Interesting Things To Do In Killarney

An Overview of Killarney

Killarney is a quaint and artful tidy town located in the Irish countryside. The home to lake shores, quiet woods, large parks and crumbling castles, the Irish community is best known as a major access point to the Ring of Kerry. Through the Ring of Kerry Loop, Killarney an excellent access point to some of Ireland’s most scenic lands. There are many interesting things to do in Killarney.

Interesting Things To Do In Killarney

Ring of Kerry

Considered the most scenic drive in all of Ireland, the Ring of Kerry is a driving or biking loop that passes numerous small Irish towns and villages on the west coast of the country. With cliff views, rolling hills, ancient ruins and small museums, he route is the most awe inspiring and beautiful route in the country. Killarney is one of the more popular bases to access the route.

For a full list of things to do around The Ring of Kerry, Click Here

Killarney National Park

This National Park is one of Ireland’s forest strongholds, with over 12 kilometers of oak woodlands surrounding green shores around Muckross Lake. Killarney National Park contains numerous hiking routes which wind through some stunning park scenery. Irish red deer are often spotted in this area.  Many of the trails can be ridden on horseback.

Torc Waterfall

Just five miles away from Killarney, this is a toppling, black-stone waterfall. The cascade of water drains from the Devil’s Punchbowl to the base of Torc Mountain. The waterfall is best seen after heavy rainfall, when the multiple streams are thunderous.

Ladies View

This is a scenic stopping point just outside of Killarney which overlooks all three of Killarney’s mystical lakes.  It doubles as an access point to the famous Moll’s Gap.

The Shire Bar & Café

Located in the central portion of Killarney, this venue is a Lord of the Rings themed pub. The structure is built in the traditional Hobbit style with themed drinks and plenty of pints. Quotes from the series, photos and homages to the lore are scattered throughout the venue.

Innisfallen Island

Reached by launching off the pier at Ross Castle, this island is a famous feature in Irish lore.  The island still preserves the old native woodlands of Ireland with a protected forest of rowan, ash, yew and holly. Other portions of the island are very peaceful. The ruins of a famous monastery stand scattered throughout the island, the last stone holdouts to a location once known for promoting centuries of learning.

Ross Castle

Ross Castle is a rather compelling castle of toppling old stones in walking distance of the city which overlooks nearby Lough Leane.  The Castle is famous for its access to ancient mine shafts, incredible views over the nearby lake and expansive hiking trails.

Muckross Abbey

Muckross Abbey is made of impressive stones grey walls with cultivated gardens, breathtaking views of Killarney National Park and access to the nearby historical heritage Traditional Farms. The abbey has a long and violent history, meaning it has been damaged and restored multiple times throughout history. It is both an Old Irish Monastery & Modern Irish Graveyard.

Gap of Dunloe

The Gap of Dunloe is one of the most stunning visual hikes near Killarney. The paved walking path follows a scenic, quiet hike with stunning scenery and a bridge which grants wishes.  The pass was created as a narrow chasm due to glacial ice.  Visitors can walk along the main trail or some of the side routes, which offers tougher terrain. The main route often has horse-drawn carriages which give visitors ride, though the price is negotiable. It is possible to book tours all the way through the gap, which culminate with a boat taking a person back to Killarney, over the nearby Lakes. The starting point to the Gap has cafes, small restaurants and parking available. Hiking the Gap is one of the most interesting things to do in Killarney.

Killarney Falconry

The Killarney Falconry is an owl and falcon sanctuary open for tourist visits, just north of Killarney. Visitors get to speak with falconers caring for the birds of prey and learn about how they live and hunt in Ireland. Pre-booking is required.

Castlelough Castle Ruins and Hidden Fairy Trail

This small patch of ruins exists past a patch of marshland with stones tumbling into the nearby lake. The Lake Hotel, which can be seen nearby, has a small footpath trail heading back to the main road lined with “Fairy Homes.” These “homes” are made from artistic teapots or doors embedded in trees. The creative little walking route extends between The Lake Hotel and the Applegreen gas station.

Lough Leane

Lough Leane is the amazingly stunning lake on the southwest side of Killarney. It’s home to deep woods surrounding the lake, numerous hiking trails, sharp stone islands and horses and deer thundering free in the area. The lake is popular for boating tours and kayaking trips during clear weather.

Crag Cave

Crag Cave is an extended series of underground chambers and rock formations extending over 3.8 miles. The cave system is over 1 million years old with numerous stalactite and stalagmite formations. Visitors can take guided tours which offer insights on the cave, its history and its formation. The caves are somewhat far north of Killarney, requiring about a half-hour drive.

Carrauntoohil Mountain

This is Ireland’s highest mountain reaching a 1,038 meter summit. There are numerous routes leading up the mountain, requiring five to seven hours to complete. The mountain is located to the West of Killarney, making it a popular daytrip for outdoor and hiking enthusiasts.

Deenagh Lodge

Located near St. Mary’s Cathedral, Deenagh Lodge is a small snack venue in Killarney’s popular park spaces. The shop operates out of a quaint lodge which works hard to support the communities around Killarney.

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