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Urris Hills

4.9
·12 reviews·, Ireland

Experience Ireland's raw, untamed beauty in the Urris Hills, offering dramatic coastal ridge walks and breathtaking views from Mamore Gap.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clearer skies, less wind

CrowdMedium
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Urris Hills - Image 1

Urris Hills

Best Time

Summer mornings

Clearer skies, less wind

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience Ireland's raw, untamed beauty in the Urris Hills, offering dramatic coastal ridge walks and breathtaking views from Mamore Gap.

4.9
(12 reviews)

"Nowhere has quite the impact of this region, wild, dramatic and remote. Magical."

Vertical photo
TIP

Trekking Poles Recommended

Essential for steep sections, especially when accessing from the 'Gap of Marmore' side. :hiking_boot:

Dress for All Weather

Layers are key! Be prepared for wind, rain, and sun, often all in one day. :cloud:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mamore Gap Views

Mamore Gap Views

Scenic viewpoint

Breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding hills. A must-see for any visitor.

Reddit
Coastal Ridge Walk

Coastal Ridge Walk

Various trails

Experience one of Ireland's most dramatic coastal ridge walks with wild, remote beauty.

Reddit
Dunree Fort

Dunree Fort

Near Mamore Gap

Historic military fort offering insights into the past and commanding views of the Atlantic.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Wild Weather

Urris Hills are known for their dramatic beauty, but also their unpredictable weather. Pack layers, waterproofs, and sturdy footwear. Wind can be a significant factor, so be prepared for challenging conditions, especially on ridge walks. Reddit

Accessing the Peaks

Many visitors access the Urris Hills via Mamore Gap, a scenic route offering stunning vistas. Be aware that some access points, particularly from the 'Gap of Marmore' side, can be steep and may require trekking poles for stability. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Clearer skies, less wind
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Spring/Early Autumn
Why
Fewer crowds, vibrant colors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

East coast things to see.

Trekking Poles Recommended

Essential for steep sections, especially when accessing from the 'Gap of Marmore' side. Reddit :hiking_boot:

Dress for All Weather

Layers are key! Be prepared for wind, rain, and sun, often all in one day. Reddit :cloud:

reddit.com

Best scenic drive

Signposted Trails

Most routes are well signposted, making navigation easier for hikers. Reddit :map:

Wild & Remote Beauty

Experience Ireland's raw, untamed landscapes – a truly magical feeling. Reddit :sparkles:

Tips

from all over the internet

Trekking Poles Recommended

Essential for steep sections, especially when accessing from the 'Gap of Marmore' side. Reddit :hiking_boot:

Dress for All Weather

Layers are key! Be prepared for wind, rain, and sun, often all in one day. Reddit :cloud:

Signposted Trails

Most routes are well signposted, making navigation easier for hikers. Reddit :map:

Wild & Remote Beauty

Experience Ireland's raw, untamed landscapes – a truly magical feeling. Reddit :sparkles:

What Travellers Say

4.9
(12 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Urris Hills for their wild, dramatic, and remote beauty, often calling the coastal ridge walks the best in Ireland. The stunning views from Mamore Gap are a major highlight. Some find the terrain steep, recommending trekking poles for certain access points, and the unpredictable weather can be a challenge.

"Accessed climb then ridge walk from "Gap of Marmore". Super walk, stunning views, Take Trekking Poles if you access from this side - Its Steep in parts .2 hours there and back quick pace."

TRAVEL MAN

"Great wee walk. Well signposted, lovely views. Was a bit windy the day we went up."

TED DIVIN

"Best coastal ridge walk in Ireland."

Norman Miller (Molendinarius)

What People Like

Stunning coastal views
Wild and dramatic landscapes
Challenging ridge walks

What People Dislike

Steep, challenging terrain
Unpredictable weather

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Urris Hills are best accessed by car. Mamore Gap is a popular scenic route leading into the hills. From Redcastle, you can drive towards Clonmany and then follow signs for Mamore Gap. Reddit

Public transport options are limited. While buses may run to nearby towns like Clonmany, you'll likely need a car or taxi to reach the specific trailheads within the Urris Hills. Reddit

The 'Gap of Marmore' is a key access point. If you're driving, follow signs for Mamore Gap from Clonmany. Be prepared for narrow, winding roads. Reddit

Limited parking is available at popular access points like Mamore Gap. Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot. Reddit

Cycling is possible, but be aware of steep inclines and narrow roads, particularly on Mamore Gap. It's a challenging but rewarding route for experienced cyclists. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to access the Urris Hills. It's a natural landscape open to the public. Reddit

The Urris Hills are accessible at all times, as it's an open natural area. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment. Reddit

There isn't a dedicated visitor center within the Urris Hills themselves. Information and facilities are more likely to be found in nearby towns like Clonmany. Reddit

