Ultimate Guide to Wild Camping Spots in Ireland: Explore the Best of Nature

Published Written by seamusvhanratty

Visualizing Your Adventure: Maps and Scenic Views

To make your wild camping experience even more immersive, here are resources and tips on maps and visuals you can use to plan your trip effectively.

Interactive Maps for Wild Camping in Ireland

1. Wicklow Wild Camping Spots Map

Wicklow is one of the most popular locations for wild camping in Ireland. The Wicklow Mountains National Park offers numerous trails and scenic views. Check out the official park map for detailed routes and camping-friendly areas.

Key points to explore:

  • Glendalough: With its rich history and two lakes, this spot is ideal for campers who enjoy hiking and photography.
  • Lugnaquilla: Perfect for experienced hikers, this area is less crowded and offers tranquility.

2. Wild Camping Spots Map for Northern Ireland

For campers heading north, the Mourne Mountains and the Causeway Coast are not to be missed. Use interactive maps like WalkNI to find trails and nearby wild camping spots.

Highlighted areas:

  • Silent Valley Reservoir: A peaceful and scenic spot for an overnight stay.
  • Ballintoy: Close to the Causeway Coast, offering coastal views and unique rock formations.

3. Google Maps for Specific Locations

Here’s a quick list of locations you can plug into Google Maps for navigation:

  • Knockadav Wild Camping Waterford: A hidden gem with forest trails and open camping spaces.
  • Sheep’s Head Peninsula, Cork: Rugged coastal landscapes perfect for campervans or tents.
  • Connemara National Park, Galway: A mix of mountains, bogs, and scenic lakes.

Images to Inspire Your Trip

  1. Wicklow Mountains at Sunrise
    Picture the sun rising over the Wicklow Hills, with soft light bathing the valley below—a perfect setting for wild camping.
  2. Slieve League Cliffs, Donegal
    Towering cliffs with the sound of crashing waves below—Donegal is a haven for nature lovers.
  3. Connemara Lakes at Sunset
    Golden hues reflected on a serene lake, surrounded by bogland and mountains.
  4. Wild Campervan Spots
    A cozy campervan parked at Achill Island or Ring of Kerry with the Atlantic Ocean in the background.

Packing Checklist for Wild Camping in Ireland

To ensure a successful trip, make sure you pack these essentials:

Camping Gear

  • Lightweight tent or campervan essentials
  • Sleeping bag (appropriate for Irish weather)
  • Ground mat or inflatable mattress
  • Camping stove and fuel
  • Headlamp or flashlight

Clothing

  • Waterproof jacket and pants
  • Sturdy hiking boots
  • Thermal layers
  • Hat and gloves (especially for higher altitudes)

Food and Drink

  • Non-perishable food items (dehydrated meals, energy bars)
  • Reusable water bottle and water filter
  • Cooking utensils and portable stove

Navigation and Safety

  • Physical map or GPS device
  • Power bank for electronics
  • First aid kit
  • Emergency whistle

Best Time for Wild Camping in Ireland

While wild camping in Ireland can be done year-round, the summer months (May to September) offer the best weather. However, if you’re looking for solitude and are prepared for unpredictable weather, winter camping can be an adventurous alternative.

Connecting With Local Communities

For a richer experience, consider visiting local pubs, small shops, or cultural festivals near your wild camping destinations. Towns like Dingle, Westport, and Kilkenny offer a mix of Irish hospitality and history.

Responsible Camping: Do Your Part

Wild camping is a privilege, and it’s crucial to protect Ireland’s natural beauty.

  • Respect wildlife: Avoid disturbing animals or their habitats.
  • Dispose of waste properly: Carry out all your rubbish and avoid leaving food scraps.
  • Minimize campfire impact: Use portable stoves instead of open fires in sensitive areas.

Downloadable Resources

  1. Printable Wild Camping Map (PDF):
    Includes Wicklow, Donegal, and Northern Ireland spots with GPS coordinates.
  2. Image Gallery (JPEG):
    A curated set of photos showcasing Ireland’s wild camping highlights.

Your Wild Camping Adventure Awaits

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a beginner, Ireland’s wild camping spots offer a unique way to connect with nature. From the best wild camping spots in Northern Ireland to the serene beauty of Wicklow wild camping spots, every location has something magical to offer.

Get your gear ready, plan your route with our maps, and start exploring the best of wild camping spots in Ireland. Adventure is calling!

