Overview
Mullacor (Irish: Mullaigh Mhór, “big hilltop”) rises to 657 m (2,156 ft) in the southern sector of the Wicklow Mountains. Classified as a Hewitt, Arderin, and Vandeleur-Lynam, it sits on a broad, sweeping ridge that overlooks the Upper Lake of Glendalough. The mountain is a favourite among local hill-walkers and peak-baggers, offering a mix of steep forested ascents, open heath, and a distinctive summit plateau.
History & Landscape Context
While it lacks the monastic ruins of nearby Glendalough, Mullacor’s landscape is steeped in older stories. The underlying quartzite bedrock was heavily sculpted by the last Ice Age, leaving behind a rugged spine of ridges and glacial erratics. In August 1837, antiquarian George Petrie surveyed the area during a field trip, identifying the broader Moytura Ridge as the likely setting for the mythic Second Battle of Moytura. He specifically noted the concentration of massive boulders and stone monuments across the slopes, features that still shape the terrain today. With a topographic prominence of 102 m (334 ft), Mullacor ranks 90th on the MountainViews “100 Highest Irish Mountains” list and 34th by height within County Wicklow. The summit cairn has long acted as a reliable navigation point for trekkers following the Wicklow Way and its network of ridge routes.
Walking Routes & Terrain
Mullacor can be approached via several well-trodden paths, each suited to different fitness levels and timeframes. The terrain varies from root-covered woodland tracks to open, wind-swept heath, so conditions change quickly depending on the season.
Popular Circuits
- Mullacor, Lugduff & the Spinc: A 9.53 mi (15.3 km) loop taking roughly 5 hours 40 minutes. This classic Wicklow challenge links three peaks and crosses the exposed Spinc ridge. It requires good fitness, sure-footedness, and comfort with steep, rocky scrambles.
- Mullacor Loop near Glenmalure: A shorter 6.32 mi (10.2 km) route, typically completed in 3 hours 25 minutes. The ascent is gentler, threading through forested slopes and open moorland before reaching the summit.
- Mullacor Mountain Loop from Glendalough: A 23 km (14.3 mi) out-and-back or loop starting in the village. It climbs the wooded slopes of Derrybawn Mountain and finishes on Mullacor, delivering lake views without the technical exposure of the longer ridge circuits.
What to Expect on the Ground The final approach to the summit cairn crosses a wet, mossy plateau. After rain, the ground turns soft and boggy, making sturdy boots with reliable grip essential. Visibility can drop quickly in summer fog or winter ice, so carrying a map, compass, or GPS is strongly recommended. The mountain is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs due to steep gradients and uneven, waterlogged terrain.
Practical Information
Mullacor lies within the Wicklow Mountains National Park, which is open year-round with free public access. There are no entry fees, ticketing, or on-mountain facilities.
Getting There & Parking Most walkers start from the Glendalough village car park, which has ample space and serves as the launch point for the routes above. The car park is reached via the R755 from the N11. During peak summer weekends, spaces fill by mid-morning, so arriving before 10 am is advisable.
Public Transport Bus Éireann route 133 runs from Dublin to Glendalough during the summer months. Timetables vary seasonally, so check the latest schedule before planning a day trip.
Dogs & Wildlife Dogs are welcome on all trails. Keep them on a lead near steep drop-offs and in sections where livestock or ground-nesting birds may be present. The area is also home to red deer, so stay on marked paths and avoid disturbing vegetation.
Best Time to Visit Recorded ascents peak in June, with strong activity in February and April. Summer months offer longer daylight and drier paths, while winter visits demand full mountain gear and experience in navigating snow or ice.
For detailed navigation, walkers often reference the Komoot Mullacor page or the Peakery Mullacor entry.
Nearby Highlights
If your legs have something left after the summit, the surrounding valley holds plenty of detours worth making. A short walk from the trailheads leads to the Upper Lake of Glendalough, where the water often mirrors the surrounding peaks in the early morning. The monastic site below features well-preserved round towers and early medieval ruins that predate the Viking era. For a change of pace, Avondale Forest Park offers gentle woodland trails and Avondale House, the birthplace of Charles Stewart Parnell, just a short drive from the main car parks.
Check the Met Éireann forecast before heading out, and remember that mountain conditions in Wicklow can shift rapidly regardless of the season. Packing a waterproof layer, extra snacks, and a fully charged phone will keep your day on Mullacor safe and enjoyable.