Parknasilla Resort is set on a 500-acre estate, offering impressive views of the sea and mountains. Ten mapped walking trails wind through 500 acres of lush vegetation and abundant wildlife. The routes vary in duration, gradient and scenery, with woodland and coastal sections, island trails and viewpoints each offering their own highlights. The mapped walking trails are suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Walking Trails by Duration and Scenery
The Sea Trails and the Seal Trail each take 30 minutes and have a gentle gradient. The Sea Trails lead from the water through woodland, with the opportunity to swim in the open sea. The Seal Trail passes through coastal and woodland scenery, where you may be able to see seals in open water.
The Island Trails take 45 minutes, have a gentle gradient and cross several islands. The Bessies Trail is a 50-minute route with a gentle gradient, associated with Bessie, the long-time housekeeper of the Graves family. The Bishops Trail takes 1 hour and 10 minutes. It has a gentle gradient and passes through woodland, along coastal sections and beside a stream, commemorating Dr Graves, the Bishop of Limerick.
The Herons Trail is listed as taking 1 hour and 30 minutes. The route has a gentle gradient and leads to the top of one of the islands. The Clashnacree Trail takes 1 hour and 40 minutes and has a moderate gradient. Its viewpoint offers 360-degree views of the Kenmare River and the mountains. The timings help you choose routes according to the time available, without treating them as walks of equal duration.
Coast, Wildlife Watching and Kayaking
The Seashore Discovery Walk focuses on dunes, beaches, woodland, meadows, islands and underwater habitats. The walk explains how to identify and photograph birds, flowers, insects, trees, seaweed, fish and invertebrates. Check the dates for the Seashore Discovery Walk before your trip.
Guided kayak tours led by experienced guides are available in Parknasilla along the coast of Kerry. The Sunfish Explorer Kayaking Tours depart directly from the pier. The tours are subject to weather and tide conditions; as departure arrangements may change, it is advisable to check the current tour itinerary and pier departure in advance.
Trails and Tours with a Historical Connection
The Castle Trail includes woodland and coastal sections and passes the ruins of Derryquin Castle and the walled gardens. Derryquin Castle was one of nearly 40 historic houses in Ireland burned down by the Irish Republican Army in 1922 during the unrest. The 70-minute History Walk is a guided tour of the resort’s history. It covers Derryquin Castle and the family history of Dorothy Bland, intertwined with that of the hotel.
Spa and Golf
The Spa at Parknasilla is located in Parknasilla on the Ring of Kerry. It offers spa treatments and natural therapies, including massages, body treatments, facials and hydrotherapy. The spa has a large swimming pool with floor-to-ceiling windows. As the selection of treatments may change, check the current offering in advance.
Parknasilla Golf Club is a 9-hole parkland course played over 18 holes as a par 72. As the course configuration may change, check the details before your round.
Discover more destinations: Fybagh, Ventry, Anascaul, Tralee, Ardfert, Mastergeehy, Kenmare, Aughrim.
For the main travel overview: County Kerry.
