Overview
Lugnaquilla (Irish: Log na Coille – “hollow of the wood”) dominates the centre of the Wicklow Mountains at 925 m (3 035 ft), making it the highest point in County Wicklow, the highest Irish summit outside Kerry and the fourth‑highest peak in the MountainViews database. The summit is a broad, grassy plateau known locally as Percy’s Table, named after 18th‑century landowner Colonel Percy. From this wind‑swept table the eye sweeps over the Wicklow valleys, the Irish Sea, the Great Sugarloaf, the Llŷn Peninsula and, on exceptionally clear days, Snowdon in Wales.
The mountain is a classic P600 and Furth – a peak that would be a Munro if it were in Scotland – and its geology is a striking mix of dark‑grey schist crags and lighter granite core, the remnants of an ancient magma chamber that survived the last ice age as a nunatak.
History / Background
The name Lugnaquilla has long sparked debate. 19th‑century scholar P.W. Joyce recorded the form Log na Coilleach (“hollow of the grouse cocks”), while modern toponymist Paul Tempan favours Log na Coille and dismisses any link to the Celtic god Lugh. The flat summit plateau’s historic moniker, Percy’s Table, echoes other Irish table‑topped summits such as Dawson’s Table on Galtymore.
The surrounding glens are steeped in history. In 1580 the valley of Glenmalure – the eastern flank of Lugnaquilla – witnessed an Irish victory over a 3 000‑strong English army led by Arthur Grey. After the 1798 Rebellion, rebel leader Michael Dwyer used the remote terrain as a hide‑out, earning the area the nickname “the last place God made”. Local folklore also ties the mountain to the hero Fionn Mac Cumhaill, who is said to have hurled the famous Mottee Stone in Avoca from Lugnaquilla’s heights.
What to See & Do
- Percy’s Table (Summit Plateau) – dotted with a cairn and triangulation pillar, it offers uninterrupted 360° sightlines to Dublin, the Blessington Lakes, the River Slaney valley and, on rare days, Snowdonia.
- North Prison – a steep glacial cwm opening onto the Glen of Imaal, favoured by winter climbers for reliable snow and ice.
- South Prison – the opposite bowl facing the River Ow valley, with sheer walls that showcase the mountain’s ice‑carved drama.
- Fraughan Rock Glen – a hanging valley on the eastern side, entered via the Baravore car park or the Glenmalure Loop. Its U‑shaped profile and towering cliffs make it one of the most photographed sections of the hike.
- Arts Lough – a tranquil corrie lake perched at 511 m on the Glenmalure circuit, perfect for a brief rest and a photo stop.
- Flora & Fauna – keep an eye out for purple saxifrage, moss campion, heather and gorse on the higher slopes. Peregrine falcons, ravens, mountain hares and wild goats are regular inhabitants of the moorland.
- Camaderry – the neighbouring peak of Camaderry, reachable via a short ridge walk from the Glenmalure Loop, offers an alternative summit experience and excellent views of the surrounding valleys. See the dedicated guide to Camaderry.
Nearby Peaks
Lugnaquilla forms the centerpiece of a cluster of Wicklow summits that can be combined for a full‑day mountain adventure. In addition to Camaderry, hikers often link the route to Camenabologue and Glendalough’s highest points for a varied ridge‑walking experience. These adjoining peaks share the same schist‑granite geology and provide additional opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography.
Practical Information
Lugnaquilla is a free‑access mountain; there is no admission fee and no formal opening hours. Public transport does not serve the trailheads directly, so a car is the most convenient way to reach the routes.
Main Access Points & Parking
| Trailhead | Parking location | Approx. distance from Dublin (by car) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glen of Imaal (Fenton’s Pub) | Small car park behind Fenton’s Pub | ~70 min via M50 & R755 | Closest to the “Tourist Route”; crosses a live‑fire artillery range – check firing times before you go. |
| Baravore (Glenmalure) | Baravore car park, Glenmalure Loop | ~80 min via M50 & R115 | Gives direct access to Fraughan Rock Glen and the South Prison corrie. |
| Glenmalure (Glenmalure Loop) | Small lay‑by near the Glenmalure Visitor Centre | ~85 min via M50 & R115 | Popular starting point for the full circuit that includes Arts Lough and both Prison corries. |
Recommended Routes
- Glenmalure Loop – a classic 12 km ridge walk that climbs via the South Prison, passes Arts Lough and reaches Percy’s Table.
- Glen of Imaal Approach – a steeper 10 km ascent from the north, tackling the North Prison and offering spectacular winter climbing.
Essentials
- Weather in the Wicklow Mountains changes rapidly; bring waterproof layers, a map and compass, and check the Irish Meteorological Service forecast.
- The summit is exposed; strong winds are common even in summer.
- Respect the fragile alpine flora and keep to established paths to protect the environment.
Enjoy the climb, and let Lugnaquilla’s sweeping panoramas and rich heritage inspire your next Irish adventure.