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 Gael place of worship |
Derrynane Killarney, Co. Kerry Ireland +353 64 3 1633 |
Visible from the beach at Derrynane House is Bull Rock, the nearer of the two big rocks in the mouth of the estuary. This was a sacred place for the Gaels. They believed that Bull Rock was the entrance to the Kingdom of Donn, God of the Dead. According to Gaelic legend, when the sun shines through a hole in the rock, it becomes a gate into the next world. Sunrise and sunset were transition periods for them, when people could slip away from the real world into a magical one. There is no doubt that Derrynane beach is very atmospheric. If you sit there at sunset and see the sun shine through Bull Rock, you'd almost believe in the magic. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ice Age geological oddity |
Killowen Killarney, Co. Kerry Ireland +353 64 4 1233 |
Carraig an Cappeen (the rock with a hat) is a geological peculiarity left from the last Ice Age. An enormous sandstone boulder sits on top of a ten-foot high limestone pillar. Geologists call these balancing stones "glacial erratics" as they were pushed into position by a moving glacier. Resembling a giant mushroom, Carraig an Cappeen is double the height of an average man and quite an amazing sight. The unusual rock formation stands on privately owned land and permission should be sought from the owner. You can find the Carraig an Cappeen two kilometres east of Kenmare, near the Cleady Bridge. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Historic house once belonged to Daniel O'Connell |
Caherdaniel Killarney, Co. Kerry Ireland +353 66 947 5113 |
Derrynane House was the home of Catholic emancipator Daniel O'Connell (1775-1847). An impressive speaker, he was Ireland's first Catholic MP. O'Connell was born into a very old, wealthy Irish family that had made their fortune through smuggling and trading. Ironically, these illegal gains enabled Daniel O'Connell to pursue a career in law and politics. The charming house has been carefully restored and includes many unique pieces of furniture and possessions. Included is the dueling pistol O'Connell used to shoot John d'Esterre, as well as the single black glove O'Connell wore to church each week to mourn his victim. The gardens around the house are quite beautiful and worth a stroll. For those who want to go further, there is an interesting walk along the dunes. Admission rates for adults is EUR2.50; for senior citizens/students it is EUR2; while for children it is EUR1.50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Pleasant walk along beach, dunes, and woods |
Derrynane Beach Killarney, Co. Kerry Ireland +353 64 3 1633 (Killarney Tourist Information Office) |
This is an easy walk-along beach, a Mass path, and an old wood. It is five miles (eight kilometres) long and takes three hours or less. From the Derrynane House car park, follow the dune path and continue along the beach until you reach the large rocks. Turn left and follow the road until you see a Derrynane Abbey sign. You will be able to see a small island on the left with ruins of a 6th-century abbey. Look for a Mass path sign. Continue on the path until a tarred road. Follow this road until you see a stony path on the right. Take this path and look for a line of poles. Follow the poles down the hill. You will soon enter Derrynane Woods and return to the House. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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One of Killarney's most celebrated beauty spots |
Beaufort Killarney, Co. Kerry Ireland +353 64 3 1023 |
Despite the seemingly never-ending summer stream of travellers on foot, pony and in jaunting car, the Gap of Dunloe remains a spectacular beauty spot. Viewing the Gap during the quiet winter months can be preferable, though it may be difficult to find a long enough dry period to walk the four mile stretch. The rewards are great: beautiful mountain lakes, cascading rivers on the mountainsides, and gravity-defying sheep in every visible crevice. As travellers reach the top of the Gap, the lakes spread out in a breath-taking vista. The road then descends into Black Valley and leads to motor boats bound for Killarney across the lakes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Stunning gardens with medieval castle ruin |
Hotel Dunloe Castle Beaufort Killarney, Co. Kerry Ireland +353 64 4 4111 |
These world renowned gardens have a very wide variety of plants and shrubs. Surrounding the shell of MacThomas' medieval tower house with the Gap of Dunloe as a backdrop, they are quite breathtaking - few gardens have such a dramatic setting. Camellias, magnolias, roses, rhododendrons, Australian gums, South African lilies, New Zealand cabbage trees, Japanese maples, North American dogwoods, and Chinese swamp cypress all feature. Non-residents are made very welcome. A plant catalogue is available at reception where visitors should apply for admission. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Small souvenir shop with attached pub and restaurant |
Gap of Dunloe Beaufort Killarney, Co. Kerry Ireland +353 64 4 4116 |
