Top 25 Things To See & Do In Killarney When Things Open Up Again!
Brighter things lie ahead! - Photo by @conorhealy88
Visiting Killarney and the Killarney National Park is a memorable experience, from enchanted islands on the Lakes of Killarney to towering mountains and from ancient pagan paths to waterfalls, mythology, wildlife and lush green valleys.
Killarney has some of Irelands best tourist attractions, scenery, walking, cycling, tours and day trips.
Not only will you find spectacular scenery at every turn but you will also experience great variety, from pubs with lively foot tapping music or quiet fireside seats, scrumptious restaurants or pub food, relaxing woodland walks, rock climbing and sunset kayaking and remember to ask locals for the hidden gems.
Returning home, you will have unforgettable tales to tell and stories to share with your family and friends.
A hard task, but we have tried to narrow down the ever changing Top 25 Best Things to See and Do in Killarney when we come out the opposite end of this global pandemic!
1. Spot a Deer in Killarney National Park!
Killarney has some of Irelands best tourist attractions, scenery, walking, cycling, tours and day trips.
Not only will you find spectacular scenery at every turn but you will also experience great variety, from pubs with lively foot tapping music or quiet fireside seats, scrumptious restaurants or pub food, relaxing woodland walks, rock climbing and sunset kayaking and remember to ask locals for the hidden gems.
Returning home, you will have unforgettable tales to tell and stories to share with your family and friends.
A hard task, but we have tried to narrow down the ever changing Top 25 Best Things to See and Do in Killarney when we come out the opposite end of this global pandemic!
1. Spot a Deer in Killarney National Park!
Head to the magnificent Killarney National Park! Walk, cycle, run or take a Jaunting Car (Pony and Trap) through this vast, majestic park and spot a deer from the last remaining indigenous herd of Wild Red Deer in Ireland that roam here freely!
The magnificent White Tailed Sea Eagles also once called Killarney home before they became extinct during the Victorian age of hunting lodges on the shores of Killarney Lakes, such as Lord Brandons Cottage and Dinis Cottage. Reintroduced to Killarney National Park in 2007, these birds are making a great come back, and now locals and visitors cherish the opportunity to catch a rare glimpse of the White Tailed Eagle while on or around the lakes.
2. The Black Valley
The Black Valley is on the southern side of MacGillycuddy's Reeks. It connects the Gap of Dunloe with Moll's Gap. The valley can be seen from Ladies' View, a vista along the road through the Killarney National Park, and is famous for being the last place on mainland Ireland to be connected to electricity and telephone because of its remoteness. While most tourists stick to the main roads through the Killarney National Park, you can brave the narrow road through the valley to see a wild part of Ireland.
There are few homes in the Black Valley and you can drive for miles without seeing a house. What visitors will see depends on the season. During the tourist season, from the middle of spring to late summer, acre upon acre of bog cotton and wild yellow irises blanket the valley floor. Wild red fuchsia, purple heather and bright yellow gorse line the road and rocky outcrops. Cascades, streams, lakes and rivers flow through blanket bog and woody glens. Late in the season, leafy woodlands and changing colors show another side of the valley!
The magnificent White Tailed Sea Eagles also once called Killarney home before they became extinct during the Victorian age of hunting lodges on the shores of Killarney Lakes, such as Lord Brandons Cottage and Dinis Cottage. Reintroduced to Killarney National Park in 2007, these birds are making a great come back, and now locals and visitors cherish the opportunity to catch a rare glimpse of the White Tailed Eagle while on or around the lakes.
2. The Black Valley
The Black Valley is on the southern side of MacGillycuddy's Reeks. It connects the Gap of Dunloe with Moll's Gap. The valley can be seen from Ladies' View, a vista along the road through the Killarney National Park, and is famous for being the last place on mainland Ireland to be connected to electricity and telephone because of its remoteness. While most tourists stick to the main roads through the Killarney National Park, you can brave the narrow road through the valley to see a wild part of Ireland.
