4.6
(496)
2,734
hikers
30
hikes
Hiking around Knockaree ED, located in County Sligo, Ireland, offers a diverse landscape for outdoor enthusiasts. The region is characterized by its prominent limestone formations, including the iconic Knocknarea mountain, which provides expansive views over the surrounding bays and countryside. Trails often traverse varied terrain, from coastal paths and sandy beaches to lush pine forests and gravel tracks. This area provides a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, with routes suitable for various activity levels.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.9
(19)
105
hikers
3.47km
01:12
190m
190m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(18)
105
hikers
7.07km
01:50
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
34
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
14
hikers
5.59km
01:28
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
19
hikers
4.85km
01:14
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
12
hikers
4.92km
01:15
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
4.65km
01:12
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.3
(3)
9
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
2.77km
00:42
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
5.44km
01:24
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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This very impressive, opulent French Gothic courthouse, designed by Rawson Carroll, is well preserved and is not only one of the most striking and memorable buildings in Sligo, but also one of the finest examples of its genre in the country.
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The famous Irish poet William Butler Yeats is closely associated with County Sligo; he used the abbey in two short stories: "The Crucifixion of the Outcasts" and "The Curse of Fire and Shadow." Yeats is buried in the nearby Drumcliffe Church.
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accessible on foot from the airport parking lot.
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Strandhill beach is a lovely spot to stop for a break with a coffee shop to get a hot drink from and fantastic views out to sea. The beach is popular and known for its spectacular sunsets.
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Known locally as "The Abbey", this beautiful Dominican Friary was founded in the mid-13th century and served as both a religious centre and community gathering space.
1
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Beautiful headland viewing point with a great ocean view. Just a nice place to be!
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Nice promenade with a good out to sea viewpoint and numerous shops.
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Knockaree ED offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 20 routes specifically graded as easy. These trails allow you to explore the diverse landscapes of County Sligo at a comfortable pace.
Easy hikes in Knockaree ED feature varied terrain, including coastal paths, sandy beaches, lush pine forests, and gravel tracks. You'll encounter the distinctive limestone formations of the region, offering a blend of natural beauty and gentle walking surfaces.
Yes, many of the easy trails are suitable for families. Routes like the Killaspugbrone Loop Trail – Strandhill Beach loop from Sligo Airport offer relatively flat coastal walking, perfect for a leisurely outing with children. The diverse scenery keeps younger hikers engaged.
Many trails in Knockaree ED are dog-friendly, especially coastal and forest paths. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a leash, particularly near livestock or protected wildlife areas. Specific policies may vary, so check local signage.
You can discover several interesting landmarks. The Knocknarea Trail and Queen Maeve's Grave offers views of the impressive Queen Maeve's Cairn. Other trails might lead you past the ruins of Sligo Abbey or along the scenic Strandhill Beach.
Absolutely. Many easy trails in Knockaree ED are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Killaspugbrone Coastal loop from Strandhill is a popular easy circular option, offering beautiful Atlantic views.
Parking is generally available near popular trailheads, especially in areas like Strandhill and around the base of Knocknarea. For routes starting from Strandhill, you'll often find designated parking areas close to the beach and village amenities.
The easy trails in Knockaree ED are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning coastal views, the historical significance of sites like Queen Maeve's Cairn, and the peaceful atmosphere of the forest sections.
Yes, even on easy trails, you can find excellent viewpoints. While the summit of Knocknarea is a more strenuous climb, some lower sections and coastal paths still offer expansive panoramas of the bays, islands, and the surrounding countryside, including glimpses of the Ox Mountains and Lough Gill.
Knockaree ED is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for easy hiking, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. Autumn also provides stunning scenery with changing foliage. Coastal walks can be enjoyed in all seasons, though be prepared for wind and rain.
While the main trails are popular for good reason, exploring the various sections of the Knocknarea Forest Walk can reveal quieter paths. Additionally, the region's rich history means many smaller, local paths might lead to less-frequented historical sites or scenic spots.
Yes, the nearby town of Strandhill, a common starting point for many trails, offers various options for post-hike refreshments, including cafes and pubs. You'll also find accommodation choices there, making it convenient for a longer stay to explore the area.


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