Location: County Kerry Map
National Park: Tel. 064 31440
Open: pedestrians at all times
cars 8am- 6pm daily
8am- 7pm July- Aug
The Lakes of Killarney, located in County Kerry, Ireland, are a trio of stunning glacial lakes—Lough Leane (Lower Lake), Muckross Lake (Middle Lake), and Upper Lake—nestled within the heart of Killarney National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Renowned for their breathtaking beauty, these lakes are surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, ancient woodlands, and iconic landmarks, making them one of Ireland’s most celebrated natural wonders. The lakes, covering about one-fifth of the park’s 25,425 acres, are central to its ecological, cultural, and tourism significance.
The Lakes of Killarney form a interconnected system within Killarney
National Park, fed by mountain streams, springs, and rivers, and drained
by the River Laune into Dingle Bay. Their glacial origins, carved during
the last Ice Age, contribute to their dramatic setting amidst rugged
mountains and lush valleys.
Lough Leane (Lower Lake):
Size and
Location: The largest of the three lakes, covering approximately 4,700
acres (19 km²), Lough Leane is the northernmost and closest to Killarney
town.
Features: Known as the “Lake of Learning” due to its
association with Innisfallen Island’s monastic scholars, it contains
over 30 islands, including Innisfallen, Ross Island, and Mouse Island.
The lake’s shoreline includes Ross Castle, a 15th-century tower house.
Depth and Clarity: Lough Leane is relatively shallow, with a maximum
depth of about 44 meters, and its clear waters reflect the surrounding
mountains, creating iconic vistas.
Muckross Lake (Middle Lake):
Size and Location: Covering about 650 acres (2.6 km²), Muckross Lake
lies south of Lough Leane, separated by the Muckross Peninsula.
Features: The lake is framed by the Muckross Estate, Torc Mountain, and
the famous Torc Waterfall. It is home to the striking Brickeen Bridge, a
stone bridge connecting the peninsula to Dinish Island, and the Meeting
of the Waters, where the Upper Lake’s waters join Muckross Lake.
Scenic Appeal: Its intimate size and proximity to key attractions make
it a focal point for visitors, with views enhanced by the backdrop of
Mangerton Mountain.
Upper Lake:
Size and Location: The
smallest and southernmost lake, covering about 430 acres (1.7 km²),
Upper Lake is nestled in a remote, rugged valley near the Gap of Dunloe.
Features: Surrounded by steep mountains, including Purple Mountain and
the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, it is the most secluded and pristine of the
lakes. The Ladies’ View, a famous viewpoint named after Queen Victoria’s
ladies-in-waiting, offers panoramic vistas of the Upper Lake.
Atmosphere: Its wild, untouched setting gives it a tranquil, almost
mystical quality, with fewer visitors than the other lakes.
Hydrological Connections:
The lakes are linked by narrow channels,
with the Long Range connecting Upper Lake to Muckross Lake and the
Meeting of the Waters marking their confluence. Lough Leane is connected
to Muckross Lake via channels around the Muckross Peninsula.
The
River Laune drains Lough Leane into the Atlantic, ensuring a constant
flow that maintains the lakes’ clarity and ecological health.
The Lakes of Killarney are a cornerstone of Killarney National
Park’s status as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, supporting diverse
ecosystems and rare species.
Aquatic Ecosystem:
The lakes’
clear, oligotrophic (low-nutrient) waters host a variety of fish,
including Atlantic salmon, brown trout, and the rare Killarney shad
(Alosa killarnensis), a landlocked fish unique to Lough Leane.
Aquatic plants, such as water lilies and pondweeds, thrive along the
shores, providing habitat for invertebrates and fish.
Surrounding Habitats:
The lakes are bordered by native oakwoods,
yew woodlands (e.g., Reenadinna Yew Wood), and blanket bogs, which
support a rich biodiversity.
The wetlands and reedbeds around the
lakes are home to amphibians like the common frog and natterjack
toad, as well as waterfowl such as mallards, tufted ducks, and
little grebes.
Wildlife:
The lakes attract birds like the
white-tailed sea eagle (reintroduced in 2007), herons, and
kingfishers. Migratory species, including whooper swans, use the
lakes as wintering grounds.
Mammals such as red deer, Ireland’s
only native deer species, and otters are often spotted near the
lakes’ edges.
