HI - Knockree, Co Wicklow Hostel, this remotely located hostel outside the village of Knockree, is a wonderful place from which to explore the Wicklow Mountains. Many guests that stay here take the Wicklow Way, a one-hundred-thirty-one-kilometer walk from Dublin to Clonegal that passes right by the hostel. While the hostel is ideal for hill walkers, it is also good for family or guests that just want to get away from it all. Visitors must be completely self-sufficient, as there is no shop nearby (nearest is seven kilometers away in Enniskerry). It is also far from transportation and other services.
The hostel is one of the newest in the An Oige network. It was completed within recent years, in contemporary style in a converted stone farmhouse.
The Location
Knockree, Co Wicklow Hostel is located in the Glencree Valley, just over seven kilometers from Enniskerry and twelve kilometers from Bray town in County Wicklow. Views of the Glencree Mountains can be seen from most rooms and windows in the hostel.
Rooms and Bathrooms
Double/twin, family, and dorm rooms are all available, although bookings for more than ten people are not available. There are also male-only, female-only, and mixed dorms. All the private rooms have en suite bathrooms, as do some of the dorms. Other dorms share a common bathroom, accessible from the hallways.
Common Spaces
Common spaces include the kitchen, dining room, a lounge room, a common room with a pool table, and an outdoor terrace (weather permitting). Views of the surrounding hills and mountains from the dining room are particularly good. DVDs and board games are available as well.
Summary
Other facilities and amenities include Internet access, bike hire, and free parking. Reception hours are limited from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., so make sure you get in contact with them if you're running late. Guests are advised to arrive with all of their own food, as the only catered meal available is breakfast. Linen is also included.
The hostel offers activities in conjunction with Eco Adventure Ireland, which includes things like pony trekking, mountain biking, archery, low ropes, target shooting, team tasks, and orienteering. However, many people come simply for the hill walking, either on Wicklow Way or in the surrounding areas. Bring your own maps if you are planning to head out, as none are available in the hostel. Fortunately, the hostel provides a daily weather report.
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How to book...
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HI - Knockree, Co Wicklow Hostel Reviews
The Hostelz.com Review - Genuine, independent review you can trust.
Photos taken by the Hostelz.com reviewer — Genuine photos you can trust.
Jo
Hostelz.com Staff Reviewer
Published on 2016-09-29
Verified Reviews by our Community
It's what you make of it!
Knockree is in a special location, which is what makes it unique. Its not a top-class hotel nor does it try to be one. Take one look at the wonderful views from the dining hall and relax. There's nothing to do -- by that I mean there's no 'organised fun' -- but to amuse yourself and lose yourself in the relaxed ambiance. No classy joint can compete.
Anonymous
2012-01-11
ireland
Its not where you go, it's who you go with and the fun you have!
Even if the place was a little odd and a tiny bit run down we had a class weekend! GREAT LAUGH! We did lots! Had our own kitchen and we had a BBQ and that was great! It's a bit of a walk to the bus but its all worth it for the fun you'll have down there!
AIDEEN BLAKE
2006-02-23
I practically live in Knockree. I know Steve and Trish like family. They are the hardest working wardens Knockree has EVER SEEN! My friends and I know the hostel and the area like the back of our hands! Knockree is a beautiful hostel and should be visited, as you truly will love it!
Rob King
2005-03-30
Although I rated the hostel a 4 it has a 5 location, and the wardens are very friendly. The 4 highlights the need for renovation but the rustic charm still works a treat sit in the Common Room with tea, toast and biscuits at night beside a peat fire! Try also and find a cross between Tony Blair and Viscount Linley on the map of the local area, which is posted on the Common Room wall no throwing darts! The hot water was working! Tip: be sure of your travel details to Johnnie Fox's pub before settling in Enniskerry, as it can be very expensive and almost impossible to get a taxi to take you there, as my mate and I found. But a feed and a trek around the roads at night was a good reserve. If you're lucky enough to experience this place with a full moon and stars you'll auto think it's magical! Enjoy! I could go on, so I will!
