The Twelve Bens

The range

Locals call them the Twelve Pins or the Benna Beola. In Irish, Na Beanna Beola translates to “the peaks of Beola.” These sharp-peaked quartzite summits sit within Connemara National Park in County Galway. Benbaun is the highest point, standing at 729 metres. The rock here is quartzite in its purest form. You see the bare peaks, the connecting ridges, and the bog they rise from. Hiking up this range is the main outdoor activity in the Connemara area.

The designation

The official boundaries are broader than most hikers realize. They include the Garraun Complex to the north and several isolated peaks to the west. The entire area is a 16,163-hectare Special Area of Conservation. This status protects the landscape we see today. The walking route follows the boundary line. Topographically, the range pairs with the Maumturks to the east of the Inagh valley. Together, these two ranges form the Connemara mountains, with the Inagh river between them.

The ridge-walk

Hill-walkers flock to this area for a reason. The Glencoaghan Horseshoe is a 16-kilometre route. It takes 8–9 hours to complete. Many consider it one of the best ridge-walks in Ireland. The path circles the central bowl, crossing the quartzite peaks and descending the other side. It is the definitive walk for this range. Expect a full day out. You will see the peaks in a circle, with light hitting the bog between them. Weather is the critical factor. The peaks are bare, and the ridges offer no shelter. Always check the forecast before you set out.

Practical

The Twelve Bens are located in Connemara National Park. It is a drive from Galway city and Clifden. The standard approach starts from the Glen Akecliff country. The Glencoaghan Horseshoe requires a full day, including time on the peaks. The terrain is open ground with no cover. Check the forecast before the walk. The quartzite is rough underfoot when wet.