County Kerry - Killarney National Park

County Kerry - Killarney National Park

Best of County Kerry: Killarney National Park

As part of our Best of Each County series, we’re showcasing the unforgettable beauty of Killarney National Park, a natural and cultural landmark that defines the charm of County Kerry.

Covering more than 26,000 acres, the park is famed for its lakes, woodlands, mountains, and wildlife. It offers a perfect mix of history and nature, making it one of Ireland’s must-see destinations.

A highlight of the park is the Muckross House & Gardens, a 19th-century Victorian mansion overlooking the Lakes of Killarney. Once graced by Queen Victoria, the house now operates as a museum, while its manicured gardens showcase colourful blooms and peaceful walking paths.

Just outside of the Mucross House entrance, at the other side of the main road is Torc Waterfall. It is FREE to check out this peaceful waterfall nestled in lush woodland. The 70-foot cascade is easily reached by a short trail, and those who climb further are rewarded with sweeping views of the lakes and mountains.

For those seeking adventure, the Gap of Dunloe provides a dramatic mountain pass carved by glaciers. Whether explored by jaunting car, bicycle, or on foot, it offers one of the most scenic routes in Ireland. Wildlife lovers will also delight in spotting the park’s herd of native red deer — the only one of its kind in Ireland.

The name Gap of Dunloe comes from the Irish dun Lóich (“Lóich’s fort”), named after the chieftain of a clan who lived here in ancient times. The River Loe flows through the valley, linking its five corrie lakes: Coosaun Lough, Black Lake, Cushnavally Lake, Auger Lake, and Black Lough. When the great glaciers churned through the mountains 2 million years ago, they left massive boulders scattered about the valley, one of which is the famous “Turnpike,” which perches on a narrow section of the mountain pass, with the split sections of it forming natural gate posts on either side of the road. Stop here to admire stunning views of Auger Lake before continuing on to the old stone bridge known as the Wishing Bridge - a place to make a wish and create a memory with your travel partners!

Practical details make planning easy: entry to the park itself is free and open year-round, while sites such as Muckross House have their own admission fees and seasonal hours. The main visitor centre is located at Muckross, where guests can find maps, guided tour information, and tips on hiking trails. Boat tours of the lakes and jaunting car rides are also available from Killarney town, which sits right at the park’s edge and serves as the gateway to exploring this spectacular area.

With its mix of historic estates, stunning waterfalls, glacial valleys, and roaming wildlife, Killarney National Park captures the very best of County Kerry and stands as a jewel in Ireland’s natural heritage.

Details

Category The Best of Each County
Location Co. Kerry
Country Ireland