Wild camping in Ireland is an adventure like no other. The Emerald Isle, with its dramatic coastlines, rolling hills, and serene lakes, offers countless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to connect with nature. Whether you’re exploring the rugged wilderness of Donegal, the lush landscapes of Wicklow, or the coastal beauty of Cork, there are plenty of wild camping spots in Ireland to discover.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about wild camping, including the best places to wild camp in Ireland, tips for camping responsibly, and hidden gems like Knockadav wild camping Waterford and beyond.

What is Wild Camping in Ireland?

Wild camping involves pitching a tent or parking a campervan in a natural, often remote location outside of formal campgrounds. While Ireland does not have a legal “right to roam,” like Scotland, wild camping is generally tolerated as long as you follow Leave No Trace principles and respect local rules.

Why Choose Wild Camping?

  • Freedom: Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in Ireland’s untouched beauty.
  • Cost: Discover stunning free camping spots in Ireland.
  • Adventure: Explore off-the-beaten-path locations and create unforgettable memories.

The Best Wild Camping Spots in Ireland

1. Wild Camping Spots in Wicklow

Wicklow, known as the “Garden of Ireland,” is a haven for outdoor lovers. Its mountains, lakes, and forests make it one of the best wild camping spots in Ireland.

  • Wicklow Mountains National Park: Perfect for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Popular areas include Glendalough and Lough Tay.
  • Glenmalure Valley: A secluded spot with breathtaking views.
  • Wicklow Wild Camping Spots: Explore hidden gems around Lugnaquilla and Lough Dan.

2. Wild Camping Spots in Cork

Cork offers a mix of coastal beauty and rolling countryside. Here are some of the best wild camping spots in Cork:

  • Sheep’s Head Peninsula: A quiet and scenic location for wild camping.
  • Mizen Head: Wild camp near Ireland’s southernmost point and enjoy dramatic sea views.
  • Ballycotton Bay: Perfect for those looking for coastal wild camping sites in Ireland.

3. Wild Camping Spots in Donegal

Donegal’s rugged landscapes and secluded beaches make it ideal for wild camping.

  • Horn Head: Camp with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Slieve League Cliffs: One of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, offering awe-inspiring scenery.
  • Malin Head: Ireland’s northernmost point, perfect for stargazing and solitude.

4. Wild Camping Spots in Galway

Galway combines culture with stunning natural beauty. Here are some must-visit wild camping spots in Galway:

  • Connemara National Park: Pitch your tent amidst breathtaking mountains and boglands.
  • Inisheer (Aran Islands): A unique experience for those looking to camp off the mainland.
  • Lough Corrib: Enjoy fishing, kayaking, and peaceful camping.

5. Wild Camping Spots in Dublin

Dublin might be known for its vibrant city life, but it also has surprising spots for wild camping.

  • Howth Head: A coastal gem just outside the city, offering beautiful views and trails.
  • Phoenix Park (Unofficial): While camping is not officially allowed, this large park offers a peaceful escape for day visitors.

6. Wild Camping Spots in Wexford

Wexford’s sunny southeast location is perfect for campers seeking coastal beauty.

  • Curracloe Beach: Camp near this famous beach for a mix of relaxation and adventure.
  • Hook Peninsula: A historic area with stunning cliffs and plenty of camping opportunities.
  • Wild Camping Spots Wexford: Explore hidden areas near Kilmore Quay.

Wild Camping in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland boasts some of the most dramatic landscapes on the island. Here are the best wild camping spots in Northern Ireland:

  • Mourne Mountains: A hiker’s paradise with numerous wild camping opportunities.
  • Causeway Coast: Camp near the iconic Giant’s Causeway and enjoy stunning coastal views.
  • Lough Erne: Perfect for wild camping and water-based activities.
  • Wild Camping Spots Map Northern Ireland: Plan your trip using detailed maps for the most secluded locations.

Hidden Gems: Unique Wild Camping Spots in Ireland

Knockadav Wild Camping Waterford

Located in the southeast, Knockadav is a lesser-known spot for wild camping. With lush green fields and nearby trails, it’s a serene escape for nature lovers.

Wild Campervan Spots in Ireland

If you’re traveling by campervan, Ireland offers numerous scenic locations for overnight stays:

  • Achill Island (Mayo): A camper’s dream with beautiful beaches and rugged landscapes.
  • Ring of Kerry (Kerry): Park up and enjoy some of Ireland’s most iconic views.
  • Wild Campervan Spots Ireland: From coastal pull-ins to mountain laybys, options abound.

