Knocknarea – Rathcarrick Trail

Take the rugged trail to the top of Knocknarea to explore Maeve’s Cairn but remember it is forbidden to walk on this national monument.

This is a very rewarding climb and should take around 40 minutes to reach the top. The route covers a distance of about 2.5km and would be classified as a moderate climb. Sunrise and sunset are especially superb from the summit although we recommend that you bring water, good footwear and leave ample time to return down the mountain after sunset. Why not pack a picnic and your camera and spend an afternoon exploring some of Ireland’s finest sights all steeped in local history? We can guarantee you will not be disappointed!

Coming from Strandhill and starting at the beach, make your way up the hill, past the church on your right. Turn right at the top and continue on this road out of the village. The road becomes small and windy from here on so take care. After 2km, you will find a left turn signposted for Knocknarea. Take this road up a steep hill, passing “the Glen” on your right as the road gets very narrow. Take the first left, which is again signposted for Knocknarea, bringing you to the car park.

From the car park follow the stone path up the hill. The walk gets steeper from the kissing gate and continues up to the cairn, returning by the same route. The terrain is quite steep and rugged and gets progressively harder as you move closer to the summit. Allow 10 minutes extra to walk past the cairn to the front of the mountain for the best views.