The Killarney Park Hotel

The Killarney Park is one of the finest five-star hotels that Ireland has to offer. The hotel is in the heart of Killarney’s town centre, with complimentary off-street parking and EV Charge Points available to guests. The hotel is situated adjacent to the 26,000 acre Killarney National Park, allowing easy walking access throughout this magnificent space.

One of the last few Family Owned and run five-star hotels in Ireland, The Killarney Park is set on its own mature grounds and guests can enjoy the privacy of dining in the secluded garden space. The Killarney Park by name is a hotel, but what sets it aside as one of the best, is the amazing team that strives daily, to deliver an unparalleled guest experience.

Continuously ranking in Killarney’s top three hotels on Tripadvisor, this proud Leading Hotel of the World offers a warm, genuine and welcome retreat for guests in search of exceptional comfort with all of those extra little touches.

Old world elegance meets modern day luxury, where you can look forward to the solace and comfort of open log fires, flawless service and a welcome that you will not find anywhere else. The highly knowledgeable Guest Services Team shall assist you with any aspect of your itinerary.

The Killarney Park are proud to be heavily invested in an ongoing and proactive Sustainability plan that aims to not only reduce our carbon footprint but also to support our local community and local environmental initiatives.

THE HISTORY
Our story starts in the late 1930s with a lady named Marie O’Sullivan. She came to Killarney from a nearby town, Kilgarvan, when she was about 14 years old to work at the Kenmare Arms, a hotel owned by her Aunt.

When she was 24 years old her Aunt offered her the opportunity to buy the hotel. Marie, who was a woman way ahead of her time, she approached the Bank in Killarney, borrowed the necessary funds and sowed the seeds for a hugely successful business while raising 4 children along with her husband, a local teacher.

Marie’s values – supreme diplomacy, modesty and humility, dedication and hard work, team alignment, community focus – is the foundation of everything we do at the Killarney Park under the overall direction of Marie’s son Padraig and his wife Janet. But these values are also integral to the other hotels owned and managed by Padraig’s siblings.

Over time Marie worked hard along with her family and developed The Ross Hotel into a fine family business in the heart of Killarney. Marie’s Son Padraig took over the running of the business in 1980’s.

In 1990 Padraig came across an opportunity to purchase a site just down the street from The Ross and this is where The Killarney Park was built. Opened in 1992, originally the hotel opened with 55 rooms. Over time 15 more rooms were added to the hotel as well as additional amenities and services.

In 2005 The Killarney Park became a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and has gone from strength to strength as clearly identifying itself as one of the most welcoming and luxurious 5 star hotels in Ireland.

Padraig & Janet have five children who have all worked in the family business. Their two eldest children, Ciara and Marcus are very involved in the business and Ciara runs The Ross in its new format as a 29-bedroom Boutique Hotel and Marcus has been based in The Killarney Park for the past number of years.

ROOMS & SUITES
Inspired by our Irish heritage & landscape our distinctive guestrooms & suites are designed to offer our guests the ultimate in luxury. Experience the comfort of modern amenities in a uniquely Irish setting, including inviting beds and premium bathrooms. Explore our full array of rooms & suites to find the one that best fits your requirements and level of luxury.

THE KENMARE SUITE
The beautifully appointed Kenmare Suite offers the extra space that can turn a great holiday into a perfect one. This spacious suite (1,200 sq. ft. / 111 sq. m.) features a large sleeping area with one King bed and one Queen bed, separate living room, with a fireplace, marble bathroom and a guest toilet.

The airy suite is decorated in soft colours and is located on the quiet 4th floor of the hotel, ensuring a very peaceful stay. The Kenmare Suite is only accessible via a short staircase and is, unfortunately, not suited to those with restricted mobility.

THE GARDEN SUITE
The contemporary style Garden Suites are the perfect choice for a romantic break. A balcony overlooking our landscaped gardens makes this Suite extra special and is perfect for a morning coffee or evening drink.

The suite (900 sq. ft. 83 sq. m.) is made up of a large living area (with a fireplace), bedroom with a King Bed and spacious bathroom with separate toilet. A flat screen TV is cleverly concealed at the foot of the bed & our relaxing bathtub also has a built in T.V.