There are few homes in the Black Valley and you can drive for miles without seeing a house. What visitors will see depends on the season. During the tourist season, from the middle of spring to late summer, acre upon acre of bog cotton and wild yellow irises blanket the valley floor. Wild red fuchsia, purple heather and bright yellow gorse line the road and rocky outcrops. Cascades, streams, lakes and rivers flow through blanket bog and woody glens. Late in the season, leafy woodlands and changing colors show another side of the valley!
Photo by @markobphotography
3. Visit Muckross House and Gardens
This nineteenth century Victorian mansion is set against the stunning beauty of Killarney National Park. The house stands close to the shores of Muckross Lake, one of Killarney's three lakes, famed world wide for their splendour and beauty. As a focal point within Killarney National Park, Muckross House is the ideal base from which to explore this landscape.
3. Visit Muckross House and Gardens
This nineteenth century Victorian mansion is set against the stunning beauty of Killarney National Park. The house stands close to the shores of Muckross Lake, one of Killarney's three lakes, famed world wide for their splendour and beauty. As a focal point within Killarney National Park, Muckross House is the ideal base from which to explore this landscape.
Dating from 1843 it is a former private residence where you can view the children's toys, the famous Killarney furniture of the library & drawing room & the famous specially prepared bedroom where Queen Victoria slept during her visit in 1861. The elegantly furnished rooms portray the lifestyles of the landed gentry, while downstairs in the basement you can experience the working conditions of the servants employed in the House back in the day!
At Muckross Traditional Farms you are invited to take a stroll down memory lane, to a time before the advent of electricity when all work was carried out using traditional methods. Meet and chat with the farmers and their wives as they go about their daily work in the houses, on the land, and with the animals. Visitors can also enjoy a complimentary trip aboard the Muckross Vintage Coach which circulates the farms!
The Gardens at Muckross House are renowned world-wide for their beauty. In particular they are noted for their fine collections of azaleas and rhododendrons, an extensive water garden, and an outstanding rock garden hewn out of natural limestone. Muckross House is also home to a number of skilled craft workers who can be viewed using traditional skills in the crafts of weaving, bookbinding and pottery in the adjacent walled garden centre!
Photo by @olliwah
4.Torc Waterfall
Take the short walk from the car park to Torc Waterfall and bask in the beauty of one of Killarneys gems. Situated just 5 miles outside Killarney, the Waterfall is at it’s best after heavy rainfall. From here you can also walk the wooded steps up the mountain slopes. One of the best and most scenic ways to see Torc Waterfall is to park in the Dinis Cottage Car Park, off the N71 Ring of Kerry Road, only a short distance away. From here you cross the road and take on the now famous ‘Cardiac Steps‘ trail, the name is self explanatory.
5. Ross Castle
A 15th-century lakeside castle in the Killarney National Park, Ross Castle gives a taste of rural life centuries ago, with its old-world farm. The stark structure contrasts nicely with the gentle lake before it, and you can stroll off into the wilderness with it lighting up behind you along the way.
Ross Castle sits on the edge of Killarney’s lower lake and was built by O’Donoghue Mór in the 15th century. The Castle came into the hands of the Brownes who became the Earls of Kenmare and owned an extensive portion of the lands that are now part of Killarney National Park . Legend has it that O’Donoghue still exists in a deep slumber under the waters of Lough Leane. On the first morning of May every seven years he rises from the lake on his magnificent white horse and circles the lake. Anyone catching a glimpse of him is said to be assured of good fortune for the rest of their lives. The large rock at the entrance to the bay is known as O’Donoghue’s prison. Ross Castle was the last stronghold in Munster to hold out against Cromwell. It was eventually taken by General Ludlow in 1652.
Photo by @olliwah
4.Torc Waterfall
Take the short walk from the car park to Torc Waterfall and bask in the beauty of one of Killarneys gems. Situated just 5 miles outside Killarney, the Waterfall is at it’s best after heavy rainfall. From here you can also walk the wooded steps up the mountain slopes. One of the best and most scenic ways to see Torc Waterfall is to park in the Dinis Cottage Car Park, off the N71 Ring of Kerry Road, only a short distance away. From here you cross the road and take on the now famous ‘Cardiac Steps‘ trail, the name is self explanatory.
