About
Macgillycuddy's Reeks is a mountain range in County Kerry, in the south-west of Ireland. It is the highest range on the island, and its summits give the Kerry landscape much of its dramatic character. The highest point is Carrauntoohil, Ireland's tallest mountain at 1,038 metres.
What a visit offers
For walkers and climbers, the Reeks are the country's most demanding mountain country. The routes cross ancient sandstone peaks, with knife-edge ridges and glacial lakes tucked among the crags. Expect steep, exposed ground, and treat the hills with respect: this is a place for proper footwear, warm layers, and a careful check of the weather before setting out.
Even those who never leave the road will find the range rewarding. The mountains rise above the Ring of Kerry, and the views from the surrounding area take in the peaks, the valleys and the coast beyond.
Planning your trip
- Who it suits: experienced hillwalkers and climbers, and visitors who enjoy wild, rugged scenery.
- Getting there: the range lies within Kerry, so plan your journey by road and check conditions locally before you travel.
- Nearby: the Ring of Kerry runs close by, making the mountains easy to combine with a wider tour of the county.
Whether you come to climb Carrauntoohil or simply to see the Reeks from the road, the range is one of Ireland's most striking landscapes and well worth making room for on a visit to Kerry.