Damien
2005-02-14
Knockree Youth Hostel is a little gem located just off of the Wicklow Way. The address lists it as in Enniskerry, but the hostel is 7 km outside of the town center (and the first kilometer is a brutal uphill, especially with a loaded backpack). The easiest way to reach it is via the Wicklow Way trail, if you're coming from Dublin's Martay Park from the north, or Roundwood or (marathoner!) Glendalough from the south. The Bus Eireann can take you at least halfway, however. Walking from either the Way trail or from Enniskerry, the way is well-marked, although some of the signs are small, and might be hard to see at night. You're 5 km from the highest pub in Ireland - Johnny Fox's, and the Powerscourt Falls are also 5 km (in the opposite direction).
Important, and potentially annoying if you're a fast hiker and dying for a shower (or water), is the lockout, which is from 10 am to 5 pm. The building is an old converted farmhouse, and has an amazing view of the Wicklow mountains. The area is very quiet -- no traffic (except for sheep).
Large single-sex dorm bed rooms are in a separate building with its own large self-catered kitchen (and the female bathroom is here, so if you're in a double room in the other building, there's an outdoor trek for you across the courtyard). Bonus -- no 'push button' showers -- you can have the longest hottest shower you want without pressing that stupid button every 5 or 10 seconds. There is no Internet or easily accessed phone (there's one in the locked staff quarters for emergencies). There's a large fireplace in the common room that is lit each night because the buildings don't have heat.
The hostel staff is run by grad students at Trinity College, and although the hostel pamphlet says that food is not available, the couple who was there this summer provided a decent sized continental breakfast and a packed lunch for 5 euro each, and a carbo-loading dinner for 7 euro. Worth a call to the current staff, because if you're hiking the Way and short on food (or sick of granola), spaghetti marinara can hit the spot (especially on the picnic tables outside in the courtyard as the sun is setting over the hills). If the current staff isn't cooking, bring everything you need, because it's a long way to town!
Johanna Jensen (i've done this before, but couldn't find a login)
2004-11-23
USA
Hello folks! I'm afraid I have to post this as a warning to would-be visitors to this hostel. It is a beautiful old place with the most spectacular view; however, the current owners seem unable to keep up with the maintenance. I stayed here in September 2004. The water supply failed overnight and there was not a drop of water to be had: not for the shower, toilet, or coffee! I'm sorry to say that the current owners, Steve and his wife, were particularly unhelpful (rude) about the situation, simply commenting that the problem was a continuing one for them. This does not bode well for future visitors! Be warned!
Jane
2004-10-16
Response from the accommodation:
Would you like to know the truth about Jane's comments? Well, this is Steve, the apparently 'rude' 'owner'. After hammering on our door, waking out eighteen-month old baby, and generally giving us a mouthful abuse at 6:30 a.m. (one-and-a-half hours before the hostel officially opens), we did indeed have to confirm that there was a failure in the water supply. Jane turned down (a) waiting for the water supply to be repaired (which would have taken about four hours, given the hostel's rural location) (b) having a shower at our sister hostel in Dublin, which would have been en route to the airport, where she had to be for an evening flight. Because we could not refund the paltry 12 euro fee she had spent, she drove off in a state of rage. I notice that she didn't feel me to be rude the night before, when I lit a fire for her and her alone, or when I spent upwards of an hour helping her to plan a Dublin tour before she went to the airport. Whilst I would ordinarily dismiss this petty vindictiveness as precisely that, the fact that Jane has chosen to tell half-truths in a public arena in a way that might prejudice others against staying at Knockree means I have to address them. Jane should be aware that under Irish law at least that to lie in a way that might damage one's constitutional right to a good name or one's business interest is seen as defammation of character. There is more than enough evidence to begin legislative action; she should not add further fuel to a fire that was after all of her own making. Hostellers should note that we offer a warm welcome to all visitors to Knockree, and that Rob's comments above are more close to the norm than a clearly very angry individual who reacted with hostility and vindictiveness the second it appeared that she was not getting precisely what she wanted when she wanted - despite the fact that we were not in a position to give it, and that she spurned reasonable alternatives.