Kate Kearney, an independent mountain woman, ran an illegal drinking house (shebeen) here in the 19th century. Although she was reputed to be free with her charms, she made a fine profit from selling her homebrew alcohol (poteen) to travellers passing through the Gap of Dunloe. The Law constantly hounded Kate, but her ruin finally came when blight attacked the potato crop. Losing the mainstay of her business, she vanished one night, leaving the still and barrels behind. Today her former home is a small tourist shop with the usual trinkets, while an old shed has been converted into a (perfectly legal!) pub. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A 133-mile mountain and coastline walk |
Old Kenmare Road Killarney, Co. Kerry Ireland +353 64 3 4712 |
A walker's version of the Ring of Kerry, this footpath goes through the Macgillycuddy Reeks and then around the Iveragh Peninsula including Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Caherdaniel, and Kenmare. Much of the circuit is based on old butter transportation roads and routes between ancient Christian settlements. It's filled with natural beauty and ruins from bygone days. Walkers may find it more peaceful than the more readily accessible scenic spots. Although the Kerry Way is clearly marked, walkers should carry Ordinance Survey maps 78, 83, and 84. These are available at the Killarney Tourist OfficeKillarney Tourist Office and numerous shops. Walking boots, waterproofs and a good supply of food are essential before setting out. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Spectacular view of the Killarney's Long Range |
N71 Killarney-Kenmare Road (12 miles southwest of Killarney) Killarney, Co. Kerry Ireland |
Once part of the enormous Herbert estate at Muckross, the road to this scenic vista was improved in honor of Queen Victoria's visit in 1861. The panorama inspired such awe and gasps of admiration from the Queen's ladies in waiting that it was dubbed "Ladies' View." From this point, the Upper Lake, Middle Lake, Black Valley, MacGillycuddy Reeks, and Gap of Dunloe are clearly visible. On a fine day, there are few sights in the world more impressive than this. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Guided fishing tours of the Killarney's lakes |
N71 Killarney-Kenmare Road (2 km south of Killarney) Killarney, Co. Kerry Ireland |
Lough Leane, Middle Lake, and Upper Lake all offer excellent salmon and brown trout fishing. Trolling for salmon with spoons or minnows is the most popular method. Fly-fishing for trout with wet flies is common, but spinners can be used as well. There is no course fishing in this district. Rods and tackle can be hired for (EUR8.88) per day. A 21-day Salmon license, which covers all of Ireland, is (EUR12.70), a daily license is (EUR 3.81). Daily licenses are required for trout. Gillie and boat for up to 4 people: (EUR126.97) per day. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Peter Cuffe |
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Scenic drive along mountains and lake shores |
Muckross Rd Killarney, Co. Kerry Ireland |
This 110-mile loop around the Iveragh Penisula is one of Kerry's premier scenic drives. There are several tours available if you do not have your own transport. Bikers may find themselves struggling behind large buses for much of the trip or hair-raisingly close to cliff edges as faster traffic attempts to pass. Traditionally, the route begins in Killarney, onto Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Caherciveen, Waterville, Caherdaniel, Sneem, and Moll's Gap. Be sure to stop at Ladies View and see the entire Long Range of the three lakes, Black Valley, and in the distance, the Gap of Dunloe. When visiting Killarney in 1861, Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting could not contain their admiration of this view. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Donna D. Russell |
 Photo: Donna D. Russell |
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Mountain walk with incredible vistas |
Kenmare Road Killarney, Co. Kerry Ireland +353 64 3 1633 |
This easy four mile (six and a half kilometre) walk to the top of Torc Mountain (1,764ft/525m) is suitable for almost everyone. The trail winds around coniferous woods, heather, and mountain streams. In forested areas, wildlife abounds with birds, rabbits, hares, and even the occasional deer may pass by. Open panoramic vistas provide a top of the world feeling and a breathtaking view of the Lakes, Muckross House Estate, and Ross Castle. The walk begins at the Torc Waterfall car park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Spectacular 60 foot waterfall |
Kenmare Road Killarney, Co. Kerry Ireland +353 64 3 1633 |
Well worth the short climb up stone steps, this waterfall is a stunning display, falling 60 feet into a churning basin of rocks and foam. Legend has it that a bewitched young man created the waterfall. Under the charm of a cruel spell, he lived as handsome man by day, but was transformed into a boar each night. One night his secret was revealed and in his humiliation he became a ball of fire, bounced off the top of Mangerton Mountain, and plunged into the Devil's Punch Bowl. This caused a great chasm in the side of the Devil's Punch Bowl and the resulting rush of water created Torc Waterfall. After viewing the waterfall, you can continue up the mountain for a short distance for a beautiful view across the MacGillycuddy Reeks. If the weather is clear, you can see the Slieve Mish Mountains on the far side of Dingle Bay. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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