Torc Mountain

Killarney NP lies around and to the south of the stunning Killarney Lakes and is huddled under the first mountains of western Kerry. The lakes are studded with islands, and, with their mountain backdrops, are ridiculously pretty.

Torc mountain dominates the southern side of Muckross Lake.

It is a wonderful climb, with rich gorse, heather and boggy vegetation and magical views across the Upper Lake to Macgillycuddy’s Reeks and, at the 535m peak, over Lough Leane and Muckross Lake.

Torc is accessibly from the old Kenmare road to the south. The path is sensitively maintained to protect the delicate boggy hillsides, with long stretches of heavy sleepers to walk on. 2.5 hours return from the roadhead.

The South-west gets a lot of rain and wind, plus cloud/fog and occasional winter snow on high ground. There is little shelter on the mountains, either from sun or rain. Be prepared, both mentally and with the right kit.

(The photos on this page were taken on a beautiful but hazy/stormy day. Imagine the views in clear light!)

See our Killarney NP and Iveragh Peninsula pages for more general and practical information and photos.