Knocknashee Walk, Connacht Travel Guide

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Explore Knocknashee: Hike to an ancient hill fort with stunning views and a touch of Irish folklore in County Sligo.

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Knocknashee Walk

Knocknashee, or 'Hill of the Fairies,' is a captivating hilltop in County Sligo, Ireland, known for its rich Bronze Age history and panoramic views. Once a fortified town, it offers visitors a chance to explore ancient cairns and hut sites while soaking in the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

A brief summary to Knocknashee Walk

Unnamed Road, Gortnadrass, Co. Sligo, IE

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Knocknashee Walk.

Wear sturdy walking boots as the trail can be steep and slippery, especially after rain.
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views from the summit.
Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change quickly.
Be mindful that dogs are not allowed on the trail due to it being on open farmland.

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Explore Knocknashee Walk on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Knocknashee Walk, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

From Sligo Town, head west on the N4, then take the N59 towards Ballina. Continue on the N59 until you reach Easkey. From Easkey, turn right onto the R297 and follow signs for Knocknashee. After about 6 km, you'll see a sign for the Knocknashee Walk. Turn onto the unnamed road, where limited roadside parking is available near the trailhead. Parking is very limited, with space for only a few cars, so arrive early.
Public Transport

Take a Bus Éireann bus from Sligo Town to Tubbercurry. From Tubbercurry, you can take a taxi to the Knocknashee Walk trailhead, which is approximately 9 km away. Alternatively, there is a regular bus service along the N17, 3.5 km from the trailhead. A taxi from Tubbercurry to the trailhead will cost approximately €15-€25. Bus fares from Sligo to Tubbercurry typically range from €8-€12.

Discover more about Knocknashee Walk

Knocknashee, derived from the Irish 'Cnoc na Sí' meaning 'Hill of the Fairies', is a striking landmark in South Sligo, rising dramatically from the surrounding plains. This 276-meter flat-topped limestone hill was once the site of one of Ireland's largest Bronze Age hill forts, dating back to around 1000 BC. The fort stretched over 700 by 320 meters and was defended by two earth and stone ramparts.Today, visitors can explore the remains of this ancient settlement, including two cairns, which may have been passage tombs, and the outlines of former dwelling structures. The panoramic views from the summit are breathtaking, encompassing the Connacht plains, the Ox Mountains, Benbulben, Knocknarea, and even Croagh Patrick on a clear day.The Knocknashee Walk is a popular trail that leads to the summit. The ascent is steep but relatively short, with steps installed on the steepest section. Along the way, you'll find wooden carvings and seating areas where you can pause to admire the views. The trail is about 1.5 km long and takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to complete. Sturdy footwear is recommended, as the path can be wet and slippery.Knocknashee is steeped in Irish folklore, with tales of fairies and ancient rituals. The hill's name reflects its connection to the mystical realm, and the surrounding landscape is dotted with ringforts and megalithic chambers. The summit was once a sacred burial place and should be treated with respect.