Ireland: Killarney NP – Exploring the Park

Killarney National Park was Ireland’s first national park and really is its prime jewel – a vast expanse of rugged mountains, twisting roads with mountain passes, but also lower elevation forests and many lakes. It is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve because it has some of the most unique biological habitats in Europe, including the country’s most extensive remaining native oak woodlands. The heart of the park revolves around three spectacular interlinked lakes that mirror the surrounding mountain peaks – Lower, Middle, and Upper Lakes. The western part of the park has the highest elevation and most panoramic vistas, while the east is green and lush with woodlands and lots of unique flora and fauna. Not to be missed is the beautiful Torc Waterfall.