Knockree – Wicklow Way hostel stop

Overview

Knockree is really one building with a very good address: an An Óige hostel in the Glencree Valley that happens to stand directly on the Wicklow Way, where the trail’s first stage from Marlay Park ends and the second begins. That’s its main use – the natural place to stop, or start, a walk into the mountains, about 20 km out from the Dublin trailhead. The valley around it is ringed by peaks: the Sugarloaf to the east, with Maulin, Djouce, the Tonduffs, Kippure and Prince William’s Seat filling out the horizon. There’s no village to speak of, which is the point – it’s quiet, and only a short drive from Dublin.

History & Background

The original hostel here was an 18th-century farmhouse. What stands today is newer than it looks: the old building was replaced by a complete rebuild costing around €4 million, which reopened in April 2008 as the modern hostel you book into now. It keeps the farmhouse’s setting and stone character rather than the fabric itself.

Inside, it’s a mix of en-suite private rooms, family rooms, a six-bed dormitory and accessible rooms. The oddity is the Honeymoon Suite, with panoramic views over the valley, which the hostel is regularly booked out for at small weddings – not something the word ‘hostel’ usually promises.

What to See & Do

Walking the Wicklow Way

The Wicklow Way, Ireland’s first designated National Waymarked Trail, cuts straight through the hostel grounds. Stage 1 finishes here after a roughly 20 km trek from Marlay Park, and Stage 2 sets off from the doorstep, climbing on toward Djouce and Oldbridge. The trail is clearly marked with the yellow walking man symbol, and the Knockree section is known for its gentle riverbanks, open valley floors, and dramatic mountain backdrops. It’s a reliable route for both seasoned hikers and those looking for a manageable first foray into the Irish uplands.

Short Walks & Nearby Summits

Not everyone needs to tackle a full stage of the long-distance trail. Knockree Hill (342 m) is just a short stroll from the hostel and offers an easy, rewarding summit with panoramic views of Maulin, the Sugarloaf, and the Tonduffs. For those with more energy, Djouce Mountain (725 m) and the Tonduff range are reachable via well-marked paths starting from the hostel car park. Both routes provide excellent vantage points over the Glencree Valley and the surrounding farmland.

Scenic Highlights

The hostel’s location is its greatest asset. From the balcony or dining room windows, you can trace the ridgelines south-east toward Maulin, east toward the Sugarloaf, and north to Prince William’s Seat. The surrounding hills are ideal for short hill walks, mountain biking, and pony trekking. The on-site Eco Adventure Ireland programme runs regular sessions through the valley’s quiet lanes and historic pilgrim routes.

Eco Adventure Ireland Activities

Knockree partners with Eco Adventure Ireland to offer a structured range of outdoor experiences:

• Pony-trekking along old pilgrim paths
• Mountain biking for all skill levels (the nearby Ballinastoe MBT trail centre is a short drive for more advanced riders)
• Archery, low-ropes courses, and target shooting
• Orienteering challenges and team-building exercises
• Ecology field-study days tailored for school groups

These programmes run year-round and can be booked directly through the hostel reception.

Volunteer & Community

The land around Knockree is actively managed for conservation. The An Óige reserve nearby hosts regular volunteer days, such as the March 2024 initiative where ReWild Wicklow helped plant hedgerows, weed the tree nursery, and install fencing. Similar weekends run throughout spring and summer, giving visitors a chance to contribute to local habitat restoration while enjoying the fresh mountain air.

Dog-Friendly Trail

Dogs are welcome on the Wicklow Way and in the hostel’s outdoor spaces, provided they are kept under control and leashed. The walking routes feature uneven ground and some muddy patches, so sturdy paws and post-walk washing are recommended.

Nearby Attractions

• Enniskerry (7.5 km) – A Victorian village known for its independent shops, cafes, and proximity to the Powerscourt Estate.
• Glendalough – A short drive into the Wicklow Mountains National Park, featuring ancient monastic ruins, twin lakes, and well-maintained forest walks.
• Powerscourt Estate – Famous for its terraced gardens and Ireland’s highest waterfall, it makes a convenient half-day excursion from Knockree.

Hostel Facilities & Services

Knockree Youth Hostel is designed for comfort and convenience:

• A spacious dining hall serving a hearty breakfast (the only regular meal; lunch and dinner require a four-day pre-order)
• A TV relaxation room with a log fire for cooler evenings
• Self-catering kitchen and a mini-shop with essentials
• Free on-site parking for cars and coaches
• Free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a games room with table tennis and board games
• Wheelchair-accessible rooms and level common areas
• An Óige members receive a €2 discount per night with a valid membership card

The property holds Fáilte Ireland accreditation and meets the Tourist Accommodation Quality Standard.

Practical Information

Getting there – The hostel is about 7.5 km from Enniskerry and 12 km from Bray, and easiest reached by car, with free on-site parking for cars and coaches. Without a car, the usual approach is the DART to Bray or a bus to Enniskerry and then a local bus toward the Glencree road, finishing on foot along the Wicklow Way. Services are sparse, so check current routes and times before you set out.

Booking – The hostel fills quickly during the peak walking season (May to September). Reservations can be made via the Discover Ireland page or directly with the property. Groups of more than 10 people need to arrange their stay directly with the hostel management.

Contact – For general enquiries, email info@anoige.ie or call +353 1 276 7981; activities are run with Eco Adventure Ireland and can be arranged through hostel reception.

Seasonal Tips

The Wicklow Way is most rewarding between May and September. Early summer brings wildflowers to the glens and reliable daylight for longer hikes, while late summer offers warmer temperatures and fewer midges. Winter walking is possible but requires waterproof layers, sturdy boots, and a reliable GPS or map, as the trail can become boggy and visibility drops quickly in the valleys. Book early for summer stays, and pack a reusable water bottle – the hostel’s self-catering kitchen and mini-shop make it easy to prepare for a full day on the trail.