Blackstairs Mountain

Residing in the Blackstairs Mountains range in the south east of Ireland, Blackstairs Mountain itself is the group’s second-highest. The range runs north-south and its ridge is the border of Counties Carlow and Wexford. Rich in wildflowers during the summer months, this region is particularly lovely to explore, and the mountain provides no real technical challenges. 

With a summit at 2,411 feet (735 m), the mountain offers fantastic views up and down the range, as well as over the patchwork countryside below. It’s a wonderful adventure for keen explorers and has a range of nearby starting points for a direct ascent. 

Enjoy far-reaching panoramas from within the Blackstairs Mountains

You can easily begin your adventure from a variety of places. There’s parking to the north, just off the R702 at Scullogue Gap, and the trail begins closeby on a lane called Rathgeran. You can also start to the south east of the mountain, near Rathnure. However you ascend, you’ll likely come across some wet ground so sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential. The terrain is rough but the path is easy to follow if approaching from the north. 

When you reach the summit, you won’t be disappointed if the skies are clear. There’s a cairn at the top and 360-degree views to the surrounding landscapes. To the north, Knockroe Hill and the range’s highest, Mount Leinster, are clearly seen. To the south, the range peters out to lower ground. To the east and west, Ireland’s glorious green fields form a blanket of low pastures.