HIGHEST point of Ireland’s county WATERFORD

The highest point in County Waterford is Knockmealdown (Cnoc Mhaoldomhnaigh), standing at 792.4 meters (2,600 feet). Knockmealdown is located in the Knockmealdown Mountains, straddling the border of County Waterford and County Tipperary, near the village of Clogheen, Tipperary, and the Vee Gap, a scenic pass in Waterford. It lies within the Munster Vales region, part of Ireland’s Ancient East, known for its rugged hills and lush valleys.

Elevation: At 792.4 meters, Knockmealdown is the highest peak in Waterford and the Knockmealdown range, offering a prominent but accessible climb with stunning views.
Terrain: The mountain features grassy slopes, heather-covered moorland, and rocky ridges, with a broad summit marked by a trig pillar and a cairn. The terrain includes boggy patches and steep sections, typical of the Knockmealdowns’ rolling landscape.

Starting Point and Access:

Driving Route: The most common trailhead is at The Vee, a scenic viewpoint on the R668 road, accessible from Clogheen, Tipperary (15 minutes, 10 km), or Lismore, Waterford (20 minutes, ~15 km). The Vee offers parking and picnic facilities, with stunning views of the Vee Valley. From Waterford city, the drive takes about 1 hour (50 km), and from Dungarvan, it’s about 40 minutes (~30 km). An alternative trailhead is at Crow Hill or Bay Lough, both near The Vee.
Alternative Access: Another approach is from Clogheen, following the Knockmealdown Crossing or local paths via the northern slopes. A longer route starts from Ardfinnan, incorporating parts of the East Munster Way. The Knockmealdown Forest Entrance near Newcastle, Tipperary, is also used for looped trails.
Public Transport: Public transport is limited. Clogheen or Lismore are served by buses from Waterford or Clonmel (e.g., Local Link 245 or Bus Éireann 357), but reaching The Vee requires a car or taxi. Guided hikes, such as those offered by Knockmealdown Active or Ireland Walk Hike Bike, include transport from Waterford, Dungarvan, or Clonmel.

The Vee Route:

Distance: Approximately 8–10 km round trip.
Duration: 3.5–5 hours, depending on pace and conditions.
Description: This is the most popular route, starting at The Vee car park. The trail follows a clear path along the Knockmealdown ridge, ascending gradually through heather and grass. Hikers pass Sugarloaf Hill (663 meters) before climbing steeply to the summit, marked by a trig pillar and cairn. The descent retraces the path or loops via Bay Lough for variety. The route offers panoramic views and is well-trodden but can be boggy.
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous, suitable for hikers with good fitness. The steep final ascent and boggy patches require sure footing and sturdy boots.

Bay Lough Route:

Distance: 7–9 km round trip.
Duration: 3–4.5 hours.
Description: Starting at Bay Lough, near The Vee, this route ascends via a forested path before joining the main ridge to Knockmealdown. It’s slightly shorter but involves a steeper initial climb and scenic views of the heart-shaped Bay Lough. The descent returns to Bay Lough.
Difficulty: Moderate, best for hikers comfortable with steep inclines and navigation.

Knockmealdown Crossing:

Distance: 12–15 km one way (requires transport arrangements).
Duration: 5–7 hours.
Description: This challenging route crosses the entire Knockmealdown range, starting at The Vee or Clogheen and ending at Newcastle or Ardfinnan. It includes Knockmealdown, Sugarloaf, and other peaks, following ridges and the East Munster Way in parts. It’s a rewarding but strenuous trek.
Difficulty: Strenuous, requiring advanced navigation, stamina, and shuttle arrangements.

Navigation Tips:

Use an Ordnance Survey map (Discovery Series Sheet 74) or apps like HiiKER, AllTrails, or PeakVisor for navigation, as fog can reduce visibility on the summit ridge.
Bring a compass or GPS device, as the open moorland lacks clear waymarking in poor weather.
Wear waterproof hiking boots with good grip, as the terrain includes boggy patches and rocky slopes. Trekking poles are helpful for stability.

Scenery and Views:

Summit Views: On clear days, Knockmealdown offers spectacular 360-degree views of the Vee Valley, the Galty Mountains, the Comeragh Mountains, and the Tipperary plains. On exceptional days, the Wicklow Mountains and even the Kerry coast are visible. Bay Lough and the rolling Knockmealdowns add dramatic beauty.
Landscape: The lower slopes feature grassy fields and forest tracks, transitioning to heather moorland and rocky ridges. The summit is a broad plateau with a trig pillar and cairn, offering a commanding view of the Munster Vales.
Unique Features: The Vee Gap, with its hairpin bends and rhododendron blooms (especially in May–June), is a scenic highlight. Bay Lough, a glacial corrie lake, is steeped in folklore, linked to a mythical witch. The Knockmealdowns’ gentle ridges contrast with the rugged Comeraghs nearby.

Hiking Experience:

Duration: The Vee route takes 3.5–5 hours, Bay Lough 3–4.5 hours, and the Knockmealdown Crossing 5–7 hours, including summit time.
Conditions: The terrain varies from boggy moorland to rocky ridges, with steep sections near the summit. The ridge is exposed to wind and mist. Spring and summer (April–September) offer the best conditions, with vibrant heather in August. Autumn (September–October) provides colorful landscapes, while winter hikes are wetter and colder but feasible.
Cultural Significance: Knockmealdown is tied to Waterford’s heritage, with the Vee named after the V-shaped valley and linked to historical smuggling routes. The area’s proximity to the Comeraghs and Lismore’s monastic history adds cultural depth.
Weather: The summit is exposed, with frequent mist and strong winds. Check forecasts (e.g., Met Éireann) and avoid hiking in severe conditions.
Terrain: Boggy patches and steep slopes require careful footing. The Knockmealdown Crossing involves longer distances and navigation challenges.
Safety: Inform someone of your plans, as there are no rangers. Bring water, snacks, and warm clothing, as temperatures can drop. Solo hikers should be confident in navigation or opt for guided tours, especially for the Crossing.
Wildlife: Expect to see red deer, hares, and birds like peregrine falcons or skylarks. The moorland supports heather, gorse, and bilberries.

.Highest point in county

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County Waterford:

Ireland’s county Waterford is steeped in Viking and medieval history, with Waterford City’s Reginald’s Tower and Viking Triangle showcasing ancient artefacts. The Copper Coast, a UNESCO Geopark, offers dramatic coastal walks, while the Lismore Castle gardens provide serene beauty. Other attractions include the beaches of Tramore and historic Dunmore East. Waterford is Ireland’s 21st largest county by size (1,838 square km) and 20th largest by population (127,363). Population peaked at 196,187 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 71,439 in 1961. In terms of hospitality, Waterford is Ireland’s ninth most visited tourist county with around 225,000 international visitors per year.

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