Killarney National Park – Torc Waterfall, County Kerry

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One of the main attractions at Killarney National Park is the Torc water fall. We were there in the midst of torrential downpours and the falls were in full fury. I'm sure the falls are impressive even in fine weather. The flora is thick and lush and the area has that mystical feel to it that so many places in Ireland emanate. The short hike to the top of the falls is rewarding.

Killarney Park was one of our favorite spots during our drive around the Ring. This was the case, even though we hit the park at the end of a long day and while the rain was the heaviest. We still managed to get out of the car and take multiple pictures with beautiful backdrops. It is well worth parking at some of the inlets and just walking through the woods and around the lake.

Torc Waterfall is not a spectacular cascade - if you desire from a destination power and excitement, it is not for you. If you have a little time, however, you'll want to check out this lovely little oasis, which remains incredibly beautiful and worth seeing even against the splendor that is Ireland.

It's a bit of a hike if you want to go up the path once you've reached the falls. The views of the lakes, however, are unbelievable. The place seems heavy with magic and beauty. Try to get there early in the morning or very late in the evening to ensure that you aren't choked off by other tourists. If you're there in the offseason (anywhere from October or November until late April) you shouldn't have to worry about it at all.

If you're the adventurous type, sample a bit of the clear, sparkling water, either from the falls themselves or the easier-access stream below. The water is unbelievably sweet.

Ladies View is this lovely view from the hights above the "Upper Lake" and it got its special name by the noble ladies on the court of Queen Victoria, who enjoyed that view so much !!
When driving the road N71 from Kenmare to Killarney, you will pass by Ladies View - just watch out for the signs and the souvenir-shops there. Almost every tourbus will stop there and from the shops you will have to take a walk of 3 minutes to get to the best place for a panorama-view !

The Lakes of Killarney are another "Must see" in the County Kerry. There are several lakes on different levels, most of them are connected by small rivers and waterfalls. All of the area is part of a National Park and a perfect place to go for a hike.
Innsifallen is a small island in Lough Leane (the latgest of the lakes) with an interesting church-ruin - a boat will take you there.

It is well worth making the effort to clim the 60feet to the top of Torc Waterfall.
The waterfall itself is lovely, bu the view from the top is something else - overloolking the meeting of the waterss, Macgillycuddys reeks and the lough.

The climb up and down can be slippery, and exhausting but worth it.

Torc Waterfall is a nice little waterfall in a forest. It’s not far away of Muckross Lake and Muckross House. From the parking it’s only short way to the waterfall. If you take the other direction, you’ll soon see the lake, there’s a walking path close to the lake which leads to Muckross House & Gardens. Again the National Park invites you to walk a bit…!

MUCKROSS HOUSE is a magnificent Victorian Mansion and one of Ireland's leading stately homes.

It is most beautiful situated in the midst of the SPECTACULAR scenery of Killarney National Park, Ireland's Premier National Park.....yes, something to be proud of, indeed.

The elegantly furnished rooms portray the lifestyle of the landed Gentry, while downstairs in the basement one can experience the working conditions of the servants employed in the house.

This place is also home to a number of SKILLED craftworkers who can be viewed using traditional skills in the crafts of WEAVING, BOOKBINDING AND POTTERY (very interesting....)

NOTE: you can purchase a cheaper entrance ticket when you buy a joint ticket to Muckross House & Muckross Traditional Farms!!

You can meet with the farmers and their wives while they go about their daily work.....

SEE NEXT TIP for extra info.......