Killarney National Park Essential Guide

In the middle of County Kerry, you will find a land full of contrasts. Here, rare ferns and moses cover valleys with ancient forests. These are surrounded by freshwater lakes, backed up by sandstone mountains.

In the misty lowlands you will find a number of medieval ruins. You can also see rare animals and waterfalls. Follow the Wild Atlantic Way The MacGillycuddy Reeks is Ireland’s tallest mountain range. It’s a 1,550-mile driving route that takes you through nine Irish counties. Killarney National Park.

It is Ireland’s first national park. It’s also an Irish Special Area of Conservation (meaning it’s a wildlife conservation area) and part of the  Kerry UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The park is home to rare, native Irish plants, animals, and birds—many of which can’t be found anywhere else on earth. For example, Ireland’s last surviving herd of wild red deer roam here, and visitors can wander through the Reenadinna Yew Woodland, western Europe’s largest forest of yews—some trees are more than 200 years old. This park also has some of the most important historic sites in Ireland. There are many different kinds of wildlife. medieval castle and monasteriesVictorian mansions with gardens are also available.

Patricia Doe says that Ireland’s oldest National Park has unique infrastructure for hiking and exploration. Wilderness Ireland, which offers a variety of private and small group travel experiences. It doesn’t matter where you are, you will have amazing views. You can’t really get the feel of the place by looking at pictures or reading descriptions. In this part of Ireland, the combination of light and atmosphere is very special, regardless of weather. “Kerry and Killarney are truly unique.”

You should read this before planning your trip to Killarney National Park.

How to Get There

Most travelers fly in to Dublin Airport (DUB), Cork Airport ORK, or Kerry Airport KIR. Kerry Airport is about 15 miles (about a 20-minute drive) from the park, while Cork Airport is a little over 55 miles away, and Dublin Airport is 200 miles away and about a three-and-a-half-hour drive. Renting a car is the best way to reach the main road of the park, the N71, for convenience. There is no charge for parking, but gardens and heritage sites are not accessible by car.

There are also bus and train options from Dublin, Cork or Ireland to Killarney. A hop-on-hop-off bus service from the town is available between March and November through the tour operator Killarney Tours.

Before you go, know what to expect

The Killarney National Park allows pedestrians to enter for free, 24 hours a day, all year round. Historic homes and museums. Muckross House You can also find out more about the following: Killarney HouseThe is open all year round. The park visitor center is located in Killarney House. You can also find many other facilities on the park’s 25,000-acres including parking for free, first aid stations, bathrooms, gift stores, cafes and more. 

Since Killarney National Park is part of a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, anything that impacts wildlife habitats or plants, or creates pollution—noise, or otherwise—is strictly prohibited. You must leave no trace. Do not take anything that does not belong to you. Campfires, camping and drones are also prohibited.

Check out the Killarney National Park’s website For detailed maps, opening times at different sites, and any updates or news that could impact your trip.

When is the best time to visit?

Ireland’s mild temperatures are a hallmark of its weather. The summer in Killarney is known for its long, sunny days and warm temperatures (about 70 degrees Fahrenheit). Plan for up to 18-hours of daylight. However, if you visit in the summer you should be prepared to deal with large crowds. 

Winter landscapes are a magical experience, especially with fewer tourists. However, shorter days of sullen, blustery weather—and nearly nonstop rain at times—can put a damper on outdoor exploration. 

Killarney National Park is best visited in the early spring or autumn. Doe says that from late March to April, when the grass is just beginning to grow, you can enjoy the trails all to yourself. “I’d choose autumn if I had to choose.” The energy is just so special. The hikes don’t tend to be as busy. It feels more relaxed and there is less traffic.

The colors of the old-growth woodlands—bright amber, crimson, and citrine—lend an otherworldly aura to the park, too.

The Best Things to do

Enjoy a boat ride on the Lakes of Killarney.

Three lakes make up Killarney: Lough Leane Muckross Upper Lake. Renowned for their stunning panoramas and fascinating historic sites, no visit to this national park would be complete without exploring them—one of the best ways to do that is by joining a boating tour.

You can also find out more about us on our website. 15th-century Ross Castle Innisfallen Island is a great place to visit if you are on Lough Leane. It has some of Ireland’s best archaeological ruins. a 12th-century monastery and churchMonks have lived in the area since at least 7th century. The Annals of Innisfallen is an ancient text that chronicles medieval Irish History in over 2,500 entries. It’s now housed in the Bodleian library at the University of Oxford.

Boat trips can also be taken from the Old Boat House, located on Muckross Lake, to Dinis Peninsula where you will find the 18th century tearoom. Dinis Cottage Near the Old Weir Bridge which crosses the spot where the three lakes of Killarney meet: the Meeting of the Waters, snacks and drinks are still served. Lord Brandon’s Cottage is one of the other places you can visit along the water. You can also go kayaking or canoeing, but first you will need to get a permit.

Visit Muckross House to see Victorian antiques and formal gardens.

A Victorian mansion surrounded by an arboretum with Scots pines towering over it, oaks and silver fir, is also hemmed in formal gardens filled with flowers, shrubs and trees. Inside, period artifacts like antique furniture, tapestries, and John Singer Sargent paintings give a sense of high-end 19th-century décor. The estate, which was used as a home by a large family for several centuries, was donated to Ireland in 1932 and became the country’s very first national park. The house and its gardens remain one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions.

Enjoy the peace and quiet at Muckross Abbey.