5. Ross Castle
A 15th-century lakeside castle in the Killarney National Park, Ross Castle gives a taste of rural life centuries ago, with its old-world farm. The stark structure contrasts nicely with the gentle lake before it, and you can stroll off into the wilderness with it lighting up behind you along the way.
Ross Castle sits on the edge of Killarney’s lower lake and was built by O’Donoghue Mór in the 15th century. The Castle came into the hands of the Brownes who became the Earls of Kenmare and owned an extensive portion of the lands that are now part of Killarney National Park . Legend has it that O’Donoghue still exists in a deep slumber under the waters of Lough Leane. On the first morning of May every seven years he rises from the lake on his magnificent white horse and circles the lake. Anyone catching a glimpse of him is said to be assured of good fortune for the rest of their lives. The large rock at the entrance to the bay is known as O’Donoghue’s prison. Ross Castle was the last stronghold in Munster to hold out against Cromwell. It was eventually taken by General Ludlow in 1652.
Ross Castle is open to the public during the summer months.
By car, Ross Castle can be reached via a signposted right turn off the N71 travelling south from Killarney town or by walking or cycling from the Killarney House and Knockreer sections of the National Park. Jaunting cars also make the journey and are available at the jaunting car stand in the town!
By car, Ross Castle can be reached via a signposted right turn off the N71 travelling south from Killarney town or by walking or cycling from the Killarney House and Knockreer sections of the National Park. Jaunting cars also make the journey and are available at the jaunting car stand in the town!
Photo by @briaincolemaan
6. Innisfallon by boat or kayak
Take a guided Kayak tour or a short boat journey from Ross Castle to the enchanting Innisfallen Island.
Today, it is home to the ruins of a of Innisfallen Monastery founded in 640 and where Irish High King Brian Boru was educated. A major source of Early Irish History, The Annals of Innisfallen were also composed here. Steeped in Irish
Mythology, the island is also home to a small herd of native red deer. The island embodies Irish folklore and history, and there is something truly magical about visiting this little gem of an island for an hour. Alternatively you can also book spectacular sunset Kayak Trips on the lake!
7. Walk Torc Mountain and Old Kenmare Road.
6. Innisfallon by boat or kayak
Take a guided Kayak tour or a short boat journey from Ross Castle to the enchanting Innisfallen Island.
Today, it is home to the ruins of a of Innisfallen Monastery founded in 640 and where Irish High King Brian Boru was educated. A major source of Early Irish History, The Annals of Innisfallen were also composed here. Steeped in Irish
Mythology, the island is also home to a small herd of native red deer. The island embodies Irish folklore and history, and there is something truly magical about visiting this little gem of an island for an hour. Alternatively you can also book spectacular sunset Kayak Trips on the lake!
7. Walk Torc Mountain and Old Kenmare Road.
Torc Mountain is an extremely popular, family friendly and scenic moderate 2.5 hour (7.5 km) walking route to the summit of Torc Mountain (535m) with spectacular 360 degree views of Killarney town and lakes, Muckross House, the Killarney National Park and the McGillicuddy’s Reeks!
Photo by @seanorphoto
8. Ladies View and Molls Gap
Enjoy the most panoramic and spectacular view of Killarney at Ladies View. This is a must see and is just a short drive outside Killarney with a panoramic view of Killarney’s three mystical lakes. There’s a Gift Store, Café and Bar for refreshments. Take the short stroll up the road to another car park where you can enjoy another vantage point of the Upper Lake. A short distance along the road is the famous Moll’s Gap mountain pass.
Photo by @yourwayireland
9. Killarney House – Town Centre
The recently renovated Killarney House and Gardens is Killarneys newest tourist attraction, adding to the Killarney National Park. Located right beside the town centre, it is within easy walking distance, and provides a relaxing break from the the bustling town. The location of Killarney House was chosen by Queen Victoria on her visit to Ireland in 1861 and was originally the seat of the Earls of Kenmare.
