Knocknanacree
Good walks are even better shared.
Overview
Knocknanacree: A Hidden Gem
Nestled in the rolling landscapes near the Slieve Bloom Mountains, Knocknanacree stands at a modest elevation of 330 meters. While it may not be the highest peak, it certainly packs a punch when it comes to spectacular views and enjoyable hiking experiences.
Geology
You’ll be traversing ancient seabeds—if the rocks could talk, they would narrate stories of marine creatures from millions of years ago! The predominant mudstone and sandstone formations tell us about the earth’s past, before humans started making the hills their playground.
Route Overview
The Knocknanacree Circuit is your best bet for exploring the area. This moderate loop spans 5.5 km and generally takes about two hours to complete. Starting from the eastern flank, it winds through some delightful scenery, ideal for a leisurely jaunt or a day of vivid adventure.
Summit Features
Reaching the summit, you’ll be greeted by a humble cairn, the perfect backdrop for a selfie! It’s a prime spot to take a breather and soak in the splendour of the surrounding countryside.
Terrain
Think lush grassy slopes paired with rugged rock formations. If you’re lucky, you might just spot a few colourful wildflowers dotting the landscape, courtesy of Mother Nature.
Views
On clear days, the vistas from Knocknanacree are nothing short of breath-taking. You can behold the sprawling Slieve Bloom Mountains in all their glory, with rolling hills stretching out as far as the eye can see. Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons for views that will make you stop and think, 'Life really is fantastic'.
Hazards
Every rose has its thorn! While hiking here, watch out for those slippery rocky patches, especially if the weather has been less than cooperative. And don’t forget—it’s not unusual for the weather to change quicker than you can say ‘pint of Guinness’, so keep an eye on the sky!
Nearby Summits
If you’re keen to extend your adventure, Croghan Hill and Sliabh Bladhma are worthy challengers, both offering unique perspectives on the captivating landscape.
Access
Coming from Mountrath (10 km away), just look for the small parking area at V579990. If you fancy leaving the car at home, a bus can get you most of the way here, though check the local service as they can be as elusive as a good Wi-Fi signal in the countryside.
Facilities
After conquering the hill, treat yourself in Mountrath. There are a couple of cafes and pubs to recharge your batteries, along with toilets available for that necessary pit stop.
History
The name Kicknanacree brings to mind the ancient Irish legends. It means ‘hill of the tree’, a nod to the greenery that would have once graced this hallowed ground.
So, gear up and head out to experience Knocknanacree—where adventure awaits and the only thing that should be out of breath is you!
Explore routes near Knocknanacree
Public walks starting within 80 km of this hill. Nearby does not mean a route reaches the summit; check its map and access before setting out.
No public routes are currently listed within 80 km of Knocknanacree on Walkmates. This does not mean there are no paths here. Explore the map and check local access information before planning a walk.
Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches, not verified navigable routes or permission to cross land. Check current paths, local access rules and conditions before setting out.
The Knocknanacree Circuit
A pleasant loop starting from the eastern flank, allowing hikers to take in the surrounding terrain and nearby streams.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
283m
928 ft
Prominence
256m
Coordinates
52.1321, -10.0862
V572998
OS Map
70
At the Summit
The summit is adorned with a modest cairn, offering a picturesque spot for a well-deserved break and photo opportunity.
Terrain & Geology
Knocknanacree is predominantly composed of mudstone and sandstone, typical of the region. These sedimentary rocks tell tales of ancient seabeds and are a reminder of the area's geological history.
Views & Scenery
On a clear day, one can gaze upon the expansive vistas of the Slieve Bloom Mountains and see the rolling hills that seem to go on forever.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name Knocknanacree derives from the Irish 'Cnoc na Craoibhe', meaning 'hill of the tree', likely referencing the tree cover in the area.
Historical Significance
The region surrounding Knocknanacree holds cultural stories and connections to ancient Celtic folklore, making it a site of historical interest.
Getting There & Facilities
Check current local access restrictions, parking rules and transport timetables before travelling. These notes do not confirm public access to the summit.
Parking
There is a small parking area at V579990, adequate for a few cars and providing easy access to the trailhead.
Public Transport
Bus services from nearby towns like Mountrath offer connections, but check local timetables as they can be sparse.
Nearby Facilities
Mountrath has a few cafes and pubs, perfect for grabbing a bite before or after your hike. Toilets are available in town.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Beware of slippery rocky patches, especially after rain. Also, be mindful of sudden changes in weather conditions.
General Safety Tips
- Check weather conditions before setting out
- Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
- Let someone know your planned route
- Take a map, compass, and GPS device
- Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch
Hills
Some common questions about the hills answered
Are there group walks up Knocknanacree?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Knocknanacree through the maps
Are there other walkers around Knocknanacree?
Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Knocknanacree search or of course create your own walk for Knocknanacree
Can I organise a walk to Knocknanacree?
Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.
If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Knocknanacree.
How do I find a walk up this hill?
There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.
Can I suggest a new route up Knocknanacree?
Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.
Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Knocknanacree here
The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?
We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible
Community Discussion
Comments
Location
Grid reference: V572998
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
Hills within 30 km
Straight-line distance, not a walking route or confirmation of access.
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