Conservation Challenges:
Invasive Species:
Non-native plants like rhododendrons and animals like sika deer
threaten the lakes’ ecosystems, requiring ongoing management by the
National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).
Pollution and
Tourism: Runoff from agriculture and high visitor numbers can impact
water quality, prompting measures like trail maintenance and visitor
education to protect the lakes.
The Lakes of Killarney have been a focal point of human activity for
millennia, shaping the region’s history, spirituality, and cultural
identity.
Prehistoric and Early Christian Era:
Archaeological
evidence, including stone circles and fulachtaí fia (ancient cooking
sites), indicates human activity around the lakes since the Neolithic
period (c. 3000 BCE).
Innisfallen Island on Lough Leane was home to a
7th-century Augustinian monastery, where monks produced the Annals of
Innisfallen (11th–14th centuries), a key chronicle of Irish history now
held at the Bodleian Library, Oxford.
The lakes were sacred to early
Gaelic clans, particularly the O’Donoghue and O’Sullivan families, who
controlled the region before the Norman invasions.
Medieval and
Gaelic Period:
The lakes’ strategic location made them a contested
area during the Norman conquests and Gaelic resistance. Ross Castle,
built by the O’Donoghue clan in the 15th century, guarded Lough Leane’s
shores.
The lakes’ islands served as refuges during conflicts, with
monasteries and fortifications providing safety.
Anglo-Irish
Estates and Romanticism:
In the 17th–19th centuries, the lakes were
part of the Kenmare and Muckross Estates, owned by the Browne and
Herbert families. The construction of Muckross House (1843) and its
gardens capitalized on the lakes’ beauty, attracting visitors like Queen
Victoria in 1861.
The lakes inspired 19th-century Romantic artists
and writers, who depicted their sublime landscapes in paintings and
poetry, cementing their reputation as a must-see destination.
Modern Cultural Legacy:
The lakes are integral to Kerry’s identity,
celebrated in traditional music, storytelling, and festivals like the
Killarney Regatta, a historic rowing event on Lough Leane.
They have
appeared in films, including Ryan’s Daughter (1970) and Excalibur
(1981), showcasing their cinematic allure.
The Lakes of Killarney are surrounded by iconic sites within
Killarney National Park, many of which are directly linked to the lakes’
shores or offer stunning views.
Ross Castle (Lough Leane):
A
15th-century tower house on Lough Leane’s eastern shore, Ross Castle was
the last stronghold in Munster to fall to Cromwell’s forces in 1652.
Restored in the 19th century, it offers guided tours of its defensive
features and furnished interiors.
Boat trips from the castle to
Innisfallen Island or across the lakes are a popular way to explore
Lough Leane.
Innisfallen Island (Lough Leane):
Accessible by
boat, this small island hosts the ruins of a 7th-century monastery, a
serene site surrounded by the lake’s waters. Its historical significance
and tranquil setting make it a highlight for history enthusiasts.
Muckross House and Gardens (Muckross Lake):
A Victorian mansion
built in 1843, Muckross House overlooks Muckross Lake and offers guided
tours showcasing 19th-century Anglo-Irish life. Its gardens, including a
rhododendron arboretum, frame the lake’s beauty.
The Muckross
Traditional Farms nearby recreate rural life, adding cultural context.
Torc Waterfall (Muckross Lake):
A 20-meter cascade on the Torc
River, flowing into Muckross Lake, this waterfall is a short walk from
the Muckross Estate. Its mossy, forested setting enhances the lake’s
scenic charm.
Meeting of the Waters and Brickeen Bridge (Muckross
Lake):
The Meeting of the Waters, where Upper Lake’s waters join
Muckross Lake, is a picturesque spot accessible by boat or trail. The
nearby Brickeen Bridge, a stone arch, is a favorite for photographers.
Ladies’ View (Upper Lake):
A scenic viewpoint on the N71 road,
Ladies’ View offers breathtaking vistas of Upper Lake, Purple Mountain,
and the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. Named after Queen Victoria’s
ladies-in-waiting, it’s especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
Gap of Dunloe (Near Upper Lake):
A glacial valley north of Upper
Lake, the Gap of Dunloe features lakes and rugged cliffs, accessible by
foot, bike, or jaunting car. Its proximity enhances the Upper Lake’s
wild allure.
The Lakes of Killarney offer diverse activities, from leisurely
sightseeing to adventurous pursuits, catering to all types of visitors.
