Killarney National Park

One of the best places in Ireland to visit! We visited many national parks and this one is standing apart. We had a hike around lake after the Bert storm and some areas were flooded. We took our shoos 5 times off to cross flooded areas. Such an experience at 3 degrees water :-)

This park should be on everyone's bucket list when visiting Ireland. The raw beauty and majestic scenery are breathtaking and not to be missed! Give yourself at least 1 day to explore if possible. Stop whenever you can to get glimpses of the park that others may overlook. You will not be disappointed by Killarney!

It was nice driving around the national park. We did the Torc Waterfalls trail. It’s a lot of steps so if you’re not in good shape, it may be a bit hard. The falls are beautiful

Too many walking trails to enjoy here. You can immerse yourself in the beautiful landscape. We enjoyed our walk here. The places has a few small and one big waterfalls inside. There are enough places to sit and relax. I wish there are some coffee shops inside.

Brilliant national park, great scenery, and easy-to-access nature. A whole range of things to do, from hiking and sports to forest bathing and meditation 🧘‍♂️ Just hope for good weather and not too many tourist buses!

It's large, I drove to the Head of the Gap of Dunloe and it was amazing. You could easily spend a week hiking and exploring this emerald wonderland.

Absolutely stunning, 8th wonder of the world. Must see if you are in Ireland.

A priceless gem in Ireland, the Killarney National Park is worthy of a day trip. Outside the charming town of Killarney, the park is a glittering emerald in the green crown of the fabled Ring of Kerry. This stunning park in southwestern Ireland is a lush swath of hills, ancient forests, grand estates and shimmering lakes. It’s a place of legends, ruins and rambling hikes.

We knew that when we left Cork we wanted to take a detour so that the drive would take us up thru the Killarney National Park. This meant heading out of the city centre in the late morning, trying out the more narrow and scenic country roads and stopping in the small town of Kenmare. This is absolutely a drive worth going out of the way for and only had a few shared-lanes roads. The total drive time was probably about 45 minutes, but we pulled off the road a few times to see the lakes and enjoy some nature. It was a very beautiful day with a light breeze and mostly clear skies. There were a couple of major turnouts that we could've stopped at the store or the tourist information center, but we skipped those for the less crowded spots. On our last stop, we found that there were a couple hikes that we could've done. There was one that went to a waterfall and would've been about 4 miles each way.

Torc waterfall is a beautiful short trail with some stunning views. The trail also leads up to the Muckross house a 19th century mansion which you can also go inside for a visit. I've been to about 14 National Parks in the U.S. but Killarney National Park is a gem and the pictures really don't do it any justice. The air is fresh and crisp. The park seems very well maintained. During winter time we still saw a few people jogging up the beautiful trails. I can easily spend a few day here. Loved it! A must stop even if you're not into National Parks!

We were on our way to Cork from Kerry Cliffs, & adding Killarney National Park to our route would add another hour or so to our drive. We almost didn't do it. I'm SO glad we did! Although we only drove through the park (we didn't have enough time to stop, explore, hike, swim, etc) we fell in love with it. It's like a fairytale world - Twisty, winding roads, striking views of the mountains, dappled light glowing through the forest, glimpses of Lough Leane... I just wished we had more time to explore. Even if you are tight on time, driving through Killarney National Park is a must.

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PARK!!! I was amazed by the beauty of this national park, so much so that I drove it twice! I only had time to see the waterfall and bits and pieces of the stops along the road but if I could go back I would spend longer doing the hiking trails. I 100% recommend at least incorporating this national park in your travels of Ireland.

Absolutely beautiful park with lovely views of wildlife/river and castle! My husband and I enjoyed walking for hours and had to tear ourselves away lol

Crisp and fresh air. Surrounded by beautiful sites. I really enjoyed my hike. We saw the blue lake and deers. I highly recommend hiking this trail and am happy I saw so amazing plants, animals, and bodies of water. I went hiking with a group of 5 peaoplw. The hotel were staying us told us we definitely should go and check it out. It was such a short walk, filled with so many views. Family, group, and pet friendly. Definitely pack some water and maybe a snack. A great way to kill some time before your breakfast buffet.