THE INNISFALLEN SUITE
Traditionally styled, and the newest addition to the hotel, the Innisfallen Suite (1,000 sq. ft. / 92 sq. m.) features a King Bed, separate entrance hall, spacious lounge (with a fireplace), with its own bathroom, large dressing room & a marble bathroom.

The airy and cheerily appointed Suite in soft colours and relaxing furnishings is located in its own private corner overlooking the streetscapes and steeples of Killarney Town.

PREMIUM ROOMS
Our luxurious Premium Rooms extend to some 500 Sq.ft / 46 Sq.m in size and have a 6ft King Bed. Tastefully decorated in a soothing palette of tranquil tones and richly textured fabrics and wall coverings, each of our Premium Rooms has their own distinctive character and shape.

Open plan in design with a spacious sleeping and living area together with a welcoming fireplace. Crisp white linen & duvets with full air conditioning promise a refreshing night’s sleep. Premium Rooms are of a traditional or contemporary style.

DINING
We take great pride in our food. In Kerry we are spoilt with green fields, pristine water and a mild climate giving us bountiful high quality local produce.

Our long term relationships with local suppliers ensures that we have access to the best that Kerry’s land and waters can offer. Our culinary team’s focus is to give you an authentic Irish dining experience, matched with impeccable service in the most welcoming of surroundings.

THE PEREGRINE
The Peregrine is the latest addition to The Killarney Park. With its elaborately coved ceilings, contemporary mood lighting and soft fabrics, The Peregrine is undoubtedly one of Killarney’s most stylish new restaurants.

Expect a relaxing ambience combined with exceptional original cuisine that celebrates Kerry’s finest produce. A combination of comfortable banquettes and atmospheric horseshoe booths make this the perfect setting for romantic dinners as well as those intimate gatherings with friends and family.

The concept behind The Peregrine was to create a space that is fresh, alive and ever changing. An immersive experience that resonates with the natural surroundings and embraces the beauty of the Killarney National Park.

Throughout the development, thought has been given to The Killarney Park’s ethos on sustainability and the aim to remain true to the companies sustainable commitments. Energy usage, food waste, water supplies and stationery have all been given careful consideration to ensure that we are doing our part to protect the planet.

While we may not be perfect just yet, we strive to make changes on a daily basis that will have a positive impact on our environment and our local community. The Peregrine promises a unique experience to savour, where your taste buds are delighted, your senses are ignited and where magical moments take flight.

THE GARDEN BAR & WHISKEY ROOM
A bar with a warm and friendly ambience is always a winner and exactly what an Irish bar should be! That’s what you’ll find in our Garden Bar. Cosy and traditional and anchored by a beautifully hand crafted mahogany curved counter, the Garden Bar is surrounded by intimate wood panelled alcoves and inviting fireplaces.

Sit back and soak up the easy atmosphere sipping a glass of champagne, savouring a rare whiskey or a crafted cocktail. For a dining experience you can choose from an impressive selection of creative salads, gourmet sandwiches, meat, fish and garden dishes created with local produce and the best of the season.

What really makes even the most casual meal special is the unfailingly warm and welcoming service. Our staff are knowledgeable, attentive and keen to ensure you are happy with your choice, so be sure to ask their advice on what to try.

AFTERNOON TEA
Afternoon Tea has been a long standing tradition at The Killarney Park. An experience located in the heart of the town, with onsite parking, yet hidden within the mature gardens and elegant grounds of the hotel.

Afternoon Tea is served in the warm and contemporary surroundings of The Peregrine, where you can expect a scrumptious feast of scones, cakes and pastries all with a seasonal flavour that pays tribute to our local producers.

Vegan options are also available, so please let us know if you prefer to opt for the vegan menu. If you’re looking to add a little extra sparkle to your Afternoon Tea, choose from our Prosecco Afternoon Tea or Champagne Afternoon Tea options.

THE TERRACE
The Terrace is the perfect spot for “al fresco” dining on those lazy Summer days. Overlooking the hotel Gardens, this space is comfortable even when the evening temperature drops thanks to a heated patio. Our outside bar serves beautifully crafted Gin Cocktails, the best of wines and some classics like dressed Pimms on the lawn.

