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Killarney National Park in County Kerry was the first national park established in Ireland, officially designated in 1932. It originated from the generous donation of the Muckross Estate to the Irish state and has since grown to cover over 10,000 hectares. The park is world-renowned for its three majestic lakes: Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and the Upper Lake, all positioned amidst rugged mountain scenery. It contains the most extensive area of native woodland remaining in Ireland, including rare oak forests and the ancient Reenadinna yew wood. Killarney is also the sanctuary for the only surviving wild herd of native red deer in Ireland, which has inhabited the area since the Neolithic period. Major landmarks within its borders include the 19th-century Muckross House and the ruins of the 15th-century Muckross Abbey. Natural features like the Torc Waterfall and the panoramic 'Ladies View' attract millions of visitors annually. In 1981, the park was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to its exceptional ecological diversity and conservation efforts.
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 6 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 6 |
| Rain mm | 138 | 104 | 95 | 84 | 91 | 94 | 105 | 110 | 101 | 128 | 142 | 143 |
Notable places around
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Surrounded by the dramatic beauty of Killarney National Park, McRose Beach is an impressive lakeside retreat. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil waters framed by lush greenery and majestic mountains. The peaceful atmosphere is great for nature lovers wanting to pause and soak in the remarkable landscape. Make sure to bring a camera to capture the magnificent reflections on the water's surface.