10. Jaunting Car Tour (Pony and Trap)
Step back in time and take a traditional Jaunting Car to Ross Castle, in Muckross House and Gardens or through the Killarney National Park. What better way to savour the scenery! Sit back and enjoy the leisurely spin and let the Jarvey man entertain you with stories, folklore and maybe some tall tales.
11. Hike the Kerry Way Trail
Although the Kerry Way is over 200km in length, there are lovely smaller sections close to Killarney including through the National Park, The Old Kenmare Road, Derrycunnihy to Lord Brandons, Black Valley to Bridia Valley and more. These ancient trails pass through breathtaking scenery, remote valleys and scenic mountain passes!
12. A round of golf on one of the best courses in the world!
Choose from several world famous and renowned golf courses in and around Killarney town. Take your pick from a selection of lakeside, woodland, links, 9 hole, 18 hole and 36 hole courses including Killarney Golf and Fishing Club, Ross Golf Club, Dunloe Golf Club, Beaufort Golf Club and Castlerosse Golf Club.
Just a little further afield you also have Dooks Golf Club, Waterville Golf Club, Tralee Golf Club, Ballybunnion Golf Club and more!
13. Horse riding in Killarney National Park
Just a little further afield you also have Dooks Golf Club, Waterville Golf Club, Tralee Golf Club, Ballybunnion Golf Club and more!
13. Horse riding in Killarney National Park
What better way to see Killarney National Park than on horse back! Go on one of the most scenic Treks in Ireland by trekking through the spectacular Killarney National Park!
Suitable for all levels, there are a number of providers offers various packages from 1 to 3 hours through the park with views of Ross Castle, Ross Island, the Killarney lakes and Mountains. Hacking, Trekking & Trail Riding tours available.
Photo by @annika_eventing
Photo by @annika_eventing
14. Sunset Kayaking on the Lakes
If activity sports are your thing, why not Kayak on Killarney’s Lakes and take a trip to Innisfallen Island and experience the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings. There are several operators providing guided kayak tours on the lakes.
Photo by @howardthou
15. Fishing on the Rivers and Lakes of Killarney
Take a guided fishing trip on the Lakes of Killarney! Experienced guides have a vast knowledge of all the Lakes and Rivers of Killarney and these local ghillies have access to secluded and secret fishing locations.
16. Scenic views from Aghadoe
15. Fishing on the Rivers and Lakes of Killarney
Take a guided fishing trip on the Lakes of Killarney! Experienced guides have a vast knowledge of all the Lakes and Rivers of Killarney and these local ghillies have access to secluded and secret fishing locations.
16. Scenic views from Aghadoe
View the Killarney Lakes, National Park and Mountains from Aghadoe Heights Hotel!
Only a short drive from the town center, you can park at the roadside in Aghadoe or visit the hotel for some of the best views of Killarney's Lakes, National Park and Mountains!
Photo by @conorhealy88
17. Boat Trip on the Lakes
Cruise Killarney's Lakes with a trip on a variety of boat tours, water bus tours and lake tours. They offer scenic tours of Lough Leane, Killarney’s largest lake, which set sail from the historic Ross Castle, Muckross Boat House, Dinis Cottage and Lord Brandon's Cottage.
Take a boat trip to the quaint and pretty Dinis Cottage on the Muckross Lake in Killarney National Park. The cottage, dating to the 1700’s, was a hunting lodge and today it opens as a tea house.
The romantic and peaceful Old Weir Bridge and the Meeting of the Waters are within walking distance from the cottage. Check out the windows of the cottage which feature the names of people who carved their names with their diamond rings dating back to the 1800’s!
18. Pub Tour and Traditional Irish Music
Visit Killarney's vast range of pubs from small fireside snugs to craft brewery’s and from traditional music pubs to modern boutique style bars.
For something extra, why not experience some of the finest pubs and Irish traditional music in the town of Killarney with a Killarney Music Pub Tour!
