On the western shore of Lough Leane, the slopes of Tomies Mountain descend to the water beneath a canopy of oak trees. This is where Tomies Wood lies, within Killarney National Park. The walk alternates between long stretches beneath the trees, glimpses of the lake and a detour to O’Sullivan’s Cascade. It offers views of the largest of the Killarney lakes from its wooded slopes.
The wood covers a slope, and this geography shapes the walk. Lower down, the lake appears alongside the path at intervals. Higher up, the trees close in, drawing the eye back to the trunks and moss-covered stones. Gaps in the branches sometimes offer enough of a view to make out the islands of Lough Leane. In overcast weather, the contours fade more quickly than the foreground. The forest then becomes the walk’s main attraction.
The oaks form part of the park’s native woodland. The route also passes through planted areas and sections where rhododendron is present. This contrast helps reveal the wood as it is today, with different stands on either side of the slope. The best opportunities to look out over the lake often come through openings in the canopy, without leaving the path.
From the northern entrance, the walk mainly follows forest tracks. Taking the upper branch first means tackling the climb at the beginning, before joining the lower slope for the return to the starting point. Along this lower section, the terrain opens up more towards the lake. The uphill stretches and uneven ground are as important as the distance when deciding whether to complete the full loop.
Published distances vary according to the starting point and the detours included. When planning your walk, allow around 7 to 9 km and 2 to 3 hours for a loop, including breaks depending on your pace. An out-and-back walk to the cascade is a shorter option. Both routes share part of the woodland, but the loop allows more time to explore the upper slope.
O’Sullivan’s Cascade – Michael Foley – CC
The track and the cascade are not at the same level. A short descent down steps leads to the watercourse, which runs through a wooded hollow before joining Lough Leane.
After rain, the steps and stones can be slippery. Bear this difference in terrain in mind if you are considering the walk with children or are looking for a route without steps.
If you only have part of a day, the loop is enough on its own. If you have more time, Ross Castle offers another view of Lough Leane, from the Killarney side. The two visits can be combined by following the road around the lake. To compare Tomies Wood with routes on the other shores or at higher elevations, see the park walking guide.
Essential information to help you plan your visit, including key landmarks, access information, and booking options.
Tomies Wood Car Park, accès par la route locale, Killarney National Park, Killarney, County Kerry, Republic of Ireland, Tourist sites in Ireland
52.0448958, -9.6033238
No specific opening hours for the trail have been identified. Plan a daytime walk and follow the park’s on-site guidance.
Check the opening hours and admission requirements before you leave, especially during peak season or on Irish public holidays.
Free access to the trail.
