Our top things to do in Kerry this Summer | Day 1 Itinerary

lovers’ walks, secluded lakeshores and stunning waterfalls make Killarney the perfect basecamp for a break in Kerry.

an ideal location for exploring all our beautiful county has to offer.

Here are OUR TOP THINGS TO DO IN KERRY THIS SUMMER | DAY 1 ITINERARY


Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park

  • An ideal paradise for lovers and families alike.
  • Secluded hidden lakes, beaches, enchanting waterfalls and mesmerising sunsets.
  • Breathtaking scenery with over 25,000 acres of woodland, waterfalls and vistas abound.
  • See all of our favourite picks in Killarney National Park below:
Ross Castle view with mountains in the background

1. Ross Castle

Sits on the edge of Lough Leane, built in the 15th century.

Just a stone’s throw from Killarney town, the trip to the castle is best taken by Jaunting Cart.

The castle is open for tours throughout the season and boat trips are available to Inisfallen Island from the castle too.

2. Lough Leane

The largest of the three lakes of Killarney.
Locals and tourists alike pause and catch their breath at its unique natural beauty. 

Muckross Abbey view from side of cemetery on a sunny day

3. Muckross Abbey

An old Irish Monastery situated in the middle of the national park.

Founded in 1448 as a Franciscan friary, its most striking feature is a central courtyard, which contains a large yew tree and is surrounded by a vaulted cloister

Torc Waterfall

4. Torc Waterfall

A cascade waterfall at 20 metres high, 110 metres long, 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.

Ladies View

5. Ladies View

Gap of Dunloe, Purple Mountain and the MacGillycuddy Reeks can be seen from Ladies View, an amazing viewing spot – ideal for a romantic snap!

Meeting of the Waters

6. Meeting of the Waters

Where all three of Killarney’s glorious lakes merge together. Most definitely one of the best hidden gems in Killarney. The area is so beautiful, echoing peace and tranquillity in a world of its own.

Share your Experience

#LoveKillarney
📸 • muckrossrc This is how every monday feels #capsize #mondaymotivation #generationrowing #rowingworkout #row #lovekillarney  #rowingcelebration #rowingbible #muckrossrc #drills #sportlife

📸 • muckrossrc This is how every monday feels #capsize #mondaymotivation #generationrowing #rowingworkout #row #lovekillarney #rowingcelebration #rowingbible #muckrossrc #drills #sportlife ...

1730 4
Ross Castle sits on the edge of Killarney’s lower lake and was built by O’Donoghue Mór in the 15th century. Legend of this castle has it that O’Donoghue still exists in a deep slumber under the waters of Lough Leane. On the first morning of May every seven years he rises from the lake on his magnificent white horse and circles the lake. Anyone catching a glimpse of him is said to be assured of good fortune for the rest of their lives. The large rock at the entrance to the bay is known as O’Donoghue’s prison. Ross Castle was the last stronghold in Munster to hold out against Cromwell. It was eventually taken by General Ludlow in 1652.
------------------------------------------------------------------
#rosscastle #killarneynationalpark #irishcastle #countykerry #castlesofireland #visitkerry castleandchateau  #irelandcollective #irelandtravel #raw_ireland #irelandloves #jashseurope #total_medieval #total_europe #daily_ireland #bestirelandpics #castellidelmondo #wideanglephotography #tokinausa #munster #lovekillarney #killarneyireland  yourcastles world_of_castles_ #castellinelmondo #nasvetzaizlet #irska #irelandtv #teamtokina #monumental_world #monumentalworld