Essential Tips for Wild Camping in Ireland

  1. Follow Leave No Trace Principles: Always clean up after yourself and leave the site as you found it.
  2. Respect Private Property: Seek permission if camping near farms or private land.
  3. Stay Safe: Be prepared for changing weather conditions and ensure your gear is adequate.
  4. Plan Ahead: Use maps to locate the best wild camping spots and avoid overly crowded areas.

Final Thoughts

Ireland’s wild camping opportunities offer something for everyone, from the rugged cliffs of Donegal to the tranquil lakes of Wicklow. Whether you’re exploring free camping spots in Ireland or parking your campervan at scenic locations, this guide provides a starting point for your next adventure.

Start planning your trip, and don’t forget to explore the best wild camping spots in Northern Ireland, Wicklow wild camping spots, and hidden gems like Knockadav Wild Camping Waterford. With this guide, your wild camping journey across Ireland will be an unforgettable experience.

Visualizing Your Adventure: Maps and Scenic Views

To make your wild camping experience even more immersive, here are resources and tips on maps and visuals you can use to plan your trip effectively.

Interactive Maps for Wild Camping in Ireland

1. Wicklow Wild Camping Spots Map

Wicklow is one of the most popular locations for wild camping in Ireland. The Wicklow Mountains National Park offers numerous trails and scenic views. Check out the official park map for detailed routes and camping-friendly areas.

Key points to explore:

  • Glendalough: With its rich history and two lakes, this spot is ideal for campers who enjoy hiking and photography.
  • Lugnaquilla: Perfect for experienced hikers, this area is less crowded and offers tranquility.

2. Wild Camping Spots Map for Northern Ireland

For campers heading north, the Mourne Mountains and the Causeway Coast are not to be missed. Use interactive maps like WalkNI to find trails and nearby wild camping spots.

Highlighted areas:

  • Silent Valley Reservoir: A peaceful and scenic spot for an overnight stay.
  • Ballintoy: Close to the Causeway Coast, offering coastal views and unique rock formations.

3. Google Maps for Specific Locations

Here’s a quick list of locations you can plug into Google Maps for navigation:

  • Knockadav Wild Camping Waterford: A hidden gem with forest trails and open camping spaces.
  • Sheep’s Head Peninsula, Cork: Rugged coastal landscapes perfect for campervans or tents.
  • Connemara National Park, Galway: A mix of mountains, bogs, and scenic lakes.

Images to Inspire Your Trip

  1. Wicklow Mountains at Sunrise
    Picture the sun rising over the Wicklow Hills, with soft light bathing the valley below—a perfect setting for wild camping.
    (Insert photo of Glendalough Lakes or Lugnaquilla summit)
  2. Slieve League Cliffs, Donegal
    Towering cliffs with the sound of crashing waves below—Donegal is a haven for nature lovers.
    (Insert dramatic photo of Slieve League from a cliffside viewpoint)
  3. Connemara Lakes at Sunset
    Golden hues reflected on a serene lake, surrounded by bogland and mountains.
    (Insert image of Lough Corrib or Diamond Hill trails)
  4. Wild Campervan Spots
    A cozy campervan parked at Achill Island or Ring of Kerry with the Atlantic Ocean in the background.
    (Insert photo of campervan by the beach or on a mountain pass)

Packing Checklist for Wild Camping in Ireland

To ensure a successful trip, make sure you pack these essentials:

Camping Gear

  • Lightweight tent or campervan essentials
  • Sleeping bag (appropriate for Irish weather)
  • Ground mat or inflatable mattress
  • Camping stove and fuel
  • Headlamp or flashlight

Clothing

  • Waterproof jacket and pants
  • Sturdy hiking boots
  • Thermal layers
  • Hat and gloves (especially for higher altitudes)

Food and Drink

  • Non-perishable food items (dehydrated meals, energy bars)
  • Reusable water bottle and water filter
  • Cooking utensils and portable stove

Navigation and Safety

  • Physical map or GPS device
  • Power bank for electronics
  • First aid kit
  • Emergency whistle

Best Time for Wild Camping in Ireland

While wild camping in Ireland can be done year-round, the summer months (May to September) offer the best weather. However, if you’re looking for solitude and are prepared for unpredictable weather, winter camping can be an adventurous alternative.

