Kilmacanogue · County Wicklow

The Great Sugar Loaf

Last verified May 2026 · Trail open

The Great Sugar Loaf is a distinctive cone-shaped 5–6 km return summit walk near Kilmacanogue in north Wicklow. Moderate hill walk with a steeper rocky ascent on the upper section, climbing to panoramic views across the Wicklow Mountains, Dublin Bay and the Irish Sea. The cone is formed from hard quartzite rock dating back hundreds of millions of years. Allow 1.5–2 hours.

5 km
Distance
2h
Typical time
280 m
Climb
Moderate
Difficulty
mountain
Type
Waymarking: Unmarked
Route on map

Where this walk goes

Start point shown — click the marker to get directions. Zoom in to explore the area.

Why you'll like it

Highlights of this walk

  • Distinctive cone-shaped summit visible across east Wicklow
  • Panoramic views across the Wicklow Mountains, Dublin Bay and the Irish Sea
  • A relatively short mountain climb
  • Easily accessible from north Wicklow and south Dublin
  • Quartzite rock formed hundreds of millions of years ago
Route & directions

How to walk it

Start at the roadside car park on the southern side of the Great Sugar Loaf near Kilmacanogue. The Great Sugar Loaf Summit Walk is approx. 5–6 km return — a moderate hill walk climbing steadily towards the summit before returning by the same route. Allow 1.5–2 hours. Terrain includes gravel paths, rocky mountain trail and uneven ground near the summit, with a steeper rocky ascent on the upper section.

Local tips

  • Sturdy footwear essential — loose rock on upper slopes
  • Very windy at the summit even on mild days
  • Heather, gorse and upland grasses on the lower slopes
  • Early mornings and weekdays are quieter
  • Combine with Little Sugar Loaf for a full-day route
Live conditions —°C Sunset — via Open-Meteo · Wicklow Mtns
Where to stay

Accommodation near this walk

★ Premium Partner

Madeline's Accommodation

Tinahely Town Square · south Wicklow

A beautifully restored historic guesthouse on the Square in Tinahely — the Wicklow Way passes through the village. Double, twin and small-double rooms, all with private bathrooms. Self-service coded entry — arrive when it suits you.

Guesthouse Private Bathrooms Keypad Entry Village Centre On the Wicklow Way
Listen as you walk

Audio tour for this walk

A local voice in your ear as you walk — stories, history, folklore. Works offline once downloaded. Transcript included.

Buy for €3.99