Welcome the winter solstice with a magical sunrise hike to Fairy Castle, exploring ancient history, folklore and the return of light.

Winter Solstice Sunrise Hike – Fairy CastleWalk through the darkness. Welcome the dawn. Celebrate the return of the light.

There's something special about being high in the Dublin Mountains as the world begins to wake up. And there's no better morning to experience it than the winter solstice – the shortest day of the year.

Join Land & Legend Trails for a memorable pre-dawn adventure as we set out from Glencullen by torchlight, making our way towards the ancient cairn at Fairy Castle on Two Rock Mountain.

As we climb through the darkness, we'll discover the stories of this landscape – its prehistoric monuments, ancient beliefs and Irish folklore. We'll explore why the changing seasons mattered so much to our ancestors and the significance of the winter solstice as a turning point in the year.

Our destination is Fairy Castle, a prehistoric burial cairn standing over 500 metres above sea level.

Here, as the first light spreads across the horizon, we'll pause to take in the moment. With views stretching across Dublin and towards the Irish Sea, we'll welcome the dawn together and celebrate the gradual return of longer days.

There'll be time for a warming drink, photographs and a little quiet reflection before we make our way back down in the morning light.

This isn't a race to the summit. It's an opportunity to experience the mountains in a different way, enjoy some good company and mark a special moment in the turning of the year.

What to Expect

A pre-dawn adventure: Experience the Dublin Mountains by headtorch as night gives way to morning.

A magical sunrise: Watch the winter sky brighten from the summit of Two Rock, weather permitting.

History and folklore: Discover the stories surrounding Fairy Castle, ancient burial traditions and the winter solstice.

A small, friendly group: A relaxed, guided experience with time for conversation, photographs and enjoying the surroundings.

A warm welcome to the new season: Enjoy a hot drink as we mark the return of the light.

Hike Details

Date: Monday, 21 December 2026

Meeting point: Johnnie Fox's, Glencullen

Meeting time: 6:15 am

Departure: 6:30 am sharp

Sunrise: Approximately 8:38 am

Distance: Approximately 8–9 km return

Difficulty: Moderate

Expected finish: 10:00–10:30 am

Group size: Limited places to keep the experience personal

Is This Hike for You?

This walk is suitable for people with a reasonable level of fitness who are comfortable walking uphill on uneven mountain trails.

Previous night-hiking experience isn't necessary, but you should be confident walking for approximately three to four hours, including an ascent in darkness.

We'll walk together at a steady pace, with stops along the way.

What to Bring

Headtorch with fresh batteries or a full charge

Sturdy hiking footwear with good grip

Warm layers, including hat and gloves

Waterproof jacket and trousers

Small backpack with water and snacks

An extra warm layer for our time at the summit

A flask with a hot drink, if you wish

Please note: This is a winter mountain hike. The route and experience are weather-dependent, and the event may be changed or cancelled if conditions are unsafe. Sunrise views cannot be guaranteed.

Come and experience the magic of the mountains at dawn, discover the stories of Fairy Castle and welcome the return of the light.

Walk the land. Discover the legend.

Land & Legend Trails

Description supplied by the event organiser.