FabSwingers.com > Forums > Ireland > Croagh Patrick
Croagh Patrick
Jump to: Newest in thread
Hey guys whats the craic. Just a quick one here has anyone done the Croagh Patrick climb? As this idea only came about lastnight with a few friends and about 8 pints each and like every good idea it sounded like a fantastic idea at the time lol but now the next morning and the mother of all hangovers haha i'm starting to regret my decision 
So we have already booked our hotels for a few weeks time so it looks like its going to happen so if anyone has done it before or has any advice it would be greatly appreciated  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
We know of a group of fabbers doing this very soon. They'll mount Croagh Patrick first and each other then 
The first part is the toughest but it's ok after that. Take ham sandwiches with you, once you get to the top they'll be the nicest ham sandwiches you've ever eaten. Enjoy  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"We know of a group of fabbers doing this very soon. They'll mount Croagh Patrick first and each other then
The first part is the toughest but it's ok after that. Take ham sandwiches with you, once you get to the top they'll be the nicest ham sandwiches you've ever eaten. Enjoy "
Haha that sounds like a good day all around
We will definitely have the tea and ham sandwiches packed and maybe cheeky packet of tayto lol but my main question would be should i invest in the proper boots or would your runners be fine? Apologies in advance if that's a stupid question which I'm sure it is lol |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"We know of a group of fabbers doing this very soon. They'll mount Croagh Patrick first and each other then
The first part is the toughest but it's ok after that. Take ham sandwiches with you, once you get to the top they'll be the nicest ham sandwiches you've ever eaten. Enjoy
Haha that sounds like a good day all around
We will definitely have the tea and ham sandwiches packed and maybe cheeky packet of tayto lol but my main question would be should i invest in the proper boots or would your runners be fine? Apologies in advance if that's a stupid question which I'm sure it is lol"
Invest in hiking boots as it's quite slippery with the small stones, you could fall easily |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Hey guys whats the craic. Just a quick one here has anyone done the Croagh Patrick climb? As this idea only came about lastnight with a few friends and about 8 pints each and like every good idea it sounded like a fantastic idea at the time lol but now the next morning and the mother of all hangovers haha i'm starting to regret my decision
So we have already booked our hotels for a few weeks time so it looks like its going to happen so if anyone has done it before or has any advice it would be greatly appreciated "
I've done it. It's fine for anyone with reasonable fitness. Clear path for 3/4s of the way then loose shale to the top. More care needed on way down. Stunning views on a clear day which makes it worth it. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
 |
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Don't have any pints the night before is the best advice or you will be literally shredded. "
If I had this advise 2 months ago it would have been awesome.
10-12 Guinness the night before then up. Thank fec it wasnt a warm day, mist from about 1/3 of the way up and no idea how long it was gonna take us, was not a fun experience but good to have done it all the same.
Tough climb tho, would only do it again sober & if it was a clear day so I could see more than my own hand infront of my face at the top  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
Me and Mrs did it on a cold wet January morning a few years back after a feed of pints the night before, it didn't take long to clear the heads that for sure! Well worth it do looking forward to doing it again! |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Don't have any pints the night before is the best advice or you will be literally shredded.
If I had this advise 2 months ago it would have been awesome.
10-12 Guinness the night before then up. Thank fec it wasnt a warm day, mist from about 1/3 of the way up and no idea how long it was gonna take us, was not a fun experience but good to have done it all the same.
Tough climb tho, would only do it again sober & if it was a clear day so I could see more than my own hand infront of my face at the top "
Shit man that must have been a tough climb after a feed of pints the night before lol
The plan is to leave here in Galway early doors like 6 or 7am as i believe it's like a 4 or 5hr climb at a reasonable pace and i believe there is a little pub somewhere close to the bottom so that will be the starting point for the rest of the day on the beer |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Tell them you've changed your mind, life is too short for that shit unless you actually want to do it"
I actually do want to do it lol it's something ive wanted to do for a while now but once this hangover clears i'll be doing a little bit more research haha. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Don't have any pints the night before is the best advice or you will be literally shredded.
If I had this advise 2 months ago it would have been awesome.
