Killarney National Park holds a special place in the hearts of Irish outdoor enthusiasts. There are few places in the country that offer as much as Killarney. It offers rugged peaks, expansive lakes, stunning waterfalls, and delicious places to eat. In Killarney there is a long list of things to do, making it a perfect place for your next Weekend Wander.
Best Hikes and Walks: Killarney National Park
Killarney has some incredible trails right out of the town. There are beautiful waterfalls, blissful lakeshore trails and climbs that will get your heart pumping.
Ross Castle Walk, Killarney
Distance: 6km – 2 hours
Difficulty: 2/10 Easy
One of our favourite ways to explore a new place is to walk directly from our accommodation. If you do this in Killarney you are likely to find Ross Castle. This impressive 15th-century structure was the ancestral home of the Chiefs of the Clan O’Donoghue, later associated with the Brownes of Killarney. Situated at the edge of the beautiful Lough Leane (Pronounced Lane). The castle is well worth a visit, partly due to its charming location right at the other end of the lake but also for its fascinating architecture. Starting at Ross Castle you can walk along the lakeshore to Library Point, this limestone structure is the perfect place for a mid-walk picnic or simply a place to sit and watch the world go by. You will be able to see the historical island of Inishfallen in the distance and the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks towering over the landscape.
Torc Mountain & Torc Waterfall via Cardiac Hill
Distance: 13km – 4 hours
Difficulty: 7/10 Moderate
One of the most famous parts of Killarney National Park is its many waterfalls. The most well-known of which is Torc Waterfall, and for good reason! This waterfall is easily accessible for families as it is only a few hundred meters from the car park, however, we would recommend taking the long way around! Starting at the Torc Waterfall car park head west along the shore of Muckross Lake (Ireland’s Deepest Lake). After about a mile you can turn left and head up the infamous Cardiac steps. This 600-meter section of trail climbs over 200 meters. It is a very steep climb but the pay-off views over Killarney and the lakes we believe to be worth it. Enjoy the gently rolling trail down to the Old Kenmare Road where you have the option to turn right and head for Torc Mountain or continue straight down to the waterfall.
To make this hike easier (3/10 and 1 hour) follow this alternative route.
Tomies Wood & O’Sullivan’s Cascade
Distance: 4km – 1 hours
Difficulty: 3/10 Easy
This is a hidden gem. Nestled in this lakeside forest at the base of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks is a beautiful waterfall. Known as O’Sullivan’s Cascades this stunning waterfall looks like it is taken right out of a tropical rainforest. The waterfall is a short (1.4km) walk from the car park. On our recent visit to this forest we braved the cold and got in for a refreshing dip in the pool below the waterfall. It is one of the highlights of the area and is well worth a visit.
Mangerton: The Devil’s Punchbowl
Distance: 10km – 5 hours
Difficulty: 8/10 Hard
If you are looking for a challenge in Killarney National Park we would advise heading for Mangerton. Mangerton is, to the best of our knowledge, one of only two 800m+ mountains in Ireland that can be accessed on foot from a major town, the other being Slieve Donard in County Down. Mangerton is one of the more straightforward 800m+ mountains in Ireland. The climb up is relatively gentle, for a mountain of this size, and doesn’t involve any exposed scrambles. The route is also quite easy to follow which makes it a great option for a group hike. Good hiking equipment and clothing are essential for this hike year-round as it is quite an exposed peak.
It is always worth checking the weather before embarking on any hike or walk in Killarney and making sure you have the right gear.
Staying Safe in the Hills: Tips with DWMRT
Best activities: Killarney National Park
Kayaking to Inisfallen
Head out on the water. On a recent trip to Killarney, we joined a kayak tour to Inisfallen Island. Inisfallen is an island on Lough Leane. A monastery was established here by in the 7th century and the famed ‘Annals of Innisfallen’ were compiled and completed by the resident monks over the course of a few hundred years. It is reputed that Brian Boru, a famous high king of Ireland, received his education on the Island. On the kayak tour, you will learn about the geography of the landscape, and admire the majestic Reeks that tour over the lake. Kayaking is an excellent way of exploring the National Park and gaining a fresh perspective. Kayak tours cost €50 with Wild n Happy and take place Tuesday – Sunday from March – October.
Rent a Bike
Killarney is a very bike-able town. If you haven’t brought your own bike down we would encourage you to rent one at one of the many bike rental shops in the town. On two wheels you can broaden your horizons. Explore Muckross Castle and Lake, head to the Blue Pool Nature Reserve or maybe even head through the Gap Of Dunloe. If you are stuck for time and want to experience as much of Killarney as you can, a bike is a way to go! Bikes can be rented from many different places. Prices can vary depending on the type of bike but you can expect to pay as little as €20 for a full-day rental of an adult’s hybrid bike.
Horse Riding
Many outdoor enthusiasts have fond memories of summers spent on horseback. If you want to experience the connection of human and animal again, we would encourage you to head to Killarney Riding Stables for some horse riding. Located about a mile west of Killarney Town and known locally as “O’Sullivan’s”, Killarney Riding Stables were established in 1968 by Donie O’Sullivan. To this day it remains a family business with Donies wife Noreen, their two daughters Lorraine and Aoife, and their son William all involved. They offer 1,2 and 3-hour treks (starting at €55) all taking in views of Ross Island and beautiful views of Killarney lakes and Mountains.
Sign up for an Event
Why not sign up for one of the many outdoor events that take place in Killarney National Park every year?
