Overview
Mullacor (Irish: Mullaigh Mhór, meaning “big hilltop”) stands at 657 m (2,156 ft) and is listed among Ireland’s notable Hewitts, Arderins and Vandeleur‑Lynams. Situated in the southern sector of the Wicklow Mountains, it crowns a sweeping horseshoe that embraces the Upper Lake of the historic Glendalough valley. From its summit cairn you can spot the hydro‑electric Turlough Hill, the neighbouring peaks of Lugduff and Conavalla, and the glacially‑carved valleys of Glenmalure and Glendalough.
History & Landscape Context
While Mullacor does not carry the monastic legacy of nearby Glendalough, its geology tells a story of ancient quartzite ridges sculpted by the last Ice Age. Local folklore links the ridge to the mythic Second Battle of Moytura, a tale recorded by George Petrie in 1837, who noted the concentration of massive glacial erratics on the surrounding slopes. The mountain’s prominence of 102 m (334 ft) places it 90th on the MountainViews “100 Highest Irish Mountains” list, and it ranks 34th by height within County Wicklow. The summit’s cairn, a modest stone pile, has long served as a waypoint for hill‑walkers navigating the Wicklow Way and the broader network of ridge‑top routes.
What to See & Do
Summit Views
At the top, the cairn offers a 360° panorama: to the east, the glimmering Upper Lake of Glendalough; to the south, the rolling silhouette of Lugduff; and to the north, the distinctive dome of Turlough Hill’s pumped‑storage facility. The view is especially striking in the early morning light when the lake mirrors the surrounding peaks.
Popular Routes
| Route | Distance | Approx. Time | Ascent | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mullacor, Lugduff & the Spinc (Wicklow Mtn NP) | 9.53 mi (15.3 km) | 5 h 42 min | 2,075 ft (633 m) | Hard |
| Mullacor Loop near Glenmalure (Wicklow Mtn NP) | 6.32 mi (10.2 km) | 3 h 26 min | 1,375 ft (419 m) | Moderate |
| Mullacor Mountain Loop from Glendalough (ActiveME) | 23 km (14.3 mi) | 4.5 h (estimated) | 629 m total climb | Moderate |
The Mullacor, Lugduff & the Spinc circuit is a classic Wicklow challenge, linking three peaks and the iconic Spinc ridge. It demands good fitness and sure‑footedness, with sections of steep, rocky scramble. The Mullacor Loop near Glenmalure offers a gentler ascent, threading through forested slopes and open heath before reaching the summit. The ActiveME loop starts in Glendalough village, climbs the wooded slopes of Derrybawn Mountain, and finishes on Mullacor, delivering lake‑side vistas without the technical exposure of the longer circuits.
Terrain Notes
Hikers report that the summit area can be wet and swampy, especially after rain, with a soft, moss‑laden ground underfoot. The final approach to the cairn may feel boggy, so sturdy boots with good grip are advisable.
Practical Information
Mullacor is part of the Wicklow Mountains National Park, which is open year‑round and free to access. There are no formal opening hours, admission fees, or visitor centres on the mountain itself. Parking is available in the Glendalough village car park, which serves as a common launch point for the routes described above. The peak is not wheelchair‑accessible due to steep, uneven terrain and the wet summit plateau.
Access: The Glendalough car park is reachable by car via the R755 from the N11. Regular Bus Éireann services (route 133) run from Dublin to Glendalough during the summer months; check the latest timetable for year‑round service.
Dog‑friendly: Dogs are permitted on the trails, but owners should keep them on a lead in the more exposed sections and be mindful of wildlife.
Coordinates: 52.985357, -6.373837
Elevation: 657 m (2,156 ft)
Prominence: 102 m (334 ft)
Listings: Hewitt, Arderin, Vandeleur‑Lynam, Irish Mountain 100
Best climbing months: June (25 % of recorded ascents), with notable activity in February and April.
For detailed route maps and navigation, consult the Komoot Mullacor page or the Peakery Mullacor entry. The Wicklow Way passes nearby, offering additional options for multi‑day trekking.
Nearby Highlights
While you’re in the area, consider a short detour to the Upper Lake of Glendalough, the historic monastic ruins, or the viewpoint on Lugduff’s south‑east top for complementary perspectives of the valley below. A visit to Avondale Forest Park provides a pleasant woodland walk and the chance to explore Avondale House, the birthplace of Charles Stewart Parnell, all within a short drive from the trailheads.
Prepared for adventure‑seeking visitors looking to experience the rugged beauty of Ireland’s central mountain range.