Things To Do in Killarney

Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park is the gem of Killarney. Spanning over 26,000 acres, it is Ireland’s oldest National Park. It is home to Ross Castle, The Lakes of Killarney, Muckross House and Gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Torc Waterfall to name just a few spots. The park is filled with local wildlife, including the famous Red Deer of Killarney which can be spotted throughout the park. Walk, run or cycle, Killarney National Park is a must to explore on your visit to Killarney. Enjoy a romantic stroll around Ross Castle with your other half, have some fun spotting red deer with the kids or grab your friends for a cycle around The Killarney Lakes. With so much ground to explore, there is no shortage of stunning scenery in Killarney National Park.

Torc Waterfall

Torc Waterfall lies just outside of Killarney town. It is a cascading waterfall at 20 meters high and 110 meters long.  A short walk of just 200 meters brings you to the waterfall. From that point, steps lead to another viewing point at a higher altitude that provides a beautiful lake view. Perfect for couples, families, and friends, pay a visit to this breathtaking stop on your next visit to Killarney. The best and most scenic way to see Torc Waterfall is to park in the Dinis Cottage Car Park. It is a short walk to the waterfall.

Kayak the Lakes of Killarney

Book a kayaking tour on the Lakes of Killarney for a totally new experience. Let experienced kayakers guide you through the Lakes, past islands, wildlife, and the stunning Ross Castle. You can even explore the beauty of the Lakes of Killarney in a different way by booking a sunset kayaking tour. Experience the Lakes of Killarney and Ross Castle from an alternative viewpoint. Totally unwind and relax as you kayak silently past islands and sleepy swans. Experience complete tranquility on this relaxing and peaceful glide through the lakes. From your kayak, see the enchanting Innisfallen Island and hopefully glimpse some of Killarney’s red deer.

Muckross House and Gardens

The impressive nineteenth-century Victorian mansion, Muckross House, sits within an 11,000-acre estate, set amongst a scenic landscape of mountains and woodlands in Killarney National Park. Muckross House sits on the shores of Muckross Lake, one of the three Lakes of Killarney. Access to the house is by a guided tour. The experienced and friendly guides take visitors through the house and bring the history of the house and its inhabitants to life. Muckross Gardens are renowned worldwide for their beauty.

Features of the gardens include glorious collections of azaleas and rhododendrons, as well as exquisite tree-fringed lawns. The gardens have a variety of exotic trees and shrubs that flourish in the mild climate, as well as large glasshouses filled with exotic flowers. Go for a walk and take in these stunning gardens, lawns, and surrounding forests or simply relax with a picnic and enjoy the beauty that is to be found throughout the blooming gardens.

Muckross Tradtional Farms

Explore three separate working farms from the 1930s and 1940s giving an exciting representation of the life and farming styles of the times. Each farmhouse comes with animals, poultry, and horse-drawn farm machinery. Visit the blacksmith’s forge, a carpenter’s workshop, or hop onto the Muckross Vintage Coach which drives from farm to farm. See the typical rural Irish Schoolhouse where pupils were expected to bring sods of turf to school for the open fire. The stroll around the farms gives a true insight into the lives that were lived there during the 1930s and 1940s. It is a unique experience that can be enjoyed by both young and old.

Caridac Hill

Don’t be scared by the name, if you enjoy a good workout, then Cardiac Hill certainly delivers! The steep ascent of Cardiac Hill is actually a journey up the slopes of Torc Moutain. It is located just a short few kilometers outside of Killarney Town. The strenuous climb up hundreds of steps pays off as the views when you reach the top are unparalleled. The route itself offers excellent shelter from the rain and provides panoramic scenery of The Lakes of Killarney, MacGillycuddy Reeks, and Killarney National Park along the way.

Jaunting Cart Ride

No visit to Killarney would be complete without taking a ride on one of the town’s greatest traditions, a Jaunting Car. Local jarveys in Killarney are renowned for their storytelling, wisdom and local knowledge, and charm. A Jaunting Car trip is a perfect option to show you the hidden delights of Killarney National Park & the famous Lakes of Killarney. Step back in time and experience Ireland’s most traditional mode of transport. Sit back, relax and enjoy the local jarveys tales and stories of Killarney folklore.

Ross Castle

Ross Castle is one of Killarney’s most popular tourist attractions. The castle itself sits on a picturesque lake, Lough Leane, and is a peaceful spot to wander. You can tour the castle and walls of the tower, which was built in the late 15th century. You can tour the rooms within the castle, walk around the outer walls and meander through the gardens. Enjoy views of the surrounding lake from a number of vantage points.

Take a picture with the cannons poised on the battlements and soak up the stunning view of the lake and its islands. Let the kids feed the ducks and swans that gather by the bridge over Loch Leane, which laps the shore by the castle. The lakes and surrounding mountains are simply breathtaking and there are many beautiful walks close by. Be sure to allow yourself time to fully take in the tranquil surroundings.

Cycle the Muckross Loop

The Muckross Lake Loop is approximately 10km in length and the perfect route for a day out cycling. It brings you around the picturesque Muckross Lake and you can admire the many scenic views along the way. The loop will take you past many well-known sites in Killarney, including Old Weir Bridge, which hosts stunning views from every angle. You can make a pit stop at Dinis Cottage to refuel with a cup of tea and a slice of cake in front of the lake before continuing on your journey. If you wish to make the cycle a little longer, you have the option to visit Torc Waterfall. It adds around 4km to your route, this stop is definitely worth the extra effort. Finish up at Muckross House and enjoy some well-deserved rest by relaxing on Muckross Gardens with delicious ice cream. The ideal day out.