Wander from Killarney town centre and chances are you’ll quickly find yourself in the spectacular landscape of Ireland’s most famous national park. Its 10,000 hectares of purple mountains, glassy lakes, primeval forests and abandoned valleys have been pulling in the crowds since Killarney was founded for that purpose in 1750. Today, all manner of tours set off from the town, including hiking, biking, sailing and riding. The less energetic can explore some of the park in a horse-drawn jaunting carriage. The National Park Visitor Centre is at Muckross House.
