Located approximately 6km (3.6 miles) from Killarney town centre, Muckross House and Gardens represent the focal point and nucleus of Killarney National Park. This is Ireland's oldest National Park and it includes the world-famous Lakes of Killarney, as well as the mountains and woodlands that surround them.

The Muckross Abbey was established under the patronage of Donal ‘an Diamh’ MacCarthy in 1448. Donal’s great grandfather, Cormac MacCarthy Mor, decided to found an abbey after the idea appeared to him in a vision.He decided that it should be built on Carraig na Chiuil (the Rock of Music). Men were sent to find it but couldn’t. As they passed Irrelagh, they heard beautiful music coming from a rock and finally found the location.20 years after construction (in 1468), a papal indulgence was granted to help complete the buildings around Muckross Abbey. In 1612, the friars occupied the old buildings again with the buildings being fully restored in 1617. In 1652, the friars were driven out and persecuted by Cromwellian forces. In 1929, the first high mass since penal times took place in the ruins of the Muckross friary with over 2,800 Franciscan tertiaries in attendance.

Muckross House, Gardens and Traditional Farms is a popular tourist attraction located in Killarney National Park, County Kerry, Ireland. The house was built in the 19th century and is known for its Victorian architecture and beautiful gardens. The gardens are home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rhododendrons, azaleas, and yew trees. The Traditional Farms section of the attraction showcases rural life in Ireland during the 1930s and 1940s. Admission tickets: Adult : House €7.00 Farm: €7.00 House&Farm €12

The Meeting of the Waters is a beautiful spot in Killarney National Park where three of Killarney’s famous lakes converge: the Upper Lake, Middle Lake (also known as Muckross Lake), and Lower Lake (Lough Leane). It is a little haven of tranquility and can only be reached by foot or bicycle. The easiest way to reach the spot is by walking along the well-signposted path from Muckross House for approximately 5km or if you don’t feel that energetic then approx. one mile beyond Torc Waterfall (direction Kenmare) there is a parking spot on the right-hand side of the road. Dinis cottage is signposted from here and the cottage and “the meetings of the waters” is a 15-minute walk from here 1.

Another beautiful house and garden to visit is Killarney House and Gardens. The house dates back to the early 1700s and was originally the stable block of the first residence of the Earls of Kenmare. The house and gardens have been carefully restored to their former glory and is now the visitor center for Killarney National Park. The house and gardens offer a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the busy town. Its weaving pathways through carefully manicured gardens provide an oasis of calm. Much more than that, Killarney House is an ideal starting point for a journey exploring the wonders of Killarney National Park. The ‘Golden Gates’ that stand guard at the main entrance form a portal to the wonders of the National Park beyond. As you pass through these gates, the sounds of the town fade away and the magic of the park begins to wash over you with each step you take.

The Gap of Dunloe is a scenic glacial valley in Kerry, Ireland, with stunning lakes and mountains 1. It is located between two stunning mountain ranges, the MacGillycuddy Reeks and Purple Mountain. The valley is characterized by its distinct, jagged appearance, which was created naturally during the last ice age of Ireland. The Gap of Dunloe is a fine place to whittle away an afternoon, and it’s best explored by foot. You can also rent a Jaunting Car (the horse and cart).

Aghadoe Church and Round Tower is a historical site located in Killarney, County Kerry, Ireland. The ruins of this 12th-century church sit atop a hill surrounded by beautiful scenic landscape. The round tower is rather an interesting sight, positioned as it is with a fabulous view over Lough Lein