Situated on the shores of the Lakes of Killarney, Killarney is a town located in the beautiful County Kerry in south-west Ireland. Its Irish name Cill Aime means ‘The Church of the Sloe’. Any visitor during the summer will see Killarney in full flight as perhaps Ireland’s biggest tourist magnet. The charming pubs and quaint little boutiques will keep you amused for hours; but the real draw is the magnificent natural scenery.
It is not difficult to see why Killarney is so popular with tourists, given the industry here dates back to the mid-1700s. A real mosaic of picturesque natural scenery and town streets, filled with souvenir shops and quaint Irish pubs, gives Killarney a relaxed atmosphere in the winter. In the summer beware, it can be too much for some people; if this is the case head to the surrounding valley, which is spectacular. “Even an ad man would be ashamed to eulogize it,” wrote the late, great Brendan Behan, to describe the valley.
The nearby Lakes of Killarney are a must-see; the tiny islands are truly beautiful and provide a great afternoon distraction to help you to forget the bustle of the town. Nature can answer this call again if you explore Killarney National Park, taking deep breaths of the air, fragranced with wildflowers growing amid a moss carpet. As cars are banned from most of the trails, either stretch your legs or take one of the traditional horse-drawn buggies. To arouse yourself in the evening, head into town to one of the many pubs for a good old Irish sing-a-long, but be warned most of the accents will be not be Irish!
Highlights
Muckross House and Gardens: something of a museum, this Victorian mansion is dedicated to life in the country and features locally made furniture and artwork.
Aghadoe Church and Round Tower: offering a fantastic, romantic vista, the Macgillycuddy Reeks provide a splendid backdrop to the shimmering Lakes of Killarney as observed from the tower of this 12th century church.
Gap of Dunloe Tours: these tours take you through the famously picturesque Gap of Dunloe and around the Lakes of Killarney.
Ballymalis Castle: climb the spiral staircase with caution, as the floors have long disappeared, to take in the amazing views from the top of the fourth floor.
Killarney National Park: relax and try to escape the hustle and bustle of Killarney town by walking along the many trails in the park. You won’t even be disturbed by noisy engines as motor vehicles are banned.