Knocknarea [Cnoc na Riabh]
Good walks are even better shared.
G6234 : Maeve's Grave
Bob Embleton Photo source
Explore routes near Knocknarea [Cnoc na Riabh]
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
Queen Maeve's Trail
This is the most popular route starting from the car park at the base of Knocknarea. The trail ascends through forested sections and open heathland, offering stunning views of Sligo Bay and the surrounding countryside. The route takes you to the summit cairn, reputed to be the burial place of Queen Maeve.
Knocknarea Coastal Loop
This circular route begins at Strandhill Village and combines a walk up Knocknarea with a scenic coastal path. You’ll ascend the hill via the southern side before descending towards the coastline, passing sand dunes and returning through Strandhill.
Ballisodare Approach
Starting from Ballisodare, this route takes a quieter approach to Knocknarea. The path winds through farmland and woodland before joining the main trail to the summit. It's a peaceful alternative with fewer walkers.
Knocknarea Ridge Traverse
For a more challenging hike, this route follows the ridge of Knocknarea from east to west. It starts at the eastern base and traverses the summit before descending on the western side. The views along the ridge are spectacular, but the terrain is uneven in places.
Strandhill to Knocknarea Out-and-Back
This straightforward route starts from Strandhill Village and follows the main trail up and down Knocknarea. It’s a direct ascent and descent, making it perfect for those with limited time but wanting to experience the iconic summit.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
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G6234 : Maeve's Grave
Bob Embleton
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G6234 : Names in Stone, Knocknarea
Bob Embleton
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G6234 : Maeve's Cairn on Knocknarea above Strandhill
Colin Park
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G6234 : Knocknarea summit
Rossographer
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G6234 : Knocknarea
Seamus Feeney
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G6234 : Erratic boulder
Jonathan Wilkins
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
327m
1,073 ft
Prominence
306m
Coordinates
54.2587, -8.5745
G626345
OS Map
16 25
At the Summit
At the summit, hikers can find a large cairn (a traditional stone pile) that serves as a focal point, alongside panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Terrain & Geology
Composed primarily of limestone, Knocknarea features impressive karst landscapes and various rock formations that tell stories of geological processes over millennia.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, you can see the majestic Ben Bulben mountain, Lough Gill, and the expansive Atlantic Ocean in the distance.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Knocknarea' translates to 'Hill of the Kings' in Irish, highlighting its historical significance.
Historical Significance
This mountain is steeped in myth and legend, being the burial site of Queen Maeve, a legendary warrior queen of Connacht.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
There is a small car park located near the base of the mountain, which can comfortably accommodate several cars.
Public Transport
The nearest bus service connects Sligo town to various points in the region, with a shuttle available to the foot of Knocknarea during peak hiking seasons.
Nearby Facilities
While there are no facilities at the summit, Sligo offers numerous cafes, restaurants, and public toilets.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Be wary of changing weather conditions, as they can shift quickly. The terrain can also be slippery after rain.
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 Knocknarea [Cnoc na Riabh]?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Knocknarea [Cnoc na Riabh] through the maps
Are there other walkers around Knocknarea [Cnoc na Riabh]?
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 Knocknarea [Cnoc na Riabh] search or of course create your own walk for Knocknarea [Cnoc na Riabh]
Can I organise a walk to Knocknarea [Cnoc na Riabh]?
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 Knocknarea [Cnoc na Riabh].
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 Knocknarea [Cnoc na Riabh]?
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 Knocknarea [Cnoc na Riabh] 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
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Location
View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.
Grid reference: G626345
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