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Killarney

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Wonderfully located
in a mountain valley on the edge of a glorious lake, Killarney is
famous for its natural beauty and has been a popular tourist
destination since the 18th century. Further developed as a tourist
resort by Lord Kenmare, the town and its breathtaking surroundings
attracted royalty and dignitaries. Famously, one particular lake
view was dedicated to the Ladies in Waiting of Queen Victoria, who
visited the area in 1861. Their visit has been commemorated by the
naming of "Ladies' View", reminding present day visitors of the
longevity of Killarney's popularity. The tourists of yesteryear also
consisted of poets, artists, writers and composers who
unsurprisingly found much to absorb them here.
Today Killarney town manages to blends quaint tradition with
contemporary and cosmopolitan style. The Jaunting Cars still carry
visitors around the many scenic highlights and the laneways are as
bright and colourful as ever, but the bustling streets are now lined
with unique craft shops, small galleries, traditional pubs, superb
restaurants and boutique shops, making the town a great base to
explore the region’s dramatic landscapes and stunning vistas.
Killarney has been able to hold its premier position amongst other
tourist destinations with a variety of festivals and an unequalled
nightlife.
Killarney is home to seven wonderful Golf Courses, each one set in a
beautiful scenic location. Amongst them is the Lakeside Killeen
course, the venue for the Irish Open in 1991 & 1992, and the Curtis
Cup in 1996.
Killarney is the gateway to the Killarney National Park, one of the
country’s most visited parks, with its magnificent scenery, famous
lakes and numerous historical and archaeological remains. Within the
Park you can visit the elegant Victorian Muckross House, the
atmospheric ruins of Muckross Abbey, medieval Ross Castle or the
tranquil ruined Monastery on Innisfallen.
Throughout the park the lush forest drips with moss and fern, the
mild temperate climate here supporting a wide range of plant species
and playing host to a series of sub-tropical gardens unique to this
part of Ireland. The deep blue lakes contrast with the emerald
subtropical vegetation and ancient woodland to form a spectacular
stage just waiting to be explored.
Exotic species such as rhododendron and azalea thrive here adding a
blaze of colour to the picture postcard views at every turn.
Elsewhere picturesque waterfalls cascade between the rocks making
their way down the slopes to the stunning lakes at the heart of the
park.
The Lakes of Killarney are definitely one of the major features of
the Park. These three famous lakes reflect the ever changing skies
above the surrounding mountain ranges.
West of the Killarney valley the majestic MacGillicuddy’s Reeks,
Ireland’s highest mountain range, form a dramatic backdrop to the
park and offer fantastic outdoor opportunities for hikers and
climbers. The area also offers ample choice for golfing, fishing,
horse-riding, canoeing, cycling and swimming, letting you choose how
best to experience the natural highlights of the area.
Take a leisurely lake cruise, explore the dramatic Gap of Dunloe or
enjoy the ethereal mists at Ladies View and soon you will understand
why this area has been an inspiration to poets, writers, artists and
musicians for many centuries. |