Killarney
  • Ross Castle
  • Muckross House

Killarney & the Surrounding Area

Description: 

Killarney's tourism history goes back at least to the mid 18th century but the town gained international exposure with a visit from Queen Victoria visited Killarney in 1861. Since then the town has grown in popularity and is considered the starting point of the 'Ring of Kerry', a glorious 179km coastal trail filled with wonderful scenery and history.

With its three famous lakes and great mountain ranges, Killarney in County Kerry Ireland has been the inspiration of poets and painters over many centuries. The Killarney National Park is internationally renowned both for its scenic beauty and scientific interest. Added to the beauty of the three main lakes are many other lakes in the folds of the mountains, numerous picturesque cascades and, rising to the west of the valley, the peaks of MacGillycuddy Reeks, Killarney is a feast for the intrepid explorer.

Muckross House, Ross Castle, Torc Waterfall, The Killarney National Park and the glorious Killarney lakes are just some of the splendours that await you in Killarney.

Outdoor Activities in Killarney

Killarney Outdoors

Kerry is blessed with majestic scenery, and is home to the highest mountain in Ireland, Carrantuohill.

Irelands largest National Park (25,000 acres), the Killarney National park borders the town and offers an abundance of outdoor based activities & things to do for all ages.

Golf

Enjoy a round or two of golf in The World Famous Killarney Golf & Fishing Club which is located just outside the town and has played host to the Irish Open on numerous occasions. The Killarney Golf & Fishing Club has 3 totally unique courses to choose from. Other golf courses in the nearby vicinity include Beaufort Golf course & Dooks golf Course.

Fishing

Fishing is also a major pastime in Killarney with the majestic Lakes of Killarney offering some of the best Salmon and Trout waters in Ireland. Trout fishing on Killarney's Lakes is free and salmon fishing can be arranged in season for a small permit fee.

Cycling

A bike ride through the Killarney National Park is a must for the cycling enthusiast with the majestic Killarney Lakes and McGillycuddy Reeks offering a stunning backdrop, with bicycles on hire from a number of locations in town.

Hiking & Walking

There are many walks and trails around Killarney ranging from a two hour tourist trail around the town itself to the 215km (135 miles) long distance walking route ("The Kerry Way") from Killarney around the Ring of Kerry. Visitors can enjoy various day trips around the area. The Gap of Dunloe Tour is highly recommended and discovers Killarney at its mystical best. Torc Waterfall is one of the finest waterfalls in Ireland and Ladies View offers some of the most spectacular views of the Killarney valley.

The team at the Killarney Court Hotel can assist in booking any activities or day trips.

Muckross House, Killarney

Killarney Culture & Heritage

There are many places of interest and of historical importance to visit in Killarney, such as historical buildings & monuments; the town is an excellent centre for shopping or spend your evenings in singing pubs, at cabarets, or dancing the night away. Also home to the famous INEC hosting concerts and events.

Ross Castle

Discover the magnificently restored Ross castle, located on Ross island, overlooking the Lough Leane, the original home of the O'Donoghue Ross Chieftains in the 15th century and, believed to be the last significant fortress to fall to Cromwell's armies in Ireland. The castle is open to visitors (Guided Tours) from April to October inclusive.

Muckross house

Muckross House & Traditional farms, is one of Ireland's most popular visitor attractions, this magnificent Victorian mansion was built in 1843 in the Killarney National Park, a guided tour will take you though the history of this era. The Gardens are renowned world-wide for their beauty and, in particular they are noted for their fine collection of Azaleas, Rhododendrons, extensive water garden and an outstanding rock garden hewn out of natural limestone.

History & Culture

There are many places of interest and of historical importance to visit in Killarney, such as waterfalls, churches and monuments; the town is an excellent centre for shops and cinema and for the evenings there are singing pubs, banqueting, cabarets, dancing, drama and the famous INEC hosting concerts and events from all over the world.

Family Activities in Killarney

Family Activities in Killarney

Killarney plays host to a wide range of family fun activities for all ages. Both Indoor and outdoor fun for the whole family to enjoy can be found in and around Killarney. Easter, Summer, Halloween & Christmas are all special times in Killarney with a great selection of parades/activities etc arranged in Killarney town for all the family.

Activities include the Killarney Sports & Leisure Complex, Kennedy's Pet Farm, Buddies Indoor play centre, Killarney High Ropes, Horse Riding, Hill Walking and a host of Lake and Jaunting Car tours where you will meet many characters and hear stories of intrigue and historical interest.

Check out www.killarney.ie for more detailed information.