Killarney
Killarney is a town in County Kerry surrounded by a wonderland of mountains and lakes – a landscape so beautiful it is known as ‘Heaven’s Reflex’. A popular holiday spot, this scenery has inspired numerous poets, painters and writers over the years. Killarney played an important part in early Irish history – its first significantly historical settlement was the monastery on Innisfallen Island in 640. Tourism goes back to at least the mid-18th Century, when Thomas fourth Viscount Kenmare (Lord Kenmare), courted visitors to Killarney and a visit by Queen Victoria in 1861 secured its international appeal. It is a great base from which to explore the ravishing south-west of Ireland, which is perfect for those who love outdoor activities such as golf, hiking, cycling, fishing and horse-riding. Aside from Dublin, Killarney has more hotel beds than any other Irish town or city. There are a number of restaurants, shops and gift shops – particularly in summer months – and the town is also famous for its horse-drawn carts and sporting events such as the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle, the Killarney Regatta, the 5km SummerFest Fun Run and the Killarney Races.
Features in the following itineraries
The traveller sees what he sees, the tourist sees what he has come to see.
G. K. Chesterton