Killarney
EUROPE · SIESTA · LAKES & MOUNTAINS
A national park of lakes and red deer, ringed by Ireland's highest mountains and the country's most famous drive.
The plan
Killarney National Park
Ireland's first, with red deer, lakes and Muckross House at the centre — free entry.
Gap of Dunloe
A glacial pass walked, cycled or crossed by pony trap, with a boat back across the lakes.
Ring of Kerry
The 179km loop — drive it counter-clockwise to avoid meeting the tour buses head-on.
Torc Waterfall & Ladies View
Two short stops on the Kenmare road that justify the whole drive.
Skellig Michael (May–Sep)
A monastic island 12km out, weather permitting — book months ahead, it's capped.
Getting there
Fly into
Kerry (KIR) for a few routes, Cork (ORK) at 90 minutes, or Dublin plus a 3.5-hour train.
From the airport
Trains from Dublin run to Killarney station in the town centre.
Getting around
The town walks; a car or day tours for the Ring, the Gap and the peninsulas.
When to go
Best time to go
May–Jun & Sep
Cheapest months
Nov–Feb
Priciest & busiest
Jul–Aug & bank holidays
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