A Guide to Killarney National Park
Killarney National Park is the reason most people come to this part of Kerry in the first place - and staying at Applecroft House puts you right on its doorstep. Whether you've got a few hours or a full day, here's how to make the most of it.
Getting Your Bearings
The park covers over 10,000 hectares of lakes, woodland, and mountain scenery on the edge of Killarney town, built around the three Lakes of Killarney - Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and the Upper Lake. Entry is free, and it's open year-round, dawn to dusk. There's no single "entrance" - you can walk, cycle, or take a jaunting car in from several points around the town.
Muckross House & Gardens
A 19th-century Victorian mansion set right on the edge of Muckross Lake, with beautifully kept gardens that are worth a wander even if you skip the house tour. The walled garden and the arboretum are particularly lovely in spring and autumn. There's a working traditional farm attached too, which is a nice stop if you've got kids with you.
Muckross Abbey
A short walk from Muckross House, this 15th-century Franciscan friary is one of the most atmospheric ruins in Kerry - a huge yew tree grows right up through the centre of the cloister. It's free to visit and takes maybe 20–30 minutes to explore properly.
Torc Waterfall
One of the most photographed spots in Kerry, and for good reason. The waterfall itself is a short, easy walk from the car park - five minutes or so - making it accessible for almost anyone. If you're feeling more energetic, the trail continues up alongside the falls to a viewpoint over the lakes, which is a steeper climb but well worth it.
Ross Castle
A restored 15th-century tower house right on the shore of Lough Leane. You can take a guided tour inside, or simply enjoy the walk along the lakeshore, which is one of the flattest, easiest routes in the park - good for a relaxed stroll or a picnic spot. Ross Castle is also where you catch boat trips out to Innisfallen Island.
Ladies' View
A little further into the park along the Ring of Kerry road, Ladies' View is a viewpoint looking back over the lakes and the Black Valley. It's said to be named after Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting, who admired it on a royal visit in 1861. Worth the short detour if you're driving through, and there's a café there too.
Walking Trails for Different Levels
Easy: Ross Castle lakeshore walk, Muckross House & gardens loop
Moderate: Torc Waterfall to the upper viewpoint, Arthur Young's Walk
More challenging: Old Kenmare Road, Mangerton Mountain
Getting Around
You can walk into the park from Killarney town in about 15–20 minutes. Bike hire is widely available in town if you'd rather cover more ground, and jaunting cars (traditional horse-drawn traps) are a lovely, if touristy, way to see the highlights without the walking. Whichever way you choose, wear decent footwear -paths can be uneven and muddy after rain, which, this being Kerry, is often.
Staying Nearby
At Applecroft House, we're a short drive from the park entrance, so you can head in early before the crowds and be back for breakfast - or head out for an evening walk when the light is at its best. If you'd like recommendations on which trails suit your plans for the day, just ask us when you check in - we're always happy to point you in the right direction.