The main restrictions are related to safety and environmental respect. Stick to marked trails, do not litter, and be mindful of the wild nature of the area. Reddit

While not officially managed, local tour operators may offer guided walks. It's advisable to research and book in advance if you prefer a guided experience. Reddit

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

The coastal ridge walk is highly recommended for its dramatic views. Accessing from Mamore Gap offers stunning scenery. Be prepared for steep sections. Reddit

A quick hike from the 'Gap of Marmore' can take around 2 hours round trip. Longer ridge walks can extend this significantly depending on your pace and chosen route. Reddit

Sturdy hiking boots are essential. Wear layers of clothing, including waterproof and windproof outer layers, as the weather can change rapidly. Reddit

Some lower-level paths might be manageable, but the steepness and exposed nature of many trails make it challenging for very young children. Assess the route carefully. Reddit

You might spot various seabirds along the coast, and if you're lucky, seals in the waters below. The landscape itself is the main draw. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Mamore Gap offers incredible panoramic shots. The coastal ridge walks provide dramatic cliffside and ocean vistas. Look for dramatic skies and rugged terrain. Reddit

Sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful golden hour light, but be mindful of accessibility and weather. Midday can still be stunning with dramatic cloud formations. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant features. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low light. Reddit

Embrace the wind and clouds! Use a polarizing filter to enhance sky colors and a fast shutter speed to freeze motion in the waves or wind-blown grass. Reddit

Mamore Gap itself is a prime viewpoint. Many points along the ridge walks offer equally spectacular, albeit less accessible, photographic opportunities. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Urris Hills offer stunning scenery, they may not be ideal for families with very young children due to the steep terrain and exposed ridge walks. Shorter, less demanding sections accessible from Mamore Gap might be manageable for older children who are comfortable with uneven ground. Always prioritize safety and assess the specific trail conditions before embarking. Reddit

Consider visiting Dunree Fort as a more accessible historical attraction nearby, which often has more family-friendly facilities and exhibits. For a truly wild experience, ensure children are well-equipped with appropriate footwear and clothing, and keep a close eye on them, especially near cliff edges. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Adventurers

The Urris Hills are a fantastic destination for solo adventurers seeking wild, dramatic, and remote landscapes. The well-signposted trails offer a sense of security, while the solitude allows for deep immersion in nature. The coastal ridge walks provide a challenging yet rewarding experience, perfect for those who enjoy pushing their limits. Reddit

Always inform someone of your hiking plans, including your intended route and expected return time. Carry a fully charged phone and be prepared for changing weather conditions. The sense of accomplishment after conquering a challenging trail in such a magnificent setting is unparalleled for a solo traveler. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Terrain: Hiking in Urris Hills

The Urris Hills offer a truly wild hiking experience, with trails ranging from accessible viewpoints to challenging ridge walks. Many visitors access the area via the scenic Mamore Gap, which provides stunning vistas with relatively easy access. For those seeking a more adventurous trek, the coastal ridge walks are highly recommended. These routes are described as some of the best in Ireland, offering dramatic, untamed beauty and a sense of remoteness. Reddit

It's crucial to be prepared for the terrain. Some access points, particularly from the 'Gap of Marmore' side, are noted as being steep in parts, making trekking poles a valuable piece of equipment for stability and safety. The well-signposted nature of many trails is a plus, but the weather can be a significant factor. Be ready for wind, which can be strong, and always check the forecast before setting out. Reddit

When planning your hike, consider your fitness level and experience. A quick there-and-back hike from the Gap of Marmore can take around two hours, but longer, more exploratory routes are abundant. The wild, dramatic, and remote nature of the Urris Hills is a major draw, offering an experience of Ireland as it might have been before extensive development. Reddit

Capturing the Wild Beauty: Photography in Urris Hills

The Urris Hills are a photographer's dream, offering wild, dramatic, and remote landscapes that are incredibly photogenic. The Mamore Gap is a standout location, providing sweeping panoramic views that are perfect for wide-angle shots. Many visitors rave about the coastal ridge walks, which present opportunities to capture the rugged cliffs meeting the powerful Atlantic Ocean. The interplay of light and shadow on the hills, especially with dramatic cloud formations, creates dynamic and captivating scenes. Reddit

To make the most of your photography, consider visiting during the golden hours around sunrise and sunset for soft, warm light. However, the dramatic weather often associated with the region can also be a photographic asset. Embracing the wind and clouds can lead to powerful images, especially when using filters like a polarizing lens to enhance the sky. A sturdy tripod is recommended for capturing sharp images in varying light conditions and for longer exposures of the sea. Reddit

Beyond the grand vistas, look for details that tell the story of this wild landscape – the texture of the heather, the patterns of the waves, and the resilient flora clinging to the hillsides. The magical quality of the Urris Hills is best captured by being present and observant, allowing the raw beauty of the environment to inspire your shots. Reddit

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