10-12 Guinness the night before then up. Thank fec it wasnt a warm day, mist from about 1/3 of the way up and no idea how long it was gonna take us, was not a fun experience but good to have done it all the same.
Tough climb tho, would only do it again sober & if it was a clear day so I could see more than my own hand infront of my face at the top
Shit man that must have been a tough climb after a feed of pints the night before lol
The plan is to leave here in Galway early doors like 6 or 7am as i believe it's like a 4 or 5hr climb at a reasonable pace and i believe there is a little pub somewhere close to the bottom so that will be the starting point for the rest of the day on the beer "
If it's going to take you 5 hours you might want to get a bit of training in beforehand  |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Don't have any pints the night before is the best advice or you will be literally shredded.
If I had this advise 2 months ago it would have been awesome.
10-12 Guinness the night before then up. Thank fec it wasnt a warm day, mist from about 1/3 of the way up and no idea how long it was gonna take us, was not a fun experience but good to have done it all the same.
Tough climb tho, would only do it again sober & if it was a clear day so I could see more than my own hand infront of my face at the top
Shit man that must have been a tough climb after a feed of pints the night before lol
The plan is to leave here in Galway early doors like 6 or 7am as i believe it's like a 4 or 5hr climb at a reasonable pace and i believe there is a little pub somewhere close to the bottom so that will be the starting point for the rest of the day on the beer
If it's going to take you 5 hours you might want to get a bit of training in beforehand "
Oh really do you think it would be a lot quicker than that? Maybe my mate was suggesting that it would be 4/5hrs up and down and i have misunderstood him which probably sounds correct lol |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Don't have any pints the night before is the best advice or you will be literally shredded.
If I had this advise 2 months ago it would have been awesome.
10-12 Guinness the night before then up. Thank fec it wasnt a warm day, mist from about 1/3 of the way up and no idea how long it was gonna take us, was not a fun experience but good to have done it all the same.
Tough climb tho, would only do it again sober & if it was a clear day so I could see more than my own hand infront of my face at the top
Shit man that must have been a tough climb after a feed of pints the night before lol
The plan is to leave here in Galway early doors like 6 or 7am as i believe it's like a 4 or 5hr climb at a reasonable pace and i believe there is a little pub somewhere close to the bottom so that will be the starting point for the rest of the day on the beer
If it's going to take you 5 hours you might want to get a bit of training in beforehand
Oh really do you think it would be a lot quicker than that? Maybe my mate was suggesting that it would be 4/5hrs up and down and i have misunderstood him which probably sounds correct lol"
All depends on fitness but at a reasonable pace it shouldn't take more than 3 hrs in total but it's not a race so do it at your own pace. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
Funniest Croagh Patrick story was meeting a group of Donegal Supporters on the summit of Carrauntoohil a week before the 2012 final.
They had set out to do Croagh Patrick on the Friday and Carrauntoohil on the Sunday but got chased out of Mayo and did Carrauntoohil on the Saturday.
They saw the funny side of it though |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By *eepixieWoman
over a year ago
Belfast |
If you do invest in hiking boots, make sure you have them well broken in & are comfortable to wear. Nothing worse than hiking for 4/5 hours with blisters forming & the boots cutting the feet off ya!! |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"If you do invest in hiking boots, make sure you have them well broken in & are comfortable to wear. Nothing worse than hiking for 4/5 hours with blisters forming & the boots cutting the feet off ya!! "
Yes, have blister plasters with you |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"We know of a group of fabbers doing this very soon. They'll mount Croagh Patrick first and each other then
The first part is the toughest but it's ok after that. Take ham sandwiches with you, once you get to the top they'll be the nicest ham sandwiches you've ever eaten. Enjoy "
Sounds like fun |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By *igertigerCouple (MM)
over a year ago
nr Letterkenny |
"We know of a group of fabbers doing this very soon. They'll mount Croagh Patrick first and each other then
The first part is the toughest but it's ok after that. Take ham sandwiches with you, once you get to the top they'll be the nicest ham sandwiches you've ever eaten. Enjoy
Haha that sounds like a good day all around
We will definitely have the tea and ham sandwiches packed and maybe cheeky packet of tayto lol but my main question would be should i invest in the proper boots or would your runners be fine? Apologies in advance if that's a stupid question which I'm sure it is lol"
runners are fine if the weather's dry...boots give more support though and probably recommended.
|
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By *abbingMan
over a year ago
Belfast |
I've done it on a few occasions, its a surprisingly bracing hike considering the number of edjits that try to head up it in bare feet for the annual st Patrick's day mountain rescue fest lol !! 
