Just a little more than three hours by car from Ireland’s capital city, Dublin, is Killarney—a town on the shores of Lough Leane in southwest Ireland’s County Kerry. Dripping in warm hospitality, pubs and shops, and sublime natural beauty, it’s also the leaping-off point for amazing outdoor adventure.
Many serious hikers lace up their boots here to embark on the Kerry Way, a 200-kilometre-long (124-mile) signposted walking trail—Ireland’s longest.
For drivers, Killarney is the gateway to the legendary 179-kilometre-long (111-mile) Ring of Kerry, an Irish road trip renowned for its spectacular coastal views and historical landmarks.
It could be done in a day but when something is this beautiful, we recommend you don’t rush.
Visiting Killarney
Killarney is surrounded by Killarney National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of over 25,000 acres of lush woodlands, sparkling lakes, and majestic mountains making it popular for outdoor recreation such as cycling, boating, hiking, and golf.
Recreational walkers can enjoy the environmental splendour of protected and rare flora such as St. Patrick’s cabbage, Greater Butterwort, and Blue-eyed Grass. Adding to the region’s biodiversity are wildflowers, delicate bluebells, buttercups, bold foxgloves, and fuchsia, which attract a myriad of insects and birds.
Home for more than 200 years to seven generations of the Herbert family. Muckross means “the wood of the pig” and refers to the early practice of pasturing hogs in the woods.
After amassing a fortune in copper mining, the Herbert family enjoyed a life of privilege, reflected in the 19th-century period furnishings in Muckross House, which hosted British Monarch Queen Victoria in 1861.
Scottish architect William Burn designed the mansion on Muckross Lake, one of Killarney’s three lakes, and Ireland’s deepest. A short walk from the house and gardens is Torc Waterfall, a stunning 66-foot cascade.
Lovers of legend and lore will enjoy a visit the 15th-century castle on the edge of Lough Leane, built by Irish chieftain O’Donoghue Mór, who is said to slumber beneath the lake’s waters.
Plan your visit accordingly, for it’s said that every seven years, on the first morning of May, he rises on his majestic white horse. If you’re lucky to catch a glimpse of him, you will enjoy good fortune for the rest of your life.
Tour the interior rooms of Ross Castle, or for a different vantage point, take a scenic boat tour.
Just a 500-metre walk from Killarney National Park is this Gothic Revival cathedral , built in the 1850s and reminiscent of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, with pointed arches, vertical stained-glass windows, and Latin cross floor plan. The 1869 organ is still intact and in exchange for a few coins, interior photos are permitted.
Dining in Killarney
A mix of cozy Irish fare and contemporary dishes, Killarney’s kitchens will delight food lovers. A must-try is Boxty, a traditional Irish potato pancake that’s often served with smoked salmon or crème fraîche. Bricin Restaurant, opened in 1991 by Killarney natives Johnny and Paddy McGuire, features Irish beef, Kerry lamb, fish and seafood, and several types of Boxty.
Its adjacent shop features Irish woolen wares – who wouldn’t enjoy a thick sweater on damp days – soaps, art, chocolate, books, and Celtic jewelry.
Local pubs and restaurants like The Brehon Bar and Murphy’s Bar offer homely settings to enjoy fresh seafood, particularly the mussels.
Family-run Porterhouse serves hearty Irish grub at its best, including homemade soup and bloomer bread, a perfect warm-up on a cold and misty day.
There’s no shortage of great seafood restaurants in Killarney, but the Mad Monk is near the top of the list, for its fresh Irish-sourced fish and seafood.
Where to Stay
For a luxurious stay, Old Weir Lodge is a top choice. This family-run guesthouse combines modern comfort with traditional Irish hospitality. Located just a short walk from the town center, Weir Lodge offers elegantly furnished rooms and a hearty Irish breakfast, making it an ideal base for exploring Killarney and beyond.
Killarney Royal Hotel is a stately boutique hotel in the centre of town. Opulent guestrooms are dressed in a regal palette and adorned with antiques. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner in the elegant Candle Room Restaurant.