Hi my name is Rob. I'm 16 years old and I'm From Dublin. I've been visiting Knockree for many years now. The hostel itself is basic but brilliant! Over my years visiting the hostel I have came across some great and some ok wardens, but the greatest warden to take the hostel was Siobhan Vennibles. Siobhan and her partner Shane have kept a steady business at Knockree since September 2002. In all my time hostelling I have never met such devoted, inspirational people. They made it all worth while. Siobhan & Shane would be there... sadly Sibhan & Shane left Knockree Hostel in September 2003 after a year of endless work and devotion... And for that I say thank you! The Experience of Knockree has honestly changed my life!
The hostel is a wonderful building, great for those of you who like to feel at home. The hostel is handy and it's right on the world famous Wicklow Way. Well I could talk forever and a day about the hostel, but if you would like more of my first hand info on knockree and the area around please feel free to e-mail me at abnp2003@yahoo.co.uk. I hope you make the right chose and choose one of Irelands coolests hostels. Trust me you'll love every second of it!!!
Robert King
2003-10-25
HI - Knockree, Co Wicklow Hostel Reviews from the Web
Was a great hostel, in a great location. Dorm was pretty big and clean. We had a great stay.
Anonymous
2018-07-16
Liked: Proximity to Enniskerry.
Location along the Wicklow way.
Beautiful setting Didn't like: Difficult to get a taxi
Anonymous
2017-08-04
Liked: The location - it's perfect on the Wicklow Way Didn't like: The mattresses were very poor - when I lay on the bed I could feel the timbers underneath me. Luckily for us we had a room to ourselves so we were able to borrow a second one - otherwise it would have been an uncomfortable night.
Anonymous
2015-07-11
Beautiful environment near Wicklow Way. Good kitchen. Extremely helpful stuff. Nice front garden - and two black pigs,too!
Anonymous
2013-07-08
Description
CONTACT THE HOSTEL DIRECTLY, PHONE: +353 (0)1 276 7981
Just off the famous Wicklow Way trail – either on the first stage or the last stage (depending on which direction you walk the Way!) is the rebuilt five-star Knockree Hostel, one of our most popular modern hostels. The original Hostel, which opened its doors in 1938 was an 18th century farmhouse, which is incorporated into the rebuild.
Knockree is a hostel that appeals to many types of travellers and guests. It’s suitable for the individual hiker, couples, families, groups, conferencing and functions. Our ‘Double Deluxe Room’ commands a panoramic view of the fantastic scenery! Knockree Hostel is in a unique location in the Glencree Valley facing Maulin mountain to the south-east and the ‘Sugarloaf’ mountain to the east. The Wicklow Way passes through the land below the hostel, along the banks of the picturesque Glencree River, and so the hostel is the ideal location for hillwalkers and nature lovers alike.
At just over an hour from Dublin, this hostel is popular with Dubliners looking to get away from the city, into the hills and back to nature! Surprisingly for its proximity to Dublin, it is an ideal rural retreat for those who want to ‘get away from it all’. The nearest village is Enniskerry (7.5km) from the hostel. Enniskerry, home to the famous Powerscourt Estate is one of the prettiest Victorian villages in Ireland.
Knockree Hostel boasts varied accommodation, including en-suite rooms, family rooms, wheelchair accessible rooms, dormitory rooms, meeting-room/conferencing area, large-capacity dining-hall, TV-relaxation room with log fire, guest kitchen and restaurant for groups (pre-booked only).
We serve a range of breakfasts which can be ordered at check-in.
Lunches and Evening meals can be pre-ordered (minimum 4 day's notice) for 6 or more guests. We have a range of options. Please ask for menus.
If you’re short of anything or would like a bite to eat – ask about our “mini-shop” which stocks a supply of foodstuffs and toiletries too!
Knockree Hostel is fast becoming one of our most popular hostels with families so be sure to get your booking in early so you can experience the ‘Garden of Ireland’ in one of its best hostels.
Opening Times and Dates
OPENING DATES: All Year Round
RECEPTION OPEN: April - October 07:30 - 22:30 November - March 08:00 - 21:30 24-hour keycard access.