THE LANE
The Lane is one of the coolest restaurant and cocktail bars in Killarney and most definitely one of the best places to eat in Killarney. We’ve an all-day food menu with dishes that are way more exciting than regular bar food and a cocktail compilation served up with a delicious soundtrack that changes from day to night.

As the sun sets the vibes pick up and the lighting changes to amp up the mood. The sound of cocktail shakers are like subtle metronomes in the background and the locals spill through the doors, making this one of the best bars in Killarney for meeting up with friends and making new ones.

One side of The Lane is comprised totally of glass and overlooks a popular laneway in Killarney town centre, so you watch the world go by as you sip your drink and enjoy one of the best cocktail bars Killarney has to offer. Make it a classic Mojito or a tasty espresso in a cool, calm and collected vibe.

The Lane is a real neighbourhood staple and has some of the best bar food in Killarney – we could say it’s casual like pub food but with contemporary twists, tapas styles, nibbles and dips, sharing boards, dirty salads, big burgers and quirky retro desserts. If you’re looking for one of the best pubs in Killarney for food… that’s more than just a pub, you need to get yourself a table at The Lane.

LUNA DELI & WINE
The Killarney Park is delighted to welcome a little sister, Luna, to the town centre scene. Luna is the hottest new Deli + Wine Bar in Killarney, and much like her big sisters, The Killarney Park and The Ross, Luna is located right in the heart of the town.

Given its close proximity to The Killarney Park, Luna is the perfect spot for our guests to enjoy a light bite and a barista brewed coffee in the day time, before evening falls, when this quaint little deli then transforms into an atmospheric wine bar by night – it’s the perfect combination in a perfect location.

With huge windows, which open out in the fine weather, and raised seating, Luna Deli + Wine Bar is a great place to sit and watch the world go by. The day time menu is simple yet bursting with flavour. A choice of baguette styled sandwiches are on offer daily with accompanying salads.

The Cheese Counter is something to behold, with a huge choice of well known Irish cheeses on offer, to eat in-house, order as a picnic or to take home. Luna also has a variety of freshly prepared sweet treats, scones and breakfast granolas to get the day started, so be prepared to be led astray at this deli counter.

In the evening time, Luna transforms into a vibrant Wine Bar, serving a huge selection of Natural Wines from across the continent. A savory Irish cheese platter and glass of wine is just right for a pre-dinner bite or a social catch up with friends.

If you’re heading into the Killarney National Park, let the Luna team ensure you have the right stash of treats for your backpack. Keep the energy levels going with the ever popular Reuben sandwich, grab your coffee in a 2GoCup (or bring your own sustainable coffee cup) and make sure that you’ve packed in one of the devilishly good Choc Chip Cookies or a slice of Carrot Cake to finish off. A picnic in the park is a fabulous day out in Killarney.

LOCAL SUPPLIERS
The Killarney Park and out sister hotel, The Ross, are delighted to be part of a fundamental network of small independent businesses that focus on supporting local suppliers in the area.

The Treacy family are also deeply invested in making The Killarney Park and The Ross as environmentally friendly as possible and have gone to great lengths to encourage sustainable travel.

THE SPA
The Spa at The Killarney Park is a space in which to immerse yourself in tranquility, well-being and exceptional service. The Spa features eight private treatment suites and a specially designed caldarium.

Whether you are joining us as a spa day guest or as an overnight guest at the hotel, our treatments and services have all been thoughtfully created for everyone to enjoy, with a commitment to help you achieve your wellness goals.

Swim Laps in our restful and relaxing 20 meter indoor pool, unwind in our bubble pool, sauna steam room and outdoor hot tub. Our leisure suite will sweep away the stresses of daily life and bring balance to the body, mind and soul. Emerge rejuvenated, relaxed and revitalised.

Careful consideration has been given when selecting the products used in The Spa at The Killarney Park. Elemis is a world renowned brand and together with the healing nature of human touch, means that you can fully benefit from your spa time. Prepare to be pampered. Change into one of our luxury robes, leave your stresses behind and sink into a world of relaxation and recuperation.

THE SPA WELLNESS RITUALS
The Spa at The Killarney Park is open daily from 10am to 7pm and is closed on Tuesdays. Our Spa Wellness Rituals have been developed to create a journey of rest, relaxation and restoration for our guests.

