Ireland · KILLARNEY NATIONAL PARK TOURS
Twenty-six thousand acres of lake, oak wood and red deer, with a gap in the mountains at the far end. The 11 below sort the jaunting cars, the boat crossings and the Gap of Dunloe days by price and how much of it you cover on foot.
Board the MV Lily of Killarney at Ross Castle for a one-hour cruise on Lough Léin. Your English-speaking captain and guide, often Paul or Frank, points out Innisfallen Monastery, ancient oak and yew forests, wildlife, and Carrauntoohil. The heated, glass-covered boat runs daily and returns to the castle pier.
“Was wonderful views and boat guide helped fill in some details.”
Spend about 11 hours touring the Ring of Kerry and Killarney National Park from Cork. You’ll see Killarney, Dingle Bay, Waterville, Sneem, Torc Waterfall, and mountain scenery without driving. Guides such as Kevin, Paul, Brian, Malcolm, and Stephen have led this route. Expect a large group, long bus rides, short stops, and possible extra charges for optional activities.
“Great tour lots to do and amazing sights along the way! Had a great tour guide very informative and knowledgeable about the area, also had great humorous stories to tell.”
Ride through Killarney National Park with a local McCarthy family guide such as Damien, Jason, or Johnny. In about an hour, you’ll see Ross Castle, the Lakes of Killarney, Innisfallen Island, mountain views, and Ireland’s second-tallest cathedral, with time for photos and local stories.
“It’s a wonderful introduction to Killarney National Park and a great way to kick off our stay in Ireland. Martin was a congenial and informative guide to the sights along the way and personal historic stories. And Paddy (our trusty horse) led the way.”
From central Killarney, you’ll ride a comfortable coach around the Ring of Kerry with a live guide such as Batt, Denis, or Darren. Expect Bog Village, a sheepdog demonstration, Waterville, Sneem, Moll’s Gap, Ladies View, and Killarney National Park, with several admission fees and meals extra.
“Very beautiful landscape, and a very talkative and friendly guide with expertise of the ring of Kerry.”
Meet Richard, James, Mike, Thomas, or another local guide at 11am outside O’Sheas Funeral Home opposite St. Mary’s Cathedral. Walk through Killarney National Park for about two hours, with stories about deer, lakes, buildings, folklore, and local life. The route can be extended, and small groups allow for a more personal outing.
“Wonderful 2-h walk in Killarney National Park, Richard is very knowledgeable and told us a lot of stories. Relaxing walk, good with kids.”
Spend one hour in a traditional jaunting car with an English-speaking jarvey guide, passing St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney National Park, and Ross Castle. Expect Irish history, local legends, mountain views, and possible sightings of red deer. The ride starts beside Killarney Train Station and returns to the meeting point.
“Was a wonderful tour! Michael was fantastic as was Joey!! We had an hour trip for myself and my husband along with close friends and was one of the highlights of our 1 week driving tour of the east & west coastline of your gorgeous country. What a way to spend a fun time on our anniversary !”
Ride from stables just outside Killarney into Knockreer Estate, with a guide, horse, helmet, and boots included. You’ll pass near Lough Leane, watch for red and sika deer, and follow forest and estate trails beneath Kerry’s mountains. Beginners are welcome, children must be at least eight, and you should arrive 30 minutes early.
“The riding was fantastic!!!! The staff goes above sns beyond. The horses are great. The views are out of this world. BUT we found out we paid DOUBLE the cost if we had booked directly with the farm. Book through the Killarney Riding Stables. Don’t make the same mistake we did.”
Pick up a bike, helmet, lock, and park map at Killarney Flesk Caravan & Camping Park, then set off through Killarney National Park. Ride to Torc Waterfall, Muckross Abbey, Muckross House, and the Traditional Farms at your own speed. This is a self-guided outing, not a guided history tour, and standard bikes are supplied unless you pay extra for an electric model.
“We had an amazing day, biking through Killarney National Park! We visited Torc Waterfall, the Muckross Abbey, Muckross House, and the Muckross Traditional Farms! Definitely a highlight of our vacation!”
Travel from central Killarney to Kate Kearney’s Cottage, then walk the Gap of Dunloe or pay €35 for a shared jaunting cart. Meet the boat at Lord Brandon’s Cottage for a scenic ride across Killarney’s three lakes to Ross Castle. Captains such as Cathal and Rory have made the lake ride especially memorable.
“It was a great day trip! The included bus transportation made it easy to get to the Gap of Dunloe from Killarney and then back to town after the boat trip through the lakes!”
Start at Ross Castle, transfer to Kate Kearney’s Cottage, and travel seven miles through the Gap of Dunloe by pony and trap. After a break at Lord Brandon’s Cottage, board a traditional open boat for a two-hour journey across Killarney’s three lakes, ending at Ross Castle. Guides such as Rory, Patrick, and Patsy add local stories along the way.
“The family business has operated this type of tour for over 250 years. Great experience with local guides and local history. Horse carriage and boat ride were excellent. You get a real sense of the land and the people with this outdoor activity.”
Travel from Killarney to Kate Kearney’s Cottage, then walk or pay for a pony-and-trap ride through the Gap of Dunloe. After lunch at Lord Brandon’s Cottage, cruise three Killarney lakes to Ross Castle with an entertaining boat guide such as Donald, before returning by coach.
“The boat trip was great fun altogether - our guide entertained us in full Kerry style.”
Start on a coast road, at a castle gate or on a bar stool.
