Plizio Visual Lab

Knocknaskagh

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

Weather…

Knocknaskagh, also known as Cnoc na Sceach, is a 426-metre peak situated in the Nagles Mountains in northern County Cork. Geologically, the mountain is composed of Devonian sandstone, characteristic of the rolling hill ranges of southwest Ireland. The name translates as Hill of the Hawthorns, referring to the region's original native vegetation. Today, large sections of the mountain and its surrounding slopes are covered with commercial coniferous plantations managed by the state forestry company, Coillte. Knocknaskagh provides sweeping views across the fertile Blackwater River valley and the neighbouring mountain ranges. The region has been historically noted for its remoteness, which made it a place of refuge in earlier times. For nature enthusiasts, the mountain has quiet walking trails away from the main tourist paths, where birds of prey such as the hen harrier are frequently sighted.

Location: Ireland
Top sights: Knockathea · Rathoran
Nearby: Listowel (10 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	6	6	7	9	11	14	15	15	14	11	9	7
Rain mm	120	94	86	72	81	84	97	101	93	108	135	129

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The mountain is mostly accessed via small, winding country lanes in the southwest of Kerry. The starting points are typically unmarked agricultural gates or small, quiet rural junctions.

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Best season

Summer is by far the most reliable time for somewhat drier conditions on these gentle rolling hills. During winter and autumn, the soft ground is often heavily saturated with rainwater.

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Terrain & paths

Expect a rough mix of gentle grassy slopes, dense heather, and very wet bogland. There are generally no marked trails, so walkers mostly have to find their own path through the landscape.

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What to bring

Wellies or very robust, entirely waterproof hiking boots are essential to navigate the wet patches. Sturdy trekking poles can help greatly in safely testing the soft ground ahead.

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Parking

Parking options are extremely limited; visitors often have to park very carefully on the side of narrow country roads without blocking agricultural gates or local traffic in the process.

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Safety

Although the terrain here is not exceptionally high, it is very uneven and persistently wet, which increases the risk of ankle sprains. Always strictly respect the boundaries of private property.

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Time needed

Exploring these gentle hills and the wide landscape usually takes a relaxing two to three hours, making it an absolutely handy half-day excursion in the beautiful natural countryside of Kerry.