The Rituals have been inspired by the majestic scenery of Killarney, the stunning mountains, crystal clear lakes and lush green forests. They reflect our deep connection with nature and how our well-being in intrinsically linked to the environment that surrounds us.

The intention to care for all guests is central to our wellness concept. Our treatments focus on slow, meditative touch, breath work and harnessing the power of therapeutic grade, 100% natural essential oils, to create a journey of rest and relaxation, encouraging true well-being.

Immerse yourself in a Spa Wellness Ritual and bring balance to your body, mind and soul. Wellness, within The Spa at The Killarney Park, has been created with a passion and respect for the stunning surroundings combined with an ethical responsibility towards sustainability, how we live and how this impacts our environment.

BIOTEC FACIALS & PRO GLO FACIALS
Elemis Biotec delivers 5 highly effective, super-charged facial treatments to re-boot cellular performance, enhancing the skin’s ability to repair, renew and re-tone.

BIOTEC facial treatments are where ground-breaking technology meets active ingredients and transformative touch. Each treatment targets specific skin needs to deliver immediate, visible and long-lasting results. The clinically proven result? Thriving, visibly healthy and energised skin.

BODY TREATMENTS
Guided entirely by your personal needs, expect instant and long-lasting results from these profoundly renewing rituals. Unique in every sense, they make use of nature’s most powerful and effective actives and oils, coupled with innovative techniques from our expert therapists. Your body feels rebalanced and your skin’s natural beauty is restored.

INDOOR POOL ~ OUTDOOR HOT-TUB ~ STEAM ROOM

Swim laps in the morning, leave the stresses of daily life seep away in our Steam Room or relax in the Outdoor Hot-tub overlooking our private Gardens after a long day. The Pool area is also complemented by a Bubble Pool, Plunge Pool and lounging Deck area.

FITNESS CENTRE

Get your day off to the perfect start or round off a pleasant day’s sightseeing with a session in our Fitness Suite. Furnished with a range of equipment to suit a cardio workout or some weight and strength training.

Get your heart pumping or simply boost your circulation a little under the guidance of our expert Fitness Team. Accompany your session with a trip to our 20 metre Swimming Pool and wet relaxation area to soothe any of those tired and aching limbs.

KILLARNEY
Killarney’s successful links with tourism and its worldwide reputation as a destination of outstanding natural beauty dates back to the mid 1700’s. Since then, visitors have flocked to this vibrant and attractive hub for the whole County of Kerry & the Southwest portion of the Wild Atlantic Way.

With the MacGillicuddy Reeks mountain range as a backdrop and the 25,000 acres of Killarney National Park at its core, Killarney truly is a dream visitor destination. Explore the National Park by foot, bicycle, horse back, jaunting car or kayak.

With hundreds of quaint shops to browse through, world class entertainment, championship golf courses, an endless choice of pubs and restaurants and a bustling nightlife all contribute to the excitement and uniqueness that is Killarney.

KILLARNEY NATIONAL PARK
If you were to gather the most magnificent elements of Irish scenery into one spot, it would probably look very much like Killarney National Park. Home to Ireland’s highest mountains, its only wild herd of native red deer, its largest tract of ancient oak forests, and its most famous lakes, Killarney National Park is 25,000 acres of unspoilt wilderness.

Ask our friendly and knowledgeable Concierge team about the best places to go to suit your interests and available time. Whether you fancy a gentle hike beside the thundering cascade of Torc Waterfall or a more challenging climb up Carrauntouhil, we can offer sensible advice and insider tips.

The terrain covers everything from the manicured lawns of Killarney House & Muckross Gardens to the dense woods and bogs of the park’s wilder reaches Ireland’s Oldest & Largest National Parks.

Discover the best spots to see the glacial Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and the Upper Lake, the famous trio that take up about a quarter of the Park. Favourite viewing spots include Ladies View and Aghadoe.

Get closer to the lakes, and, if you’re lucky, you might get to see deer swimming out to graze on the islands, salmon leaping on a summers evening, or even a white-tailed sea eagle soar majestically overhead.

