Best Nature and Parks (RV, National, Dog, etc) in Kenmare

"A bounty of tropical vegetation that sits incongruously on a craggy island, Ilnacullin Island (also known as Garnish Island) is home to Asian trees, shrubs and exotic flowers. Set across 37 acres (15ha), the plants benefit from a distinct microclimate, sheltered by the warmth of the sea in Bantry Bay. It’s a sublime sight, and a short 15-minute ferry trip transports you from Glengarriff Pier to this tropical-themed island."

"This horticultural miracle of an island was created in the early 20th century when the island's owner commissioned architect Harold Peto to design a garden on the then-barren outcrop. Topsoil was shipped in,... Top ChoiceFort in Kinsale"

"Many visitors head to Glengarriff because of that Irish Eden, Ilnacullin. On Garnish Island, offshore from Glengarriff and beyond islets…"

"This impressive Victorian mansion is crammed with fascinating objects (70% of the contents are original). Portraits by John Singer Sargent adorn the walls alongside trophy stags heads and giant stuffed trout, while antique Killarney furniture, with its distinctive inlaid scenes of local beauty spots, graces the grand apartments along with tapestries, Persian rugs, silverware and china specially commissioned for Queen Victoria's visit in 1861. It's 5km south of Killarney, signposted from the N71."

"So we opted to explore Killarney National Park a bit, which included a tour of Ross Castle and a visit to Muckross House and its gardens. Ross CastleMuckross House"

"Enclosed within Killarney's 10,236-hectare (26,000-acre) national park are beautiful Lough Leane (the Lower Lake or 'Lake of Learning'), Muckross Lake and the Upper Lake, as well as the Mangerton, Torc, Shehy and Purple Mountains. Areas of oak and yew woodland stretch for miles. This is wonderful walking and biking country."

"So we opted to explore Killarney National Park a bit, which included a tour of Ross Castle and a visit to Muckross House and its gardens. Ross CastleMuckross House"

"5km West of Ballingeary on R584 to Bantry, at the Pass of Keimaneigh, Gougane Barra, Ballingeary Ireland+353 21 488 2218http://www.coillteoutdoors.ie/index.php?"

"Opened in 1837 as a hunting lodge, this magnificent estate sprawls over 17 hectares incorporating a waterfall, beach and six different gardens, ranging from palms to a primeval fern forest with dinosaurs carved from fallen trees. Ireland's longest rope bridge, the 33.5m Skywalk, sways precariously 11m above the River Delligeenagh, which swirls through the property.Walled kitchen gardens and farm animals provide ingredients for its Thai restaurant (mains €10 to €15.50). It's also possible to stay here (double/suite from €85/140)."

"More than 20 years in the making, this interactive sculpture garden is imaginative, thought-provoking and humorous, with nature and art working together to provide an unforgettable walk in the woods."

"Not all bars have big budgets or lots of easy-to-convert space or pavements - but places like Bob's Bar in Kanturk show what you can do with a bit of ingenuity, lots of hard work and (we're guessing) 15 trips to the nearest Woodies. The pub on Percival Street in the north Cork town started out in early May with a pretty basic backyard and garden back at the start of May. And a few weeks of hard work later - they've lovely covered pods, loads of space and lots of fairy lights."

"Finally, we’re onto one of the more unique restaurants Killarney has to offer. Fans of the Lord of the Ring movies will most definitely want to check out Killarney’s Shire Bar and Café. With hobbit-themed interiors, a visit to this café feels like stepping inside Middle Earth."

"A truly unique pub that’s a definite must-visit in Killarney. The Shire was named after the homeland of the hobbits in Middle Earth, a fictional world created by the late great J. R. R. Tolkien in his fantasy book series Lord of The Rings."

"The Avenue Hotel is another of the more popular places to stay in Killarney if you want to be based right at the thick of it. Combining comfort with a budget-friendly price, Killarney Avenue Hotel is one of the best choices for those looking for cheap hotels close to Killarney town centre. This elegant four-star hotel has 66 beautiful rooms with large windows, high-end furnishings and luxurious bedding close to Kenmare Place and the entrance to Killarney National Park."

"If your perfect evening is holed up in a traditional Irish pub, then the snug and welcoming Kenmare Rooms at the Killarney Avenue Hotel is just the ticket. Find yourself a cosy corner with a pint of Guinness and kick-back with the locals to enjoy some live music. A town centre location also means plenty of other local pubs are within an easy stroll, plus you have the famous Golden Gate entrance to Killarney National Park just opposite."

"When you go to a pub and The Ring of Kerry is on its doorstep, you know you've done pretty bloody well. Known as having the best boxty (potato cakes) in Ireland, Bricin is as much of a favourite with locals as it is with tourists – meaning you know it's legit."

"Located in the heart of Killarney on High Street, Bricin has been serving tasty traditional Irish meals for over 20 years. When I say tasty, I mean mind-blowingly delicious. Their signature Irish boxty is to die for, as is the roast supreme of chicken."

"Known to serve the best boxty in Ireland, Bricín has gained quite a name for itself. A favourite amongst locals and tourists alike. Header image: @siobhainautumn @jenniyoung"

"Located on Cork Road and close to Daly’s Supermarket (where you can get some supplies for the day), this little cafe has an impressive selection for breakfast. Whether you want a full Irish or mini breakfast, there is something for everyone on the menu here. The omelette is ideal for anyone who can’t live without cheese and there is also porridge if you fancy some slow-burning carbs to prep you for the day."

"If you’re travelling on a budget, The Black Sheep Hostel will offer you that much needed cheap accommodation in Killarney. The mixed and female dormitories have comfortable bunk beds each with its own light bulb and privacy curtains. You can use your sleeping bag if you wish but the hostel still provides clean bedding for every bed."

"Nestled on New Market Lane, this quirky little cafe fires up a tasty feed for all who ramble through its doors. Out the front are cable-drum tables so you can sit and sip on your tea or coffee while enjoying a wee bit of fresh air. The breakfast menu is pretty varied; from breakfast smoothies to banana-chocolate bread to savoury pancakes to homemade soups."

"The curious cat is a wonderful cafe, as quirky as its name and with attentive and friendly staff. Vegetarians are in their element here – the cafe has a wide range of delectable baked treats, such as banana bread and brownies. The star of their daily specials menu is always their homemade soup."