Cycling is one of the best ways to explore Killarney and experience the beautiful landscapes and here at Great Southern Killarney we have complimentary bicycles availabe at the hotel for our guests to avail of. There are many cycle routes and paths which will allow you to soak up the magnificent surrounds and take in views of the stunning mountains and lakes that can be found across Killarney and local areas. The following is a brief overview of our recommended cycling routes.
Killarney National Park- Muckross & Dinis Loop
This wonderful cycling trail which covers a total of 25km takes you around the beautiful Muckross Lake. The cycle begins at Killarney Town and continues out past Muckross Abbey to Muckross House and out past Dinis Cottage. This route is off the main road and is accessible throughout the entire year. This is a very family-friendly cycle with scenery galore.
Killarney National Park- Ross Island & Knockreer
This is a very varied route where you can choose from a number of paths in the area. The former Knockreer Estate is a great place to view the beautiful Red Deer herd of Killarney National Park. The paths through Knockreer connect with Ross Island where you can explore the old Copper Mining Trail, Library Point and Governor's Rock as well as the famous Ross Castle.
Killarney to the Gap of Dunloe, The Black Valley and return via Mills Gap & Ladies View
This is most definitely one of the most scenic routes and is where you will see the best of Kerry. The cycle which covers 56km takes you through the Gap of Dunloe and the Black Valley which are among the most renowned areas for tourists to visit while in Kerry. The majority of this route is on quiet roads with very little traffic which provides ample opportunity to soak up the surrounds and take in the views of the Lakes of Killarney, MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Ladies View and Muckross Park.
Ring of Kerry
This is arguably the best known cycling route in Kerry. Covering 180km, this famous route which attracts thousands of cyclists each year to take part in a charity cycle, is one of the most picturesque & scenic routes that you will find. You will travel along quiet country roads through many small towns and villages while soaking up the breath-taking scenery and experiencing charming hospitality. The route is open all year round and should ideally be done over a few days in order to truly appreciate the magnificent variety of scenery. The Ring of Kerry us divided into seven sections, starting in Killarney but can be joined at any point along the way.
Killarney National Park- The Fossa Way
This route offers cyclist stunning views of the Killarney Lakes and mountains from a high point near Cnoc na Rí. The Fossa Way travels through the Killarney National Park and on as far as the small village of Fossa which is about 3 miles outside Killarney. The most recent pathway along the Deenagh River, meets up with the Fossa way and forms an ideal route which will bring you straight back into Killarney Town.
Cycling is without a doubt one of the best ways of exploring Killarney and the beautiful surrounding areas of the town. To avail of our hotel bicycles please contact our Reception team. There are also several places that you can rent bikes throughout Killarney. So no matter what bicycle is used, you will be spoilt for choice of stunning cycling routes where magnificent views of the mountains and lakes await you.