Guidebook to Killarney
Sightseeing
Ross Castle sits on the edge of Killarney’s lower lake and was built by O’Donoghue Mór in the 15th century. The Castle came into the hands of the Brownes who became the Earls of Kenmare and owned an extensive portion of the lands that are now part of Killarney National Park. Legend has it that O’Donoghue still exists in a deep slumber under the waters of Lough Leane. On the first morning of May every seven years, he rises from the lake on his magnificent white horse and circles the lake. Anyone catching a glimpse of him is said to be assured of good fortune for the rest of their lives. The large rock at the entrance to the bay is known as O’Donoghue’s prison. Ross Castle was the last stronghold in Munster to hold out against Cromwell. It was eventually taken by General Ludlow in 1652.
Ross Castle is open to the public during the summer months. Details from Ross Castle, Killarney, Co. Kerry
By car, Ross Castle can be reached via a signposted right turn off the N71 traveling south from Killarney town or by walking or cycling from the Killarney House and Knockreer sections of the National Park. Jaunting cars also make the journey and are available at the jaunting car stand in the town.
Boat trips from Ross and Reen piers to Innisfallen on the Lower Lake and to Lord Brandon’s Cottage on the Upper Lake.
Two Waterbuses depart from Ross pier for trips on the Lower Lake – Sailing Times at the Piers
124 locals recommend
Ross Castle
Ross RoadRoss Castle sits on the edge of Killarney’s lower lake and was built by O’Donoghue Mór in the 15th century. The Castle came into the hands of the Brownes who became the Earls of Kenmare and owned an extensive portion of the lands that are now part of Killarney National Park. Legend has it that O’Donoghue still exists in a deep slumber under the waters of Lough Leane. On the first morning of May every seven years, he rises from the lake on his magnificent white horse and circles the lake. Anyone catching a glimpse of him is said to be assured of good fortune for the rest of their lives. The large rock at the entrance to the bay is known as O’Donoghue’s prison. Ross Castle was the last stronghold in Munster to hold out against Cromwell. It was eventually taken by General Ludlow in 1652.
Ross Castle is open to the public during the summer months. Details from Ross Castle, Killarney, Co. Kerry
By car, Ross Castle can be reached via a signposted right turn off the N71 traveling south from Killarney town or by walking or cycling from the Killarney House and Knockreer sections of the National Park. Jaunting cars also make the journey and are available at the jaunting car stand in the town.
Boat trips from Ross and Reen piers to Innisfallen on the Lower Lake and to Lord Brandon’s Cottage on the Upper Lake.
Two Waterbuses depart from Ross pier for trips on the Lower Lake – Sailing Times at the Piers
The Muckross estate dates back to the 17th Century when the first member of the Herbert family, who were originally from Wales, came to settle in Killarney. The present-day Muckross House was built for Henry Arthur Herbert and his family. It was completed in 1843. It is situated close to the eastern shore of Muckross Lake, taking full advantage of the magnificent views which can be enjoyed from this location. Most of the house has been preserved as a late 19th-century mansion, with furniture and artifacts from that period.
Muckross Gardens adjoin Muckross House and are mainly informal in style. They date back to the mid-19th century when extensive landscaping was carried out by the Herbert family in preparation for the visit of Britain’s Queen Victoria in 1861. Throughout their tenure at Muckross, the Herbert’s played a very active role in social and political life and in the development and improvement of the Muckross Estate.
Direction: Vehicle access to Muckross House and Gardens is via a well-signposted right turn off the N71, just over 6km south of Killarney town.
149 locals recommend
Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms
The Muckross estate dates back to the 17th Century when the first member of the Herbert family, who were originally from Wales, came to settle in Killarney. The present-day Muckross House was built for Henry Arthur Herbert and his family. It was completed in 1843. It is situated close to the eastern shore of Muckross Lake, taking full advantage of the magnificent views which can be enjoyed from this location. Most of the house has been preserved as a late 19th-century mansion, with furniture and artifacts from that period.
Muckross Gardens adjoin Muckross House and are mainly informal in style. They date back to the mid-19th century when extensive landscaping was carried out by the Herbert family in preparation for the visit of Britain’s Queen Victoria in 1861. Throughout their tenure at Muckross, the Herbert’s played a very active role in social and political life and in the development and improvement of the Muckross Estate.
Direction: Vehicle access to Muckross House and Gardens is via a well-signposted right turn off the N71, just over 6km south of Killarney town.
The waterfall which is approximately 20 metres high is at its best after heavy rainfall. Across the road from the car park jaunting cars can be hired for a trip to Muckross House within the National Park.
113 locals recommend
Torc Waterfall
The waterfall which is approximately 20 metres high is at its best after heavy rainfall. Across the road from the car park jaunting cars can be hired for a trip to Muckross House within the National Park.
Torc Mountain
Amazing view of Killarney and a nice hike.
St. Mary's Cathedral
New Street