Explore Killarney
During the Festive Season
Killarney is the type of destination that you can visit at any time of the year. Each season offers its own beauty and magic. Christmas time is always a treat in Killarney, and this year the people of Killarney have gone the extra mile to ensure the festive spirit remains strong, in spite of obvious challenges. As with most small independent businesses, and particularly during these “different” times, it is strongly recommended that you do some planning and pre-book any of the activities or dining experiences that require booking. This will make your time in Killarney more relaxed and help to avoid any disappointment.
Things to do in Killarney during the Christmas season:
Mulled wine in The Library; If you find yourself with just a short wait until your room is ready, The Library is a quiet oasis to relax in. Enjoy a glass of steaming mulled wine while you sit by the fireside.
Killarney House Gardens & Grounds; Whilst the main house is currently closed, the surrounding gardens are a lovely place to go for a quick stroll and to stretch the legs. Killarney House is located just a short walk from The Killarney Park and from here you can also explore deeper into the Killarney National Park.
Muckross Gardens; Muckross House is not open for tours but the adjacent restaurant and tea rooms are serving food daily. The expansive manicured gardens, surrounding the manor house, are lovely to wander around and you can then enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or bite to eat in the restaurant.
Ross Castle; This is a favourite spot for locals and families to visit. The interior of the castle is open during the summer months for tours, however during the winter you can still wander in and out of the stone archways and courtyards, and get a feel for what life must have been like in the 15th century. The castle is built right on the lake edge, where ducks, swans and many other water birds are common and great fun for the children to watch.
Ross Island Treasure Trail; If you have a little time on your hands… and some little members of the family… why not take them on the wonderful treasure trail around Ross Island. Maps can be collected from our Reception Desk and it’s a fun way to start off your Killarney holiday.
Playground in The Park; Opposite St. Mary’s Cathedral, there is a lovely outdoor playground where the kids can burn off some energy. The playground is also in the vicinity of a fairy trail which runs along the river walk. (just next to the playground) Little fairy houses of all shapes and sizes can be found along this walk.
Tomies Woods Walk; It’s with great excitement that this wonderful walk has been re-opened in our area. This is a loop walk around Tomies Woods, one of Ireland’s last natural oak woods. It is also home to O’Sullivan’s cascade, a beautiful waterfall which flows into the lakes of Killarney. You should allow 3.5 hours for this walk, which is categorised as an easy walk. The drive time from the hotel to Tomies Woods is approximately 25min.
Killarney Riding Stables; Exploring the Killarney National Park on horse back is truly wonderful. The Killarney Riding Stables offer 1, 2 or 3 hour treks through the park. The horses are very well trained and they cater for all levels of experience. Children from 8 years and older can join in. Bookings are essential.
The Gap of Dunloe; If the weather is a little wet but visibility is still good, then a drive through the ancient Gap of Dunloe is a great way to see the wider surroundings of Killarney. The roads are narrow and a little windy, dipping low and rising up to the hillsides, which makes the journey all the more spectacular.
A jaunt around the park; Jaunting cars (horse and cart) are synonymous with Killarney and are a lovely way to relax and enjoy the views in the Killarney National Park. Jaunting cars can be found in the town centre, so you can park up at the hotel and stroll over. Due to limited carts at this time of year, an hour or two notice would be required to book a jaunt in the National Park. Trips are subject to availability, so try to plan ahead for this one.
Killarney Brewing Company; Approximately 7min walk from The Killarney Park, is The Killarney Brewing Company, an independent craft brewery and home to our very own Killarney lagers and ales. Tours can be booked on their website.
Falconry and Fishing; Falconry can be booked on the ground of The Killarney Park, however we will require some notice, so if this is something you’d like to consider, please contact our Concierge Team at your earliest convenience. We can also make arrangements for fishing in the local area, again we would encourage you to contact our Concierge Department to discuss prices and various options. info@killarneyparkhotel.ie