Killarney

Killarney National Park, established in 1932, is Ireland's first and most celebrated national park, encompassing over 102 square kilometres of spectacular scenery in County Kerry in the southwest of the country. The park was created following the generous donation of the Muckross Estate by the Bourn and Vincent families to the Irish state, in memory of Maud Vincent. It protects a remarkable landscape of mountain peaks, ancient woodlands, and the famous Lakes of Killarney, which together form one of the most biodiverse areas in Ireland. The park was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1981 in recognition of its exceptional ecological value and ongoing conservation efforts. Killarney is home to Ireland's only native red deer herd, the largest remaining area of ancient oak woodland in the country, and one of just three pure yew woodlands in all of Europe. Situated beside the bustling town of Killarney, the park draws over a million visitors annually, making it one of Ireland's premier natural attractions.