Absolutely gigantic: these are the words to describe Killarney NationalPark. With its 10,000 wild hectares, it is officially Ireland’s first and largest national park. A true treasure trove of nature, it is one of the country’s must-see tourist attractions. We love its majestic landscapes, its forests, lakes and mountains. A superb playground for hiking and getting away from it all… away from the rest of the world!

Visit Killarney National Park

Connect with the Irish wilderness!

Did you know? Killarney National Park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982, under the designation of“Biosphere Reserve“.

A term that illustrates the wild beauty of the park: here, the hand of man is virtually absent. Nature and wide-open spaces reign supreme, in a harmony of striking charm. And that’s the magic of the place!

So you’ll love putting on your hiking boots and setting off to explore its vast expanses of desolate moorland, plains, hills, lakes and mountains.

Among the Park’s must-sees are 3 Irish lakes:

• Muckross Lake,
• Lough Leane,
• and Upperlake

It’s a pleasure to walk along their shores or admire them from the mountains. In fact, there are 4 main peaks: Purple Mountain, Shehy Mountain, Mangerton Mountain and Torc Mountain. There are a number of trails for good walkers who are not afraid of the gradient. Starting on Purple Mountain, the circuit winds its way through the MacGillycuddys Reek. Allow 11 km to go round it: it will take you no less than 3 hours!

If you prefer more “accessible” sites, we recommend several ultra-touristic spots:

• The Gap of Dunloe: a magnificent, narrow valley to explore on foot, by bike, mini-bus or horse-drawn carriage. The place is as romantic as it gets, with breathtaking scenery. A very romantic place for lovers!
• Muckross House: an Irish manor house built in 1843. Its 65 rooms and unique style make it a particularly interesting place to visit. Now converted into a museum, the establishment offers a fascinating exhibition! Don’t miss its breathtaking view over the park: it’s a bit of a showstopper!
• Ladies View: a viewpoint overlooking Upper Lake, one of the Park’s lakes. A magical place, much appreciated even by Queen Victoria!
  Torc Waterfall: a wild waterfall in the middle of the forest at the foot of Torc Mountain. The setting is one of rare authenticity. All we need are elves and leprechauns to complete the picture!
• Ross Castle: an Irish castle in an excellent state of preservation, dating back to the 15th century! A historical marvel to discover!

Killarney National Park also boasts a particularly rich flora and fauna. Many rare species are present, and you may come across red deer (the Park is home to the country’s last remaining herd), peregrine falcons, wild ducks… etc.

Bring good shoes and a good camera if you’re hiking: you’ll quickly get hooked, and the more you hike, the more intense the scenery will be! You’re in for a real treat!