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Knocknarea Deserted Village: Echoes of the Past

Discover the haunting beauty of Knocknarea Deserted Village, where history and stunning landscapes meet on Ireland's Coolera Peninsula.

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Explore the haunting ruins of Knocknarea Deserted Village in County Sligo, an abandoned pre-famine settlement nestled beneath the iconic Knocknarea Mountain, offering a glimpse into Ireland's poignant history and stunning natural landscapes.

A brief summary to Knocknarea Deserted Village

  • Knocknarea Deserted Village, Knocknarea South, Co. Sligo, IE

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain around the village and on Knocknarea Mountain can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain.
  • Bring a stone to place on Queen Maeve's cairn at the summit of Knocknarea Mountain, a local tradition.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as the views from Knocknarea are best enjoyed on a clear day.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Strandhill, known for its surfing and beautiful beach.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Sligo Town, take the N4 road south. After approximately 8 kilometers, turn left onto the R292 towards Ballisodare. Continue for about 5 kilometers, then follow the signs for Knocknarea Deserted Village. Parking is available at the base of Knocknarea Mountain. From the car park, it's a walk to the village ruins. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    From Sligo Town, take the Bus Éireann route S2 towards Strandhill. Get off at Mannionstown (Dorrins Strand), which is the closest stop to Knocknarea. From there, it's approximately a 37-minute walk (2.8km) to the Knocknarea trailhead. A single fare on Bus Éireann is approximately €3-4.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Sligo Town. A taxi to Knocknarea Deserted Village takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The fare will range between €15-€25. Confirm the fare with the driver before departing.

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Discover more about Knocknarea Deserted Village

Knocknarea Deserted Village, located in County Sligo, offers a captivating journey into Ireland's past. This abandoned settlement, situated on the slopes of Knocknarea Mountain, provides a unique opportunity to explore the remnants of a bygone era. As you wander through the village, you'll encounter the remains of stone cottages, telling silent stories of the families who once called this place home. The village's history is intertwined with the Great Famine of the 1840s, a period of immense hardship that led to the village's abandonment. The haunting atmosphere and panoramic views create a powerful experience for visitors. The surrounding landscape is just as captivating, with lush green hills and views of the Atlantic Ocean. Knocknarea Mountain itself is a significant historical site, crowned by a massive cairn known as Queen Maeve's Grave. This Neolithic monument dates back approximately 5,000 years and is believed to be a passage tomb. Hiking to the summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including Sligo Bay, Benbulben, and the Ox Mountains. The area around Knocknarea is rich in prehistoric remains, with sites like the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery and Carrowkeel tombs nearby.

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