With the luxurious facilities of The Killarney Park within easy reach, you won’t be short of dining and relaxation options after experiencing the magic that is Killarney National Park.

THE GAP OF DUNLOE
If you are looking for majestic scenery within easy reach of The Killarney Park, you have countless options. One of our favourites The Gap of Dunloe. Carved between the mountains 2 million years ago by slow-moving masses of ice, the Gap of Dunloe is the most impressive glaciated valley in Western Europe – and it is just 16km from the Hotel.

Start at Kate Kearney’s Cottage at the entrance to the Gap, and either walk, cycle, hire a pony, or take a jaunting car-ride between the imposing crags, where a narrow road winds its way for 10km around deep lakes between the McGillycuddy Reeks and the Purple Mountain.

After cresting the top of the pass, it is downhill to the lakeshore, where light refreshments can be purchased at Lord Brandon’s Cottage. It is here that the open boats gather to take travellers (and their bikes, if necessary) through the three Lakes of Killarney.

During this 90 mins journey you can marvel at the majestic mountains that sweep down to the lakes and maybe catch a glimpse of a white-tailed sea eagle, recently re-introduced to the area. The journey ends at Ross Castle, which is only 5 mins away from the Hotel.

THE LAKES OF KILLARNEY
They may be celebrated in music, poetry, and art, but nothing quite prepares you for the beauty of these three natural beauties, just minutes from the Hotel. Lough Leane (the Lower Lake), Muckross Lake (the Middle Lake) and the Upper Lake are threaded together across a quarter of Killarney National Park’s 25,000 acres.

They support a rich variety of wildlife, from the trout and salmon that flourish in their waters and the swans and multitudes of other water birds that feed on them, to the deer that swim across their surfaces at night.

Ask our Concierge about the best spots to fish and where to get licences, or take to the water in a boat rented from Ross Castle. You can also take a guided tour of Lough Leane in a waterbus, also from Ross Castle. Try your hand at kayaking the Lakes with an expert guide, and experience the magic of a trip arranged in the dusk of a summer evening.

If you prefer to remain on dry land, there are many prime viewing spots where you can appreciate the wonder of the Lakes of Killarney. Drive north of Killarney town to Aghadoe for a magnificent panorama of the lakes set against the towering McGillycuddy Reeks and the peaks of Tomies and Purple Mountain.

Or take a drive toward Kenmare and experience the lakes from the vantage point of Ladies View. Whatever way you want to enjoy the Lakes of Killarney, our helpful staff are on hand to point you in the right direction.

ROSS CASTLE
Ross Castle is located just 2km from the Hotel, it is a striking example of a restored Medieval stronghold. Set against the backdrop of Killarney National Park, with the waters of Lough Leane lapping just outside, this is a magnificent example of an Irish chieftain’s stronghold during the Middle Ages.

Its exact date of construction is unknown, but it was probably constructed toward the end of the 15th century by a Chieftain of the O’Donoghue Ross clan. Shielded by a fortified bawn, the castle had a protective ring of circular flanking tower, two of which are still standing.

Feel yourself transported back to the heady days of medieval conflict and intrigue on a guided tour of the castle, which features some fine 16th and 17th-century oak furniture. The children will love the cannons poised on the battlements, while you soak up the magnificent views of the lake and its islands.

Feed the ducks and swans and have a coffee as you admire the magnificent setting. Hire a boat to Innisfallen, a monastic island visible from the front of the castle, take a trip on the waterbus, or organise a kayak trip. Our Concierge Team can point you in the right direction, whatever your interests.

TORC WATERFALL
Just 8km from The Killarney Park, you will find Torc Waterfall – a glorious testimony to the beauty of cascading water descending from a tall slope. Your Concierge will give you directions to this natural wonder, located along the extremely picturesque tree-lined N71 Kenmare Road.

Torc Waterfall is a beloved stop for visitors touring the Ring of Kerry. Leave your car in the designated Car Park and stroll the 300 metres up to the magnificent Waterfall, the sound of the thundering water growing ever so louder as you approach the landmark. Torc Waterfall itself is 70 to 80 feet high and the Owengarriff River which feeds the Waterfall rises in “The Devil’s Punchbowl” on the nearby Mangerton mountain

Once you reach the viewing area, you’ll see a series of steps ascending into the scenic woods. Continue climbing and you’ll be rewarded with mesmerising and stunning views over Muckross and the Lakes of Killarney. Be prepared to spot some attractive Red Deer in the area and marvel at the sight of these wonderful creatures.

