The Twelve Bens
Mountains in Connemara National Park ⛰️
The Twelve Bens (Na Beanna Beola in Irish) are a well known group of mountains scattered throughout the centre and north of Connemara. To get to The Twelve Pins follow the N59 from Galway or Clifden or travel to the villages of Letterfrack or Recess. Although the mountains are not very high, with the highest being only 730 mtrs, they do ensure excellent walking and climbing opportunities for any outdoor enthuasiast. Climbing on the mountains is very safe and hikers/climbers need little experience to enjoy the wonderful scenery. As with all outdoor activities it is strongly recommended to take precautions with safety and respect the trails upon which you are travelling.
The Twelve Bens are part of Connemara National Park which covers some 2,000 hectares of scenic countryside. 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.
Mountains of The 12 Bens in Connemara
Name | Gaelige | Meaning | Height |
---|---|---|---|
Benbaun | Binn Bhán | White Peak | 729m |
Bencorr | Binn Chorr | Pointed Peak | 711m |
Bencollaghduff | Binn Dubh | Black Peak | 696m |
Benbreen | Binn Braoin | Braon’s Peak | 691m |
Derryclare | Binn Doire Chláir | Peak of Derryclare | 677m |
Bengower | Binn Gabhar | Goats’ Peak | 664m |
Muckanaght | Muiceanach | Hill like a Pig | 654m |
Benfree | Binn Fraoigh | Peak of the Heather | 638m |
Bencullagh | An Chailleach | Peak of The Hag/Witch | 632m |
Benbrack | Binn Bhreac | Speckled Peak | 582m |
Benlettery | Binn Leitrí | Peak of the Wet Hillsides | 577m |
Benglenisky | Binn Ghleann Uisce | Peak of the Glen of Water | 516m |