Welcome to Killarney
Welcome to the Tourism capital of Ireland. Killarney's unique geographic location affords visitors the chance to view un-paralleled sights of nature within relative close proximity. The town of Killarney is nestled in the valleys of the MacGillicuddy Reeks right next to the beautiful Lakes of Killarney National Park. It is home to St. Mary’s Cathedral, Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey, Torc waterfall and Innisfallen Island, the location of a ruined monastery. Killarney’s history, natural beauty and proximity to the Dingle Peninsula, the Skellig Islands, added to its’s location on the Ring of Kerry make it the ultimate destination for those wishing to experience all the Kingdom of Kerry has to offer.
Killarney’s tourism history goes back at to the mid 1700’s when Thomas, 4th Viscount of Kenmare began to attract visitors and new residents to the town. The date of 1747 was used in a recent 250 year celebration to honour the history of Killarney tourism. A visit by Queen Victoria in 1861 gave the town International exposure which it has enjoyed ever since. This visit also led to the naming of one of Killarney’s best viewing spots “Ladies View” where you get an all-encompassing view of the splendor of the Lakes of Killarney.
Killarney’s Tourism industry has always stayed loyal to the Ireland’s Heritage, meaning that you can experience many traditional Irish offerings such as music, food & clothing. It is seen by many people in Ireland as the best town in the country to go to for a weekend away.
Local Area & Activities
Eviston House Hotel
Situated here is the world famous Danny Mann Pub, serving the best of Irish & International cuisine with live Irish Music every night.
Lakes of Killarney
South and west of the town of Killarney in Co. Kerry is an expanse of rugged mountainous country. This includes the McGillycuddy's Reeks, the highest mountain range in Ireland which rise to a height of over 1000 metres. At the foot of these mountains nestle the world famous lakes of Killarney. Here where the mountains sweep down to the lake shores, their lower slopes covered in woodlands, lies the 10,236 hectare (26,000 acres), Killarney National Park . The distinctive combination of mountains, lakes, woods and waterfalls under ever changing skies gives the area a special scenic beauty.
Muckross House and Gardens
This nineteenth century Victorian mansion is set against the stunning beauty of Killarney National Park. The house stands close to the shores of Muckross Lake, one of Killarney's three lakes, famed world wide for their splendour and beauty. As a focal point within Killarney National Park, Muckross House is the ideal base from which to explore this landscape.
Gap of Dunloe
Ladies View
Ladies View is about 12 miles from Killarney on the N71 road as you go towards Kenmare. The view here is probably the best known of Killarney and is a major attraction for visitors. Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting visited here during the royal visit in 1861. They were so taken with the view that it was named after them.
If you walk up the road from the viewing point there is another parking area and a path that leads to a wonderful view of the upper lake.
Torc Waterfall
Torc Waterfall is approximately 7 kilometres from Killarney Town and approx 2.5 kilometres from the motor entrance to Muckross House and is signposted from a carpark off the N71. A short walk of approx 200 metres brings you to the waterfall. From that point steps lead to another viewing point at a higher altitude that provides a view over the Middle Lake. The path is also part of the Kerry Way long distance walking route and a starting point for circular walking routes which are indicated by a map down at the start of the trail beside the car park. The waterfall which is approximately 20 metres high is at its best after heavy rainfall. Across the road from the car park jaunting cars can be hired for a trip to Muckross House within the National Park.
The Ring of Kerry
It’s a road that takes you through 10,000 years of dramatic history. It’s a road that takes you from deep forest to the crashing waters of the wild Atlantic. It’s a road through rugged, majestic landscapes: where wild stag roam and where tumbling waterfalls crash into crystal streams teeming with wild salmon. It’s a road that shows you the real meaning of a holiday in Kerry, Ireland.
DAY TRIPS FROM THE HOTEL
- Ring of Kerry
- Dingle’s Slea Head
- Gap of Dunloe
- Highlights of Killarney Lake
All of which can be arranged through reception.