I've done 2 big walks in this forest - the first in May of 2003 and the next one exactly 14 years later. I started at the castle, and followed someone's advice to take the dirt roads back to the town center. On the second visit I took advantage of the boat tour around the lake. Words fail me in describing the beauty of this park, so fortunately I took many photos on both walks. I always felt that the 2 hours spent in 2003 were the best and most productive photo sessions in my illustrious career as a rank amateur. I ran across several dog walkers on the second sortie, and told one "I hope you know how lucky you are." She did. The road follows the lake at first, making for a few good long shots back at the castle. Just before the road turns inland, there is a small wooden cross between the road and the lake. In 2003, it struck me that there was a drop of water at the right side that reminded one of a tear. I also saw it on the return journey. The biggest object to accomplish was finding the rather iconic Tolkienesque tree near the end. I finally did, although the tree was considerably weather beaten, but then so was I. Quite a few trees in the area had been upended over the years, so my tree was lucky. It is a goal to make this hike one more time - this time with my wife, who has maybe heard too much about it. Maybe next May.

Simply one of the best sites to visit in Ireland. This park is MASSIVE with well defined trails and lots to explore and to do. The views of the mountains are breathtaking, esp in a morning dew. The gardens around the house are also well kept and the hikes are such a treat. They are well paved, well established and well kept. It is just a fantastic place to be. There is a cafe nearby if you want to get something to eat or drink. They have a gift shop and there is ample parking. Come see what the fuss is about!

Breathtaking views of mountains and lakes. Super windy and narrow roads though - so be cautious.

The entire Park is full of breath taking views, wild life, winding roads, and unforgettable moments. Be sure to only stop at the designated view points. Mind the paths while trying not to tread on the nature below your feet and simply enjoy the moment. Some say, it's a shame you can't wander through the park lands, camp at will, fish the lakes from the shore of a boat. I'm sure there was a time and measures had to be taken to reassure this wonderful natural place can be experienced by future generations.

We spent the day here and enjoyed our time. We stopped at Torc Waterfall, Meetings of the Waters, Lady's View, and the Gap of Dunloe. The park is really pretty. It's made up of three lakes and the surrounding area. Torc Waterfall and the hiking around it was pretty. The meetings of the waters had good views of the lakes as did Lady's View. Lady's View is just a lookout point. We walked about 45 minutes around meetings of the water and we did the yellow trail at Torc Waterfall. The Gap of Dunloe was gorgeous. We took a horse carriage back to it since it was already getting late in the day. This is definitely one of the best things to see in the Kerry area.

Killarainy National Park is 26,000 acres of natural beauty. In the park there is so much to see and do. You can explore mountains, lakes, islands and flatlands. We took a boat tour through all of the lakes and visited The Muckross House $ Gardens, Meeting of the waters, Ross Castle and the Torc Waterfall. We were unable to visit the Innisfallen Island because the tour boats to the island were out of season. It is offered during the summer months. Hiking in the park is amazing. No snakes or other wild things to worry about. There is a walking route with many different places to start and stop depending on your time and capabilities. There are ancient forests to explore, lakes and historical sites. I read that Torc Mountain was one of the easiest mountains to climb because of the clear trails.

Amazing park. Took horse drawn carriage ride through a small section for 1 hr. The next day was carriage through the gap followed by boats through the lakes. Total time roughly 8 hours. There are several tour companies.

Killarney National Park in County Kerry was the first national park created in Ireland. The genesis was the donation of the Muckross Estate to the Irish state in the 1930's by an American (Irish) family. (It's a bit of a tragic story, but a lovely outcome for the future generations who get to enjoy the generosity of the donor-family). The park encompasses vast swathes of mountains, lakes, islands and old growth forests. Below is list of some of the famous sites to visit within the park as well as my commentary on them: 1) Muckross House & Gardens - absolutely go! The house can be visited only via a paid guided tour, but the gardens are free. 2) Muckross Abbey - free and a 1km beautiful walk from the house. 3) Torc Waterfall - really worthwhile visiting, is free 4) Ross Castle - entry only thru a guided paid tour but grounds are free. I would pick Muckross Estate over Ross castle of pressed for time, but we did spot the famous Red Deer in the vicinity of the castle grounds 5) The Meeting of the Waters - need to take a tour and beautiful 6)Stone circle at Lissivigeen - well preserved archaeological feature 7) Knockreer House - didn't get to visit 8) Inisfallen Island - need to take a bot tour from Ross Castle The park has something for everyone and it is mostly absolutely free, so you can stroll, roam, cycle or meander around the park to your heart's content. But absolutely GO, GO, GO. Note: #259 of Yelp 100 challenge for 2016