Connecting With Local Communities

For a richer experience, consider visiting local pubs, small shops, or cultural festivals near your wild camping destinations. Towns like Dingle, Westport, and Kilkenny offer a mix of Irish hospitality and history.

Responsible Camping: Do Your Part

Wild camping is a privilege, and it’s crucial to protect Ireland’s natural beauty.

  • Respect wildlife: Avoid disturbing animals or their habitats.
  • Dispose of waste properly: Carry out all your rubbish and avoid leaving food scraps.
  • Minimize campfire impact: Use portable stoves instead of open fires in sensitive areas.

Downloadable Resources

  1. Printable Wild Camping Map (PDF):
    Includes Wicklow, Donegal, and Northern Ireland spots with GPS coordinates.
  2. Image Gallery (JPEG):
    A curated set of photos showcasing Ireland’s wild camping highlights.

Conclusion: Your Wild Camping Adventure Awaits

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a beginner, Ireland’s wild camping spots offer a unique way to connect with nature. From the best wild camping spots in Northern Ireland to the serene beauty of Wicklow wild camping spots, every location has something magical to offer.

Get your gear ready, plan your route with our maps, and start exploring the best of wild camping spots in Ireland. Adventure is calling!

Slieve donard

Is Slieve Donard the Jewel of the Mourne Mountains?

Published Written by seamusvhanratty
Slieve donard
As you drive across the Mourne Mountains towards Newcastle Co Down your mind can sense that something special is about to unfold. Nearly everywhere you look a spectacular mountain pops up from the earth’s crust beneath the background of a clear blue sky. A jet darting across the sky gives the impression of a shooting star, a shooting star promising omens of a glorious day.A journey through these hills is a bit like going for a 5 course meal in some Michelin Star Restaurant where the starters are just mouthwateringly delicious. Awakening every sense and taste bud of your body. You’re left flabbergasted with each new dish that is placed before your eyes. The next dish couldn’t be any better than the last, it couldn’t, could it?? But it always is.

As you travel into the heart of these hills the suspense is slowly built up, and then bang. The waiter removes the cover from the last bit of food and there she is- the main course itself, Slieve Donard standing in all her majestic glory. The mountain is a masterpiece of nature carved out of the rock, granite, volcano, and sea ice. It dominates the surrounding landscape for miles around. At the bottom of the main street in Newcastle, she stands there with her chest puffed out rising magnificently into the heavens.  Make no mistake about it, Slieve Donard sits on the throne of Newcastle Co Down.

There are numerous ways in which to start your trial up the mountain but the one I took is the most one which is via parking at Slieve Donard carpark and making your way to the trail which starts at the end of the park.  The initial trail up the mountainside is an enclosed rocky pathway that in many ways resembles an 18th-century cobbled street. After a few minutes of hiking you come across the ominous-sounding bloody bridge which has a lovely waterfall running down between it. The Bloody Bride is a place where a massacre was said to have taken place during a rebellion that occurred in 1641. One real noticeable feature during the first phase of your hike is that of waterfalls rushing down the side of the mountain. These waterfalls provide a hypnotic and soothing sound.

Once you clear the forest you’re then out in the open and there before you stands Slieve Donard standing at 2790 feet and Slieve Commedagh standing at 2,516 feet. As you make your way up towards these mountains, in the distance, small flashes of silver catch your eyes. For the first time hiker, you might be forgiven for mistaking these flashes for a motherload of silver or gold but upon closer inspection, you realize that these flashes are small trickles of water flowing down the mountainside.

Isn’t it amazing to think how these small little trickles of water will morph into streams, slowly growing momentum, slowly gathering pace, then bit by bit all of these streams will join in union to create a river and then this river will expand into a raging torrent that can cut through rock and spread out throughout the countryside like the life-giving arteries of the human body?   In total, the Mournes gives birth to 19 separate rivers, most notably, the River Bann and the River Lagan.  It’s remarkable to think that these mighty rivers humble origins all began with a single trickle of water flowing down the Mourne Mountains.

Local legend has it that the Mourne Mountains was the place where Saint Patrick banished the snakes from Ireland. There is also said to be a stream located in the Mournes known as Saint Patricks stream where the legendary Saint was said to have knelt down and drank some water. Legend has it that when Saint Patrick’s hand touched a rock on the stream that to this day his handprint can be seen upon this rock.