Ross Castle sits on the edge of Killarney’s lower lake and was built by O’Donoghue Mór in the 15th century. Legend of this castle has it that O’Donoghue still exists in a deep slumber under the waters of Lough Leane. On the first morning of May every seven years he rises from the lake on his magnificent white horse and circles the lake. Anyone catching a glimpse of him is said to be assured of good fortune for the rest of their lives. The large rock at the entrance to the bay is known as O’Donoghue’s prison. Ross Castle was the last stronghold in Munster to hold out against Cromwell. It was eventually taken by General Ludlow in 1652.
------------------------------------------------------------------
#rosscastle #killarneynationalpark #irishcastle #countykerry #castlesofireland #visitkerry castleandchateau #irelandcollective #irelandtravel #raw_ireland #irelandloves #jashseurope #total_medieval #total_europe #daily_ireland #bestirelandpics #castellidelmondo #wideanglephotography #tokinausa #munster #lovekillarney #killarneyireland yourcastles world_of_castles_ #castellinelmondo #nasvetzaizlet #irska #irelandtv #teamtokina #monumental_world #monumentalworld
...

767 106
There are not many things that match the experience of riding your bike around Ross Castle and Ross Island during the summer while the sun splits the stones ☀  You can also catch some rays and admire the ducks by the lakeshore while down at Ross Castle 😎
📸:@nelly.ontheroad 🙌 
📍: Ross Castle 
#lovekillarney #lovekillarney #ToursimIreland #LoveIreland #FailteIreland #KeepDiscovering #Fillyourheartwithireland #Explorethekingdom #Kerry #KillarneyNationalPark #IrelandTravel #IrelandDaily #StayandWander #Wildatlanticway #InstaIreland #Irlande #Ireland_gram #Bestirelandpics #travelphotography #travel #photography #irelandaily #linkinbio #thefullirish_

There are not many things that match the experience of riding your bike around Ross Castle and Ross Island during the summer while the sun splits the stones ☀ You can also catch some rays and admire the ducks by the lakeshore while down at Ross Castle 😎
📸:@nelly.ontheroad 🙌
📍: Ross Castle
#lovekillarney #lovekillarney #ToursimIreland #LoveIreland #FailteIreland #KeepDiscovering #Fillyourheartwithireland #Explorethekingdom #Kerry #KillarneyNationalPark #IrelandTravel #IrelandDaily #StayandWander #Wildatlanticway #InstaIreland #Irlande #Ireland_gram #Bestirelandpics #travelphotography #travel #photography #irelandaily #linkinbio #thefullirish_
...

789 3
Iggy got us both checked in to the fabulous *Dog Friendly* Dromhall Hotel this afternoon!
A late 50th present from herself to me. 
We left Dingle this morning and covered a lot of ground on our way to Killarney, so we'll be resting up tonight in style!
Sheep's Head is our destination for tomorrow evening, with as much as possible packed in between!

killarneydromhallhotel
Killarney
Co. Kerry
gocar_ireland

Iggy got us both checked in to the fabulous *Dog Friendly* Dromhall Hotel this afternoon!
A late 50th present from herself to me.
We left Dingle this morning and covered a lot of ground on our way to Killarney, so we`ll be resting up tonight in style!
Sheep`s Head is our destination for tomorrow evening, with as much as possible packed in between!

killarneydromhallhotel
Killarney
Co. Kerry
gocar_ireland
...

987 27
Can you tell I’m happy about this class weather we’re having right now… Summer 2021 is never ending 🤸🏻‍♀️

Can you tell I’m happy about this class weather we’re having right now… Summer 2021 is never ending 🤸🏻‍♀️ ...

765 9
We just drove through the Gap of Dunloe (magical!!), the Black Valley, Moll's Gap and we are currently at the Dog Friendly, Dinis Cafe, in Muckross.
This is a beautiful stop off for walkers/cyclists, plus there's a water station and treats for our canine companions too!
* Another lucky find! *

diniscottagetearooms
Muckross
Killarney National Park
Co. Kerry

We just drove through the Gap of Dunloe (magical!!), the Black Valley, Moll`s Gap and we are currently at the Dog Friendly, Dinis Cafe, in Muckross.
This is a beautiful stop off for walkers/cyclists, plus there`s a water station and treats for our canine companions too!
* Another lucky find! *

diniscottagetearooms
Muckross
Killarney National Park
Co. Kerry
...

