Cruach Mor - Knocknapeasta - Carrauntoohil - Epic Mountain Day!

Towards the end of our mini heatwave in July 2021, a trip to Kerry led to this amazing day in Macgillycuddy's Reeks. It is the most challenging route I've undertaken so far and I was definitely buzzing all the way through.
A tough start up Cruach Mor with the steep boulder field to scramble over, led to the grotto at the top and the superb views in all directions. From there it was across the ridge to the Big Gun and Knocknapeasta. That was epic! A good clear path on the day that was in it, undoubtedly made this more manageable.
On to Maolan Bui, Cnoc an Chuillinn, Cnoc na Toinne and then up to Carrauntoohil. That stretch was the easiest part, again given the perfect weather conditions. Fantastic views in all directions. You'd feel privileged to be able to undertake such a hike and savour every minute.
Decided to come back down by the Heavenly Gates, which had been suggested to me by Tim on Mountain Skills course recently. That definitely didn't disappoint! Another cracker of a route down which was easily navigable in the lovely conditions and because it was possible to see the route from above. Challenging enough scrambling down some sections led to another buzz towards the end of the hike!
Back to Cronin's Yard rejoining the main path just after the stepping stones.
What an amazing day!
Photos and videos can never really capture the magnificence, but hopefully you will get some idea. Enjoy!