The Lakes of Killarney are a group of three lakes located in Killarney and they are called Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and Upper Lake. These lakes are set in the stunning Killarney National Park and are surrounded by mountains and forests, making them truly wonderful to see.
Lough Leane is the largest of the three and can be found by the shores of Ross Castle, Muckross Lake otherwise known as the middle lake is quite self-explanatory and you can find the Upper Lake about 12km outside of Killarney Town on the N71 road to Kenmare, Derrycunnihy Church and Killegy Woods can be found by this fantastic lake.
There are many wonderful attractions that can be found on the lakes or accessed by a boat trip on the lakes such as the famous Innisfallen Island, the Eagles Nest, O’ Sullivan’s Cascade and the Meeting of the Waters which is where all three lakes join!
The lakes are a marvel to look at from the shores of them but there are also guided boat trips available of the lakes which will take you over their blue waters while your guide fills you in on the wonderous history of them. For the more daring of you, it is possible to kayak over the lakes for a self-guided tour.
One fun fact about the lakes is that Lough Leane has been recorded as the deepest lake in Ireland with parts of it reaching 75metres deep.
Our recommendation for viewing the lakes is that the best view is from the summit of Torc Mountain.
Nearby sights/walks
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.
An absolute marvel in the heart of Killarney National Park, found perfectly at the end of the Ring of Kerry, Muckross House and Gardens is a 19th century Victorian Estate located on the banks of Muckross Lake. Take a tour of the house or explore the pristine gardens, this is one of the most breath taking attractions in all of County Kerry.
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.