626 22
You, me, and the perfect Christmas tree.⁣
⁣
The killarneyplaza hotel has really sleighed it with the Christmas decorations don’t you think? 
⁣
Had such a lovely stay here Saturday night, this is the only picture I have from the weekend, it was phones away and just relax and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere, and try and unwind (insomnia is kicking my ass lately)
⁣
We started with brunch in the cafeduparckillarney, then walked about Killarney town to see all the Christmas lights. Came back to have a cocktail or two cafeduparckillarney (highly recommend trying the margaritas) then a gorgeous dinner in the thetanyardkillarney 
⁣
killarneyplaza have a festive brunch and stay offer at the moment for €174 for two people sharing. If you need an excuse to visit Killarney, now you have one!!! ⁣
⁣
When you go away can you completely switch off (phones away)?⁣
⁣
⁣
⁣
#killarney #cokerry #ireland #womentravel #girlswhoexplore #femaletraveller #femaletravelinspo #womentravellers #girltravel #loveireland #lovinireland #instatravelgram #wanderlusters #sitstarsee #irishblogger #placestosee #travelinfluencer #igersireland #travel_photography #wanderlusttravel #thisgirlswanderlust #creatorsie #ireland_daily #irishtravelblogger ⁣#lovekillarney #theofficialkerryapp #irelandtravel #killarneyplazahotel #christmasdecorating #christmasdecoration

You, me, and the perfect Christmas tree.⁣

The killarneyplaza hotel has really sleighed it with the Christmas decorations don’t you think?

Had such a lovely stay here Saturday night, this is the only picture I have from the weekend, it was phones away and just relax and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere, and try and unwind (insomnia is kicking my ass lately)

We started with brunch in the cafeduparckillarney, then walked about Killarney town to see all the Christmas lights. Came back to have a cocktail or two cafeduparckillarney (highly recommend trying the margaritas) then a gorgeous dinner in the thetanyardkillarney

killarneyplaza have a festive brunch and stay offer at the moment for €174 for two people sharing. If you need an excuse to visit Killarney, now you have one!!! ⁣

When you go away can you completely switch off (phones away)?⁣



#killarney #cokerry #ireland #womentravel #girlswhoexplore #femaletraveller #femaletravelinspo #womentravellers #girltravel #loveireland #lovinireland #instatravelgram #wanderlusters #sitstarsee #irishblogger #placestosee #travelinfluencer #igersireland #travel_photography #wanderlusttravel #thisgirlswanderlust #creatorsie #ireland_daily #irishtravelblogger ⁣#lovekillarney #theofficialkerryapp #irelandtravel #killarneyplazahotel #christmasdecorating #christmasdecoration
...

1485 89
1 of 2

One of the most beautiful drives I've ever driven!

The Gap of Dunloe (photo) 
The Black Valley
Moll's Gap
Kissane Sheep Farm
Killarney Lakes
diniscottagetearooms @
Muckross Lake 
Torc Waterfall &
killarneydromhallhotel

Huge thanks to gocar_ireland for making this all possible. 🙏

1 of 2

One of the most beautiful drives I`ve ever driven!

The Gap of Dunloe (photo)
The Black Valley
Moll`s Gap
Kissane Sheep Farm
Killarney Lakes
diniscottagetearooms @
Muckross Lake
Torc Waterfall &
killarneydromhallhotel

Huge thanks to gocar_ireland for making this all possible. 🙏
...

