Historic sites and epic natural beauty

West of Cork and is where you’ll find the tranquility of Ireland’s oldest national park. Killarney National Park is divided by both the Ring of Kerry and the River Laune, which runs down from Lough Leane. It is home to bountiful herds of majestic red deer and Ireland’s largest native forest. Take a scenic drive from Killarney Town to Moll’s Gap to witness the superb views of the lakes and the park as you pass by.

At the north of the park, below Torc Mountain, let the relaxing sound of cascading waters guide you to the beautiful Torc Waterfall. Sat snug behind the lush foliage, just above Muckross Lake, you’ll find the eye-catching Victorian mansion, Muckross House & Gardens. From here you can take a stroll further into the past, at Muckross Abbey.

Or, venture even further and catch a boat across Lough Leane to the quiet Innisfallen Island, home to a small 12th-century church of red sandstone. The park is perfect for activities like hiking, cycling, boating, fishing, or riding in a horse-drawn jaunting car.

Those looking for a physical challenge should head to the top of the dauntingly named Cardiac Hill. Yet its name surely derives from the awe and wonder that strikes the heart upon witnessing the glorious views, rather than from the strenuousness of its climb.

From our experts

Experiences picked by our Killarney National Park and South West Coast specialists

  • Look out over the Atlantic from the Kerry Cliffs preview image
  • Walk working farms at Muckross Traditional Farms preview image
  • Cruise around Bantry Bay by private boat preview image
  • Tour Ross Castle with a guide preview image
  • Hike and kayak the lakes of Killarney preview image

Look out over the Atlantic from the Kerry Cliffs

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Marvel at the Kerry Cliffs, which stand over 1,000 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and offer stunning views of the Skellig Rocks.

Walk working farms at Muckross Traditional Farms

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Step back into the past at Muckross Traditional Farms as you explore working farms.

Cruise around Bantry Bay by private boat

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Soak up the beauty of Ireland’s pretty coastal towns on a private cruise around Bantry Bay.

Tour Ross Castle with a guide

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Enjoy a guided tour around Ross Castle, the ancestral home of the O’Donoghue Clan.

Hike and kayak the lakes of Killarney

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Embark on guided hikes and peaceful kayaking trips across the lakes of the park.

Luxury accommodation in Killarney National Park and the South West Coast

There are many incredible places to stay in Killarney National Park and the South West Coast. Here are some of our favourites, handpicked by our travel designers:

Killarney National Park and the South West Coast

Sheen Falls Lodge
Set upon the backdrop of Kenmare Bay and overlooking the picturesque Sheen Falls, this five-star Relais & Chateaux hotel is renowned for its tranquil beauty and just a short drive will lead you to the quaint Irish town of Kenmare. Found within each of its rooms is luxury and comfort at every turn. Some feature open fireplaces and serene views over either Kenmare Bay or the cascading Sheen Waterfalls, providing the perfect haven in which to unwind. Food lovers rejoice, for one of the most renowned features of the hotel is the elegant, two AA Rosette restaurant, The Falls. Here you can indulge in dishes of the highest calibre using local ingredients like home-smoked salmon caught on the estate and organic vegetables grown in the surrounding area. For a more casual experience and to delight a sweet tooth, head over to the Sun Lounge for afternoon tea or enjoy a glass or two at the stylish cocktail bar which boasts the largest wine cellar in Ireland. The 300-acre estate lends itself to a plethora of exciting outdoor activities. Go salmon fishing on the River Sheen or enjoy a round on the nearby golf courses. Meandering walks are a must, and complimentary hotel bicycles allow for riverside cycles. For a more exhilarating experience, ride horseback across the dramatic landscapes of the countryside, or kayak in the surrounding waters. Falconry, clay pigeon shooting, hill walking, and tennis are also on the extensive list. After a long day of exploration, relaxation awaits in the serene and stylish spa. Soak the day away in the Jacuzzi or indoor heated pool, while the sauna and steam rooms provide the perfect place to unwind.
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Why book with Jacada?

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Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

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Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

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Responsible travel

Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

Trip inspiration

Get inspired with our Killarney National Park and the South West Coast example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure

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Ready to plan your adventure?

Whatever you want from your Killarney National Park and the South West Coast adventure, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Where to go in Ireland

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Belfast

Shaped by the turbulent events of the 20th century, the capital city of Northern Ireland is both historically and politically important. Yet over the years, Belfast has been shaking off its troubled reputation and today is a vibrant and exciting city with lots to offer.

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Cork

Sitting snug inland on the River Lee, you’ll find Cork’s buzzing city centre. Awaiting you is a wealth of historic attractions of medieval, early modern and Georgian origin.

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Donegal and the Causeway Coast

Here you will find a beautiful array of historical and geological treasures, on a shared and seemingly endless coastline.

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Dublin

A kaleidoscope of history and modernity, it is generous in its architectural and cultural offerings. Just a quick turn down a cosy laneway could lead you to the bustling restaurants and pubs of Temple Bar, or towards the ancient, yet indominable walls of Dublin Castle.

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Galway and the West Coast

The West Coast is home to some of Ireland‘s most dramatic scenery. This is where sheer cliffs drop down into the ocean, shimmering lakes sit under towering mountain peaks and the waters of the Atlantic lap against golden sands.

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The Ancient East

This vast and changing landscape of the east offers such a wealth of historic sites, you can journey through the country’s historic narrative, starting right from the dawn of civilisation.

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When to visit

With some careful planning, Ireland can be a charming destination at any time of the year. The best months to visit are April to early June, when the landscape erupts into a vivid emerald green as the weather becomes warmer. July and August are good times to visit too, but this is the height of the summer season and the country can become congested.

Wildflowers

March–June

Deer rutting season

September–November

When Is the Best Time to Go to Ireland?

When Is the Best Time to Go to Ireland?

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Plan your trip to Killarney National Park and the South West Coast

Whatever you want from your adventure in Killarney National Park and the South West Coast, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

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Don't take our word for it

Your trip, your story

We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.

Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.