Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park is a fabulous natural beauty spot where you can spend a whole day. It is open year-round to all who wish to stroll, roam, cycle, or slowly wander.

Killarney National Park is located near the town of Killarney, County Kerry. The park's rich history starts in the early 17th century and is closely connected with various heritage sites within the territory. It is Ireland's first national Park, created when Muckross Estate was donated to the Irish Free State in 1932. Currently, the National Parks and Wildlife Service manage and administrate the Park. In 1981, UNESCO recognised Killarney National Park as a Biosphere Reserve. The Park's main objective is nature conservation.

Bland of history and nature
Technically, Killarney National Park is part of the famous Ring of Kerry and is thus renowned by many as the "Jewel in Kerry's crown." It features vast lakes, ancient houses from 2,000 BC, and beautiful castle-like estates with grand gardens. As you may expect, the scenery is stunning. There are also historic sites in addition to gorgeous lakes and dramatic mountains. The Park has well-known historical attractions such as Muckross House and Gardens, the Abbey, and Ross Castle.

The Park covers over 10,000 hectares, which means there are plenty of areas to explore. Active walking, hiking, and cycling are the best options to enjoy the National Park to the fullest. The Park has numerous low-level walks, marked circular routes, and nature trails ideal for cyclists and walkers. In addition, there is a mining trail on Ross Island. The visitor's centre at the Muckross House provides maps and booklets to help find the location of points of interest.

Historical buildings
The central attraction in the Park is Muckross House, which is impressive inside and out. It is a Victorian mansion completed in the 1800s. Taking a guided tour (€9), you will enjoy the mansion's original interior and hear stories about Queen Victoria's and Prince Albert's visits. Please be aware that no pictures are allowed inside the house. After the tour, you may continue exploring the house's green gardens.

About a 20-minute walk from Muckross Hous, there is an impressive ruin of Muckross Abbey. The Abbey was founded as a Franciscan friary in 1448. Throughout its history, it has undergone several renovations. However, much of the Abbey is actually intact. It is even possible to climb the stairs to explore the second floor. There is a dramatic courtyard with a large tree and a graveyard.

Natural beauty spots
If you are obsessed with waterfalls, you should take advantage of the Torc Waterfall. It is 20 metres high and 110 metres long and worth seeing. Before visiting, carefully check the hiking paths from Muckross House and the parking facilities nearby.

Several boat cruise options and a kayaking tour are available. Modern glass-covered boats ensure an unforgettable journey amid panoramic views of islands, castles, and wildlife. Admire the 6th-century Innisfallen Monastery and cruise on Killarney's largest lake.

Whether you're spending a day at Killarney National Park or driving the Ring of Kerry, we recommend stopping at Ladies View for its breathtaking views. According to legend, Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting were so enamoured with the view here that it was named in their honour.

Horseback riding
The guided horseback ride (starting from €60) takes you past the shallower shores and bays of Lough Lein, the largest of the three lakes in Killarney. Killarney Riding Stables has operated as a family business since 1968. The Irish Tourist Board approved the stables to be home to some 70 horses. They offer Hiking, Trekking, and Trail Rides for 1, 2, 3 hours and several days.

The Killarney Reeks Trail (€2195) is a 5-day riding holiday comprising 4 hours of horseriding daily. It includes accommodation in Killarney, Glenbeigh, and Waterville, as well as breakfast and picnic lunches daily. An experienced guide always accompanies the trail, and special care is given to nervous riders. The price does not cover evening meals or arrival or departure transfers. For customers who come without equipment, riding hats and boots are provided.

Fishing and swimming
Most anglers fish from their bots in Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and Upper Lake, full of salmon and trout. Fishing competitions often take place on Lough Leane.

Swimming is permitted in some areas. Please be aware that mountain lakes are generally cold and deep; mountain rivers can rise dramatically and suddenly after rain. The gentle slope of the Goleen shore of Muckross Lake is a common place for swimming. For further details on fishing and bathing sites, please get in touch with the Park Rangers.

Additional info
Kids will also enjoy visiting Killarney National Park, where they can run around and have fun. They may also like to go hiking or biking, depending on their interests.

You must prioritise if you have limited time to spend in Killarney National Park. Accommodating close to the ParParkd visiting it a few times during your trip to Kerry to enjoy all its locations is a great idea for a more extended stay. Several hotels and cottages offer charming beds and breakfasts within walking distance of the ParParkf the weather permits, it is worth getting up early to walk over to one of the lakes and admire the sunrise!

The best option for those without a car is a Killarney Shuttle Bus. The hop-on-hop-off bus leaves from Killarney and carries passengers to all the main spots throughout Killarney National Park. Another alternative is a jaunting cart, a horse-drawn carriage that may look like a traditional way to experience the ParParkome of our popular routes include Muckross Abbey and Muckross House, The Demense to Ross Castle and Kenmare Estate, Muckross House and Torc Waterfall, and the Gap of Dunloe.

The duration and cost of your stay in Killarney National Park depend on what you wish to do there. The park entrance is free of charge. However, some locations only allow you inside on a guided tour, for which they charge a nominal fee.

• The parking lots at the major attractions are free
• No camping or campfires are allowed
• Dogs are permitted on all trails but must be controlled at all times