Taking just under two hours to complete, the spectacular Queen Maeve Trail takes on a sustained climb from the coastal town of Strandhill to the summit of Knocknarea Mountain.
This 2.4km trail is considered strenuous and ascends 300 metres up the mountain’s northern slopes. A linear route through lush pine forest, the terrain consists of gravel paths, timber and gravel steps, as well as an elevated and stepped bog-bridge.
As you follow the route you’ll enjoy stunning views over idyllic islands and bays and from the mountain’s summit, panoramas over counties Donegal, Leitrim and Sligo.
The burial cairn of ancient Queen Maeve rests at the mountain’s summit, giving walkers a dose of history along with that breathtaking scenery.
Back in Strandhill you’ll have you pick of lively cafés, pubs and restaurants to toast your walk in.
Trail details
- Type:
- Walking Trail
- Location:
- Strandhill
- Grade:
- Strenuous
- Format:
- Linear
- Length:
- 2.30km
- Ascent:
- 300m
- Dogs allowed:
- Yes
- Knocknarea mountain stands 320m above sea level giving walkers incredible views over three counties - Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal - from its summit.
- Along the route you’ll embrace exceptional views of Sligo Bay, Coney Island, Rosses Point and the Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) Mountains in County Donegal.
- Knocknarea’s summit is the burial place of the famed warrior Queen Maeve of Connacht. The formidable Queen is said to have been buried upright with a spear in hand, ready to face her enemies.
