Overview
Knockree lies in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, nestled in the Glencree Valley and framed by a 360‑degree panorama of peaks – from the Sugarloaf in the east to Maulin, Djouce, the Tonduffs, Kippure and Prince William’s Seat. The hamlet itself has no shops, but its location on the Wicklow Way makes it an ideal overnight stop for walkers and a convenient retreat for day‑trippers from Dublin. The centerpiece of the settlement is Knockree Youth Hostel, a five‑star Irish Youth Hostel Association property that blends historic charm with modern amenities.
History & Background
The hostel occupies a restored 18th‑century farmhouse, preserving the rural character of the original building while offering contemporary comforts. After a €4 million investment, the property reopened in April 2008 as a five‑star hostel, retaining its historic façade and adding a range of rooms – from en‑suite private rooms to family rooms, wheelchair‑accessible rooms and a six‑bed dormitory. The site sits on the former grounds of a monastic settlement that was forced to surrender in 1542 during Henry VIII’s dissolution; the stones were later incorporated into a parish church.
The hostel also features a Honeymoon Suite that offers a balcony with uninterrupted valley views and is frequently used for small weddings and romantic get‑aways.
What to See & Do
Walking the Wicklow Way
The Wicklow Way, Ireland’s oldest and most scenic long‑distance trail, passes directly through the Knockree grounds. Stage 1 of the route finishes unofficially at the hostel after a 20‑km, 7‑hour trek from Marlay Park, while Stage 2 begins here and climbs towards Roundwood, offering striking views of Powerscourt Waterfall, Deer Park and Lough Tay. The trail is well sign‑posted with the universal yellow “walking man” symbol, and the section around Knockree is noted for its gentle riverbanks, open valleys and dramatic mountain backdrops.
Short Walks & Nearby Summits
Knockree Hill (342 m) lies just a short walk from the hostel and provides an easy summit for families and casual walkers. From the top you can enjoy 360‑degree views of Maulin, the Sugarloaf and the Tonduffs. Longer options include the nearby Djouce (725 m) and the Tonduff range, both reachable via well‑marked paths that start from the hostel’s car park.
Scenic Highlights
From the hostel balcony you can gaze south‑east to Maulin, east to the Sugarloaf, and north to Prince William’s Seat. The surrounding hills – Knockree Hill, Djouce and the Tonduffs – provide excellent opportunities for short hill walks, mountain biking and even pony trekking through the Eco Adventure Ireland programme offered on‑site.
Eco Adventure Ireland Activities
Knockree Youth Hostel partners with Eco Adventure Ireland to run a variety of outdoor programmes:
- Pony‑trekking along the historic pilgrim routes
- Mountain‑bike trails for all abilities (the nearby Ballinastoe MBT is a premier mountain‑bike trail centre a short drive away)
- Archery and low‑ropes courses
- Target shooting and team‑building tasks
- Orienteering challenges
- Ecology field‑study days for school groups
These activities are available year‑round and can be booked through the hostel reception.
Volunteer & Community
Knockree’s surrounding reserve is a hub for local conservation work. In March 2024, volunteers from ReWild Wicklow helped plant hedgerows, weed a tree nursery and install new fencing at the An Óige reserve near the hostel. Similar tree‑planting weekends are organised throughout the spring, offering visitors a chance to give back to the landscape while enjoying the fresh air.
Dog‑Friendly Trail
Dogs are welcome on the Wicklow Way but must be kept under control and on a leash at all times. The hostel itself is dog‑friendly; however, note that the walking routes include uneven terrain.
Nearby Attractions
- Enniskerry (7.5 km) – a picturesque Victorian village famous for the Powerscourt Estate, with its grand house, formal gardens and the spectacular Powerscourt Waterfall.
- Glendalough – a short drive into the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park, offering monastic ruins and lake walks.
- Powerscourt Estate – just a few kilometres away, this historic estate provides a day‑trip option for garden lovers and history enthusiasts.
Hostel Facilities & Services
Knockree Youth Hostel offers a range of on‑site amenities:
- Large dining hall serving a good‑value breakfast (the only regular meal provided; lunch and dinner must be pre‑ordered with at least four days’ notice)
- TV relaxation room with a log fire
- Meeting and conference area
- Self‑catering kitchen and a mini‑shop stocked with basic foodstuffs and toiletries
- Free on‑site parking for cars and coaches
- Free Wi‑Fi throughout the property
- Laundry and drying rooms
- Games room with table‑tennis, DVDs and board games
- Wheelchair‑accessible rooms and level common areas
- Honeymoon Suite with private balcony
The hostel is accredited by Fáilte Ireland and has received the Tourist Accommodation Quality Standard. An Óige members receive a €2 discount per night on presentation of a valid membership card.
Practical Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Check‑in | 15:00 – 21:00 (last check‑in 21:00) |
| Check‑out | Until 10:00 |
| Phone | +353 0 127 67981 |
| 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 be arranged directly with the hostel |
| Meals | Breakfast included; lunch/evening meals pre‑order only; guests are advised to bring their own food for other meals |
| Dog policy | Dogs allowed on the trail (leashed) and welcome in the hostel’s outdoor areas |
Getting there – The hostel is 52 km from Dublin Airport. From Dublin, take the DART to Bray, then bus 185 to the “Shop River” stop (≈ €1.70 exact change). From the bus stop, it is a 40‑minute walk following the signs to the hostel. An alternative route is bus 44C to Enniskerry, then change to bus 185. Full car and coach parking is provided on‑site.
Booking – The hostel is popular with families, hikers and school groups; advance booking is recommended, especially during the peak walking season (May‑September). Reservations can be made via the Discover Ireland page or directly with the hostel. Note that bookings for more than 10 people are not accepted.
Contact – For further information, email the Eco Adventure Ireland team at info@ecoadventureireland.ie or call the hostel on +353 0 127 67981.
Seasonal Tips
The Wicklow Way is most enjoyable between May and September when the weather is milder and the mountain streams are at their fullest. Early summer brings wildflowers in the glens, while late summer offers longer daylight hours for extended hikes. In winter the trail can be boggy and visibility reduced, so proper gear and a GPS device are advisable.
Knockree offers a rare blend of historic charm, spectacular scenery and a strategic base on the Wicklow Way, making it a rewarding stop for walkers, families and adventure‑seekers alike.