Killarney National Park

On September 18^th 2016, my boyfriend and I decided to go on a drive through Killarney National Park in County Kerry, Ireland. We started our journey early in Killarney and drove into the misty park on a classic Irish rainy day.

1. Muckross Abbey and Manor

Being good tourists, we stopped at the first parking sign indicated. Immediately after stepping out of the car, we were offered a ride into the park in a carriage, which we refused, guessing  the Muckross abbey was on a walking distance. Built in 1448 by Franciscan Monks, the historical ground is surrounded by an ancient forest. The classic medieval architecture of the abbey is impressive in itself, but what caught our eyes the most was the giant Texus tree growing right in the middle of the building, witness of many events, both terrifying and joyful.

We continued our journey towards the Manor, stopping here and there to admire the scenery. Finally, the imposing house appeared, as if it simply stepped out of the mist. Every little detail made us go "Wow!". The Tudor-style house is a jewel of architecture, with its sixty-five rooms and grand garden. The property in itself was built in 1843, on border of the Muckross and Lough Leane lakes, making it an 11,000 acres of beauty. I couldn't help but feel like a rich duchess strolling through the Irish land.

2. Torc Waterfall

Of course, as good Canadians, we had to visit Ireland's "Mini-Niagara Falls". Torc waterfall might not be as big as the Ontarian wonder of nature, but it surely is a beautiful waterfall. We took our time walking around the park and admiring the crystal-clear water.

3. Meeting of the waters

Let's be honest here; seeing the meeting of the waters was totally unplanned. We were actually trying to get to a small restaurant in the middle of the woods, but got lost. Classic me. We stumbled upon a brown sign, indicating "Meeting of the waters" and looked in the horizon. Here it was; the tranquil spot where the three major Killarney's lake met under a bridge. Beautiful.

4. The Ladies view

Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting were so impressed by the view over the valley and the upper Lake, that the place was baptised after their visit. What you will find today is the same breath-taking view with a small coffee shop across the road. Definitely worth the while.

5. Ross Castle

As we drove back to Killarney, we had time for one last stop before heading to our Airbnb. This is when we saw the Ross Castle sign. Located a bit out of the National Park, this beautifully built tower house had its own share of history. Just as the sun was setting, we arrived at the castle, surrounded by a small river and an impressive lake. At that moment, we understood why the aristocrats chose this place as their home back in the 15th century. If you plan on going there, I would recommend taking the guided tour. You will get to know about the castle history and the way of living in middle-ages.

Hope you liked visiting one of Ireland's most famous National Park with me and relive the Ring of Kerry.

Enjoy,

The little traveller's boots

Xox