We had an absolutely beautiful experience here. We did a horse-drawn carriage tour that gave us a nice background of the place. Then we ate at their cafeteria which was the nicest cafeteria setting I've ever had. We finished up our visit with a two-our of the Muckross House. I would definitely go back with the intention of spending more time at this national park; it was just beautiful.

[October 2018]. Had the greatest walk here. Recommend taking the walk up to the waterfall. It's not a difficult walk. Take your time and enjoy the surroundings. Great photo ops here. What a gorgeous place. We stopped by to say hello to the two horses we learned are named Bud and Ned. I have them as my wallpaper on my computer at home :) If you're visiting Ireland, this is a must stop! There was no fee to enter the park however if you want to explore Muckrose House, there is a fee. There was ample parking.

Gorgeous, stunning, magnificent. Killarney NP is everything you want a National Park to be, and contains everything you want a National Park to contain: it's beautiful, rugged, natural, breathtaking, and captivating. It has lakes, waterfalls, trails, landmarks, flora, and fauna... We've visited twice now and were gobsmacked each time. Highlights include Torc Falls (a short hike through temperate forest will get you to this beaut); Muckross Peninsula; Muckross House and Gardens; and Ladies View (a pretty lookout overlooking the even prettier Upper Lake). Getting around is easy. You don't really have to leave your car if you don't want, but I suspect you'll want to! Easy hikes and walks to natural scenery or strolls around Muckross House, Muckross Abbey, or any other number of landmarks will tempt you. Killarney National Park is such a great diversion when you're in this part of the Emerald Isle!

This is a HUGE park and beautiful! There is a great deal to see here that you could spend months in Killarney and not see everything this park has to offer. Fantastic footpaths and numerous charming and beautiful sights! Always clean and FREE!!!!!! I took a run in different directions every day I was in Killarney in the park and I couldn't believe how much I had seen but also how little! I will be back and then extend this review. I WILL be back! What a treasure!

Incredible park! Didn't realize ring of Kerry goes through the park so you can rest your hiking feet and enjoy the views. We did the ring of Kerry and stopped at all the places that interested us along the way in the park and did short hikes/walks at each one. Nothing too strenuous, more so scenic walks. We enjoy hiking but with all the sites to see, we wanted to keep moving and kept visits to each site shorter (ie. No half day hikes). Ladies view and Dunloe gap were highlights of our trip. Especially love that there's cafes at all the main attractions so you never have to worry about bathrooms or being hungry...or thirsty all wonderful and main attractions easily marked.

Before i came to ireland, i imagined it was all green with rolling hills. I had no idea Ireland had such beautiful mountains until we came to killarney nationional park. It reminded me of being in Wyoming. We parked at muckross house then took a 2 km hike to Torc waterfall. The waterfall itself was a bit crowded, as we went on a beautiful day over a holiday weekend, but we never felt like we were stuck behind too many people on the hike. We took a different way back through the woods and had the trail to ourselves. We even saw some stag along the way. This is an absolutely breathtaking park that must be visited when in ireland!

Truly I cannot believe I came to Ireland before and did not spend time in this park. For shame. This is a must do drive and/or hike/bike/stop/walk. Waterfalls! Mountains and lakes! Sheep! Red Deer! (Apparently even the Irish get pumped about seeing these as our driver was from Dublin and she was getting pretty excited about it!) Muckross House! The landscape is green and beautiful, the lakes are clear blue, the views are spectacular and a couple of times I actually gasped "OH!" out loud when we would come around a turn and a view would blow me away. Since I was with my parents we didn't do as much walking of the park as I might have, but we did drive it and had many stops along the way to check out the views. Definitely watch out for the enormous tour busses on those small roads but otherwise it is A MUST SEE.

