Parkavonear is a 13th century Norman castle that overlooks Killarney National Park from a stunning location in Aghadoe. The castle is situated beside the ruins of Aghadoe Cathedral, Round tower and adjacent graveyard. When you are in Aghadoe for the panoramic views, stay a little longer and take a wander through the ruins of Parkavonear. Continue reading
Killegy Chapel and Graveyard lies just off the busy Ring of Kerry Road in the Muckross area of Killarney National Park. It is the burial site of some notable names associated with Muckross over the years including Henry Arthur Herbert and Arthur Rose Vincent. Also enclosed within a circle of trees on the low hill of Killegy is a ruined mortuary chapel and a magnificent Celtic Cross that proudly overlooks Muckross and the National Park. Continue reading
Ross Castle is one of the most famous landmarks of Killarney National Park and it continues to attract thousands of visitors every year. On Ross Island, just over 2km from Ross Castle, is Library Point, a limestone rock formation on the shores of Lough Leane. The beautiful trail that leads out to Library Point is an idyllic journey through woodland tracks and lakeshore paths. Step out of the shadows of Ross Castle and discover a secluded and peaceful peninsula trail. Continue reading
The Old Weir Bridge is one of Killarney’s oldest structures and it has seen thousands of visitors pass over and under its famous arches for centuries. Despite its fame, not everyone is lucky enough to make it to the bridge. Make sure to take a little detour so that you can experience the magical setting of the Old Weir Bridge in Killarney National Park. Continue reading
‘Scenic Walks in Killarney – A Walking Guide’ by Jim Ryan is a welcome addition to the many books that feature some of Killarney’s finest walks. Although it is not the first book to cover these walks, it is one of the better ones that address the needs of more casual walkers who may not want to venture into the hills and uplands of Killarney National Park. Continue reading
Visitors to Killarney usually ask some variant of the “what it is that I should see when in Killarney?” question. There are dozens of answers, but a trip to Innisfallen Island is not always included in the “must see” list. It should be. Innisfallen is a magical, special place that needs only a couple of hours of your time. In return, you will be rewarded with an enchanting experience that will linger long after you leave the island. Continue reading
The Knockreer and Ross Island Loop in Killarney National Park is a superb 10km route close to Killarney town. Whether you are a runner, cyclist, hiker or a stroller, the route has something for everyone; stunning views, historic sites and nature at its finest. This trail boasts the convenience of a starting point close to the town centre but also provides a varied landscape with great opportunities to observe nature at close quarters along the way. If you’re looking for a great 10k run or a beautiful walk through Killarney National Park, this route is one of the better options available in the Killarney area. Photo opportunities present themselves at several points along the way and you’re never too far from civilisation if you need to get back to the town. Continue reading
The Circular Walk in Knockreer, Killarney National Park is popular with visitors and locals alike. Situated close to the town centre, this is an ideal way to get a dose of the National Park and experience some of the wildlife up close, without having to venture too far from town. Continue reading
Muckross Abbey is a must-see location for many that visit Killarney National Park. Fortunately, in order to access the historic ruins, you have to go through some of the best loved parts of the Park. By veering off the beaten track ever so slightly, you can find a lovely looped walk that combines splendour and solitude with a bit of adventure in between. Continue reading
The famous Ring of Kerry route attracts visitors from all over the world every year. If you travel the Ring in the traditional anti-clockwise direction, the final stretch from Moll’s Gap to Killarney is one of the highlights of the route. It is here that you will find a beautiful area of Killarney National Park known as Derrycunnihy. A small church by the roadside marks the spot from where you can explore the area. Whether it’s a short stroll to stretch the legs, or a jog through some rolling trails or as part of a longer trek through the lakeland paths, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here. Continue reading
Donal O'Leary 