Top 20 Lakes around Kenmare Municipal District

A wonderfully serene spot with views across the Lough Inchaquin, one of a series of lakes that feed into the Kenmare River.

Beautiful corners everywhere.

One of the most incredible landscapes in all of Ireland. A series of lakes connected to each other, immersed in green mountains and fields of free-grazing sheep. Very easy trekking on a paved road, occasionally used by cars and horse-drawn carriages. In a couple of places you can reach the water of the lake and sit on the shore.

The journey through this gorge is a special adventure, where you will repeatedly pass by "lost places" - abandoned paths, mystical corners and old, overgrown fences that tell of times gone by. The silence here is overwhelming, only occasionally interrupted by the gentle rustling of the wind or the bleating of sheep. It is a place that makes you feel far away from the modern world - perfect for anyone who wants to experience nature in its wildest form.

This hike takes you through a breathtaking gorge, which opens into the vast, tranquil landscape of the lake through the "gate." The narrow path winds between steep rock faces, offering you repeatedly impressive views of the clear water and the surrounding hills. You can literally feel nature setting the pace here – the calm waves of the lake, the green vegetation stretching over the rocks, and the recurring feeling of vastness. The path is narrow and a bit challenging in places, but that only makes the hike all the more exciting. I particularly liked the small bridges that repeatedly cross the route – perfect for pausing to admire the scenery. Andy's tip is a good one: There are numerous photo spots along the route that you shouldn't miss. One tip: Even though the route is quite popular, you can usually find a quiet corner to take in the scenery. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to fully enjoy the hike and escape the crowds. It's also worth exploring the route on foot or in one of the traditional horse-drawn carriages – this way you avoid the busy roads and experience the area more intensely. For me, the "Gate & Lake" route is a place of contrasts: from the narrow passage through the gate to the vast, tranquil lake landscape. It's a hike that's not only physically challenging but also offers repeated moments of peace and reflection. Perfect for connecting with the wild beauty of Ireland.

If you're on a road bike, the route from Ladies View to Muckross Park is definitely one of the highlights of Killarney National Park. The first part of the route takes you through stunning scenery, with sweeping views over the lakes and rolling hills that disappear into the distance. There's something rugged but calming about this area, and on two wheels you'll experience the panorama even more intensely. Ladies View is perfect for a quick stop - take a moment to enjoy the view. If the traffic is right, you can really pick up the pace here, but it's worth slowing down and taking in the surroundings. The narrow roads meander through the hilly terrain, and sometimes you have to watch out for hikers who are enjoying the view as much as you are. A tip: The Avoca Café is the ideal place for a little break. A hot coffee and a slice of cake with a view of this spectacular landscape - that's what makes the tour special. Then, refreshed, you continue towards Muckross Park, where even more impressive nature awaits you. The route is varied, from gentle climbs to fast descents where you can feel the wind in your face. For me, this tour was the perfect mix of sporting challenge and nature experience. And don't worry, even if there are a lot of hikers on the way, as a racing cyclist you will always find your way through this fascinating landscape.

Nestled in a secluded valley, Gleninchaquin Park offers a landscape that manages to combine peace and wildness. The path takes you past clear mountain lakes and small streams that leave their mark through the greenery. The waterfalls that run through the valley give the place a special dynamic - the largest is just a short walk from the car park and rewards all those who take the time to look at it up close. As you drive along the route, there are always opportunities to dismount and explore the surroundings. Old ruins from the Stone Age bear witness to a time long past that has found its quiet place here. The narrow paths and small hills repeatedly allow views into the distance, where the valley spreads out further and the landscape tells its story. The mixture of mountains, water and places steeped in history makes the park special - not a place you just pass through, but one you experience. A tip: If you are looking for peace and quiet away from the main paths, it is worth exploring one of the smaller paths that do not lead directly past the main waterfall.

On the way to Gleninchaquin Park, the path runs directly along the shore of Lough Inchiquin. The gentle waves of the lake glisten in the sunlight as the view sweeps across to the wooded hills. In the distance, the imposing waterfall rises, adding another fascinating element to the landscape. The route invites you to stop and take in the tranquil atmosphere of the lake. Away from the hustle and bustle, you can feel nature directly here - be it through the light wind blowing over the water or the babbling of a small stream flowing into the lough. The path itself is varied, sometimes a little bumpy, sometimes pleasantly smooth, and leads past small bays and green meadows. The area around Lough Inchiquin is also known for its special wildlife, including the rare Kerry snail and the horseshoe bat, a species of bat that finds shelter here. If you take your time, you might be lucky enough to spot some of these native inhabitants. The protected landscape provides an ideal environment for a variety of plant and animal species, which gives the place a special charm.