Boating and Kayaking:
Traditional Boat Tours: Guided boat trips,
often departing from Ross Castle or Reen Pier, navigate the lakes,
visiting Innisfallen Island, the Meeting of the Waters, or the Upper
Lake. These tours, sometimes combined with a jaunting car ride through
the Gap of Dunloe, offer a classic Killarney experience.
Kayaking and
Canoeing: Guided or self-guided kayaking tours explore hidden coves,
islands, and channels, providing an intimate connection with the lakes’
ecosystems.
Hiking and Walking:
Trails around the lakes range
from easy to challenging:
Muckross Lake Loop (10km): A scenic trail
circling Muckross Lake, passing Brickeen Bridge and Torc Waterfall.
Ross Island Trail (3km): An easy walk along Lough Leane’s shore,
offering castle and lake views.
Torc Mountain (7.5km): A moderate
hike with panoramic lake and mountain vistas.
The Killarney Way and
other long-distance trails connect the lakes to broader park landscapes.
Cycling:
Bike rentals in Killarney town allow exploration of
paved and gravel paths, such as the Muckross cycle trail, which loops
around Muckross Lake.
The Gap of Dunloe is a challenging but
rewarding cycling route near Upper Lake.
Jaunting Cars:
Horse-drawn jaunting cars, a traditional Kerry experience, offer guided
tours along the lakes’ shores, with drivers sharing local history and
folklore. Popular routes include Muckross House and Torc Waterfall.
Wildlife and Photography:
The lakes are ideal for wildlife
watching, with opportunities to spot red deer, otters, and birds. Guided
ranger-led walks focus on ecology and conservation.
Photographers
flock to Ladies’ View, Torc Waterfall, and the Meeting of the Waters for
iconic shots, especially during golden hour.
Fishing:
The
lakes are renowned for angling, particularly for salmon and brown trout.
Permits are required, and guided fishing trips are available from local
operators.
Location: Killarney National Park, County Kerry, Ireland, with main
access points near Killarney town (5–10 minutes by car) and along the
N71 road.
Hours: The lakes and surrounding park are accessible 24/7,
year-round. Nearby attractions like Muckross House and Ross Castle have
specific hours, typically 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (seasonal variations
apply).
Admission: Access to the lakes and park is free. Tickets are
required for Muckross House (€9–€15), Ross Castle (€5–€10), and boat
tours (prices vary, typically €15–€30 per person).
Facilities:
Visitor centers at Muckross House and Killarney town provide maps,
guides, and restrooms. Cafes and gift shops are available at Muckross
House. Boat rental and jaunting car services operate near Ross Castle
and Muckross.
Accessibility: Some lake trails (e.g., Muckross Lake
Loop) are partially accessible for wheelchairs, but rugged areas like
Upper Lake trails are less so. Boat tours may require assistance.
Getting There:
By Car: The lakes are a short drive from Killarney
town, with parking at Ross Castle, Muckross House, and Torc Waterfall.
By Public Transport: Killarney is served by trains and buses from
Dublin, Cork, and Galway. Local buses and taxis connect to the park.
By Foot/Bike: Killarney town is within walking or cycling distance of
Lough Leane’s northern shore.
Killarney Shad: Lough Leane’s Killarney shad is a rare fish species,
isolated since the last Ice Age, found nowhere else in the world.
O’Donoghue Legend: Local folklore tells of the O’Donoghue chieftain, who
is said to rise from Lough Leane every seven years on a white horse, a
tale celebrated in poetry and song.
Queen Victoria’s Visit: The
lakes’ fame grew after Queen Victoria’s 1861 visit, which included a
boat tour and a stay at Muckross House, boosting tourism.
Geological
Origins: The lakes were formed by glacial erosion, with their basins
deepened by ice sheets that sculpted the surrounding mountains.
Water Quality: The NPWS monitors the lakes to prevent pollution from
agricultural runoff and tourism activities, ensuring their ecological
health.
Invasive Species: Rhododendrons and sika deer threaten native
ecosystems, requiring active removal and management.
Tourism Impact:
High visitor numbers, especially in summer, strain trails and boat
access points, prompting measures like timed entries and trail
restoration.
Climate Change: Rising temperatures and changing
rainfall patterns could affect water levels and biodiversity,
necessitating adaptive conservation strategies.