The first stretch from the car park up to the saddle isnt bad, the last 30-40 mins up the pointy bit is very steep with some loose rock / gravel under foot in places.
My advice would be to bring a decent, comfortable pair of walking shoes or boots, snacks, water, and a wind breaker jacket so you can enjoy you sarnie at the top without being frozen!
While by no means essential, I'd also suggest a cheap walking pole if you have one...not so much for the way up, but helps prevent slipping on the way down
They used to rent old school sticks at the gift shop but no idea if they'd be doing that now given covid
Other than that just hope theres no low cloud so you can enjoy the amazing view which is just spectacular.....even if the top is cloudy the view as you climb is great, and the pint in westport after doing it tastes even better! |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
It's a steady slog. I've climbed it many times. It took 11 hours, up and down, with my son one year, and climbed it on my own in 55 mins, carrying a full load. Wear sensible boots, well worn climbing boots. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By *eth TVTV/TS
over a year ago
Mid Meath |
Walked it a few times and I know the area well. Wise to ask for advice; no coincidence than the local mountain rescue is the busiest in Ireland.
Decent boots or trail runners are a must as the going on the path changes a lot. Have wind and waterproofs with you.. Even a dry day at sea level sees some rain at the summit while the wind on top is lethal. I'd suggest a pair of gloves too as the you'll be grabbing onto the loose scree on the last section.
Those old wood poles are great and better than hiking poles as they're longer for the descent; the hut sells them and you can return them at the bottom but some local shops sell them too. Oh yeah; make sure to have change for the car park as the bastards are known to clamp from time to time 
Last up; if it's lashing on the day or the days before then leave it. The part known as the shoulder gets muddy and is where most of the injuries and slips take place. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
Climbed it twice. Just take it slowly. Take short breaks if needed.
Bring a back pack with water, coffee, goodies as no shop in sight lol.
Fantastic view from the top but pray it stays dry as coming back down is harder especially if wet |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By *ogladyWoman
over a year ago
The bog |
"Climbed it twice. Just take it slowly. Take short breaks if needed.
Bring a back pack with water, coffee, goodies as no shop in sight lol.
Fantastic view from the top but pray it stays dry as coming back down is harder especially if wet"
That's what happened me started to rain when I was near the top them comming down it was so Slippy .. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Climbed it twice. Just take it slowly. Take short breaks if needed.
Bring a back pack with water, coffee, goodies as no shop in sight lol.
Fantastic view from the top but pray it stays dry as coming back down is harder especially if wet
That's what happened me started to rain when I was near the top them comming down it was so Slippy .."
I know. Rocks are loose and slippery than hell when wet. How do people climb it barefooted . Ouch ?? |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
Quite often slips and falls occur when you are over cautious.
That's almost as bad as being reckless.
If you only think one step ahead and keep stopping and starting you are having to readjust your balance with every step. The more rigid you are the more chance there is of a fall.
Look 3,4 5 steps ahead and keep moving no matter how slow that may be. Feel the ground under your feet as you go and you'll learn to anticipate and more importantly relax.
Compare it to walking on ice. A confident stride where you are barely putting your weight on one spot and you will cover ground. Stopping and analysing every step and you're going on your arse. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Quite often slips and falls occur when you are over cautious.
That's almost as bad as being reckless.
If you only think one step ahead and keep stopping and starting you are having to readjust your balance with every step. The more rigid you are the more chance there is of a fall.
Look 3,4 5 steps ahead and keep moving no matter how slow that may be. Feel the ground under your feet as you go and you'll learn to anticipate and more importantly relax.
