Croagh Patrick

In short: Croagh Patrick: from Murrisk to Summit of Croagh Patrick (764 m). Length: around 7 km there and back, duration: 3 to 4 hours. Best time: May to September, Reek Sunday in July.

Overview

St Patrick is said to have fasted for 40 days on this mountain in the west of Ireland. Since then the 764-metre Croagh Patrick, called The Reek by locals, has been a pilgrim mountain. On the last Sunday in July, Reek Sunday, thousands climb it, some of them barefoot according to tradition.

The path starts in Murrisk and is much more strenuous than its short length suggests. The upper part consists of loose scree, which gets slippery on the way down. Wear sturdy shoes and take poles.

At the top there is a small chapel, and in clear weather you can see across the islands of Clew Bay. The weather changes quickly here.

The climb from Murrisk

The path starts at the car park in Murrisk on Clew Bay. The first part is easy going, then comes a broad saddle. The last climb to the summit with its small chapel crosses loose scree. Allow three to four hours for the walk up and back.

On clear days you can see the many small islands of the bay from the top, but the summit is often in cloud.

Gear for the Reek

Take sturdy shoes and a rain jacket. Poles help above all on the way down, as the scree slides. Westport is close by and makes a good base.

Who is this route for?

With some hiking experience this route is very manageable. Expect climbs and keep your days from getting too long.

You can find more routes under Pilgrimage routes in Europe, Pilgrimage in Ireland, sorted by religion under Christian pilgrimage routes.