Killarney National Park lies on the edge of the town of Killarney in County Kerry, in the Munster region of south-west Ireland. It was the first national park established in Ireland, and it is known to visitors as Kerry National Park, Páirc Náisiúnta Chill Airne, or simply Killarney NP.
What you will find
The park brings together three features that define the landscape here: pristine lakes, ancient woodlands, and mountain peaks. Walking through the trees, you move between the water and the high ground, and the scenery changes with each stretch of path. It suits people who want a day outdoors rather than a single set-piece sight.
One of the park's distinctive features is its herd of wild red deer. It is the only wild red deer herd in Ireland, so a visit offers a chance to see animals that live in the park itself rather than in a managed enclosure.
Planning a visit
- Location: Killarney, Co. Kerry, V93 WX36
- Phone: +353 64 663 1440
- Best suited to: walkers, nature lovers, and anyone interested in woodland, lakes and wildlife
Because the park sits beside Killarney town, it is easy to combine a walk here with time in the town itself, where visitors can find places to eat, stay and rest before or after exploring the grounds.