Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park, the first in Ireland, spreads around three lakes beneath the highest mountains in the country, cloaking them in some of the last ancient oak and yew woods in Ireland. Home to a native red deer herd, the Victorian Muckross House, the Torc waterfall and the romantic Ross Castle, it is a landscape of gentle, storied beauty.

Background

The park began in 1932, when the Muckross Estate was donated, and it has since grown to over 102.89 square kilometres. The ground rises from 22 metres to 842 metres, and Lough Leane, the largest of the lakes, holds over 30 islands. Woodland has covered the ground without a break since the last glacial period ended, approximately 10,000 years ago, and people have lived here since at least the Bronze Age. St. Finian the Leper founded a monastery here in the 7th century CE, and the Annals of Inisfallen were written there from the 11th to 13th centuries. Observantine Franciscans established Muckross Abbey in 1448.

Source: Wikipedia, "Killarney National Park"

Highlights

• The lakes and mountains - the three lakes beneath the MacGillycuddy's Reeks.
• Muckross House and gardens - the Victorian mansion and its grounds.
• Torc Waterfall - the woodland cascade on a short walk.
• Ross Castle and the Gap of Dunloe - the lakeside castle and the mountain pass.

When to go

Late spring to autumn for the mildest weather and autumn colour in the oak woods; the park is green year-round. It can be explored on foot, by bike or by traditional jaunting car.

Before you go

It is popular and, with Killarney town beside it, touristy in places, including the jaunting cars. The famous Irish weather brings frequent rain. Its beauty is gentle and green rather than dramatic wilderness.

Nearby

Killarney town is at its edge; the Ring of Kerry and Gap of Dunloe are alongside.

Key facts