Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour

Killarney , Ireland

Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour

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About this experience

Meeting point at 11am for this 2-hour guided walk in Killarney National Park is oSheas Funeral Home V93 KX 61 opposite St. Marys Cathedral which dates from 1842. Cross the road entering the National Park by the lovely thatched cottage and walk up the hill to Knockreer House, and Dairy Cottage where President Charles De Gaulle of France spent nearly two weeks in June 1969. Just after this a great vista of the lake, and mountains opens where you are likely to see some of our native red deer grazing in the fields.Walk with your local guide who knows all the best places off the beaten path as he was born just a short distance away. Slán go fóill (bye a while).

Available options

Irish and Spanish languages.

Private guided walks.<br/>Local guide<br/>Duration: 7 hours<br/>Various scenic routes.<br/>Walking.

Killarney Guided Walks

Guided walks in Killarney National Park with local guide, and his friendly red setter Rua, plus guided ascent of Irelands highest mountain.

What's included

Special footwear not required, but if you have walking boots you are advised to wear them

What you'll see

Meet your guide at 11am outside O'Sheas Funeral Home opposite St. Marys Cathedral for a two hour walk of Killarney National Park. This can be extended to a longer walk if desired.

The cathedral was designed by Augustus Welby Pugin who came over to Killarney from London, and building commenced in 1842. During the great famine the unfinished building was used as a shelter for starving people who came in from the countryside. The lovely thatched cottage Deenagh Lodge which once served as a gate lodge is now a popular tea rooms during the summer months.

Queen Victoria was a visitor to this area back in 1861 arriving in Killarney by train, a new age travel as the railway first opened in Killarney in 1853. Sika deer were introduced to the area from Wicklow in 1865, and there is now a good number of them. The native red deer are a bigger attraction they came close to extinction but thankfully there now is a good size herd in the National Park.

The year 1969 was an exciting one as Charles De Gaulle spent nearly two weeks in a cottage nearby with a big security presence. The film Ryans Daughter was filmed in Dingle, but the love scene was done in the National Park. Not surprising as the scenery speaks for itself.

All the local guides have a great love of their home place, so you can be guaranteed an informative tour.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

46 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

330 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Departure Point: 11am outside O'Sheas Funeral Home opposite Killarney Cathedral
Address: Lower New Street, Killarney
Directions: The tour starts outside O'Sheas Funeral Home opposite Killarney Cathedral
Dates: Daily

About Killarney

Killarney is a picturesque town in southwestern Ireland known for its stunning natural beauty, historic sites, and vibrant cultural scene. Nestled in the heart of County Kerry, it serves as a gateway to the famous Ring of Kerry and offers a blend of outdoor adventures and charming Irish hospitality.

Top Attractions

Killarney National Park

A vast park featuring lakes, waterfalls, and scenic walking trails, including the famous Torc Waterfall and the Ross Castle.

Nature Half day to full day Free (some attractions within the park have entry fees)

Ross Castle

A 15th-century castle on the shores of Lough Leane, offering guided tours and historical reenactments.

Historical 1-2 hours €7-10

Muckross House and Gardens

A 19th-century mansion with beautifully maintained gardens and a traditional farm.

Historical 2-3 hours €12-15

Gap of Dunloe

A stunning glacial valley with hiking trails, horseback riding, and boat tours on the lakes.

Adventure Half day to full day €20-50 depending on the activity

Staigue Fort

An ancient stone fort dating back to the Bronze Age, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Historical 2-3 hours including travel Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Irish Stew

A hearty dish made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian with substitutions.

Boxty

A traditional Irish potato pancake, often served with fillings like cheese or meat.

Main Course Can be made gluten-free.

Seafood Chowder

A creamy soup made with fresh local seafood, potatoes, and leeks.

Soup Contains dairy and seafood.

Soda Bread

A traditional Irish bread made with buttermilk and baking soda.

Bread Contains gluten.

Popular Activities

Hiking Horseback riding Boat tours Spas Scenic drives Café hopping Visiting historic sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the busiest time with warm weather and long daylight hours, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

15-20°C 59-68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Irish
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (GMT+1 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Killarney is generally safe with low crime rates. Standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis
• Be cautious at night in less populated areas

Getting there

By air

Kerry Airport • 20 km from Killarney
Shannon Airport • 120 km from Killarney

By train

Killarney Railway Station

By bus

Killarney Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with frequent services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Local taxi services

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Killarney Town Center Muckross Fossy Bridge

Day trips

Gap of Dunloe

10 km from Killarney • Full day

A stunning glacial valley offering hiking, horseback riding, and boat tours on the lakes.

Ring of Kerry

160 km loop from Killarney • Full day

A famous circular route offering breathtaking coastal and mountain views, historic sites, and charming villages.

Dingle Peninsula

60 km from Killarney • Full day

A picturesque peninsula with stunning coastal views, historic sites, and the famous Dingle town.

Festivals

Killarney Food and Drink Festival • September Killarney House Traditional Music and Dance Festival • July Killarney Christmas Market • December

Pro tips

Visit the national park early in the morning for fewer crowds and better wildlife sightings.
Try traditional Irish music sessions in local pubs for an authentic experience.
Book boat tours and guided activities in advance, especially during peak season.
Explore the town on foot to discover hidden gems and local shops.
Visit the Killarney Market for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal foods.