CHECK-IN TIMES: April-October: 15:30 - 22:00 November - March 15:30 - 21:00
You’ll find the best cheap accommodation in Wicklow in Knockree Hostel and the best hostel in terms of the quality of your stay!
Just off the famous Wicklow Way trail – either on the first stage or the last stage (depending on which direction you walk the Way!) is the rebuilt five-star Knockree Hostel, one of our most popular modern hostels. The original Hostel, which opened its doors in 1938 was an 18th century farmhouse, which is incorporated into the rebuild.
Knockree is a hostel that appeals to many types of travellers and guests. It’s suitable for the individual hiker, couples, families, groups, conferencing and functions. Our ‘Double Deluxe Room’ commands a panoramic view of the fantastic scenery! Knockree Hostel is in a unique location in the Glencree Valley facing Maulin mountain to the south-east and the ‘Sugarloaf’ mountain to the east. The Wicklow Way passes through the land below the hostel, along the banks of the picturesque Glencree River, and so the hostel is the ideal location for hillwalkers and nature lovers alike.
At just over an hour from Dublin, this hostel is popular with Dubliners looking to get away from the city, into the hills and back to nature! Surprisingly for its proximity to Dublin, it is an ideal rural retreat for those who want to ‘get away from it all’. The nearest village is Enniskerry (7.5km) from the hostel. Enniskerry, home to the famous Powerscourt Estate is one of the prettiest Victorian villages in Ireland.
Knockree Hostel boasts varied accommodation, including en-suite rooms, family rooms, wheelchair accessible rooms, dormitory rooms, meeting-room/conferencing area, large-capacity dining-hall, TV-relaxation room with log fire, guest kitchen and restaurant for groups (pre-booked only).
We serve a range of breakfasts which can be ordered at check-in.
Lunches and Evening meals can be pre-ordered (minimum 4 day's notice) for 6 or more guests. We have a range of options. Please ask for menus.
If you’re short of anything or would like a bite to eat – ask about our “mini-shop” which stocks a supply of foodstuffs and toiletries too!
Knockree Hostel is fast becoming one of our most popular hostels with families so be sure to get your booking in early so you can experience the ‘Garden of Ireland’ in one of its best hostels.
Opening Times and Dates
OPENING DATES: All Year Round
RECEPTION OPEN: April - October 07:30 - 22:30 November - March 08:00 - 21:30 24-hour keycard access.
CHECK-IN TIMES: April-October: 15:30 - 22:00 November - March 15:30 - 21:00
You’ll find the best cheap accommodation in Wicklow in Knockree Hostel and the best hostel in terms of the quality of your stay!
Location and Contact
Location
From Bray (Co. Wicklow) DART station, Alpine Coaches, have a regular service to Glencree from July - September. Alight at Barnmire and the Youth Hostel is half a kilometer further on downhill. By Car or Bike or on foot, follow signs from Enniskerry or walk there via the Wicklow Way.Map
Address: Lacken House, Near Enniskerry, Knockree (Cnoc Riabhach), County Wicklow, Ireland
HI - Knockree, Co Wicklow Hostel is listed on the following booking sites:
Hostelworld Not listed at Booking.com Not listed at HostelsClubWebsite
www.anoige.ie/hostels/knockree
Phone Number:
+ 353 (0) 1 2767981
To add or correct information for this listing, please use the Listing Correction Form.
Facilities and Amenities
Family-Friendly Hostel
Groups (10+ people)
Solo Traveller
Bedsheets
Breakfast
Luggage Storage
Parking
Bike Rental
Lockers in Lobby
Towels
BBQ Grill
Cable TV
Clothes Dryer
Credit Card Payments
Elevator/Lift
Entirely Non-Smoking
Food/Restaurant
Gameroom
Hair Dryers
Hot Showers
Kitchen
Laundry
Lounge Area
Pool Table
TV
Wheelchair Accessible
Service Animals
Checkout: 10:00 (10 AM)
Curfew: No Curfew
Lockout: No
Open Dates: All Year
Reception Hours: 07:00-22:30
Size: Large (60-100 beds)
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