Galtymore

Galtymore is the highest peak in the Galtee Mountains at 919 metres, offering expansive views across Tipperary, Limerick and Cork. There are many routes to take up Galtymore usually taking around 4–6 hours depending on conditions and route. It is a strenuous hike with steep, rocky sections and exposed weather, so good navigation, sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing are essential.

  • Parking:
    Kings Yard: Car Park
    (€3 parking charge)

    Start of Hike:
    Google Maps: Start Link

  • Galtymore via King’s Yard
    Distance: 9.5km
    Difficulty: Hard
    Trail: Stone Trail, fields, boggy sections

  • Anytime during the day but if you are an experienced hiker I would suggest climbing early to get to the top for sunrise.

    • From the car park at King's Yard, head towards the mountain and follow the farm/forestry track uphill.

      You'll initially be on a relatively easy track, with the Galtees rising ahead of you.

      Continue towards the sheep pen.This first section is relatively gentle and is useful for warming up before the more serious climbing begins.

    • At/after the sheep pen, look for the route marked by white stones. These are used to indicate the route towards Galtymore.

      The terrain becomes considerably more open here.

      You'll gradually climb towards Knocknagalty, with the gradient becoming increasingly noticeable.

      There isn't a continuous, well-defined mountain path, so GPS navigation and a physical map are strongly recommended.

    • Continue climbing towards the higher ground of the Galtees.

      This is where you'll start to get excellent views back towards Kilbehenny and the Golden Vale.

      The ground becomes rougher and can be wet and boggy, particularly after rainfall.

      You are now properly into open mountain terrain, so don't expect a marked trail.

    • From the ridge, continue towards Galtymore.

      The summit should become increasingly obvious as you approach the higher ground.

      The final climb is the toughest section. The gradient increases significantly and you'll encounter rocky/rough ground.

      Take your time here—the summit is at 919 m.

    • At the summit you'll find the famous white Celtic cross, along with the summit cairn/trig point.

      On a clear day you can see across the Golden Vale, Glen of Aherlow, the Galtee range and towards Carrauntoohil.

      I'd allow 20–30 minutes here if the weather is good—it's a fantastic spot for photography.

    • To get back to Kings Yard just reverse the route up

    • The famous white Celtic Cross at the top of Galtymore

    • Views of Lough Curra, Lough Diheen