Located in the heart of Lough Leane just a short boat trip from Ross Castle is the magical Innisfallen Island. Once home to many religious figures dating back to its founding by St. Finian the Leper in the 7th century, the island is now home to a herd of Sika Deer along with other wildlife.
The island is one of the most religiously significant in all of Ireland and it is said that High King of Ireland Brian Boru received his education there before he would go on to become King. The famed Annals of Innisfallen are also said to have been wrote on the island by the monks inhabiting it over the years.
Nowadays if you visit the island, you will be met with multiple ruins of a church along with other buildings that date back almost a thousand years. There is a lovely looped walk around the perimeter of the island along which you can enjoy all the flora and fauna that can be found and view Lough Leane from a different angle.
Boat trips to the island can be got from outside Ross Castle and the experience of visiting this island makes it very worthwhile. Remember to bring a camera for a few photos.
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This 15th century castle on the shores of one of the Lakes of Killarney is a favourite of every visitor that comes to Killarney. The castle in the centre piece of the large Ross Island which is full of trails to check out. Tours of the castle are available to book from the visitor centre.
A hidden gem of a walking trail found between Mangerton Mountain and Torc Mountain, this nature trail is nestled between thousands of trees and has a 5km hiking route through it. This is a location that will make you feel at one with nature.
A stunning mountain pass found a few km outside of Killarney, the Gap of Dunloe is one of the most scenic walking or cycling routes in all of Ireland. There are many lakes and waterfalls located across the Gap and Jaunting Car trips are also available. The Gap is accesible via boat from Ross CAstle or at the starting point of Kate Kearney’s cottage.