We took a boat trip from Ross Castle through the three lakes to the cottage on the other side. Then took a Jaunting Car through the Gap. It was peaceful and serene. We saw more of the park and scenery than driving around it.

My gosh this place is heaven when the weather is right. Actually it still gets five stars regardless of the weather. There are so many aspects to comment on. The parkland on the town side, we were able to sit an watch a herd of red deer as they shaded from the sun under a big oak tree. The lakes, the views that change as you cycle / drive a long their shores. As the light changes when the sun dips in and out of the clouds. The farmland on the west side of the upper lake, where the ewes and lambs were gambolling along. Mountainy lambs are far far cuter than your regular sheep breed lambs. They would almost turn me vegetarian.... almost. The woodland too, that surround the lakes and by the Torc waterfall. *sigh* The people of Killarney are lucky lucky folk to have this beautiful natural resource on their doorstep. As good as it gets in Ireland.

Killarney national park is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Its got everything, lakes, forests mountains, waterfalls and its located in the equally amazing Kerry. Its truly amazing. Ireland is an amazing country anyway and I have had the good fortune to have seen quite a bit of it over the last two years and Kerry is amazing. We cycled through the Gap of Dunloe and into the Killlarney National Park and it was amazing. The weather was also pretty good on the day. Healey pass drives through the park and its a brilliant drive to do. If you are in Ireland make sure you go here if you can.

I have to agree with Jennie E., this park is so big it's hard to fit it all in even in a weekend! I went cycling around the national park, and would recommend it as a perfect way in which to experience varied cycling environments. There are so many different terrains and routes; tarmac, scrub, moors, woodland paths and steep mountainous climbs, that you feel like you might be jumping from one world to the next in less than a mile. The Gap of Dunloe was amazing though, and if you only do one cycling route at Killarney National Park, you must do the Gap of Dunloe. The struggle up the winding mountains is totally worth it for the view at the gap. Word of warning though, it is definitely not for the faint hearted and even intermediate cyclists will struggle; I walked to the top from Dunloe village as my legs just could not take the steep hills. I saw so many people walking the park, and I genuinely think that if you're only there for a weekend or less, rent out a bike because you can see so much more. Many of the main attractions like Muckross Abbey are on routes which are relatively easy going, and so children should be able to cycle the park along with their parents. It really is so beautiful and I am returning next summer to see the Blackwater Valley and climb Carrauntoohill, that is how wonderful this place is!

Wonderful park! Perfect trails and great place to see some red deer. The Ross castle is in the park so you can defiantly get a good look at that. Nature here is amazing and fresh the open area is beautiful along the lake against the mountains on the back ground on a clear day.

One of the best parks I have had the pleasure of riding through. Plenty of space to share the road with the horse drawn carriages and walkers. We lucked out on our ride and had a beautiful day to explore. We biked to the Ross Castle and followed through to Foss way. The views were amazing and the ride was comfortable with minimal hills well worth the 10$ rental oaf bikes for half the day. Plenty of maps along the way and markers to help u stay on the right path too.

Gorgeous place where you can walk forever and not see it all. I started with a guide (richard at Killarneyguidedwalks.com) to get some history and a tour of places off the beaten path. So glad I did. He was full of information and I loved the back paths. The waterfall is a must see. The jaunty carts are fun and worth the trip. Take a boat trip out on the lake, it is so beautiful and peaceful and the boat captains are full of fun and stories. Go see Muckross House...the tour inside is informative and the house itself is cool. The gardens are beautiful and what a great view of the lake. Great place for a picnic! They have beautiful knit wear made locally that you just have to see. There is a lovely wooden sculpture in front of the house which is a tribute to the last owner of Muckross by the artist Rolf Hook. Muckross Abbey is in fabulous condition and definetly worth the short walk to see it. Ross castle is a must see and if you do the Gap of Dunloe and take the boat tour as a return they drop you off at the castle! I could go on and on there is so much to see and do. This place is a perfect vacation destination!