Compare it to walking on ice. A confident stride where you are barely putting your weight on one spot and you will cover ground. Stopping and analysing every step and you're going on your arse. "
That's very good advice to map out the the way back down cheers. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Oh I done it I was grand going up bit then I literally foze halfway down cause I was petrified... I'm glad I done it bt once is enough for me.."
Ah no Boglady, let's get a few together and do it some Sunday morning. Maybe followed by a feast of beers |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"We know of a group of fabbers doing this very soon. They'll mount Croagh Patrick first and each other then
The first part is the toughest but it's ok after that. Take ham sandwiches with you, once you get to the top they'll be the nicest ham sandwiches you've ever eaten. Enjoy "
The first part? Surely it's the last bit that's the trickiest,only gets steep and slippery then |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
I've been up it loads of times. Its amazing at the top, I just hope its clear for you guys.
Yes runners would be ok but I would advise some walking boots with good grip just for coming down. Waterproof clothing as its the west of Ireland lol. Snacks tea or coffee, and plenty of water. And me being an outdoor activities instructor would bring a first aid kit too. Just incase.
When going up and down if you walk in little diagonals its alot easier and less strenuous on the legs.
Hope you have a cracker.
|
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By *at3232Woman
over a year ago
the moon |
"Today's the day we tackle Croagh Patrick god help us
The weather isn't great here in Galway but hopefully it brightens up by the time we get to Westport x
Ps mountain to follow lol"
How you get on? |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
Hi everyone let me start my saying thanks a million for all the well wishes before climbing that mountain on Saturday lol
We let's talk about Saturday,honestly I'm a broken man the mountain conpelety broke me lol now i would like to think i would have had a fair level of fitness after only finishing playing football 7 months ago so i thought stupidly that i would have been ok with the day that was in it but lord above how wrong was i haha maybe I'm a bit of a soft lad but it was honestly the most physically demanding thing i have ever done in my 44 nearly 45 years haha.
Now today two days after the climb my legs still don't feel like their my own as it was nearly 5 hrs up and down but I'm delighted i finally done and it after years of talking about it but the the pints in Westport afterwards help haha.
Ps that last part near the summit good god the night it was like that scene in Rocky 4 going up the mountain |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
"Your not a soft lad, my legs were goosed after my first hillwalk and I was still playing ball, and I was 22.
I actually think its one of the toughest hillwalks in the country but I wernt gonna say that to you before you done it
Plenty more mountains to try, get yourself back out there and embrace irelands wonderful scenery "
Cheers buddy it was very tough going and it was my first very climb also but my New Balance runners held up ok lol |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
Ye probably done what lads tend to do.. tear into it & are completely fucked by the time you get to the top. The key is to let everyone go ahead of you...& you'll catch up & pass them out on the last shoulder. I should have told ye that b4 the climb though.. but sure look.. you did it.. I must have done it a hundred times, 10 of which, with a 24 mile hike b4 it, then climb from the back & down the front.. haven't done it this year at all yet though. |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
I would highly recommend that anyone interested in hiking etc to do ..if they haven't done it ... climb Carrauntoohil..in all the years that l was in Kerry l never did it but did this year , ABSOLUTELY UNREAL ..went up and down to it through the Devil's ladder and by f**k it's well named ,did it during the warm spell in July ,all conditions bone dry which was brilliant ,took me the guts of between 6-7 hours but absolutely brilliant...was l bolloxed after it .. absolutely...but just so glad l did it . |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
Bring a backpack with food hot tea or coffee. Bring a hat n waterproof clothing as it can change fast. Fully charged phone to take pics . I’d recommend boots. A fleece jacket is good |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
Have a good pair of boots bring water for going up a couple of orange's get a stick at the bottom to help you going up and a couple of Snickers bars be on the mountain for half ten in the morning it's cooler stop going up and look at the views some thing else |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
|
By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"Cheers buddy it was very tough going and it was my first very climb also but my New Balance runners held up ok lol"
Not wishing to sound like a party pooper but is it any wonder that Kerry Mountain Rescue pleaded with people to respect the Mountains and wear suitable footwear.
Otherwise glad you enjoyed the hike |
Reply privately, Reply in forum +quote
or View forums list | |
» Add a new message to this topic
Definitely going to try it again sometime. 