If you’re feeling particularly energetic, you can continue hiking until you reach the summit of the stunning Torc Mountain, or follow the Old Kenmare Road, a long-distance walking route that forms part of the Kerry Way Tour. Whatever your fitness levels and available schedule, we can advise you on the best route to take to discover the beauty of Torc.

KILLARNEY HOUSE & GARDENS
Recently restored, Killarney House and Gardens brings the Killarney National Park right into the heart of our town and has created the largest urban park in the world. The restoration of the house and formal gardens has resurrected in part the style of 18th century French chateaux and a 20th century Edwardian property.

The restoration work to the landscaped gardens continues. In the 1950s, the House was bought by John McShain from the USA. Mr McShain was an Irish-American building contractor, who was known as “The Man Who Built Washington”, with the Pentagon & the Jefferson Memorial among the many structures in the US Capitol he built.

In the 1970s he sold the House and thousands of acres of parklands to the Irish State for a nominal sum to ensure it would forever be enjoyed by the Irish public.

The uniqueness of Killarney House and its Gardens is that they open the centre of town to the stunning panorama of the National Park. This magnificent property is a prologue to some of the most stunning natural scenery in the world.

Access to Killarney’s newest attraction is either via a new side entrance, alongside the Monsignor O’Flaherty statue on the Mission Road, or the wonderfully restored “Golden Gates” on the Muckross Road and three centuries of garden styles will be reflected in the restoration and landscaping work.

INNISFALLEN ISLAND
Innisfallen island can be seen in the distance from Ross Castle out in the heart of Lough Leane, which translates as the “Lake of Learning”. A monastery was founded on Innisfallen in the 7th century and it became a seat of learning; hence Lough Leane.

It is said that King Brian Boru studied there along with many from the noble houses of Europe, as Ireland was seen during the so called “Dark Ages” as a beacon of learning and education.

On the island are the remains of the extensive 12th century Augustinian priory and a small 11th -12th century Romanesque church. The annals of Innisfallen, a major source of early Irish history and now stored in the Bodleian Library in Oxford were written there. There is also a small herd of deer on the island. Boat trips to the island can be arranged from Ross Castle.

THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY
Guests at our Hotel are often surprised to discover that they are just minutes from one of the world’s longest and most breathtaking driving routes. Killarney is a key gateway to this wonder of Mother Nature.

Longer than California’s Pacific Coast Highway or South Africa’s Garden Route, the Wild Atlantic Way extends an awe-inspiring 2,500km from Cork in the south via Galway in the west to Donegal in the North. And luckily for our visitors, one of the most rewarding of its five sections winds its way through Killarney, County Kerry.

Hugging what is arguably the most beautiful section of the Atlantic coast, the Wild Atlantic Way is something you can dip into and explore at your own pace. Ask our expert Concierge for advice on the best way to experience the route during your stay at the Killarney Park Hotel, based on the time available to you and your preferences.

HISTORIC SKELLIG MICHAEL
A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996 and one of the locations for the shooting of the new ‘Star Wars’ movie franchise, Skellig Michael is home to a miraculously well-preserved 6th-century monastic settlement, and its neighbour – Little Skellig – houses one of the world’s largest colonies of gannets, with some 20,000 nesting pairs.

Despite the harsh conditions and the constant pillaging by raiding Vikings, the monastic settlement on Skellig Michael is believed to have endured right up to the 12th century, with the monks surviving primarily on a diet of seabirds and grown vegetables. The island has been a pilgrimage destination down through the centuries. Lighthouses were constructed on Skellig Michael in the 19th century.

Ask your Concierge about the best way to experience Skellig Michael. Boat trips to the steep outpost require a head for heights and firm footing, but you can always admire the iconic rock from the shore or take a boat trip around both Skellig islands if you’d prefer to remain off the islands.

In October 2016, None other than Lonely Planet included The Skellig Ring — consisting of Skellig Michael, its sister island the Little Skellig, and the coastal villages on the mainland — amongst the top regions in the world for travellers in the influential Lonely Planet 2017 yearbook.

