Killarney will always have a special place in my heart. My father grew up a few short kilometers outside this beautiful town in County Kerry, Ireland. He loves Kerry so much that he named me after the county! Each time I traveled to Ireland with my family we would visit Killarney and enjoy all the activities southwest Ireland has to offer. If you are making your way to the Emerald Isle, then I highly recommend adding Killarney and the Ring of Kerry to your itinerary. There are so many sites to see in the Killarney town centre and Killarney National Park, and depending on the time of year you can probably do all 5 of these activities! 

To start, a tour of Ross Castle is a must! For a 5 euro admission, a friendly Irishman will guide you through the castle for one hour, detailing the history of the O'Donoghue clan and lifestyle of those living in Ireland in the Middle Ages. After Ross Castle, head over to Muckross House and Gardens (pictured above) which is a 19th century Victorian mansion. This tourist destination offers a beautiful garden with stunning views of the Lakes of Killarney, making it a great spot to enjoy a picnic lunch. Mucros Weavers is on the property, so be sure to pick up a scarf or cap from the gift shop.

Killarney National Park is Ireland's oldest national park and it is best to learn about the history of the park from one of the locals that gives a tour in a jaunting car. Once inside Killarney National Park you can make your way to Torc Waterfall; a beautiful place to stop for pictures in the park. Lastly, if you visit Killarney in the summertime, then you must add kayaking in the lakes to your schedule. This is one activity that will provide the best view of Killarney, Co. Kerry.

What to Do:

1. Ross Castle

2. Muckross House
3. Torc Waterfall
4. Killarney National Park Tour in a jaunting car
5. Kayaking in the Lakes of Killarney

Where to stay:

• Muckross Park Hotel & Spa
• Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa
• Scott's Hotel Killarney

Where to eat & Sip:

• Quinlan's Seafood Bar
• The Laurels Pub
• Murphys Bar
• Celtic Whiskey Bar & Larder
• O'Donoghue's Public House
• Murphy's Ice Cream