When you hike your way up between the Slieve Donard and Commedagh the first thing that catches your eye is the Mourne Wall. The immense and powerful Wall was built between 1904 and 1922 using local granite and which was hauled up to the top of the mountains. The wall which runs for 22 miles encompasses 15 summits and includes the biggest mountain of them all Slieve Donard. Its awe-inspiring thinking of the sheer audacity and iron will of the men who set out to accomplish the task of hauling masses of granite up a mountain, thousands of feet into the air, and then to build a wall which stretches across the 15 highest mountains in Ulster.

When you stand at the wall and look to the other side of it the views are simply breathtaking.  It’s almost like you’re stepping foot inside one of Van Goghs or Michangeloes masterpieces only these masterpieces are second rate garbage compared to the reality that mother nature has put in front of you.  It’s not surprising that they have filmed  TV shows like Game of Thrones show on these slopes as  hiking the mournes is like stepping foot inside your own real-life fairytale.

When you’re standing at the wall and peering up at the summit of Slieve Donard it does seem like the peak could be reached in only 5 or 10 minutes but this illusion is very deceiving because the last end of the trek to top of the summit is very steep and if you’re not prepared it will have you tested to the last.

But the hike up this last section provides you with one spectacular view after another. Just when you think that you’ve seen it all another revelation is at hand. A previously undiscovered snow-covered peak catches your eye. A ray of sun blasting its way through a pit of blackness in the sky becomes almost like a message from god himself. A sudden breath of a wind clearing away all the clouds, and nature, like a  master magician, reveals another trick to a stunned audience. Words can never do it justice. If there is a god she is up here amongst the hills. This is my chapel. My church. I kneel at the alter of the nature’s craftsmanship.

Hiking Ireland
When you finally reach the top of Slieve Donard You can’t but help smile. You’re at the very top of Ulster.  Of the 2 million people in Ulster not a single soul is standing higher. At the summit, in the distance, you can see the Isle of Man, Snowdonia Mountains in Wales, and the Lake District. Masses of green and golden fields populate the horizon. To the east there’s Dundrum Bay which stretches all the way to Saint Johns Point. There’s several miles of beach that reaches all the way into a seemingly limitless horizon. On a good day the yellow cranes from the Harland and Wolfe Dockyards in Belfast can be seen.

This is the ancient province of Ulster shaped by men like:  Cuchulainn, Finn McCool, Henry Joy McCracken, Owen Roe O Neill, Hugh O Donnell, Edward Carson, Ian Paisley, Bobby Sands, George Best, and the list goes on and on. This land has borne witness to some of the momentous and tragic moments in Irish History. In 1798 Belfast born Presbyterian Henry Joy McCracken and a dozen or so other protestants set up the group called the United Irishmen a group that pledged to end English rule over Ireland by any means possible. Their motto was to “unite Catholic, Protestant, and dissenter. ” Predictably, the 1798 rebellion ended in disaster with McCracken meeting his doom at the end of a hangman’s noose. These days the Mourne Mountains unites people from all creeds, orange and green united in our love of the great outdoors.

As you descend from the mountain you will be afforded more time to soak in some of the sites you may have overlooked on the way up. Depending on how fast you’re going you should reach sea level within the hour. When you come down from the mountain your mind is swimming with endorphins. A creamy pint of Guinness is the cherry on top of the large cake that you’ve been consuming all day. The first gulp of the Guinness is a thing of bliss as it flows down your welcoming throat. Conversations flow free and easy.

The town itself, Newcastle, is a town that has something for everyone. Amusement parks, water parks, the seashore, restaurants, bars. At the end of the town stands the impressive gothic-looking Slieve Donard Hotel. For anyone who likes a bit of golf they can always decide to go for a round of Golf in the famous local golf course, the Royal County Down, which has hosted tournaments as prestigious as the British Open and the Irish Open. Four time major winner Rory Mcilroy counts the course as his most favorite course in the whole world.

But Newcastle in spite of its stunning surroundings is a town that has been on the receiving end of its fair share of tragedies. In 1843 a  fleet of local fishing ships sank resulting in 73 men reaching a watery grave. References to the tragedy at the time stated that, “Newcastle town is one long street entirely stripped of men.” One of the most famous residents of Newcastle is a man called Harry Ferguson, who in 1910 became one of the first Irishmen to fly an engine-powered plane. Newspaper reports at the time stated that “He flew a distance of almost three miles along the foreshore at a low altitude varying between fifty and five hundred feet.” His solo Plane ride is commemorated with a large plaque which is located along the Newcastle shoreline.

