It’s an easy and enjoyable walk to Ross Castle Killarney, Ireland through farmland, along the river, and past the shores of Lough Leane.
From Ross Castle you can visit Innisfallen Island and the Lakes of Killarney, making it one of the best cheap things to do in Killarney, Ring of Kerry.
Ross Castle is thought to have been built in the 15th century by Chieftain O’Donoghue Mór. It is thought to be one of the last to surrender to Oliver Cromwell’s invasion during the Eleven Year’s War.
The Castle has recently been restored and is open to visitors from April to October. You can explore the grounds for free, or join a guided tour of the interior for €5.
Walking to Ross Castle is one of the best things to do in Killarney, especially if you’re on a budget!
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I hadn’t done much research before arriving in Killarney. After dropping my bag at the hostel, I check maps and saw Ross Castle perched out on Lough Leane and decided to set out for it.
How to Get to Ross Castle
You can visit Ross Castle on foot or by jaunting car.
Jaunting cars can be rented (with a driver obviously) from Killarney Jaunting Cars. Prices will be cheaper if you can get a group together to split the cost.
I chose to walk there. There are several different roads that lead to Ross Castle. I decided to follow the one near St Mary’s Cathedral that goes past Deenagh Lodge because that was closest to my hostel.
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This road winds through farmland, then crosses the River Deenagh and continues through the forest.
Soon after it crosses the river, the path forks. Go right at this fork.
The shrubbery grows much denser as we get closer to the shore of the lake. The peace and quiet of the forest is punctuated with chatter as the jaunting cars occasionally trot by.
The road forks again. At this fork, take the left road.
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Innisfallen Island
Just before you reach Ross Castle, a trail veers off to the right. This leads to the old Rowing Club’s shed and a jetty where pre-booked boats can take you to Innisfallen Island.
Trips to Innisfallen Island cost €16 for adults and €13 for children, and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. There are a couple of old ruins on the island including a 12th century Augustinian Priory and a romanesque Church. I didn’t do this boat trip when I visited, but I would if I had more time.
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Ross Castle
Ross Castle seems to be quite well-preserved, considering it was built in the 15th century and endured countless wars and invasions.
You can wander around inside the walls for free, but if you want to enter the castle, entry costs €5.
This will allow you to explore the interior, restored in medieval furnishings, including a dining room and bedroom.
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If you walk around the back of the castle, there is this great chunk of stone on which the castle is built.
I know that the castle served as a defence, but I can’t help but feel like those windows are just so small! It must have been so dark inside when it was inhabited.
Behind the castle there is a tree with a bench surrounding it which makes a great place to sit and observe the magnificent view across the lake.
There is also a jetty where you’ll find boat companies offering tours of the lake.
There is a cafe beside Ross Castle. I didn’t check out the menu but it seemed to be very popular.
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Ross Castle is one of the best things to do in Killarney, and its easy to visit on foot if you’re on a budget!
Killarney/Ireland Basics
Currency: The Euro.
Cash or Card: Either is perfectly fine, I never had an issue with not carrying cash.
Visas: Ireland provides 90 day tourist visas to most passport holders.
Although the Republic of Ireland is part of the European Union (EU), it is not part on the Schengen Zone.
If you haven’t heard about the Schengen Zone, read about it here before visiting Europe. It is a group of countries in Europe that allow visitors to apply for one encompassing tourist visa that covers all the countries in the Zone. With a Schengen Visa you can enter and move between any country in the agreement freely for up to 90 days in every 180 days.
Basically, this means that most tourists can visit Ireland for up to 90 days in addition to 90 days in Schengen countries.
Check on the Irish Immigration page whether you need to apply for a visa before arriving. Travellers from many countries can get a visa on arrival.
What to Bring to Killarney
Read my UK carry-on packing list to get an idea of what things you need to bring for Ireland’s climate.
You absolutely need a rain-jacket or umbrella. It WILL rain, so be prepared!
How to Get to/from Killarney
From Dublin
To get to Killarney from abroad you first need to fly to Dublin.
Catch the train from Dublin Heuston to Killarney, stopping at Mallow.
From Galway
Take the train to Limerick (2 hours). Catch the bus from Arthurs Quay bus stop (in front of Arthurs Quay Park) to Killarney (1 hour 40 mins).
Where to Stay in Killarney
$ Hostel $
Black Sheep Hostel
68 New Street, Killarney, Ireland.
This is hands-down the best hostel I’ve ever stayed in. The beds are so comfy, and they have curtains and big lockers. You get a free breakfast and the hostel owners have two cute little dachshunds. Check availability or see other options.
$$ Hotel $$
Foley’s Townhouse Killarney
This guesthouse is perfectly located right on High Street. The rooms are simple but elegant, and you get free breakfast which guests confirm is delicious. Check availability or see other options.
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