Killarney

The busy market town of Killarney is surrounded by some of southwest Ireland's most beautiful scenery. It is the main tourist center for those who want to drive the famous Ring of Kerry and take in the beauty of Killarney National Park. Explore the town's colorful shopping streets and cobbled lanes, or take in one of its many festivals. Outside town, visit medieval Ross Castle on the shores of Lough Leane, elegant Muckross House with its lovely gardens and traditional working farms, and the ruins of Muckross Abbey. A two-wheeled, horse-pulled jaunting car is a great way to see parts of Killarney National Park, perhaps on a ride to the Gap of ...

The busy market town of Killarney is surrounded by some of southwest Ireland's most beautiful scenery. It is the main tourist center for those who want to drive the famous Ring of Kerry and take in the beauty of Killarney National Park. Explore the town's colorful shopping streets and cobbled lanes, or take in one of its many festivals. Outside town, visit medieval Ross Castle on the shores of Lough Leane, elegant Muckross House with its lovely gardens and traditional working farms, and the ruins of Muckross Abbey. A two-wheeled, horse-pulled jaunting car is a great way to see parts of Killarney National Park, perhaps on a ride to the Gap of Dunloe, a stunning glacier-carved pass. The park encompasses natural oak woodlands and three lakes, which are surrounded by mountains. To the west, the spectacular peaks of Macgillycuddy's Reeks include Carrantouhill, Ireland's highest mountain at 3,406 ft. Other outstanding beauty spots in the park include Innisfallen Island with its abbey ruins, Torc Waterfall and Ladies View. This is superb hiking and horseback riding country, and there are also boat excursions on the lakes.

About the Expert

Donna Dailey is the author of Thomas Cook’s Ireland driving guide, coauthor of DK’s Back Roads Ireland and several other titles, as well as the author of Thomas Cook’s HotSpots Costa Blanca and a contributor to AA Publishing’s Key Guide Spain.