Killarney National Park

Generated with sparks and insights from 13 sources

Travel Tips

Guided Tours and Experiences

Take a guided tour to learn about the park's ecology and history. 1

Take a guided tour of Ross Castle to learn about its fascinating history. 2

Hire a Jaunting Car for a unique tour around the property and lake. 3

Outdoor Activities

Look out for the native red deer and other wildlife. 4

Rent a bike to explore the park's extensive trails. 5

Consider a morning hike or kayaking on the lakes for the best experience. 6

Take a boat trip on the lakes and cycle through the Gap of Dunloe. 7

Sightseeing and Landmarks

Drive the Ring of Kerry for stunning landscapes. Visit Killarney National Park, Torc Waterfall, and Muckross House and Gardens. 8

Don't miss the Torc Waterfall and the 15th-century Ross Castle. 9

Ross Castle and Muckross House are must-visits within the park. 10

Local Experiences

The jaunting car ride is a must-do for a traditional Irish experience. 11

A picnic here is a must-do for families. 12

Choose the horseback ride for a more adventurous experience. 13

Introduction

Location and Access

📍 Location: Situated in the southwest of County Kerry, near Killarney town.
🚗 Access: Reachable by train, car, and bus. Main access via the N71 road.
🗺️ Map: Detailed maps available online and at the visitor center.
🚫 Restrictions: Driving through gardens and around heritage sites is not permissible.
🅿️ Parking: Free parking available at several locations including Muckross House and Ross Castle.

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Natural Attractions

🏞️ Lakes: Includes Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and the Upper Lake.
🌳 Woodlands: Features oak and yew woodlands of international importance.
🌊 Waterfalls: Torc Waterfall is a popular attraction.
⛰️ Mountains: Home to the McGillycuddy’s Reeks, the highest mountain range in Ireland.
🌿 Flora: Rich in diverse plant species, including moss-rich yew woodland.

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Historical Sites

🏛️ Muckross House: A 19th-century mansion with gardens and traditional farms.
🏰 Ross Castle: A 15th-century tower house on the shore of Lough Leane.
⛪ Muckross Abbey: Founded in 1448, featuring a central courtyard with a yew tree.
🏝️ Innisfallen: Island with the ruins of a 7th-century monastic settlement.
🌉 Old Weir Bridge: Historic stone bridge located within the park.

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Wildlife

🦌 Red Deer: Home to the last surviving indigenous herd of red deer in Ireland.
🦅 Birds: Recently confirmed breeding of the Great Spotted Woodpecker.
🐿️ Fauna: Rich in diverse animal species, including rare and protected species.
🌲 Reenadinna Woods: Largest area of yew woodland in Western Europe.
🐟 Aquatic Life: Lakes support populations of brown trout and salmon.

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Activities

🚶‍♂️ Hiking: Numerous trails including the Old Kenmare Road and Torc Path.
🚴‍♂️ Cycling: Designated cycling paths available.
🛶 Boating: Boat trips to Innisfallen Island on Lough Leane.
🏃‍♂️ Park Run: Weekly Park Run events at Killarney House.
📸 Photography: Scenic spots for landscape and wildlife photography.

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Visitor Facilities

🏠 Visitor Centre: Located at Killarney House and Gardens with an interactive exhibition.
🍽️ Dining: Several options including Muckross House Garden Restaurant and Ross Castle Kiosk.
🅿️ Parking: Free parking at main sites like Muckross House and Ross Castle.
🚻 Toilets: Available at various locations including the Visitor Centre and Muckross House.
🛍️ Shops: Craft and gift shops at Muckross House and Traditional Farms.

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Conservation Efforts

🌐 UNESCO: Designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
🌳 Biodiversity: Efforts to conserve and increase biodiversity.
🚫 Restrictions: No camping, fires, or drones allowed to protect wildlife.
🦌 Wildlife Protection: Dogs must be on a lead to avoid disturbing wildlife.
♻️ Leave No Trace: Visitors encouraged to minimize waste and environmental impact.

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Travel Information
📞 Phone: +353 1 539 3620
🌐 Website: https://www.nationalparks.ie/killarney/
🕒 Hours: See hours
📍 Address: Co. Kerry, Ireland
🔗 Profiles:

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