Located North East of Roundstone village, The twelve Pins (or Bens) are a group of small mountains that are the dominant feature of the Connemara countryside. They are easily accessible from the N59 or from the villages of Letterfrack or Recess. While they are not particularly high, 730 metres is the highest peak, they provide excellent walking and climbing opportunities for the outdoor enthuasiast. They are very safe and you do not have to be an experienced climber to enjoy the wonderful scenery that you will be rewarded with. As with all Hill walking it is recommended to take precautions with safety and respect the lands upon which you are travelling through.
The Connemara National Park covers some 2,000 hectares of scenic countryside in the foothills of the Twelve Bens. There is an information centre in the park where Exhibitions, Nature Trails and Audio Visual Shows on the Flora, Fauna and history of Connemara take place. In addition there is a summer programme of Walks, Talks and Special Events for younger visitors. The centre is fully wheelchair accessible.
Connemara National Park Homepage: http://homepage.eircom.net/~knp/connemara/index.htm
Meet the 12 Bens
- Doire an Chlair (Derryclare Mountain) 650m
- Bencorr 711m
- Benbreen 691m
- Glengower 664m
- Benglenisky (Ben Lettery) 516m
- Benbaun 729m
- Benbrack 582m
- Bengoora (Diamond Hill) 400m
- Bencullagh 632m
- Nuckanaght 654m
- Knockpasheemore 412m
- Bencorr Beg 577m
Recommended Books
Books to recommend about the walks are:
- Best Irish Walks: by Joss Lynam.
- West of Ireland walks: by Kevin Corcoran
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