Beautiful, beautiful sights. There are many trails to explore, waterfalls, a gorgeous old house and beautiful ruins of an old Abbey that is now mostly a graveyard. I wish we could have spent more time there; walked around the entire day, but there was still more to see. Loved it!

Your review helps others learn about great local businesses. We rented bicycles from the city and rode them to and through the park. It was a fantastic decision and a trip I'd love to repeat. The paths are all paved and perfect for riding a bike. It would be a long walk to get to the park and walk through the park as it is fairly large but perfect for bicycles! Please don't review this business if you received a freebie for writing this review, or if you're connected in any way to the owner or employees.

Amazing. Part of the beautiful landscape and drive through the Ring of Kerry, this is what Ireland is all about! The green lushness you are looking for and expect is all here. Wild deer are everywhere and you can pull over and take photos in areas of lush green. This is a must when in Kerry county!

I don't think that there is much I can write that hasn't already been written about this amazing natural preserve. The Kilarney National Park may be one of the most beautiful scenic spaces I have ever had the pleasure to explore. The ancient ruins of Muckross Abbey, the stately splendor of Muckross House, the lakes, the rich green woodlands, the beautiful Torc waterfall, make for a heavenly backdrop to walk, cycle, or take a horse drawn carriage through. This park is an absolute must see if you are traveling to Kilarney. And I agree with another reviewer that the people of Kilarney are so fortunate to have such an incredible space right in their back yards!

KILLARNEY NATIONAL PARK 26.07.10 Covered just a fraction of the spectacular Killarney National Park on a brief visit last week. It was a sunny day and the many car parks were packed but still there was no sense of crowding around the Muckross House and gardens area. After all, there are some 26,000 acres to get lost in here. Enjoyed the views and the gardens on the short walk. Did a quick tour of the shop, mainly geared towards the tourist, understandably so. Headed for the cafe but did meet a long enough queue there so skipped it and went up the road to Molly Darcys. There are some magnificent walks and vistas here and all, by the way, are free. No entry fee whatsoever. And since the recent dispute, there is no horse manure on the walks! Another bonus. There are many things to do here so be sure and check out the website. http://www.killarneynationalpark.ie/ KILLARNEY NATIONAL Park Killarney National Park, with 26,000 acres of lakes, fields and mountains, is a walker's paradise and quite a day out for everyone else as well. We walked through part of it early one autumn morning from west to east, our eventual destination being Torc Waterfall. It was a smashing morning. The scenery was at its spectacular best and the squirrels were out under the spreading trees. You have many paths to explore, some of them laid in tarmac. The focal point of many visits to the park, especially for coach tours, is the 19th century Muckross House. Here you have traditional farms, a walled garden centre, crafts, a restaurant, and, of course, a tour of the house (in six languages).

Lots of people walking biking and jauntying. Beautiful scenery to take it. Glad this land is preserved and a national park!

This National Park was a highlight of my trip to Ireland. It is truly stunning. From Muckrose House, to the gorgeous pastures, waterfall, lake and mountains...it was one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. As a part of the Ring of Kerry, driving around the park you were awarded with spectacular views as well. The park is very well kept and stunningly green. It was Autumn when we visited and the day we went was a little misty and grey but that only made the changing colors of the tree leaves pop even more. We didn't really venture to the left side of the park (just to save time) but it would be a wonderful place to ride bikes and explore. STUNNING!!!

What an amazing, mystically beautiful place. You feel like you've stepped into a Celtic fairy tale, complete with a brooding lake, Torc waterfall, Rosscastle, and the beautful Muckross estate. Hiking around the park was a highlight of visiting Ireland!

Great park, stunning fees throughout the park. Only touched a small piece of the park and it was a nice day thank the lord. Would go back to see more of it if we ever return.

Stunningly beautiful place. We were lucky enough to take a carriage ride through the park while the sun was actually shining. I'll never forget the experience. There's plenty to see and do in Ireland--a country I've grown quite fond of--but this is a must for any first-time tourist.

