A Day Trip to…Killarney’s lively town and spectacular national parks

Killarney is located in County Kerry in the South West of Ireland and is no more then a 1 hour 20-minute drive to our door here at Adare Manor. A day trip to Killarney is a popular choice for our guests. 

Killarney is a beautiful place where you can find a mix of busy bars and restaurants and quiet picturesque escapes. It is a town that can cater to all your needs in just one road trip. We are going to explore Killarney with you today and give you some of our local knowledge and recommendations, so you are fully prepared for your trip.  

Killarney national park

Killarney national park is a tourist heaven and has many attractions all are which are confined in one area. It is the perfect way to get introduced to some of Killarney’s history and see top natural attractions like Torc Waterfall.  Here are some ways that you can get around this fascinating national park.  

Cycle

The best way to see all the national park is to cycle through it. This allows you to take control of your day and have more of a personalised experience. There are plenty of bike rental shops in town and they almost always have bikes available. During peak months July and August, we recommend pre-booking just to ensure you will be able to relish in this experience.

• If you enter the park at Ross Castle, you can follow a trail along the lakes of Killarney and on towards Muckross House and Gardens.
• From here, you can continue to Torc Waterfall.
• All in all, a cycle around the park can take between 1 and 3 hours, depending on how long you spend at each attraction.

Boat trip

Cruise Killarney’s beautiful lakes on board a covered and heated boat. This scenic tour offers views of Lough Leane, Killarney’s largest and most picturesque lake. Take in numerous heritage sights and the amazing mountains which surround the lake. This river cruise is a one-hour experience you’re sure to not forget. 

• The boat departs from Ross castle. Make sure to arrive 15 minutes before your trip.
• It must be booked ahead of your visit.
• You must have your confirmation email or print out.
• As it is a lake, seasickness is rare.
• There is no toilet on board so be sure to go before you set sail.

Jaunting tour

Enjoy the sights of Killarney National Park from the traditional Jaunting Car. Operating all year-round, the Killarney Jaunting car trip is a “must” for every one visiting Killarney. Learn about the history, folklore and the beauty of Killarney National Park from the very knowledgeable guides. While you learn, take in the beautiful scenery of the grounds and Lough Leane all the way to Ross castle. This hour-long trip is the perfect introduction to the wonder that is Killarney National Park.

• A minimum of two people per cart.
• Book in advance in peak months as this is one of the most popular mode of transport.
• Make sure to bring booking confirmation.

You can purchase a joint package with certain tour guides that combine both the boat tour and jaunting experience. Boat tours and jaunting can be booked on the website linked here.

Attractions

The attractions are endless in Killarney National Park, and we have linked the website here so you can fully explore all it has to offer. Just be aware that in peak seasons the park can be thronged with tourists, but it is absolutely worth a visit either way. Killarney National Park Attractions.

Gap of Dunloe

The Gap of Dunloe is a mountain pass through the Killarney mountains that was formed by glaciers 10,000 years ago. The gorge is up to 1500 ft (450m) deep and almost 4 miles (6.5km) in length. There are several ways in which you can explore the Gap and take in its natural beauty. Jaunting cycling and walking are the most popular way to explore this wonder. Which ever way you decide your sure to see amazing scenery.

In summer months its sure to be busy, but if your lucky enough to be in Ireland in the off months you will get to explore this great wonder almost at peace. Also, in winter months due to large rainfall the waterfalls are even more powerful and breath-taking. While in summer you will get to experience the amazing flora and fauna that take over the green fields.  No matter the time of year this is a great spot to visit and will bring its own unique aspects as the seasons change.

• Make sure to always pack a rain jacket. In Ireland it can rain any time of year.
• Wearing comfortable shoes is a must in Killarney.
• Bring a camera your sure to capture amazing photos.
• Don’t drive the gap as it is quite difficult and the roads turns can be quite temperamental.

Quiet escapes 

If you’re looking for a quiet escape in Killarney it can be hard to come by. However, it is not impossible. There are a wide variety of great hikes around Killarney that will be sure to remove you from this hectic place. The blue pool trails are a perfect oasis and is ideal for a causal hike. With only a 2.5km distance it will suit all the family.

More graduated hikes can be found such as Torc Mountain which is 7km is length. It also has an amazing board walk towards the top which overlooks sweeping views of mountains and lakes. These hikes are a way to connect with nature and take a quiet moment to yourself. As we know being at one with nature is the perfect way to clear your they say.

• For the Torc mountain hike intermediate level of fitness is recommended
• Wear runners or hiking boots and always bring a rain jacket
• Bring water and some food to keep your energy levels high.
• Never commence the walks when weather conditions are poor.

Pubs

Killarney is not short of traditional and lively Irish pubs. It is what makes Killarney town so special. Below is a list of some of the best pubs in Killarney to make your day trip complete.

• John M. Reidy is one of the most famous pub in Killarney. It has a traditional décor to the front and then a large beer garden to the back. It is the perfect mix of old world meets new. Also, the signature drink Reidy’s Whiskey Sour is a must try.
• Murphy’s bar is an old school traditional bar which also offers the classic Irish pub grub. This pub is filled with both locals and tourists all year round. Hundreds of photographs line the walls, and they host traditional Irish music. They also offer a great whiskey collection.
• The Laurels is a family-owned pub has been keeping the town of Killarney fed and watered for almost a century. They also host live Irish music nights and have an adjacent restaurant that serves mouth-watering dishes that have featured in food guides such as Hidden Places of Ireland and Berlitz.

• Courtneys bar is Dating back to the 1800s, Courtney’s Bar is one of the oldest pubs in Killarney. If you’re craving a pint of the ‘Black Stuff’ this traditional pub has it all. This no-frills pub has an old-school, bare wood interior and it hosts live music sessions during the busy summer months.
• Kate Kearney’s Cottage is located just outside of Killarney. Although it’s not in the town, it’s definitely worth travelling to. This 150-year-old establishment is well-known for its hospitality and the Irish dancing sessions that take place.

Killarney is the definition of a lively Irish town. This teamed with the amazing natural scenery makes Killarney a gem in Ireland. Given that it is so close to Adare, it would be a shame to miss out on this fantastic day trip.