But all of this is a secondary aftershow to the main course itself, Slieve Donard. She stands there, proud, defiant, unbroken, enduring. A symbol of strength and power.  She stood here a thousand years ago and will stand here a thousand years into the future when we’re all dead and gone.  And us mere mortals,  temporarily full of life, full of delusional self-importance will register not even a flicker in the great passage of time.  The Mourne Mountains rekindles your spirt, revitalizes your heart. Redemption is poured amongst these treasured hills and Slieve Donard, for me anyways, is the ultimate Jewel in the crown.

How Hiking Ireland’s Highest Mountain Can Spring Many Surprises

Published Written by seamusvhanratty
After a 7 hour Journey from Northern Ireland we had finally reached the southern tip of Ireland. The dark silhouette of Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrantuohill, stood over us like an imposing giant as we pulled up to the campsite at 12.30am. Things started to go pear-shaped nearly straight away when to my horror the small two-man tent that Jonny had promised to bring looked more like a 200 person Wedding Marquee.
 
Jonny, from Belfast, assured me that he was an expert survivalist, turned on the headlights of the car, and began assembling the tent, but It quickly became apparent that he hadn’t a clue what he was at as the tent repeatedly collapsed like a drunk man after drinking a few bottles of whiskey.
 
Another camper beside us in a pristine perfectly formed tent stuck his smug head out to try and see what all of the commotion was about, smirked, and then zipped himself back up inside his cosy sanctuary.  Any chance of rendering us some assistance? Absolutely f@#king not! A few seconds later it began pouring rain. I resorted in a fit of despondency to swigging from a bottle of spirits that Jonny had stashed in his Car.  But Jonny’s persistence paid off as after about 2 hours of fumbling about he assembled a makeshift sanctuary that looked more like a ramshackle hut that had been hit full force by Hurricane Katrina.
 
We settled in and got ready for some well-earned sleep. Just as I was about to nod off a piercing cry struck the night air and jolted me wide awake,  Baaa, baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa. The unmistakable sound of a sheep who began marauding around the campsite and bleating with sadistic venom every few seconds.
 
At one point I heard a crunching and rummaging sound close to my ear and I realized that the Sheep had developed a taste for the tent and had began dining on it. I clenched my fist in anger and hit the sheet a thump which caused the animal to briefly scamper away but a few minutes later it returned and began chawing and eating like his life depended on it.
 
Just when we thought things couldn’t get any worse the sound of a Donkey penetrated the night the air, Heehawww heehaaaww. “Oh, for fucks sake!” I heard Jonny saying from the other side of the tent. Throughout the night the Donkey and the Sheep appeared to be working in union like some perverse sadistic animal orchestra intent on depriving us of any sleep.  By the time dawn broke we had gotten zero shut eye and we wearily got our stuff ready for the 3,406 foot trek to the summit of Carrauntoohill.
 
Another Hiker we had met at the bottom advised us to get to the top of the mountain by using the Devils Ladder and to come down via the Zig Zag route. So we wearily set off towards the summit by hiking up the  Devils Ladder and as we made our way up the steep and rocky mountain we began to see some spectacular views of the countryside and stunning views of nearby lakes that eased the pain of our tiredness.
 
After an arduous 4 hour hike, we reached the highest point in Ireland where a huge steel cross marked the cloudy summit. After a brief stay we began our descent, Jonny who look totally spent, said that he wanted to go down via the Zig Zag route- I peered over at this passage that was covered with cloud and announced to Jonny that “You can Zig Zag down whatever way you want but I’m going down the way that I came.” Jonny relented and decided to take the safe option of  the ‘better the devil you know.’ Halfway down the Devils Ladder my lips began salivating at the thoughts of eating some sausages. My stomach growled its approval as Jonny took out a small heating stove and frying pan. But my anticipation soon turned to dejection as no matter how much we tried the stove wouldn’t work. After about a half an hour of attempting to spark the stove into life Jonny got the sausages and fired them away with a look of abject disgust on his face.  No sooner had he did this then we heard the sound of a rescue Helicopter that began hovering over some stricken climbers who had gotten penned in by clouds on the edge of a cliff on the Zig Zag Route. At least we weren’t them- be grateful for small mercies!
 
The two of us, exhausted, staggered down the mountain like a pair of zombies emerging from a war-zone where one trauma was inflicted after another. We had conquered our Everest, Ireland’s highest Mountain, but had been beaten into submission by a Donkey, a Sheep, and a dodgy Stove.