Irish. Either way, it’s unforgettable.

Interactive Map and Elevation Profile

Explore this trail on a Hiking & Walking Tour

If you’re inspired to experience this trail with expert support, curated hotels, and seamless logistics, explore the full Trek Travel itinerary.

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Hike Highlights

  • Hike a section of the Dingle Way, up the slopes of Mount Brandon.
  • Atlantic views in every direction.
  • Walk part of one of Ireland’s most celebrated long-distance hiking routes.
  • Bog, rock, wind, and open sky create a raw and authentic Irish mountain experience.
  • The summit cross marks a moment that feels both remote and deeply connected to Ireland’s history and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

This is a Level 3 hike. The distance is moderate at 8 miles (13 km), but the terrain is steep, uneven, and exposed in sections. Good fitness and steady footing are important. Learn more about hiking activity levels.

The ideal hiking window is May through September, when daylight is longer and trail conditions are generally more stable. However, Irish weather is famously unpredictable year-round.

The ideal hiking window is May through September, when daylight is longer and trail conditions are generally more stable. However, Irish weather is famously unpredictable year-round. See Trek Travel’s departure dates for this guided tour. 

Weather changes rapidly on the Dingle Peninsula. Even in summer, expect strong winds, fast-moving cloud cover, and cool temperatures at elevation. Visibility can shift quickly, and hikers should be prepared for variable conditions.

There are no refill points or cafes along the route, so you must carry water and snacks. After the hike, head to the village of Brandon or Dingle for a well-earned plate of fish and chips and a pint of Guiness.

More Great Hikes

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Hotel Differences

Trek Travel offers three hotel levels to match your style. Luxury hotels provide elegant, thoughtful touches with exceptional hospitality. Explorer hotels blend modern amenities with local charm in unique settings. Comfort hotels are casual and conveniently located near Trek Travel activities.

Activity Levels

Learn about activity levels here

Level 1:

Road: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Level 2:

Road: 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).

Level 3:

Road: 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Level 4:

Road: 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel: 4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

What are your trip styles?

Classic Bike:

Explore beautiful destinations with a curated blend of guided activities, local cuisine, handpicked accommodations, and itineraries to suit every traveler, from laid-back adventures to luxurious escapes.

Gravel:

Venture off the beaten path to unforgettable places, with fully-supported routes that combine gravel and paved roads in classic Trek Travel style.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Pro Race:

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Hiking & Walking:

Step into adventure with carefully designed routes, unparalleled hospitality, and deep-routed local connections.

Ride Camp:

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

Self-Guided:

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

Single Occupancy

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself

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