904 19
We had an early start from Dingle this morning, in order to enjoy a peaceful Gap of Dunloe.
This is such a magical drive! So good, we drove up it twice!
Breakfast was enjoyed on the rocks just below our car there, before we headed for Killarney, via the Black Valley, Moll's Gap, diniscottagetearooms and Killarney National Park.
Huge thanks to Tommy Griffin, Kerry footballing legend, for the accommodation at his dog friendly muiris_dans Bar in Dingle last night!
Iggy has just surprised me with her delayed 50th birthday present to me! So tonight, we're staying at the *Dog Friendly* Dromhall Hotel!

killarneydromhallhotel
Killarney
Co. Kerry
gocar_ireland

We had an early start from Dingle this morning, in order to enjoy a peaceful Gap of Dunloe.
This is such a magical drive! So good, we drove up it twice!
Breakfast was enjoyed on the rocks just below our car there, before we headed for Killarney, via the Black Valley, Moll`s Gap, diniscottagetearooms and Killarney National Park.
Huge thanks to Tommy Griffin, Kerry footballing legend, for the accommodation at his dog friendly muiris_dans Bar in Dingle last night!
Iggy has just surprised me with her delayed 50th birthday present to me! So tonight, we`re staying at the *Dog Friendly* Dromhall Hotel!

killarneydromhallhotel
Killarney
Co. Kerry
gocar_ireland
...

824 20
Mood booster pro tip: 
A swim in a new location, moody scenes and the McGillycuddy Reeks as a backdrop 🧜🏼‍♀️👌🏼

Mood booster pro tip:
A swim in a new location, moody scenes and the McGillycuddy Reeks as a backdrop 🧜🏼‍♀️👌🏼
...

673 25
Quite a lot of people categorise themselves as introverts or extroverts, or extraverted introverts and vice versa. I’ve come to the conclusion that I’m an “activityvert” 😅 I’m most energised when I’m exploring new places, swimming in new locations, hiking mountains or staying busy doing the things I love outdoors 🤸🏻‍♀️

Anyone else here feel like they fall under the “activityvert” category?

📍Torc Mountain, Killarney, Co. Kerry

Quite a lot of people categorise themselves as introverts or extroverts, or extraverted introverts and vice versa. I’ve come to the conclusion that I’m an “activityvert” 😅 I’m most energised when I’m exploring new places, swimming in new locations, hiking mountains or staying busy doing the things I love outdoors 🤸🏻‍♀️

Anyone else here feel like they fall under the “activityvert” category?

📍Torc Mountain, Killarney, Co. Kerry
...

876 62
Winter Lake Morning

Working back in Killarney National Park is like hanging out with an old friend, except now they've got new stories to tell.

I'm really enjoying having another look at locations that I didn't quite get to work in for my first book , for this next one.. KINGDOM ..( definitely coming this autumn ! ) 

It was apparently very easy to overlook some amazing locations and to rule out others for being difficult to get to. Now I have the time and a bit more confidence to take them on and see them in them in the first place .

Hope everyone is doing okay and staying safe and well. If you're the new owner of a print, book or calendar this year .. do let me know and I hope it was a welcome gift !!
.
.
.
..
.
.
#kingdombook #kingdom #kerry #killarneynationalpark #discoverkerry #lovekillarney #ireland #irish #irishart #bookproject #landscapephotography #irishlandscape #lake #tree #winter #earlymorning #peace #calm

Winter Lake Morning

Working back in Killarney National Park is like hanging out with an old friend, except now they`ve got new stories to tell.

I`m really enjoying having another look at locations that I didn`t quite get to work in for my first book , for this next one.. KINGDOM ..( definitely coming this autumn ! )

It was apparently very easy to overlook some amazing locations and to rule out others for being difficult to get to. Now I have the time and a bit more confidence to take them on and see them in them in the first place .

Hope everyone is doing okay and staying safe and well. If you`re the new owner of a print, book or calendar this year .. do let me know and I hope it was a welcome gift !!
.
.
.
..
.
.
#kingdombook #kingdom #kerry #killarneynationalpark #discoverkerry #lovekillarney #ireland #irish #irishart #bookproject #landscapephotography #irishlandscape #lake #tree #winter #earlymorning #peace #calm
...