Spectacular! We biked the park from The Lake Hotel to Dina's cottage for tea and scones. We could have biked back but we really enjoyed taking the boat taxi from Dina's back towards Muckrosse. I highly recommend biking, you really want to see as much as possible and the biked allow you enough time to do it all. It's really gorgeous and there are so many great little stopping points for photo ops. It's a must see.

I have to be honest. I took the lazy option of the carriage ride around the park but what a great park. Muckross Abbey was worth seeing as are the views accross the lake.

Just approximately 3.5 miles outside of Killarney town on the N71, Kenmare road, Killarney National Park is a magical place to visit. There are walks to suit all grades of walker and the scenery is spectacular. If you decide to go there by car follow the N71 in the direction of Kenmare and note that it is possible to drive into the grounds where the car park is located just a short stroll from the Restaurant craft centre ane Muckross House. There are several entrances to the park for pedestrians and or horse and carriage (jaunting cars). If you decide to walk from town the first entrance is just about 2miles out of the town centre and the walk takes you along by the lake shore and the ruins of the old Abbey, known as Muckross Abbey or Muckross Friary. It is worth stopping for a visit of the Abbey. Still in use is the graveyard just beside the Abbey. Continuing on following the lake shore path it is possible to go on to Dinis cottage, the meeting of the waters where the three Lakes meet and back around the lake to Muckross House the hub of Killarney National Park. On this route it is also possible to visit Torc waterfall. (also possible to drive to this point) Another part of the park is within the town and a visit to Ross castle is a must. To visit the park one may enter from the town centre just behind the point where one can hire a jaunting car (horse and carriage) Known locally as the Ha Ha. Opposite the countess road or just beside the Plaza Hotel. Another point of entry to the park is just opposite St Marys Cathedral at the end of New St. It is possible to walk through the park to Ross Castle, or take a short circular walk with a magnificent view over the lakes and Killarney Golf and Fishing Club. This is also a great place to watch out for the Red Deer which are indigenuous to the area. The park is the only park in Ireland to have a continuous line of Red Deer and the park was used to re-stock other parks and farms around the country. There is a visitor centre in the town during the months of June , July and August. Otherwise information is available from Muckross House , Muckross visitor centre and lastly Ross Castle not to mention the Tourist office in Killarney.

Great relaxing walk around the grounds of the park. Sitting by the stream was so peaceful. The walk leads you to beautiful gardens and the Ross Castle. Go early to beat the crowds.

Best place in the world for kids to run around until they are tired! Great for parents with young kids! and it's free to enter!

Absolutely the most beautiful place I've ever been. Killarney in general is about as gorgeous as a place can get. The city is built "the lakes of Killarney" - 3 lakes that are connected to each other by smaller streams. MacGillycuddy's Reeks (which includes the highest mountain in Ireland) run behind the lakes and provide seriously picture-perfect scenery that can be seen from most spots in the city. Also, because Killarney is located in the southwest of Ireland, it has the best weather in the country (averages 3 hours/day of sunshine and only 60 days/year of rain - for Ireland, THAT'S GOOD!). Killarney National Park is over 25,000 acres of extremely diverse terrain, animals, and plants, and has some of the most amazing views and scenery I've ever seen. The highest hilltops in the park give you an amazing view of the city of Killarney and the surrounding countryside. And, the diversity of the terrain means that no matter how long you spend wandering through the park, you'll never get bored with what you see. Killarney (and County Kerry in general) is BIG horse country in Ireland, and there are dozens of stables littered throughout the city. I highly recommend hitting up one of these stables and taking a horseback ride through Killarney National Park. My brother and I did this when we were in Ireland over the summer and it was probably my favorite thing that I did the entire 2 weeks we were there. Riding the trails you get to see a lot of the park and experience it in a extraordinary way. If you're going to Ireland, go to Killarney, and go to the Killarney National Park!

Beautiful huge park with the Muckross Abbey, the Muckross House, Ladie's View, the Torc Waterfall, etc. The guided tour in the Muckross House was very informative and the Torc Waterfall is fantastic! I'd like to see the Devil's Punchbowl but it would have been too much walking for one day. Definitely a nice place to see!