Things to do
in the Local Area
Located just outside Killarney in Kerry, Salmon Leap Farm is perfectly situated to explore the wonders of Kerry. From the local attractions to the amzing stops along the Ring of Kerry such as the Skellig Islands and the many historic and natural locations in Killarney. You will be spoilt for choice for things to do.
Ring of Kerry
This is Ireland's best known tour. The 110-mile (176km) circuit of the Iveragh Peninsula is a marvelous roller-coaster drive over mountain passes, through forest, bog-land, by rivers and lakes and by beaches. Experience some of Ireland's most spectacular scenery as well as visit some amazing historical sites. Stop off along the way in some of the many towns for a bite to eat or a walk along some of the many trails.
Killarney National Park
The National Park comprises of 10,000 hectares (24,700 acres) of beautiful lake and mountain scenery. Entrance to the park is free. The Park is famous for its' native natural habitats and species including oakholly woods, yew woods and red deer. The National Park Visitor Centre (located at Muckross House) and the Information Point at Torc Waterfall provide information on all aspects of the park. Access for visitors with disabilities to The Visitor Centre. The Education Centre, located at Knockreer House, provides a range of courses related to nature conservation and the ecology of The National Park for school children, students and other groups.
Muckross House and Gardens
A magnificent Victorian mansion, beautifully situated amidst the splendid and spectacular landscape of Killarney National Park/Muckross Lake. Embrace tradition by visiting Muckross Traditional Farms representing the lifestyles and farming traditions of rural Ireland in the 1930s.
Ross Castle
This Castle may be considered a typical example of the stronghold of an Irish Chieftain during the Middle Ages. The date of its foundation is uncertain but it was probably built in the late 15th century by one of the O'Donoghue Ross chieftains. It is surrounded by a fortified bawn, its curtain walls defended by circular flanking towers, two of which remain. Much of the bawn was removed by the time the Barrack building was added on the south side of the castle sometime in the middle of the 18th century. The castle contains 16th and 17th century oak furniture. Access for people with disabilities to the ground floor only by prior arrangement.
Torc Waterfall
Torc is the Gaelic word for wild boar. This was the favourite hunting ground for these animals. To reach the top of the waterfall you must be prepared to climb 90 steps.
Ladies View
This gives you a commanding view of the Killarney Lakes and Valley. How "ladies view" got its name is: - Queen Victoria visited Ireland and she brought with her, her Lady's in Waiting. They did the Ring of Kerry tour and when they reached this section of the ring, they were so impressed, that they had a 3 hour stop admiring the view. Hence the name.
Gap of Dunloe
On our doorstep we have Ireland's most scenic glacial valley, renowned for it's tours and as a walking paradise. Kate Kearney's Cottage, dating from the mid-1800s is a popular spot for great food, drink, music and dancing sessions.
Carrauntohill
Ireland's highest mountain, Carrauntohill is part of the MacGillycuddy's Reeks mountain range. Carrauntohill is 1160m high and offers amazing views all the way to the ocean on a clear day. This climb is recommended for experienced hikers only.
Dingle Peninsula
It includes Slea Head and The Conor Pass. Be sure to stop off and see the "Gallarus" oratory. This is one of the finiest early Christian churches in Ireland. The dry-stone oratory was built in the 12th century.
Since 1983, Dingle Bay hosts of bottle-nose dolphin named "Fungi". Boat trips are available daily from the harbuor to see him.
In Dingle town you can also visit Dingle Oceanworld which includes cute but deadly Piranhas, Pacu, Catfish and more. It also has a state of the art Shark tank and a 9m underwater tunnel where you can gaze in awe as a multitude of marine life swim overhead.
For something completely novel and fun, how aout tackling a 10-point quiz trail in a six-acre field of corn. This maze is the work of internationally recognised Adrian Fisher, who designed mazes in 23 countries.
Walking in Kerry
Kerry is a walker's paradise with some of the most amazing trails and hikes in the world. Here are just some of the walks in the local area:
- Dinis and the Middle Lake - lots of trails, lakes, bridges, a waterfall and Muckross House - 24km from Killarney and 16km from the Lake Hotel
- Muckross House and Gardens - Musuem and gardens, Torc Waterfall and the Old Boathouse - 2km to 7km
- Across the front of Torc Mountain - Old Hermits Hut, viewing towers overlooking the lake and town. Most of the walk is under plant cover, excellent for wet days - from Torc car park, 4km
- Muckross House and Gardens - Huge array of plants and trees and the start of many walks from this trail - 1km+
- Carrantoohil - For experienced hikers only. Offers excellent views on a clear day all the way to the sea - 10km+
- The Devil's Armpit - Follow the trail from Torc Waterfall/Torc Carpark - 4km
- Rosbeigh Beach - Located just beyond Glenbeigh - 5/6 km of sand, 10km round trip
- Lake Hotel to Muckross Abbey (Lake Shore) - Walker's heaven. You can access many walks from the entrance to the park at the Late Hotel on Muckross Road - 5km
- National Park & Knockreer House and Gardens - Use the entrance opposite St. Mary's Cathedral; take the road to the right of Deenagh cottage for Knockreer House and Gardens and experience wonderful views of the lake, an hour well spent. Take the road left and follow the river to the lake shore and on to Ross Castle. Very short or long walks are available here - 2km to 10km
- Ross Castle and the Copper Mines - Tour the old Castle and visit Library point and the Copper Mines - 2km to 6km
Golfing in Kerry
Kerry is home to some of the most beautiful and famous golf courses in Ireland
- Ballybunion Golf Course
- Killorglin Golf Course
- Castleisland Golf Course
- Tralee Golf Course
- Killarney Golf & Fishing Club
- Ross Golf Course
- Castlerosse Golf Club
- Dooks Golf Course
- Skellig Bay Golf Course
- Dingle Golf Links
- Kenmare Golf Club
- Beaufort Golf Course
- Dunlow Golf Course
- Waterville Golf Course
- Ring of Kerry Golf Course