649 22
Does anyone else hate getting their hair wet when they swim 😅

I’m either a swim hat gal or else my head isn’t getting under water… unless it’s wash day and I’m gonna wash my hair in the next day or two! Maybe it’s a curly gal thing I’m not sure but I know for sure I ain’t about that wet hair life 💁🏻‍♀️ 

.

#wildswimming #wildswimmingireland #saltyseasisters #swimwildandfree #swimeveryday #sharetheswimlove #boutyeh #exploreireland #waterinhersoul #discoverireland #sheisthewild #girloutdoormag #irishexplorer #curlyhair #seaswimming #wildswimgirls #irish_daily #vitaminsea #coldwaterswimming #getoutswimming #coldwatertherapy #weswimwild #outdoorswimmingsociety #kerry #curlyhairproblems #exploreireland #instantIrlande #lovekillarney

Does anyone else hate getting their hair wet when they swim 😅

I’m either a swim hat gal or else my head isn’t getting under water… unless it’s wash day and I’m gonna wash my hair in the next day or two! Maybe it’s a curly gal thing I’m not sure but I know for sure I ain’t about that wet hair life 💁🏻‍♀️

.

#wildswimming #wildswimmingireland #saltyseasisters #swimwildandfree #swimeveryday #sharetheswimlove #boutyeh #exploreireland #waterinhersoul #discoverireland #sheisthewild #girloutdoormag #irishexplorer #curlyhair #seaswimming #wildswimgirls #irish_daily #vitaminsea #coldwaterswimming #getoutswimming #coldwatertherapy #weswimwild #outdoorswimmingsociety #kerry #curlyhairproblems #exploreireland #instantIrlande #lovekillarney
...

1174 63
Save This Post For Your Next Visit To Killarney👇🏼👇🏼 A secluded swim spot at the beautiful Torc Waterfall 💦: take the steps to the left of the main view point of the waterfall (the one nearest the car park) and follow them until the bridge. Climb down to the left & you’ll find this spot with no tourists around it and a easy enough gradient in the walkway for getting in for a gorgeous dip x

Save This Post For Your Next Visit To Killarney👇🏼👇🏼 A secluded swim spot at the beautiful Torc Waterfall 💦: take the steps to the left of the main view point of the waterfall (the one nearest the car park) and follow them until the bridge. Climb down to the left & you’ll find this spot with no tourists around it and a easy enough gradient in the walkway for getting in for a gorgeous dip x ...

0 2
When the clouds break momentarily and the sun shines through right when you reach the top...perfection👌🏼 
📸 by eimear_tangney_

When the clouds break momentarily and the sun shines through right when you reach the top...perfection👌🏼
📸 by eimear_tangney_
...

552 25
This was just great to watch!
Iggy scored high marks with John and Noel Kissane, even though she has never worked with sheep like this before!
Iggy was born to two working parents and the natural herding instinct is there to see. They complimented her barking too, as that helps drive on the sheep even better!
When travel restrictions are lifted, please check out and support John and Noel's open days at the farm.

Thanks a mil for the invite guys!
James and Iggy 🐕🚶‍♂️

Www.kissanesheepfarm.com

Kissane Sheep Farm
Moll's Gap
Co. Kerry

This was just great to watch!
Iggy scored high marks with John and Noel Kissane, even though she has never worked with sheep like this before!
Iggy was born to two working parents and the natural herding instinct is there to see. They complimented her barking too, as that helps drive on the sheep even better!
When travel restrictions are lifted, please check out and support John and Noel`s open days at the farm.

Thanks a mil for the invite guys!
James and Iggy 🐕🚶‍♂️

Www.kissanesheepfarm.com

Kissane Sheep Farm
Moll`s Gap
Co. Kerry
...