THE BLASKET ISLAND CENTRE
The Blasket Centre, is a fascinating interpretive centre in Dún Chaoin, right on the edge of the Dingle Peninsula. This wonderful Museum and Heritage centre celebrates the people who lived on the Blasket Islands, a spectacular but harsh environment just off the coast, where a dogged community lived off fishing and subsistence farming.

Their numbers dwindled through forced emigration until the final evacuation of the islands in 1953. The Blasket Centre showcases life for the islanders, their unique culture, and remarkably rich literary legacy. Famous works in Irish written on the island include ‘The Islandman’, ‘Twenty Years A-Growing’ and ‘Peig’.

Through exhibitions, interactive displays, art, audio-visual presentations, and artefacts, the Blasket centre tells us the islanders’ stories and how they lived. The cafe offers unrivalled views of the Great Blasket, and there is a fine bookshop on site. If you are inspired to visit the island, you can travel by ferry to the wildly beautiful Atlantic outpost and contemplate the lives of those long departed.

VALENTIA ISLAND
A popular trip for many visitors to our Hotel is a drive around the Ring of Kerry. Take a step off this well-worn route to discover the charms of Valentia Island, on the Wild Atlantic Way.

You can reach Valentia Island either by road bridge from Portmagee or via the car ferry that runs from April to October between Renard Point in Cahersiveen and Knightstown on Valentia. The journey takes just a few minutes by sea.

Starting in Knightstown, a tour of the island should begin with a stroll around the unusual period buildings and historic houses, which date back to the days Valentia was the launch pad for the first transatlantic cable.

Overlooking the town is the site of the Valentia slate mine, which has supplied slate for destinations including London’s parliament buildings. Nearby you will find the 19th-century Cromwell Point lighthouse, which you can tour in season, and where you can enjoy stunning views of diving gannets – residents of the Skellig Islands.

Other attractions include a set of fossilised tetrapod footprints, Geokaun mountain and Fogher Cliff, and the Bray Head walk. If you take the road bridge from Portmagee, the first building you will see on the island is the Skellig Experience Centre, where you can discover much more about monastic life on the remote and magnificent Skellig Michael. the Great Blasket, and there is a fine bookshop on site.

If you are inspired to visit the island, you can travel by ferry to the wildly beautiful Atlantic outpost and contemplate the lives of those long departed.

THE DINGLE PENINSULA
The Dingle Peninsula, stretches 30 miles (48 kilometres) into the Atlantic Ocean on the south-west coast on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. The peninsula is dominated by the range of mountains that form its spine, running from the Slieve Mish range to the Conor Pass and Mount Brandon, Ireland’s second highest peak.

The magnificent coastline consists of steep sea-cliffs such as Slea Head (the most westerly point of Europe), dramatic headlands broken by sandy beaches, with the award-winning beach at Inch in the south and the Maharees to the north. The Blasket Islands lie to the west and the peninsula is dotted with lovely villages that each offer their own unique Sense of Place.

Take a small detour from the Slea Head drive to visit Gallarus Oratory, a tiny early Christian church that resembles an upturned boat with its sloping side walls. Built using a system called corbelling, the Oratory has withstood the harsh Atlantic weather for at least ten centuries without the need for mortar and continues to exert a powerful spiritual influence today.

Far more than just a base for exploring the peninsula, Dingle town (an Daingean, in Irish) is small but endless interesting. Wander the winding streets to discover quirky shops, buzzing cafes, great restaurants, and – of course – probably the best pubs in the country. Impromptu music sessions, odd conversations, and memorable characters are the order of the day.

Spend time in a place rich in tradition, literature and culture, where native Gaeilge (Irish language) prospers alongside modern languages, where the perfect harmony created by nature restores the spirit, where you can relax and savour the scenery, the flora and fauna, the art & photography, craft trails, the culture, the archaeology, the local food, craft distillery and breweries, or just meet the people – the choice is yours!

THE BEARA PENINSULA
Perhaps you have already experienced the magic of the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula, you may wish to try another enchanting ‘Ring’ – the Ring of Beara. Set mainly in West Cork, the Beara Peninsula is an expanse of rugged splendour dipping into the Atlantic beyond Kenmare.

