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Great Sugarloaf Mountain (Ó Cualann also Beannach Mhór) is quite recognizable if driving south out of Dublin and into Wicklow due to its conical shape. Set apart from the other hills and small peaks within Wicklow, the mountain appears much taller than it actually is, which is only 501 meters above sea level.

Tip: You’ll find plenty of beautiful shale and quartzite as you hike, as the Great Sugarloaf is composed of both of these stones, but mainly Cambrian quartzite.

How to Get to Sugarloaf

Hiking Sugarloaf Mountain is easily accessible without a car. From Dublin, you can take a couple different buses, but the best is Bus Èireann’s #133 towards Wicklow. Although not a frequent route, the 133 will take you down the highway (for only a few Euro!) directly to the village of Kilmancanogue. It takes approximately 40 minutes from Dublin City Center, but a bit longer if there’s traffic. Alight at the Kilmancanogue bus stop. Cross over to the other side of the highway, using the pedestrian bridge. Walk to the back of Pluck’s Pub and the base of Saint Mochonog’s Church. Near the round-a-bout, you’ll find several signs for the hike. Follow the marked route, which will take you up a residential area and into a large field and towards the summit.

For those with a car, you can park closer to the base of Sugarloaf Mountain at either Kilmacanogue GAA pitch (long route) or at the car park on Red Lane under a concrete arch (short route).

Time to Hike Sugarloaf

• Longer route from Kilmacanogue: 2.5 hours
• Shorter route from Red Lane: 1-1.5 hours

What to Expect

For the majority of the Great Sugarloaf hike, it’s an easy walk along a simple path. There are a few more rugged slopes along the longer route from Kilmacanogue, but the gradients aren’t too terrible. It gets fairly rocky and steep towards the summit, making it rather difficult near the end. However, it’s completely worth the effort!

It’s best to wear layers, as the weather can change incredibly quickly. The top of the summit can be very windy, too. Pack plenty of water and snacks.

After Hiking the Great Sugarloaf

• Visit Avoca: Avoca is the oldest working woolen mill in Ireland and one of the world’s oldest manufacturing companies. They have lovely food and desserts (pictured below), as well.
• Grab a pint at Pluck’s: Nothing beats pub food and a pint after a hike!
• Drive to Glendalough: Continue your nature-based adventures with a drive to Glendalough (click here for my guide), which is also located in County Wicklow.

Be safe, stay on the trails, and say hi to the sheep along the way!

~ Tay