Live Irish trad music guaranteed!
19. The Killarney Brewing Company
Visit the Killarney Brewing Company for a wildly entertaining Craft Brewery Tour and Tasting. The Independent Brewery gives an hour long tour of their aptly named beers such as Devil’s Helles or Brazen Banshee. And they serve delicious wood fired oven pizza! What more could you want!
19. The Killarney Brewing Company
Visit the Killarney Brewing Company for a wildly entertaining Craft Brewery Tour and Tasting. The Independent Brewery gives an hour long tour of their aptly named beers such as Devil’s Helles or Brazen Banshee. And they serve delicious wood fired oven pizza! What more could you want!
Photo by @KillarneyBrewing
20. J.M. REIDYS
Visit one of Killarney's newest pubs in what was one of Killarney's oldest shops and most photographed building, J. M. Reidy, with its old world charm, delicious food, cocktails and lovely courtyard area!
20. J.M. REIDYS
Visit one of Killarney's newest pubs in what was one of Killarney's oldest shops and most photographed building, J. M. Reidy, with its old world charm, delicious food, cocktails and lovely courtyard area!
Photo - @j.m_reidys
21. Treasure Hunt and Falconry in Killarney National Park
Rather than your usual tourist attractions and scenic views, why not try something different and unique. First up, how about an exciting Treasure Hunt in Killarney National Park which can be done on foot, by bicycle, by boat, by jaunting car, on horseback or a combination of any of the five choices?! Perfect for large groups and families and lots of fun! Second up is the exciting and memorable experience of flying a hawk around the grounds of Killarney National Park! Group & private hawk walks are available.
22. Visit Muckross Abbey
You’ll find Muckross Abbey a handy 5-minute stroll from Muckross House. This section of the national park predates Muckross House, and historians have estimated that the first monastery was built as far back as the 6th century. The Abbey ruins which still stand today date from the 15th century and have not been in use since the 1650s, when the monks were driven away during the Cromwellian war. People that visit Muckross House often miss the Abbey, which is a shame! Make sure to pop it onto your Kerry itinerary.
23. Visit St Mary's Cathedral – Town Centre
St. Mary’s Cathedral towers amongst the clouds with a backdrop of Killarney’s glorious lakes and mountains. Visitors are welcome to attend mass and/ or to explore this wonderful church at leisure. A brief history of how the Cathedral was constructed can be read below.
Commissioned in 1840 by a local fundraising committee, the design of St. Mary’s Cathedral was borne from the wonderful mind of Agustus Welby Pugin, despite only having raised £800 pounds at the time. Pugin gained inspiration from the ruins of the ancient Ardfert Cathedral which is particularly evident in the slender triple lancets in the east and west walls. Despite having to make funding appeals across Ireland and the US as the funds were so low, the foundations were laid in 1842. Construction then ceased for five years in 1848 due to the Great Famine. On succeeding Pugin, J.J McCarthy was appointed as architect from the beginning of 1853 when construction once again resumed. Separately, architects Ashlin and Coleman from Dublin constructed the nave and spire. Following two years, the cathedral was debt free despite the costs rising to £20,000, significantly complete and ready to welcome those of worship.
Due to renovations in 1973 by Ray Carroll of Dublin and Daniel J. Kennedy of Tralee, the interior was both gutted and greatly damaged; reconstruction took place from 1972 until 1973 incurring a cost of £278,500. The approach by the two architects was nothing short of radical, which resulted in none of the former interior remaining, apart from a few small areas.
Photo by @laurabmalloy
24. Explore the Copper Mines
One of Killarneys best walks is popular among local and visitors, a loop walk takes you on the trail of the some of the worlds oldest Copper Mines and open mine shafts which date back to 2400 BC, thats nearly 4,500 years old.
<span;>The trail includes the fabulous scenic viewing points of Governors Rock and Library Point on Ross Island, with stunning views of the Killarney Lakes, Mangerton and Torc Mountains to the south and Purple, Tomies and Shehy Mountains to the west. You can also walk from Ross Castle to the town centre via the picturesque Knockrear area of the National Park.
