Bencollaghduff

Bencollaghduff is a peak in the Twelve Bens range located in County Galway and rises to roughly 700 meters above sea level. The summit features a distinctive ridge running east to west, formed by pale quartzite rock that gives the slopes their characteristic appearance.

The name comes from Irish Gaelic 'Binn Dubh', meaning 'peak of black hags', a reference to cormorant birds that once lived in the area. The mountain has served as a natural landmark for people in the region across generations.

Irish novelist Joseph O'Connor incorporated the quartzite shale found on Bencollaghduff's slopes into his literary work 'Star of the Sea'.

The best way to experience this peak is through the Glencoaghan Horseshoe route, which connects it with neighboring summits in a single journey through the range. Visitors should come prepared for changing weather conditions, as the exposed elevation makes the mountain susceptible to rapid shifts.

The peak is notable within the Glencoaghan Horseshoe circuit, a challenging route that connects multiple summits together in one extended traverse. This single-day journey attracts walkers who seek to experience several high points across the range in a continuous push.

Location: County Galway

Elevation above the sea: 696 m

GPS coordinates: 53.51334,-9.81285

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:12