Ross Castle

Castle in the Republic of Ireland

Introduction

Location

📍 Situated: Located in Killarney National Park, County Kerry, Ireland.
🗺️ Coordinates: 52°02′28″N 9°31′52″W.
🚗 Accessibility: Easily accessible from Killarney town, approximately a 40-minute walk, 10-minute cycle, or 5-minute drive.
🛤️ Signposted: Well-signposted and easy to find along Ross Road.

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Historical Background

🏰 Construction: Built in the late 15th century by the O'Donoghue family.
⚔️ Conflicts: Changed hands during the Second Desmond Rebellion and later leased to Sir Valentine Browne.
🛡️ Cromwellian Siege: Surrendered to Cromwell's forces in 1652 after artillery was brought by boat.
🏠 Browne Family: Retained by the Browne family until they were exiled for supporting James II.

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Legends and Myths

🧙 O'Donoghue Legend: O'Donoghue Mór is said to rise from the lake every seven years on May 1st.
🏇 Horse and Rider: Legend states he rides a magnificent white horse.
🏞️ Lake Palace: Believed to live in a palace at the bottom of Lough Leane.
🪄 Good Fortune: Catching a glimpse of him is said to bring good fortune.

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Visitor Information

🕒 Opening Hours: Open from April to October.
🎟️ Ticket Prices: Adult €5, Group/Senior €4, Child/Student €3, Family €13.
🚶 Guided Tours: Available during opening hours, providing historical insights.
📅 Seasonal Access: Grounds accessible year-round, but interior tours are seasonal.

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Activities

🛶 Boat Trips: Available to Inisfallen Island and around the Lakes of Killarney.
🚶 Walking Trails: Several trails in Killarney National Park offer views of the castle.
📸 Photography: Scenic views of Lough Leane and surrounding landscapes.
🦆 Wildlife Watching: Opportunities to see ducks, swans, and other wildlife.

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Nearby Attractions

🏠 Muckross House: A Tudor-style mansion dating back to 1843, 11-minute drive.
🏛️ Muckross Abbey: Ruins of a Franciscan Friary founded in 1448, 20-minute drive.
🌊 Torc Waterfall: A 20-meter high waterfall, 20-minute drive.
🏞️ Gap of Dunloe: A narrow mountain pass, 20-minute drive.
🌄 Ladies View: A famous viewpoint, 25-minute drive.
🏞️ Black Valley: A remote and rugged area, 45-minute drive.

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Travel Information
📞 Phone: +353 64 663 5851
🌐 Website: https://heritageireland.ie/visit/places-to-visit/ross-castle/
🕒 Hours: See hours
📍 Address: Ross Rd, Ross Island, Killarney, Co. Kerry, V93 V304, Ireland

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