Challenge yourself with the Killarney Quest Adventure Race: An annual multisport race that offers a variety of different distances to suit all ability levels.
Tackle the Ring of Kerry Cycle: This charity cycle takes in a 170 km circular route starting and ending in Killarney. With over 8,000 participants there is always a great buzz!
Head to Wander Wild Festival: Ireland’s outdoor festival Wander Wild offers over 200 unique events for you to choose from over the course of the weekend. Events range from guided hikes to film screenings sunrise swims to kayak tours.
Eating Out: Killarney National Park
Bricín
On our first night on a recent trip to Killarney, we booked a meal at Bricín. We were not disappointed. Located on the main street above a craft shop, Bricín serves some traditional Irish food such as Boxty (which is a type of flatbread made using potatoes). The staff here were exceptionally friendly and attentive and offered useful tips about the local area as well as having the craic with us! We were also taken aback by the value, we opted for the 3-course early bird for €30 each which was well worth it.
Stonechat
This old traditional pub building has been converted into a cosy restaurant that is perfect for a couple or small group dinners. Off the main street on a small lane, the Stonechat provides a calm environment with hearty tasty food that is perfect after a day on the mountains.
Murphy’s Ice Cream
Simply a must-visit whenever you are in Kerry. A favourite dessert substitute of ours is a Murphy’s. Choose from a range of delicious flavours including; Dingle Sea Salt, Rasberry Sorbet, Kieran’s Cookies and Brown Bread. Yes, you read that right, Brown Bread ice cream. It’s better than it sounds and is worth a try!
Luna
Located right in the centre of Killarney is one of our favourite spots. Luna is a family-run business, serving speciality coffee, house-baked pastries, artisan sandwiches + healthy salads by day and pouring natural wines and serving a selection of the best Irish farmhouse cheeses & charcuterie by night.
Danu at The Brehon
On a recent trip to Killarney, we stayed in the magnificent Brehon Hotel. Attached to this lovely accommodation option is Danu Restaurant. This restaurant offers a high-end dining experience in a casual setting. The food ranges from hearty mains to culinary experiences, meaning it truly caters for all. Whether you have been up Mangerton or just explored the town we would recommend going to the Danu.
Little Italy
If a nice Italian pizza is what you are after head straight to Little Italy. We dined outside which was extremely pleasant and fitted the Italian theme. There was some music being played nearby which added to the holiday feeling. The pizza did take a while to arrive as it was quite busy but it was worth the wait.
The Curious Cat
A café located in Killarney town, The Curious Cat Café was the hidden gem of our recent trip to Killarney. After an afternoon of kayaking, we headed there for a feed and we were not disappointed. The Superfood Salad and Hummus Toast were just what the doctor ordered and the Detox Smoothie left us feeling light but satiated. The service was incredibly friendly and the outdoor seating was perfect.
Quinlan’s
If you’re feeling a craving for fish and chips after a long day in the outdoors Quinlan’s is definitely the place to go. This award-winning fish and chip shop is located on High Street, but to be honest we need not give you directions. You will smell the freshly cooked fish and chips wafting through the air from a mile off!
Maps: Killarney National Park
Killarney is the perfect-sized town for a weekend break. You can easily traverse the entire town on foot and many of the attractions in the area are not far outside the town. Here are a few maps that you can use to plan your trip.
Bucket List: Killarney
Quest Killarney
Nn annual multisport race that offers a variety of different distances to suit all ability levels. Quest Killarney is one of Ireland’s premiere adventure races. With five different race distances and difficulties on offer, there is something for everyone. The longest distance is 83km and takes the Gap of Dunloe, Molls Gap, Black Valley, Ring of Kerry, Torc Waterfall, Devil’s Punchbowl, Mangerton Mountain and Muckross House as well as kayaking across the Muckross Lake in Killarney National Park.
Climb Carrauntoohil
It’s only natural that Ireland’s highest peak is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Carrauntoohil can be climbed via many different routes but the most well-known route is out and back from Cronin’s Yard which is a short drive from Killarney.
Swim in Ireland’s highest lake
While you are in Kerry why not go for a swim in Ireland’s highest lake? Set between two peaks at 707m and with incredible valley views, a dip in Lough Cummeenoughter is a deserving activity for your bucket list.
Tackle the Ring of Kerry Cycle
This charity cycle takes in a 170km circular route starting and ending in Killarney. With over 8,000 participants there is always a great buzz!
Head to Wander Wild Festival
Ireland’s outdoor festival, Wander Wild offers over 200 unique events for you to choose from over the course of the weekend. Events range from guided hikes to film screenings sunrise swims to kayak tours.
Getting to: Killarney National Park
By Car
If you are travelling with children or a lot of outdoor equipment car is probably your easiest option. Killarney is about a 4-hour drive from Dublin. We allow a bit more if you are going on Friday evening after work.
By Public Transport
Train: You can get a train from Dublin Heuston to Killarney town centre with one change and Mallow. The journey takes about three hours and 15 minutes and costs €20 – €35 for an adult.
Fly: If you are coming to Kerry directly from London you can fly directly to Kerry Airport which is a short bus journey from the centre of Killarney.
Bus: There are a number of bus services that are also great options for getting to Killarney. There is also a Kerry local link bus service.
Here are a few more useful articles:
Wander Wild: The Perfect Weekend For Outdoor Lovers
Outsider Preview: Quest Killarney
Carrauntoohil: Everything You Need To Know
