Killarney National Park

Friars Glen is located in the heart of Killarney National Park, Ireland’s oldest National Park, created in 1932 when Arthur Vincent and his family gifted Muckross House & Estate to the Irish nation. There are 10,000 hectares of mountains, woodlands and lakes to explore!

Killarney Day Trip
Killarney has been welcoming visitors for 250 years and the Killarney Day Trip is the oldest and most famous visitor excursion. The day tour is a journey which encompasses Killarney’s entire National Park. During the tour, passengers can see a number of Killarney’s landmarks such as Kate Kearney’s Cottage, the Gap of Dunloe, Old Weir Bridge and Ross Castle.

From here, pony and traps will be available to rent. Travel by pony and trap or by foot through the famous Gap of Dunloe and down into the Black Valley to Lord Brandon’s Cottage, where your boat awaits to bring you through the three lakes of Killarney. The boat section is often considered to be the highlight of the tour with folklore and legends delivered by the local boatmen, while passing through the spectacular scenery of Killarney National Park.

All these arrangements can be made at Friars Glen.

A day in the Killarney National Park at Muckross
Muckross is at the centre of the Killarney National Park and provides a great day out for all the family. Tour the old Victorian mansion, stroll through the gardens and many nature trails or visit Muckross Traditional Farms, a recreation of a 1930’s rural Irish community. Visit the three working farms and learn about the lives and traditions of their inhabitants.

The Muckross Garden Restaurant, Craft Centre and shop are located within the grounds. View the Weaving, Pottery and Bookbinding craftspeople at work and enjoy lunch in the Conservatory.

Admission into the Park is free. Car parking is free in all areas. However, an admission charge applies to Muckross House and the Traditional Farms.

Torc Waterfall
Just beyond the entrance to Muckross House is Torc Waterfall, nestled beneath Torc Mountain. This is a sight to behold – especially after heavy rains.

Muckross Abbey
This Abbey was built in the 15th century and was home to the Franciscan Community until 1780. It is considered to be one of the finest examples of a medieval Irish Monastery.

Jaunting Car Trips
This is a traditional mode of transport to see the Park. We can arrange a trip starting from Friars Glen. A truly Killarney experience.

Biking
The National Park is suitable for biking. Bike hire is available just outside the Park.

Recommended

Tours & Itineraries

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Looking towards the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks from Lough Leane

Muckross Abbey

Muckross Abbey

Muckross House

Testimonials

“My only complaint about Friars Glen is that we didn’t want to leave. Our family of 4 stayed in the newly opened self-catering guest house and had lots of room to spread out. We were made welcome when we arrived with tea and scones and provided with maps and travel guides to browse. The setting was wonderful with deer grazing just outside our windows.”

Susan M, Charlottesville, Virginia