Shore excursion from Glengarriff to Killarney National Park

Shore Excursion – Glengariff to Killarney National Park

This will be a comprehensive, bespoke tour to  Killarney National Park, guided by local, native, certified, award-winning guides who are deeply familiar with the attractions in the area. Following a tour of Kenmare town, we will venture over to Killarney National Park, a UNESCO biosphere reserve with some of the oldest oaklands and yew woodlands in Europe. We will see how these trees and the park are under threat from rhododendron as we go.

Child-Friendly Killarney National Park Tour

This tour is child-friendly, and we can tailor it to your child’s interests. Stop more often. We can skip things that aren’t interesting to kids and linger at places they love. Our vehicles are equipped with appropriate seats, safety equipment and everything you need for a comfortable, safe family environment.

Our Itinerary – 8 hours

We will start our tour by driving to Kenmare, along one of the most scenic routes in Ireland, and continue to Killarney National Park via another fabulous scenic route along the Lakes of Killarney.

1. Ladies View & Upper Lake 

Begin the tour with a scenic drive to one of Ireland’s most iconic vistas, ‘Ladies View’, where you can enjoy sweeping panoramas over the Lakes, and the rugged wilderness of the National Park can be viewed. You will hear the story behind its name, Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting, and see the glacial valleys and ancient oak woodlands below.

2. Torc Waterfall 

We will descend the mountain along the scenic lake route to Torc Waterfall. A short, 5-minute gentle walk brings us to the waterfall, fed by the Owengarriff River from the slopes of Torc Mountain. Perfect for photos and a breath of woodland air.

3. Muckross Gardens 

Head to the beautifully maintained Victorian gardens surrounding Muckross House. Stroll through the arboretum, the sunken garden, the rock garden and the lakeside pathways. Your expert guide will tell you all about Muckross House’s connection to the Bourn–Vincent family and its role in the creation of Killarney National Park.

4. Muckross Abbey 

A short 15-minute walk brings you to the 15th-century ruins of this Franciscan friary known as Muckross Abbey. Your guide will walk you through the downstairs rooms and chat about the history and legends as you go. You will hear about the ancient yew tree in the cloisters, which is said to be over 500 years old. You will hear all about the ‘Kerry cows‘ that we see in the surrounding fields.

Now we leave the Muckross area and head back towards Killarney.

5. Ross Castle 

Continue to the shores of Lough Leane to explore the surroundings of Ross Castle, a 15th-century stronghold of the O’Donoghue chieftains. This is a wonderful spot for history, lake views, and stories of battles, sieges, and local folklore.

6. Killarney House & Gardens 

Finish the tour in the heart of the town at the beautifully restored Killarney House & Gardens. Stroll through the French-inspired formal gardens and step inside the exhibition rooms to explore the story of the Park’s creation and conservation. Hear the American connection to Washington and the man who built the Pentagon, John McShain.

Perfect for guests seeking a rich blend of landscape, history, gardens, lakes, waterfalls and stories—all within the heart of Killarney National Park.

What’s Included

Why Choose Mary G Tours?

Experience Killarney through the eyes of award-winning local guides who bring over 30 years of expertise to every tour. Their deep connection to the area and personalised approach make their tours truly unique.

• Unmatched Expertise: Native Killarney guides who know the hidden gems and stories that bring the park to life.
• Award-Winning Service: Recognised as ‘Tour Guide of the Year’ in the 2022 Tourism Hospitality Awards, Mary G Tours offer tours that combine professionalism with a personal touch.
• Luxury Travel: Begin your adventure with a touch of class, as we pick you up from your location in our exclusive sedan vehicles. Enjoy a comfortable, first-class experience,
• Local Expertise: Local native licensed guides.
• Tailored Experiences: Whether it’s the misty magic of Torc Waterfall or the historic charm of Muckross House, we craft each tour to showcase the best of Killarney National Park based on your interests.
• Local Insights: Benefit from our deep knowledge of Killarney’s history, culture, and natural beauty, ensuring you see more than just the typical tourist spots.