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    Beautiful nature

    Explore mountains, woodland and lakes

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    Invigorating activities

    Hike or cycle across Innisfallen Island

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    Incredible wildlife

    Spot Ireland's only remaining indigenous herd of Red Deer

    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.

    Highlights

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

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

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

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

    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:

    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.

    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

    Belfast thumbnail

    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.

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    Wildflowers

    March - June

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    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.

    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.

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