A stone castle stands next to a lake, partially surrounded by trees and greenery, with its reflection visible in the calm water under a clear blue sky.

Discover Killarney’s

ACTIVITIES & EXPERIENCES

Discover the Best of Killarney

From the rugged beauty of the mountains and shimmering lakes to the warmth of traditional music and local culture, Killarney offers a wonderful balance of adventure and relaxation. At Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa, you’re perfectly placed to experience it all, with the natural beauty, character and charm of Killarney waiting just beyond your door.

A calm lake reflects distant mountains, trees, and a cloudy sky with low-lying fog. Several small boats are scattered on the water.

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A large house with a grey roof sits in the background, surrounded by well-kept gardens with colourful flowers and shrubs under a partly cloudy sky.

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Aerial view of a town with a park on the left, buildings on the right, and mountains and a lake in the background under a clear sky.

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Where the Adventure Begins

Scenic Walk Ways

Killarney National Park is a wonderful place to explore on foot, with woodland trails, peaceful lakeshores and mountain landscapes offering something for every pace and level of adventure.

One of the most accessible highlights is Killarney House and Gardens, where beautifully landscaped gardens, seasonal blooms and peaceful pathways offer a tranquil introduction to the National Park. The Golden Gates entrance is just a short stroll from Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa, making it easy to step from the town into the beauty of the park.

For those looking to venture further afield, a car opens up a wealth of scenic walking routes. Follow the Old Kenmare Road through quiet woodland and countryside, discover the shorter forest trails around Knockreer with views across Killarney town, or take on the more challenging Purple Mountain Trail for a rewarding hike through rugged mountain terrain, with spectacular views across the Lakes of Killarney.

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Aerial view of a lake surrounded by green forests and mountains under a partly cloudy sky.
Luxury countryside hotel with scenic mountain and lake views, surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for tranquil getaways.Aerial view of a lush green landscape with a hill, small lakes, and distant mountains under a partly cloudy sky.A calm lake stretches between two forested hills under a partly cloudy sky, with distant mountains visible in the background.

Hidden Gems

Cycling Trails

Muckross, at the heart of Killarney National Park, is made for exploring by bike. From Killarney town, follow the Muckross Road across Flesk Bridge before joining the dedicated cycle path into the National Park, where woodland trails, historic sites and spectacular lake views unfold along the way.

After around a kilometre, turn into Yew Valley Wood and continue towards Muckross Abbey, a beautifully preserved 15th century ruin with an atmospheric vaulted cloister and centuries of history to discover.

Continue through the park towards Muckross Traditional Farms and the elegant Muckross House. Take a guided tour of the house, step back in time at the traditional farms or visit Muckross Craft Centre, where you can browse local crafts and discover traditional skills including bookbinding, weaving and pottery.

For a longer adventure, continue onto the Muckross to Dinis loop around Muckross Lake. With peaceful woodland, mountain scenery and views across the lake, the route is best enjoyed in an anti clockwise direction.

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One of the country’s most iconic landscapes

The Gap of Dunloe

Set between the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the Purple Mountains, this stunning 11 km journey meanders through a breath-taking mountain pass, revealing wide lakes, time-worn stone bridges, rushing waterfalls and gentle hillsides scattered with sheep.

The well-known route runs from Kate Kearney’s Cottage to Lord Brandon’s Cottage, following a narrow mountain road as it winds through the valley. The walk is an easy, gradual ascent with no technical demands simply comfortable footwear and plenty of time to soak up the scenery.

Along the way, you can look forward to:

Five striking lakes, each offering its own unique beauty
Historic stone bridges and flowing waterfalls
Soft, rolling slopes dotted with grazing sheep
Impressive mountain peaks that draw closer as the valley narrows

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A winding road runs beside a river and valley, surrounded by rocky hills and mountains under a cloudy sky.
A calm lake surrounded by rocky hills and mountains under a partly cloudy sky, with reflections visible on the water’s surface.Serene lake view with lush mountains reflecting in clear waters under a bright sky. Perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.Aerial view of a lake with small islands, surrounded by green hills and mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

Peaceful Boat & Lake Experiences

The Lakes of Killarney

Glide by boat across the beautiful Lakes of Killarney and through the heart of Killarney National Park, taking in the ancient oak woodlands of the Upper Lake and the historic Old Weir Bridge along the way. When conditions are right, you may even experience the thrill of “shooting the rapids” as you arrive at the famous Meeting of the Waters, where all three lakes come together.

Continue beneath the Toothache Bridge into the Middle Lake, where sweeping views of Torc Mountain unfold alongside the legendary Colleen Bawn Rock. Look skyward as you travel,  you might just be rewarded with the unforgettable sight of White-Tailed Eagles circling high above the mountains.

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The Ring of Kerry

Setting off from Killarney, the Ring of Kerry unfolds like a living postcard. This legendary 179km route carries you through charming towns, Wild Atlantic coastline and some of the most spectacular scenery in Ireland. Here’s some of what awaits along the way.

Serene waterfall cascading over rocks in lush green forest, creating a tranquil retreat near hotel accommodations.

Torc Waterfall

Hidden among lush green forest, Torc Waterfall is a peaceful and picturesque stop on the Ring of Kerry. A short stroll brings you to the cascading falls, while nearby walking trails offer stunning views over the lakes below.

Aerial view of a lush green landscape with a hill, small lakes, and distant mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

Ladies View

One of the most photographed spots in Ireland, Ladies View offers sweeping panoramas over the Lakes of Killarney and the surrounding mountains. Named after Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting, this viewpoint captures the true magic of Kerry and is a must-stop along the route.

Scenic mountain view with winding road and lush greenery near the hotel, ideal for nature hikes and countryside drives.

Molls Gap

A dramatic mountain pass linking Killarney and Kenmare, Moll’s Gap is famous for its wild scenery and breathtaking views. Stop at the traditional Avoca café and gift shop, take a moment to breathe in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy one of the Ring’s most scenic viewpoints.