Stretching between Kerry and Cork, the Beara Peninsula is the most wild and least developed, preserving a craggy landscape of steep valleys and dramatic coastal cliffs that appeals to those seeking solitude and natural grandeur away from more travelled routes.

This magnificent glaciated valley stands as testimony to nature’s vast sculptural power. Created over 20,000 years ago when immense glaciers carved a path through MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, the Gap rises between towering cliffs and isolated mountain lakes.

Today, its dramatic landscape—with cascading waterfalls and panoramic vistas—represents one of County Kerry’s most treasured natural attractions. Experience it as countless visitors have done: by traditional jaunting car, on horseback through mountain passes, or on foot along well-trodden paths.

The journey reveals the Lakes of Killarney beyond, their waters gleaming in the valley’s embrace.

Ireland’s first National Park, established in 1932, protects 10,236 hectares of pristine wilderness. The park encompasses the celebrated Lakes of Killarney, three interconnected lakes of distinct character, and sweeping uplands of red sandstone that rise majestically above.

The Three Lakes

The Lower, Middle, and Upper Lakes are linked by natural waterways, creating a network of aquatic beauty. Their waters support healthy populations of Brown Trout and an annual salmon run. For centuries, sport angling has been central to the region’s appeal.

Wildlife and Landscape

The park’s mountainous terrain supports extensive blanket bog and, uniquely among Irish wild landscapes, a free-roaming native Red Deer herd. The remoteness and inaccessibility of these upland areas have allowed this rare population to thrive undisturbed.

Torc Waterfall

The Owengarriff River creates a picturesque cascade through the wooded Friar’s Glen, dropping 18 metres into Muckross Lake. A scenic path winds upward to the waterfall’s crown, rewarding visitors with views of Torc Mountain rising beyond.

Situated on the shores of Muckross Lake within Killarney National Park, this magnificent Victorian mansion was built in 1843 and now serves as a window into a bygone era of refined living. The estate’s gardens are a celebration of horticultural excellence, with extensive collections of Azaleas and Rhododendrons flourishing in the mild climate, complemented by an elegant water garden and a rock garden carved from natural limestone outcrops. An arboretum showcases hardy specimens from across temperate regions.

The furnished rooms contain locally crafted furniture and objects of historical significance. Skilled artisans continue time-honoured traditions, including book-binding, pottery, and weaving. Adjacent to the house, Muckross Traditional Farms recreate the daily rhythms of working farmsteads before electricity, where all labour was performed using time-tested methods. Meet the farmers and their families as they carry out their work in houses, fields, and with livestock.

Website: www.muckross-house.ie