Muckross House and Gardens
The jewel of Killarney National Park, Muckross House and Gardens is a must see. Queen Victoria paid a visit here, to the Herbert family, in 1861. The House was later owned, in turn, by Lord Ardilaun (of the Guinness family) and by the Bourn Vincents. Today, many of the rooms in this magnificent mansion have been restored to their original Victorian splendour. Between the months of April and July, Muckross Gardens are spectacularly adorned with the red and pink flowers of mature Rhododendrons. Other garden features include a Sunken Garden, a Rock Garden and a Stream Garden. An Arboretum, containing many trees from the Southern Hemisphere, was established here in 1972.
Muckross Traditional Farms
Muckross Traditional Farms are situated adjacent to Muckross House. This unique visitor attraction recreates Ireland in the 1930s and 1940s, a period before the widespread use of electricity, when all work was carried out using traditional methods. It consists of three separate working farms, each complete with animals, poultry and horse drawn farm machinery. It also features a labourer's cottage, a carpenter's workshop, a harness maker and a blacksmith's forge. The interiors of the dwelling houses are furnished in the traditional manner, and include such items as the dresser, settle bed and meal bin.
Jaunting Car Trips
The traditional way to view Killarney's National Park is by Jaunting Car (horsedrawn carriage), in the company of a local Jarvey (guide). These men and woman have an in depth knowledge of the history and folklore of the area and are eager to impart this knowledge. Tours include The Lakes, Ross Castle, Torc Waterfall and Muckross House & Gardens.
The Ring of Kerry
This tour around the Iveragh Peninsula is world renowned and justifiably so. It is a 110 mile journey flavoured by Atlantic views, dramatic cliffs, magnificent mountains, rivers, lakes and beautiful sandy beaches. Prepare to be enamoured by picturesque villages such as Sneem and Waterville and charming towns such as Killorglin and Caherciveen. The highlight is undoubtedly the unsurpassed panoramic views of Killarney's Lake District from Molls Gap and Ladies' View towards the end of your trip.
Boat Trips
A selection of boat trips are available from Ross Castle. You can choose to explore Lough Leane in the traditional styled boats or in an enclosed heated vessel. Lough Leane (Lake of Learning) is the third lake in Killarney's Long Range. Dotted with over 30 islands, it is best seen from the water. Aboard the Luxurious MV Pride of the Lakes you will experience the spectacular Killarney National Park at first hand and receive a full commentary of the area. This enclosed, heated vessel departs from Ross Castle daily during the summer months. The cruise lasts approximately one hour. Should you wish book a cruise on the MV Pride of the Lakes or for more information contact the Skipper on 087 2364349.
St Mary's Cathedral
Designed by Augustus Welby Pugin, St Mary's Cathedral is a fine example in Ireland of neo-Gothic revival. Construction began in 1842 and before it was completed the building was used as a famine hospital and shelter during the Great Famine. A great redwood tree near the western doorway marks a mass children's famine grave.
Cycling
A great way to see Killarney and its surrounding area is to cycle it. There are many cycle routes and paths and all levels of cyclists catered for from Cycling around The Killarney National Park to The Ring of Kerry Cycle Route. Another great challenge is to cycle through The Gap of Dunloe. From Killarney town centre cycle to Ross Castle and take the magnificent boat trip across the lakes to Lord Brandons Cottage. The trip takes in beautiful views of the mountains and meeting of the waters. From Lord Brandon's Cottage cycle through The Gap of Dunloe to Kate Kearney's Cottage.
