Overview
Knockree sits in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, cradled by the Glencree Valley and surrounded by a sweeping 360-degree panorama of peaks. To the east rises the iconic Sugarloaf, while Maulin, Djouce, the Tonduffs, Kippure and Prince William’s Seat frame the horizon. The hamlet itself is quiet and uncommercial, but its position on the Wicklow Way makes it a natural stopping point for long-distance hikers and a peaceful retreat for day-trippers escaping Dublin. At the centre of it all is Knockree Youth Hostel, a five-star Irish Youth Hostel Association property that balances rural heritage with modern comfort.
History & Background
The hostel building is a carefully restored 18th-century farmhouse. A €4 million refurbishment completed in 2008 transformed the structure into a five-star accommodation while preserving its original stone façade and rustic character. The site itself carries centuries of local history. It was once home to a monastic settlement that surrendered in 1542 during Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries. Rather than disappearing entirely, the monastery’s stones were repurposed to build the local parish church, a quiet testament to the shifting landscape of Irish religious life.
Today, the hostel offers a mix of en-suite private rooms, family rooms, a six-bed dormitory, and accessible accommodation. A standout feature is the Honeymoon Suite, complete with a private balcony overlooking the valley. It’s a popular choice for small weddings and quiet romantic breaks, proving that youth hostels have long moved beyond their backpacker-only reputation.
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 unofficially finishes here after a 20-kilometre trek from Marlay Park, while Stage 2 begins on the doorstep and climbs toward Roundwood. 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 charming 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
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Check-in | 15:00 – 21:00 (last check-in 21:00) |
| Check-out | By 10:00 |
| Phone | +353 1 276 7981 |
| Website | https://www.discoverireland.ie/accommodation/knockree-youth-hostel |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair-accessible rooms and level common areas; walking routes include uneven terrain |
| Parking | Free on-site car and coach parking |
| Wi-Fi | Free throughout the hostel |
| Booking limit | Maximum 10 guests per reservation; larger groups must contact the hostel directly |
| Meals | Breakfast included; lunch/evening meals pre-order only |
| Dog policy | Dogs welcome on trails (leashed) and in outdoor areas |
Getting there – Knockree is 52 km from Dublin Airport. Public transport involves taking the DART to Bray, then bus 185 to the “Shop River” stop (€1.70 exact change). From there, it’s a 40-minute walk following trail signs to the hostel. Alternatively, bus 44C to Enniskerry connects with the 185 route. Free parking is available for drivers.
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 activity bookings or general enquiries, email info@ecoadventureireland.ie or call +353 1 276 7981.
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.