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Trail · Sligo, Sligo
Knocknarea
A 327-metre hill west of Sligo, topped by a large stone tomb attributed to Queen Maeve, with a trail of about 45 minutes and views of the bay and Strandhill.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Knocknarea
Knocknarea is a 327-metre limestone hill on the peninsula between Sligo Bay and Ballysadare Bay, about 8 km west of the town. On the summit stands a large stone burial mound, the Miosgán Médhbh, roughly 55 metres across and 10 metres high; it is visible from afar and has never been excavated. Archaeologists link it to Neolithic passage tombs like those at Carrowmore, just below.
Local tradition says the queen Maeve of Connacht from Irish legend is buried there, standing and facing her enemies in Ulster. Out of respect for the monument, visitors are advised not to climb on the stone mound or remove stones from it.
The most used trail starts from the car park on the east side of the hill, near Strandhill, and climbs on a gravel path and boardwalks over the peat to the summit in about 45 minutes. From the top you can see Sligo Bay, Benbulben, the town, Strandhill beach and, on clear days, the mountains of Donegal.
At the foot of the hill, Strandhill is a seaside village popular with surfers, with dunes and the regional airport. The climb is often combined with Carrowmore and an evening in Strandhill.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1.5 to 2 hours to climb and return.
Best time
Late afternoon for the Atlantic sunset, or in the morning. In strong wind and rain the summit is exposed. Avoid it in fog.
How to get there
The trail car park is on the Strandhill road, about 8 km west of Sligo, signposted. There are buses from Sligo to Strandhill, about 2 km from the trailhead.
Tip
Do not climb on the stone mound at the top: walk around it. Afterwards, go down to eat in Strandhill and watch the sunset on the beach.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Knocknarea
Is the climb up Knocknarea difficult?
It is moderate, about a 45‑minute ascent on gravel paths and boardwalks. The final section is steeper and exposed to the wind.
Who is buried at the summit?
Tradition says it is the queen Maeve of Connacht. The mound has never been excavated; archaeologists relate it to the Neolithic.
Can I climb on the stone mound?
Visitors are advised not to climb on or remove stones, out of respect and to preserve the monument.