Private Killarney Jaunting Car Tour & Afternoon Tea — Ross Castle and National Park Ride
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be able to board a low carriage and sit for extended periods.
Overview
A private three‑hour jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park followed by classic afternoon tea at the Great Southern Hotel — an unfussy blend of local history, oak woodland, lakeside views, and culinary comfort.
Private Killarney Jaunting Car Tour & Afternoon Tea — Ross Castle and National Park Ride
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The clip-clop of a single horse cuts through Killarney’s cool air as the jaunting car eases away from the Great Southern Hotel. Trees press close on either side—old oaks that have stood through centuries of weather—while the Jarvey, perched high and dry, points out the lowing of the last remaining Red Deer herd in Ireland. For three hours, the carriage sets the pace: conversational, unhurried, an old rhythm that forces you to look slowly and listen carefully.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Meet at the Great Southern Hotel
Arrive 10–15 minutes early; the driver meets guests outside opposite Killarney Train Station for on-time departures.
Dress in layers and bring rain protection
Weather in Kerry changes quickly—waterproof outerwear and a warm mid-layer keep you comfortable in an open carriage.
Bring a small camera or phone with extra battery
Stops like Ross Castle offer great photo opportunities; low light around the lakes can drain batteries faster than expected.
Mind the wildlife
Keep voices low near the red deer herd and stay seated unless the Jarvey indicates it’s safe to disembark for photos.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Red Deer (the park’s last remaining herd)
- Buzzards and songbirds in the oak woodland
History
Killarney’s landscape reflects both monastic settlement and later 19th-century estate management; Ross Castle dates to the 15th century and played roles in local clan conflicts.
Conservation
Killarney National Park is actively managed to protect ancient oak woodlands and native species; visitors are asked to stay on approved routes to limit habitat disturbance.
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Adventure Hotspots in Killarney
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry and blocks wind in Ireland’s changeable spring weather.
spring specific
Warm mid-layer (fleece or sweater)
Useful for chilly mornings or open-carriage exposure in colder months.
winter specific
Compact camera or smartphone
To capture Ross Castle, the lakes, and the deer without carrying bulky gear.
Binoculars
Helps spot the red deer and birdlife across the lakes and through the woodlands.
summer specific