614 43
More than just metal... If you know, you know ! 🤙
#nissnanskyline #nissanskylinegtr #r32gtr #r32 #nismo #rb26 #integratyper #integratyperx #dc2nation #hondaintegratyper #jdm #jdmsociety #jdmclassic #jdmgram #jdmcars #jdmyo #lovekillarney #juiceboxforyou

More than just metal... If you know, you know ! 🤙
#nissnanskyline #nissanskylinegtr #r32gtr #r32 #nismo #rb26 #integratyper #integratyperx #dc2nation #hondaintegratyper #jdm #jdmsociety #jdmclassic #jdmgram #jdmcars #jdmyo #lovekillarney #juiceboxforyou
...

1213 15
🏰….

Ross Castle

Ross Castle sits on the edge of Killarney’s lower lake and was built by O’Donoghue Mór in the 15th century. The Castle came into the hands of the Brownes who became the Earls of Kenmare and owned an extensive portion of the lands that are now part of Killarney National Park . Legend has it that O’Donoghue still exists in a deep slumber under the waters of Lough Leane. On the first morning of May every seven years he rises from the lake on his magnificent white horse and circles the lake. Anyone catching a glimpse of him is said to be assured of good fortune for the rest of their lives. The large rock at the entrance to the bay is known as O’Donoghue’s prison. Ross Castle was the last stronghold in Munster to hold out against Cromwell. It was eventually taken by General Ludlow in 1652.

#ireland #rosscastle #killarney #castle #killarneynationalpark #travel #kerry #nature #discoverireland #visitireland #wanderlust #photography #rosscastlekillarney #tourismireland #ringofkerry #loveireland #travelphotography #landscape #irelandtravel #irish #instaireland #lake #ig_ireland #wildatlanticway #ireland_gram #wanderireland #lovekillarney #love #beautifuldestinations #bestirelandpics

🏰….

Ross Castle

Ross Castle sits on the edge of Killarney’s lower lake and was built by O’Donoghue Mór in the 15th century. The Castle came into the hands of the Brownes who became the Earls of Kenmare and owned an extensive portion of the lands that are now part of Killarney National Park . Legend has it that O’Donoghue still exists in a deep slumber under the waters of Lough Leane. On the first morning of May every seven years he rises from the lake on his magnificent white horse and circles the lake. Anyone catching a glimpse of him is said to be assured of good fortune for the rest of their lives. The large rock at the entrance to the bay is known as O’Donoghue’s prison. Ross Castle was the last stronghold in Munster to hold out against Cromwell. It was eventually taken by General Ludlow in 1652.

#ireland #rosscastle #killarney #castle #killarneynationalpark #travel #kerry #nature #discoverireland #visitireland #wanderlust #photography #rosscastlekillarney #tourismireland #ringofkerry #loveireland #travelphotography #landscape #irelandtravel #irish #instaireland #lake #ig_ireland #wildatlanticway #ireland_gram #wanderireland #lovekillarney #love #beautifuldestinations #bestirelandpics
...

0 8
How unreal is the colour of my new kahm_sustainable_swimwear  I’m absolutely in love with it 😍

The Killarney National Park is looking amazing these days with all the autumnal colours. If you’re in the area definitely get out for a stroll and soak it all up🍂

#gifted

How unreal is the colour of my new kahm_sustainable_swimwear I’m absolutely in love with it 😍

The Killarney National Park is looking amazing these days with all the autumnal colours. If you’re in the area definitely get out for a stroll and soak it all up🍂

#gifted
...

717 22
That’s one happy Aishling right there ☺️
If you’ve been wanting to get into wild swimming, take this as your sign to start! Just go for it… that’s what I did last year and now I can’t be stopped 🧜🏼‍♀️ And if I can do it, honestly anyone can!

Get in, get in, get in…just go for it 😁

📍Lough Guitane, Killarney

That’s one happy Aishling right there ☺️
If you’ve been wanting to get into wild swimming, take this as your sign to start! Just go for it… that’s what I did last year and now I can’t be stopped 🧜🏼‍♀️ And if I can do it, honestly anyone can!

Get in, get in, get in…just go for it 😁

📍Lough Guitane, Killarney
...

603 13