The 137km route (about 85 miles) clings primarily to the coast, but the most spectacular section of the Ring of Beara is the dramatic Healy Pass Road, which cuts across the peninsula between Kerry and Cork.

The south side of the Ring follows the line of Bantry Bay, threading its way through a series of charming working fishing villages, whereas the north side reveals dramatic coastal scenery as it winds its way around the hidden corners of the peninsula.

Major attractions include the exciting cable car ride (which is seasonal) out to Dursey Island and some invigorating hill-walking territory. Garnish Island, accessible via ferry, from Glengarriff, is home to some spectacular gardens.

THE RING OF KERRY
The Ring of Kerry tour, is a 180km (112 mile) loop of the stunning Iveragh Peninsula. Starting from the Hotel, head in the direction of Killorglin and continue along the coast, taking in Cahersiveen, Waterville, Sneem and Kenmare until you arrive back in Killarney again.

If you have time, stray off the route a little to take in wonders like the Rossbeigh Beach, Derrynane, Staigue Fort, and Valentia Island. Even if you stick to the traditional route, however, you will experience places of exceptional beauty and history.

Enjoy Waterville, a charming town overlooking the beautiful Ballinskelligs Bay, with some of Europe’s best salmon and sea trout fishing and a world-renowned golf course nearby.

Stop in Kenmare, one of Ireland’s prettiest heritage towns, with some of the world’s most stunning scenery surrounding it. A gourmet paradise, Kenmare combines the rugged drama of the Ring of Beara and the splendid grandeur of the Ring of Kerry.

Toward the end of the route, you will encounter Ladies View, named after Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting in honour of the Monarch’s 1861 visit. Here you will enjoy a magnificent panorama of Killarney’s Three Lakes and its world-famous National Park. Stop at Muckross House & Gardens, and then back into Killarney and the Hotel.

KILLARNEY GOLF & FISHING CLUB
Situated only a mile from Killarney town nestled in Killarney National Park. Golfers are surrounded by picturesque lakeside views and stunning views of Ireland’s largest mountain range the McGillycuddy Reeks. A very beautiful place to play a round, or two of golf.

BALLYBUNION GOLF CLUB
Located on the North West coast of Kerry along a vast stretch of sand dunes, right on the rugged Atlantic coastline. This golf club has two unique and unforgettable links golf courses, with every hole, challenge and shot set by nature. Ballybunion deserves its place at the top of every avid golfer’s bucket list.

WATERVILLE GOLF CLUB
One of the world’s classic links courses and winner of numerous awards. Positioned at the coastal village of Waterville on the Iveragh Peninsula. Like most places in Kerry this course is surrounded by the breath-taking mountainous scenery and the natural beauty of the wild Atlantic coastline. Even just walking this course is an experience you will not forget.

TRALEE GOLF CLUB
Without a doubt one of the finest golf links courses in the world. A beautiful course situated beside Tralee Bay and the Slieve Mish Mountains. This outstanding course was designed by Arnold Palmer, one of the greatest golfers of all time. It is a course for beginners and professionals alike.

HOGS HEAD GOLF COURSE WATERVILLE
A fantastic links golfing experience that goes perfectly with the stunning visuals of its surroundings. Visiting here you will get to experience, mountains, magnificent cliff sides, which overlooks Ballinskelligs Bay, all while the Finglas river meanders through the course.

DOOKS GOLF CLUB
One of Ireland’s oldest golf clubs founded in 1889 and located in Glenbeigh, Co. Kerry on the Iveragh Peninsula. The course is wrapped up in coastal and mountain views and is well suited for beginner golfers and those with years of experience.

OLD HEAD OF KINSALE
Built on a 220-acre diamond of land, jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean, nine of the 18 holes in the Old Head Links Course are played along the cliff tops and all 18 have stunning views.

LAHINCH GOLF CLUB
Lahinch Golf Club, founded in 1892, has been widely regarded as one of the finest links golf courses in the world. Be sure to try both The Old Course and The Castle Course.

Website: www.killarneyparkhotel.ie

Rooms: 67

Price: from 286 EUR per night