A bit out of the city centre is Aghadoe Heights, a contemporary 5-star luxury hotel and spa overlooking the Lough Leane. Gorgeous rooms, with plenty of glass, are simple in design with focus drawn to the impressive views. Even if you choose to stay in town, a visit to the relaxation room and extensive thermal suite at the modern spa is worthy of a visit. A rural retreat for sure!
Driving the Ring of Kerry
The name “Ring of Kerry” is stitched in myth and legend. According to local folklore, the circular route was created by a mystical race of giants who shaped the landscape to protect the region’s natural beauty.
The Ring of Kerry is an unforgettable circular route around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry. Beginning in Killarney, this scenic road trip takes in the towns of Beaufort, Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Caherdaniel, Sneem, and Kenmare.
It can be completed in a day, but to truly appreciate its beauty and charm, it is recommended to dedicate at least two to three days to this adventure.
Suggested Driving Itinerary and Stops
- Killarney to Kenmare: 34-kilometres (21 miles). Head south from Killarney and your first stop is the colourful town of Kenmare, known for its vibrant buildings and arts scene. Don’t miss the Kenmare Stone Circle, an ancient site that offers a glimpse into Ireland’s prehistoric past.
- Kenmare to Sneem: 27-kilometres (17 miles). Continue west to Sneem, a picturesque stop with a quaint village green and lovely selection of shops, a perfect way to stretch your legs and pick up some Irish souvenirs.
- Sneem to Waterville 35-kilometres (16 miles): Waterville is a coastal village famous for its links to Charlie Chaplin, who often vacationed here. The town offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a great spot for a seafood lunch, particularly mussels, fresh from the local waters.
- Waterville to Cahersiveen: 16.5-kilometres (10.25 miles): Traveling north, you’ll reach Cahersiveen, a town rich in history and culture. Visit the Daniel O’Connell Memorial Church, dedicated to the famous Irish political leader, and explore the nearby Ballycarbery Castle ruins.
- Cahersiveen to Glenbeigh 27-kilometres (23 miles): Continue to Glenbeigh to take in the serene beauty of Rossbeigh Beach. This is a perfect sandy spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic by the sea.
- Glenbeigh to Killorglin 13-kilometres (8 miles): Your next stop is Killorglin, known for the annual Puck Fair, one of Ireland’s oldest and most unusual festivals, held the 10-12 August each year. The town is lively and offers a fantastic opportunity to mingle and enjoy traditional Irish music.
- Killorglin back to Killarney 22 kilometres (17 miles): Complete your loop by returning to Killarney. Along the way, you can detour to the Gap of Dunloe, a narrow mountain pass that offers some of the most dramatic scenery in Ireland.
Must-Sees
- Ladies View: This scenic viewpoint offers panoramic views of the lakes and mountains of Killarney National Park. It’s named after Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting who were enchanted by the view during a royal visit in 1861
- Skellig Michael: While not directly on the Ring, this UNESCO World Heritage site is accessible via boat from Portmagee (weather permitting, April—September). The island features well-preserved monastic structures and is famous for its role in the Star Wars films.
Ring of Kerry Travel Tips
- The best time to explore the Ring of Kerry is during the late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are lush and green. Keep in mind, however, this is when everyone else will be there too.
- Driving: The roads on the Ring of Kerry can be narrow and winding, so it’s important to drive carefully and take your time. Starting your journey early in the morning can help you avoid the peak tourist traffic.
- Remember that in Ireland you’ll be driving on the left-hand side of the road.
- While the Ring of Kerry can be driven in a day, dedicating two to three days allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience, with ample time for exploring, dining, and relaxing.
Comhar, Cabhair, Cairdeas
County Kerry’s Irish motto, “Cooperation, Help, Friendship,” is what you will find along with some of Ireland’s most beautiful scenery. From the green landscapes of Killarney National Park to the rugged coastal beauty of the Ring of Kerry, this region is a an Irish treasure trove of unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re savoring fresh seafood, exploring ancient ruins, or simply soaking in pastoral landscapes, a stay in Killarney, and a drive along the Ring of Kerry will be a highlight of your travels in Ireland.
Plan your trip with www.TourismIreland.com
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Author bio: Kerry Kreisman
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