Killarney is one of the best places in Ireland - and in the whole world for that matter- to explore the great outdoors. Hiking biking and what have you; it's all here and it is oh so pretty.

Torc Waterfall on the Muckross Road is a spectacular sight, particularly after heavy rain.  Take the short walk from the car-park up through the trees to where the water cascades down over the edge of a cliff.  You can climb up a series of steep steps to the top of the waterfall but the view is not as spectacular as that at the bottom.

Having seen the waterfall, follow the stream down the hill again, under a bridge that is the main Killarney-Kenmare Road and you will arrive in Muckross Gardens.  This part of your walk is mucky but fun and the scenery is spectacular.

Muckross House and Gardens are also worth a visit.  The gardens are situated on the edge of the lake and there are some wonderful walks there.  Follow the path at the bottom of the lawned area beside the lake, to the right and you will arrive in a wonderful wooded area.  Here you can stand on the small beaches at the side of the lake looking over at the wonderful cliffs.  You can be at one with nature - water on one side, dense woodland on the other.

Take a walk too, to the Boat House and view the lake from this angle as well.

When you have sated your desire to commune with nature.... read more...