List of mountains and hills of County Mayo facts for kids
County Mayo is a beautiful place in the west of Ireland. It's known for its stunning landscapes, including many amazing mountains and hills. These natural giants offer incredible views and are home to lots of wildlife. Some are famous for their history, while others are popular spots for hiking and exploring. Let's discover some of the most interesting mountains and hills you can find in County Mayo!
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Exploring Mayo's Mountains and Hills
County Mayo has a wide variety of mountains and hills, from tall peaks that challenge climbers to gentle slopes perfect for a family walk. These natural features were shaped over millions of years by ice, wind, and rain. They play a big part in Mayo's unique beauty and its rich history.
Famous Peaks in Mayo
Mayo is home to some of Ireland's most well-known mountains. Each one has its own special story or feature that makes it stand out.
Croagh Patrick: The Holy Mountain
Croagh Patrick is one of the most famous mountains in Ireland. It's often called "The Reek" and stands tall near the town of Westport. Every year, thousands of people climb Croagh Patrick, especially on the last Sunday of July, for a special pilgrimage. This tradition goes back a very long time, even before Christianity came to Ireland. It's a challenging climb, but the views of Clew Bay and the surrounding islands from the top are absolutely amazing!
Mweelrea: Mayo's Highest Mountain
Standing at 814 meters (2,671 feet) tall, Mweelrea is the highest mountain in County Mayo and also in the province of Connacht. It's part of a mountain range that offers incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline. Climbing Mweelrea is a serious adventure, but it rewards hikers with some of the most spectacular scenery in Ireland.
Nephin: The Lonely Giant
Nephin is another very important mountain in Mayo. It stands alone, looking like a giant watching over the landscape. At 806 meters (2,644 feet), it's the second-highest peak in the county. Nephin is known for its distinctive shape and offers fantastic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Nephin Beg mountain range.
Slievemore: Achill Island's Gem
Slievemore is the highest mountain on Achill Island, which is Ireland's largest island. It rises dramatically from the sea, reaching 671 meters (2,201 feet). On its slopes, you can find the remains of an old deserted village, which tells a sad story of people who had to leave their homes long ago. Slievemore is a great place for hiking and exploring the island's wild beauty.
Other Notable Mountain Ranges
Mayo also has several important mountain ranges that add to its diverse landscape.
Nephin Beg Mountains
The Nephin Beg Mountains are a wild and remote range in the northwest of Mayo. This area is very untouched and is part of the Wild Nephin National Park. It's a fantastic place for people who love wilderness and want to experience nature far away from towns and cities. The mountains here are rugged and beautiful, offering a true escape.
Partry Mountains
The Partry Mountains are located in the southern part of County Mayo, near the border with County Galway. This range includes peaks like Maumtrasna and offers lovely views of the lakes and valleys below. They are popular for hillwalking and exploring the quiet countryside.
Ox Mountains (West Section)
A small part of the Ox Mountains extends into County Mayo from County Sligo. These mountains are older and more rounded than some of the younger, sharper peaks in Mayo. They offer a different kind of landscape, with gentle slopes and peaceful valleys.
Smaller Hills and Unique Features
Beyond the major mountains, Mayo is dotted with many smaller hills and interesting landforms.
Clew Bay Drumlins
Clew Bay is famous for its "365 islands," but many of these are actually small, rounded hills called drumlins. These drumlins were formed by glaciers during the last Ice Age, giving the bay its unique lumpy appearance. They are a great example of how ice shaped the land in Ireland.
Island Hills
Islands like Clare Island and Inishturk Island also have their own hills, offering stunning coastal views. These island hills are often rugged and exposed to the Atlantic winds, making them exciting places to explore.
List of Mountains and Hills in County Mayo
Here is a list of many of the mountains and hills found across County Mayo:
- Achill Sound Hill
- Barrclashcame
- Beg Range
- Ben Creggan
- Ben Gorm
- Birreencorragh
- Bohaun
- Bullaunmore
- Carrafull
- Carrawteige
- Claggan Mountain
- Clare Island Hills
- Clew Bay drumlins
- Cloghmoyle
- Corraun Hill
- Corslieve
- Croagh Patrick
- Croaghaun
- Croaghmoyle
- Devilsmother
- Finny
- Fox Hill
- Glenamong
- Glencastle Hill
- Glinsk Mountain
- Inishturk Island Hill
- Killogeary
- Knappagh
- Knockadaf
- Knockaffertagh
- Knocklettercuss
- Knockmore
- Knocknalower
- Knocknascollop
- Maumakeogh Mountain
- Maumykelly
- Maumtrasna
- Mweelin
- Mweelrea
- Nephin
- Nephin Beg
- Ox Mountains (west section)
- Partry Mountains
- Pollatomish
- Porturlin
- Rathlackan
- Sheeffry Hills
- Slieve Carr
- Slieve Fyagh
- Slieve Gamph
- Slievemore
- Sraheens
- Stonefield
- Tawnaghmore
- Termon Hill
- Tower Hill
- Tristia
See also
