Library Point On Ross Island, just over 2km from Ross Castle, is Library Point, a limestone rock formation on the shores of Lough Leane. The limestone rock has been eroded to form a pattern that resembles books stacked on a shelf. The beautiful trail that leads out to Library Point is an idyllic journey through woodland tracks and lakeshore paths along a peaceful peninsular trail. The trail to Library Point is just over 2 km from the Castle via the most direct route. Start the trail near an old mining cart at the rear of the castle. Follow the path along passing the derelict Ross Cottage. Soon you will pass a gap in the trees where you catch your first glimpse of Lough Leane.
Kenmare Road
Lay-by The Falls The Cascade Ladies View
You will soon reach the first signposted junction. Turn right here to head for Library Point & The Governor’s Rock. The path rises up slightly as we head into the heart of Ross Island through some magnificent woodlands. The meandering trail rolls down again to a bend in the path where we turn off right towards Library Point. From here it is about 1km to Library Point. The lakeshore opens up at secluded bays along this stretch with wonderful views of the McGillycuddy Reeks across Lough Leane.
Towards the end of the trail, you can wander around the pathways until you find a low fence towards the edge of the peninsula. Underneath this fence at the water’s edge is the rock formation known as Library Point. You can return back to Ross Castle by retracing your steps on the path. However, there is a much nicer route via a lakeshore path around the head of the peninsula. After about 10 minutes you will re-join the main trail. Follow this path to arrive back to your starting point at the old mining cart near the main car park. Library Point is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the vibrant visitor hot spot that is Ross Castle. The meandering paths through woodland and along the lakeshore to take you there make this one of the most rewarding trails of Killarney National Park.
Ross Road
Library Point
Ross Castle Grovenors Rock
Ross Island
Derrycunnihy Church
Derrycunnihy Cascade The famous Ring of Kerry route attracts visitors from all over the world every year. The section between Moll’s Gap and Muckross, on the outskirts of Killarney, is one of the highlights of the route. It is here that you will find a beautiful area of Killarney National Park known as Derrycunnihy. Hidden in the oak woods just off the main N71 road, Derrycunnihy Cascade & Falls is a magical place of natural beauty. Situated approximately 12km south of Killarney town on the N71 road that heads to Kenmare, the best starting point for Derrycunnihy Cascade is at a small lay-by on the right hand side of the road, about 1km before Derrycunnihy church. If you miss the lay by and reach the church, turn back here and the lay by should be easier to spot second time round. There is room for a couple of cars by the side of the road. From the gate by the roadside, follow a woodland path for just under 1km. As the path opens out to a river bank on your left hand side, a wooden footbridge heralds your arrival at the Derrycunnihy lower falls. The falls are just beyond the bridge and you can follow a grassy path by the river bank to get
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a wonderful view of the falls. The river bank is a great spot for a summer picnic or to just enjoy the falls and the adjoining pools. Nearby was the site where a hunting lodge was built for the visit of Queen Victoria to Killarney in 1861. Unfortunately, no trace of the cottage remains today. Retracing your steps, cross over the bridge again. Immediately after you cross the bridge, leave the main path and find a trail to your right hand side along the river bank, heading upstream against the flow of the river. In a few hundred metres you will arrive at the Cascade. After taking in the sights and sounds of the Cascade, make your way back along the river bank to the main path and return to your starting point.
by
Donal O’Leary
A native of Killarney and writes about the wonders of Killarney National Park on KillarneyGuide.ie. You can read about some of the great walks and hikes in the area and get a free eBook by signing up at www.killarneyguide.ie
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