Mount Leinster in Ireland: a steep road to the summit
Ireland, europe
2.6 km
786 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the Irish countryside, heading towards Mount Leinster, the highest paved road in Ireland! This bad boy tops out at 786 meters (2,578 feet) and straddles the border between Carlow and Wexford counties in the Blackstairs Mountains.
The road to the summit, known locally as Stua Laighean, is paved, but let's just say it's seen better days! It's called the 2RN access road, and it's there to service all the broadcast masts at the top, including a 122-meter-tall TV transmitter that's been there since '63. Heads up: the steep section to the top is usually gated off, and the transmitter is fenced off, but don’t let that stop you from soaking in the unreal views.
Speaking of views, the Irish countryside unfolds beneath you as you climb, and if you're lucky, you might spot some local wildlife. Keep an eye out for hang-gliders too – this is a popular launch spot! Just be prepared for some classic Irish weather – high winds and rainstorms are pretty common up here.
The road itself is a beast. Starting from Nine Stones, a well-known landmark at the base, it’s a short but intense 2.6 km (1.61 miles) climb. Don't be fooled by the length; you're gaining 335 meters in elevation with an average gradient of almost 13% – and some sections hit a crazy 17%! This climb is so legit it's even been featured in the Tour of Ireland. Get ready for an epic drive!
Where is it?
Mount Leinster in Ireland: a steep road to the summit is located in Ireland (europe). Coordinates: 53.9092, -7.7720
Road Details
- Country
- Ireland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 2.6 km
- Max Elevation
- 786 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 53.9092, -7.7720
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