Muckross Abbey’s well-preserved 15th-century ruins are a great place to immerse yourself in Irish history, bask in solitude, and reflect on the ages. The courtyard of the abbey is enclosed by a large, ancient yew, which is estimated to be older than the abbey. A cemetery, still in use next door, is where local chieftains, as well as several famous poets, are buried. 

Look for wildlife.

Killarney has untouched landscapes that have been left untouched by man for centuries. These pristine habitats are perfect for wildlife such as Ireland’s last surviving herd of wild red deer. In the fields, you can see rare black cows called Kerry cattle. They are one of Europe’s most ancient breeds. The Irish hare is also common. It can only be found here in Ireland, and it has been living in Ireland for about 12,000 years. Here you can also see rare species of fish, amphibians, amphibians, butterflies, dragonflies and other animals. Watch for 140 different species of birds, such as the Irish cuckoo or the rare red grouse.

Visit ancient sites by bike and marvel at the natural world.

Rent a bicycle in the town and explore the paved trails around Muckross Castle, Ross Castle Island or Knockreer. Expect to see stunning panoramas and plenty of stops and explorations around the surrounding mountains and lake.

Ladies View offers a stunning view of the sunset.

It was named for Queen Victoria and her ladies-in waiting when they visited Killarney, Ireland in 1861. They were impressed by the mountainous landscape of the Upper Lake flowing into the Long Range River. It’s a beautiful view. Ireland’s most photographed spotsIt is an amazing place to witness the change of light as dusk approaches, especially when you can see red deer ambling in the field below.

Best Hikes

The stunning scenery in Killarney National Park makes it a perfect place to walk. Here you will find some of Ireland’s most beautiful, accessible and historic hiking trails. Though the landscapes may change drastically, they are all very walkable.

Knockreer Circular Walk

This three-mile paved trail is suitable for cyclists and walkers of all levels. This loop is a great walk for all skill levels. It’s also suitable for biking. Here, you’ll also see a lot of wildlife. Doe suggests that you take this trail if you only plan to do one hike.

Muckross Lake Loop

The 10-mile route, which starts and ends at Muckross House in the 19th century, passes through the formal gardens, the working farm of the house and the 200 year-old Dinis Cottage. Reenadinna Wood is Western Europe’s biggest ancient yew tree forest. It has moss and ferns covering it.

Muckross House Waterfall Loop

This route continues the previous loop, starting at Muckross House and following the Old Boathouse Trail to the mountains. Then, you will climb steadily along ancient tree-lined landscapes towards Dundag Point’s limestone cliffs. Torc Waterfall can be seen best after heavy rains. You’ll then rejoin the Muckross Lake Loop and return to your starting point.

Torc Mountain

You can also do an out-and back hike to the top of Torc Mountain by following a section on the long-distance hiking path, Kerry Way. The 8.5-mile hike to the summit is a great way to spend a day. “Torc Mountain does not have a high elevation in relation to other mountains around the area, but the views from the top are spectacular. You can see back over Killarney towards the Lakes as well as Carrauntoohil. [Ireland’s highest mountain]Doe: “I’ve seen some of the larger mountains.”

Old Kenmare Road

If you want a challenge, take the historic route from Killarney, Ireland to the vibrant Kenmare. It’s part of the Kerry Way – Ireland’s largest signposted walking path. You can walk a section of it in the park. It takes you from Torc Waterfall to ancient woodlands and uplands, past popular sights like Lord Brandon’s Cottage and Ross Castle. The Owengarriff River is also a beautiful sight. You could also go to Kenmare which is about 10 miles from the park. Doe says, “It is very well marked.” It’s important to coordinate your starting and ending points since the route is linear.

Restaurants

Manna Café and Bistro

With few options for substantial meals in the park, Doe recommends stopping at one of the many cafés in town for a takeaway picnic. Manna Café and Bistro There are many options to choose from for brunch, dinner, lunch or breakfast. Many of the choices can be transported.

Dinis Cottage

This lakeside café Muckross House is a business that has existed for more than 200 years. Its history goes even further back. Light fare such as sandwiches and a variety desserts are available, including some that are sugar-free, gluten-free and plant-based.

Yew Tree restaurant

The park’s one five-star hotel Muckross Park offers four dining options, including the award-winning multi-award winning restaurant. Yew Tree Restaurant The most unusual is probably the one. It’s received praise and accolades for its innovative Irish dishes using local farm ingredients.

Accommodation

The Killarney park Hotel

Five minutes’ walk from Killarney Train Station and six minutes’ drive from the National Park, this five-star, award-winning, family-owned hotel is surrounded by private gardens and decked in a modern take on old-world Irish décor. The hotel has a spa, and offers a variety of local and seasonal cuisine. The Killarney Park Hotel It is a sustainable hotel that provides a real Irish experience.

Killarney Glamping

The park prohibits camping. However, several sites outside the park’s perimeter are available, including the couple’s exclusive spot that offers views of Kerry Mountains. You can choose between heated suites, luxurious lodges or a private cabin with showers and bathroom at this park. Killarney Glamping at the Grove.

Muckross Park Hotel & Spa

The only five-star hotel This award-winning 70-room hotel has been operating in Killarney National Park since 1795. The hotel is located near Ross Castle, Lough Leane as well as walking trails. The Victorian-style Victorian lounge features a Gothic-inspired spa, an award-winning dining room and a Gothic-inspired restaurant.

The Lake Hotel Killarney

Choose a family-friendly choice. try this award-winning property Lough Leane offers breathtaking views of the mountains. Enjoy the traditional Irish hospitality of a hotel that has been owned and run by the same family since over 100 years. The pool and Fairy Trail is great for children.