Things To See

Sightseeing The beauty and magic of Killarney and its surrounds is yours to explore. From the rugged grandeur of The MacGillycuddy Reeks Mountain Range, to the historic castles, stately homes and ancient woodlands of Killarney National Park. Here is a selection of some of the most popular sights, our only advice... decide on your preferred points of interest or be prepared to extend your stay in Killarney for the foreseeable future!
Aghadoe Aghadoe is possibly Killarney's most romantic vista. It provides a panoramic view across glistening lakes and mysterious islands with the MacGillycuddy Reeks forming a perfect backdrop stretching from the twin hills in the Southeast, known as the paps, to awesome Carrantuohill in the Southwest. The area is also renowned for its historic and archaeological importance. St. Finian Lobhar founded a Monastery here in the 7th century, and the ruins of a round tower and church date from the 12th century. Outside the church stands a round tower approximately 22 feet high, built by Auliff Mor na Cuimsionach.
Dunloe Ogham Stones A display of Ogham Stones can be found between Beaufort village and the Gap of Dunloe. These were originally the roof of a souterrain or underground passage which collapsed at the end of the last century. Ogham was the earliest form of Irish writing dating back to third century AD Ogham stones are usually gravestones and bear the name of the deceased and often details of his descent. Because of their long protection from exposure, the Dunloe inscriptions are unusually well preserved. Innisfallen Island This serene and peaceful island can be accessed by boat from Ross Castle. It is the biggest island on Lough Leane and dates back to the 7th century. The ruins of a church and an Augustinian Priory can be found here. The island is steeped in history, it was an important educational centre and it is believed that the high king of Munster Brian Boru may have been educated here. The famous Annals of Innisfallen were compiled here.
	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.
Ross Castle Picturesquely sited on the edge of Lough Leane, 15th century Ross Castle was an O'Donoghue chieftain stronghold. According to legend, the castle would never be conquered by land. In the 17th century, Cromwellian forces successfully attacked the castle by crossing the lake, on boats fulfilling the prophecy. This Castle may be considered a typical example of the stronghold of an Irish Chieftain during the Middle Ages. It is surrounded by a fortified bawn, its curtain walls defended by circular flanking towers, two of which remain. Much of the bawn was removed by the time the Barrack building was added on the south side of the castle sometime in the middle of the 18th century. The castle has been extensively restored and is now open to the public. The castle contains 16th and 17th century furniture. Guided tours of the castle are available.
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.
	Torc Waterfall This beautiful majestic waterfall is not to be missed. Follow the mossy, wooded path up to the waterfall; it is especially spectacular immediately after a heavy downpour of rain. A pretty path winds up to the top of this 18m waterfall to reveal panoramic views of the lakes and mountains of Killarney.