Coillte Hell
Fire Club
About the Coillte Hell Fire forest loop
Distance
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The Hell Fire Forest Loop is a 5.5 km walking trail on the southern slopes of Montpelier Hill (383 m). Starting from the small car park off the R115, the route winds through forest plantation before reaching the summit where the ruins of the Hell Fire Club overlook Dublin city and bay.
The loop begins at the car park, where you’ll follow the green-way trail sign into a mix of sitka spruce, larch and beech. The first part of the route climbs steadily, with the path occasionally opening to reveal glimpses of the Glenasmole Valley.
As you ascend, the forest changes character. Heather and furze appear among the trees, and birdlife is often heard overhead. The trail continues upwards until the unmistakable stone ruin of the Hell Fire Club comes into view.
At The Summit
The ruined hunting lodge at the top of Montpelier Hill is steeped in legend. Built around 1725 by William Connolly as a shooting lodge, it later became associated with the Hell Fire Club, a group of “wild young gentlemen” notorious for their drinking and alleged occult practices.
Stories of hauntings and mysterious events are tied to the ruin, and it is said that the lodge was cursed after being built on an ancient cairn. Whatever the truth, the spot remains one of the most atmospheric in the Dublin Mountains.
From here, walkers are rewarded with sweeping views across Dublin city, Dublin Bay, and the Wicklow Mountains.
The Return
The loop trail descends steeply in places, so take care, especially after rain when the ground can be slippery. The route follows forestry paths back through the trees to the car park where the walk began.
For those looking to extend the day, Lord Massy’s Woods lie just across the road. Here, quieter trails and a short nature walk offer a gentler contrast to the wilder atmosphere of Montpelier Hill.
