In our series on walks to discover and enjoy across Ireland, Megan Fox recommends this trail in County Sligo.
Highlights
The trail up Knocknarea Mountain is one of Sligo’s most rewarding walks, blending sweeping coastal scenery with ancient legend. This roughly 6km loop typically takes between 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your pace, and offers a moderately strenuous climb with some steep sections and stone steps. Sturdy footwear is a must.
At the summit, you’ll find the impressive cairn said to mark the resting place of Queen Maeve, adding a touch of myth and mystery. On a clear day, the views stretch across Sligo Bay, out towards Rosses Point making it all worth the hike.
Getting there and parking
There are three different entry points to the Queen Maeve Trail. Glen Road, you can park at Knocknarea carpark for this or you can also begin from Strandhill where parking may be available at Sligo rugby club.
Bite to eat
Just a short 10-minute drive away you’ll find Foam café. Their coffee is delicious and their menu is full of wholesome feeds such as potato and chorizo frittatas and ham and caramelised onion and cheese toasties. The perfect post-hike feed.
Where to stay
Why not lean into the full outdoorsy experience and camp at The Strandhill Caravan and Camping park. They have great amenities on site such as toilets, showers, laundry, a campers’ kitchen, TV and games room and even internet access. sligocaravanandcamping.ie.
For more hiking trails and walk inspiration pick up the July |August issue of Irish Country Magazine. Find your nearest stockist here, or to subscribe and never miss an issue, click here.
Read next: Diamond Hill, Connemara: Everything you need to know before hiking it.