25. Go to a concert (preferably by an Irish band
or singer) in the INEC
The INEC Killarney is the largest music and multi purpose venue in Ireland outside Dublin, and Ireland’s only residential event centre.
They have played host to many national and international music acts including : Hozier, The Script, Kodaline, Tom Jones, Cliff Richard, Rascal Flatts, Daniel O’Donnell, Kenny Rogers, Vince Gill, Van Morrison, Jimmy Carr, Lord of the Dance, Riverdance.
The INEC hold Concerts, Exhibitions, Gigs, Theatre, Sports in a modern, 3,000-capacity theatre with 2 balconies!
24. Explore the Copper Mines
One of Killarneys best walks is popular among local and visitors, a loop walk takes you on the trail of the some of the worlds oldest Copper Mines and open mine shafts which date back to 2400 BC, thats nearly 4,500 years old.
<span;>The trail includes the fabulous scenic viewing points of Governors Rock and Library Point on Ross Island, with stunning views of the Killarney Lakes, Mangerton and Torc Mountains to the south and Purple, Tomies and Shehy Mountains to the west. You can also walk from Ross Castle to the town centre via the picturesque Knockrear area of the National Park.
25. Go to a concert (preferably by an Irish band
or singer) in the INEC
The INEC Killarney is the largest music and multi purpose venue in Ireland outside Dublin, and Ireland’s only residential event centre.
They have played host to many national and international music acts including : Hozier, The Script, Kodaline, Tom Jones, Cliff Richard, Rascal Flatts, Daniel O’Donnell, Kenny Rogers, Vince Gill, Van Morrison, Jimmy Carr, Lord of the Dance, Riverdance.
The INEC hold Concerts, Exhibitions, Gigs, Theatre, Sports in a modern, 3,000-capacity theatre with 2 balconies!
Photo from Niall Horan's concert at the INEC by @gleneagleinecarena
Hope this list helps you look forward to the positive future ahead and helps you with your après-Covid-19 travel plans!
In the meantime, Comhar, Cabhar, Cairdeas!
💚💛
1. Spot a Red Deer in the National Park
2. The Black Valley
3. Muckross House & Gardens
4. Torc Waterfall
5. Ross Castle
6. Innisfallon Island by boat or kayak
7. Walk Torc Mountain and the Old Kenmare Road
8. Ladies View and Molls Gap
9. Killarney House
10. Jaunting Cart Tour
11. Hike the Kerry Way Trail
12. Play a round of golf in a golfer's paradise
13. Horse Riding through the National Park
14. Sunset Kayaking on the Lakes
15. Fish on the Rivers and Lakes around Killarney
16. Enjoy scenic views from Aghadoe
17. Boat Trip on the Lakes
18. Tour the pubs and enjoy live music in the town
19. Visit the Killarney Brewing Company
20. Visit J.M. Reidys
21. Treasure Hunt with Kingdom Falconry
22. Visit Muckross Abbey
23. Visit St. Mary's Cathedral
24. Explore the Copper Mines
25. See a concert in the INEC
2. The Black Valley
3. Muckross House & Gardens
4. Torc Waterfall
5. Ross Castle
6. Innisfallon Island by boat or kayak
7. Walk Torc Mountain and the Old Kenmare Road
8. Ladies View and Molls Gap
9. Killarney House
10. Jaunting Cart Tour
11. Hike the Kerry Way Trail
12. Play a round of golf in a golfer's paradise
13. Horse Riding through the National Park
14. Sunset Kayaking on the Lakes
15. Fish on the Rivers and Lakes around Killarney
16. Enjoy scenic views from Aghadoe
17. Boat Trip on the Lakes
18. Tour the pubs and enjoy live music in the town
19. Visit the Killarney Brewing Company
20. Visit J.M. Reidys
21. Treasure Hunt with Kingdom Falconry
22. Visit Muckross Abbey
23. Visit St. Mary's Cathedral
24. Explore the Copper Mines
25. See a concert in the INEC