Things to Do in Killarney: National Park, Lakes and Gap of Dunloe

Lakes, mountains, ancient forests and traditional horse-drawn carriages: Killarney, Killarney, in County Kerry, is the gateway to Ireland's oldest national park and the starting point of the Ring of Kerry. Here's what to do in Killarney and its national park, and our tips for making the most of your visit. Based in the UK and Ireland since 2012, we incorporate it into our tailor-made trips.

In short: In Killarney, don't miss the national park: Ross Castle on the shores of Lough Leane, Muckross House and its gardens, Muckross Abbey, and Torc Falls. Explore it on foot, by bike, by boat, or in a jaunting car, the traditional horse-drawn carriage. Nearby, discover the Gap of Dunloe, Ladies View, and the Ring of Kerry. Allow 2 to 3 days.

Things to do in Killarney: the national park

Created in 1932, Killarney National Park is Ireland's first national park. It extends around three lakes, at the foot of the MacGillycuddy's Reeks, the highest mountain range in the country.

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What kind of traveler are you for? Things to do in Killarney: national park, lakes and the Gap of Dunloe "?

5 quick questions to see what suits you best.

Question 1 of 5

In a castle, you look first…

The history of the placeThe architecture and decor

Question 2 of 5

Would you prefer to visit…

A must-haveA more discreet location

Question 3 of 5

During the visit?

With a guideAt your own pace

Question 4 of 5

Which setting appeals to you the most?

An impressive fortressA house with beautiful gardens

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What do you like to feel?

Understanding what happened hereTo transport you to another era

Ross Castle

This 15th-century tower house, built by the O'Donoghue clan, stands on the shores of Lough Leane. It is also the starting point for boat trips on the lakes.

Muckross House and its gardens

This elegant Victorian mansion hosted Queen Victoria in 1861. Its gardens, traditional farm buildings, and lakeside paths are worth a visit in themselves. Nearby, the ruins of Muckross Abbey, founded in the 15th century, exude a peaceful atmosphere.

Torc Waterfall

In the heart of the forest, this nearly 20-meter waterfall can be reached in a few minutes on foot from the road. You can then climb to the top for a beautiful view of the lakes.

How to explore the park?

• In jaunting car, the traditional horse-drawn carriage driven by a jarvey, a true local institution.
• By bike, on the trails between Ross Castle and Muckross.
• By boat, on the lakes from Ross Castle.
• On foot, on the park's many trails.

What is there to see around Killarney?

• The Gap of Dunloe, a spectacular mountain pass, to be explored on foot, by bike or by horse-drawn carriage.
• Ladies View, famous viewpoint overlooking the lakes, on the road to Kenmare.
• The Ring of Kerry, a scenic 179-kilometer loop around the Iveragh Peninsula.
• The Dingle Peninsula, further north.

Read our guides to Ring of Kerry, of the Dingle Peninsula and What to do in Cork.

Our 3-day Killarney itinerary

• Day 1: Ross Castle, boat trip and town centre in the evening.
• Day 2: Muckross House, Torc Abbey and waterfall, by bike or jaunting car.
• Day 3: the Gap of Dunloe or part of the Ring of Kerry.

For a turnkey trip, discover our trip Wild Ireland, from Wicklow to Kerry, OUR romantic trip to Ireland and our golf trip to Ireland. More information is available on the website of the Killarney National Park.

Also read: que faire à Kinsale

Frequently Asked Questions about Killarney

How many days does it take to get to Killarney?

Allow at least 2 days for the national park, and 3 days to add the Gap of Dunloe or the Ring of Kerry.

How do I get to Killarney from Dublin?

The train connects Dublin to Killarney in approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, sometimes requiring a change. By car, the journey takes about 4 hours. However, a car remains more practical for exploring Kerry.

Is Killarney National Park free?

Yes, access to the park is free. However, Muckross House and Ross Castle require a ticket to visit.

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