Comeragh Mountains Mountains

The Comeragh Mountains are a compact range in County Waterford in the province of Munster, southeastern Ireland, known for steep glacial corries and exposed ridges. The range’s highest point is Fauscoum, around 792 metres, and it forms a distinctive upland block above the surrounding lowlands.

Hikers come for steep ridge walks, marked and unmarked trails, and the two best-known natural attractions: the Coumshingaun corrie with its deep lake and steep cliff walls, and Mahon Falls, a high waterfall dropping into the Mahon valley. Routes range from short walks to longer circular hikes linking cols and ridgelines.

The mountains offer classic post-glacial scenery with corrie lakes, steep cliffs and open peatland on higher ground; paths can be boggy after rain and navigation skills are useful on the higher hill terrain.

The landscape was shaped by glaciation during the last Ice Age; human use has been primarily upland grazing and rural agriculture, with the area now valued for recreation and conservation.

The Comeraghs occupy a central position in County Waterford, forming a rugged massif above the surrounding lowlands and served by local access points from nearby towns and villages.

• Hiking routes: Marked loop routes traverse the range and connect the corrie and the waterfall; many hikes are day routes suitable for fit walkers with some steep sections.
• Best times to visit: The corrie lake and the waterfall are the most visited features and can be busy on fine weekends, so early starts are recommended for quieter conditions.

What to See#

• Coumshingaun: A deep glacial corrie and lake with steep cliffs on three sides formed during the last glaciation, popular for hiking and scrambling routes into the corrie basin.
• Mahon Falls: A ribbon waterfall dropping from a steep cliff face into the Mahon valley with an overall fall of around 80 metres, reached via marked forest trails and offering a prominent viewpoint.

The Comeraghs are reached from towns such as Dungarvan and the R676 road; park at established trailheads near villages and follow marked trails. Local signage and guidebooks provide reliable route descriptions.

• Drive the R676/County roads and park at marked trailheads; some trails may pass private grazing land-respect signage.
• Time climbs for early morning to avoid afternoon cloud build-up typical of exposed Irish mountains.
• Local pubs in nearby villages are good sources of route info and a warm meal after a long day on the Comeraghs.