My shortest and easiest Sligo hike.
When you feel like going for a hike, but are too lazy to do it hard, the Knocknashee trail is undoubtedly the best option. Located just a 20 minutes drive from Sligo Park Hotel, Knocknashee rises to 270 meters and is considered more of a hill rather than a mountain. It is a limestone tabletopped plateau known as Hill of Faeries. Hills’ name comes from two Irish words:
Cnoc, that means Hill;Shee, that means Fairy.
Formed over 300 million years ago the hill is the home of Neolithic Passage tombs that are approximately 5000 years old. Knocknashee is a part of the Ox Mountains range landscape.
Despite being very short, this hike is one of the TOP 10 hikes in county Sligo. From its top hikers will enjoy the famous Irish green landscape, celebrated in local folklore. The trail also overlooks the old Court Abbey Cemetery. This is the ruins of a Franciscan friary that goes back to the 15th century when it was established by the O'Hara family. Visit to this historical site pairs perfectly with Knockanashee hike. By the way, the graveyard is still in use today, but the Abbey is in a dangerous condition, so you should be careful visiting it.
Many Sligo guides say that the Knocknashee trail takes 1,5 hours to complete, but it took me only 45 minutes both ways. The path goes through a private farm land full of lazy sheep chilling on the green meadows. Please, be advised, that dogs are not allowed on the route.
Knocknashee is an ideal choice for anyone looking for a relaxing, easy and short hike. Thanks to its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful view from the top it is a memorable addition to any hiking list.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9HRcFqEK732BVAbH7
Directions from Sligo Park Hotel: https://maps.app.goo.gl/11MBzbz47SpMo2Z8A
