Discover Parknasilla: Coast, Trails and History

Parknasilla combines expansive natural surroundings with trails that offer a variety of experiences: they lead through woodland and along the coast, across islands or to the ruins of Derryquin Castle. Parknasilla Resort is set on an estate covering 500 acres. Views of the sea and mountains shape the character of the area; ten mapped walking trails wind through lush vegetation and abundant wildlife.

Experience the Natural Surroundings and Coastal Landscape

The Seashore Discovery Walk passes through dunes, beaches, woodland, meadows and islands, and also takes in underwater habitats. It is about more than simply getting from one place to another: the walk shows you how to identify and photograph birds, flowers, insects, trees, seaweed, fish and invertebrates. It’s a way to take a closer look at the landscape and notice its different habitats along the way.

If you prefer a shorter loop, several of the trails described here are options with gentle inclines. The Sea Trails take 30 minutes and lead from the water through woodland. They also offer the chance to swim in the open sea. The Seal Trail also takes 30 minutes, leading through coastal and woodland scenery and offering the chance to see seals in open water.

Walking Trails with Different Highlights

The trails vary in length, incline and scenery. The Island Trails are 45-minute routes with gentle inclines that cross several islands. The Bishops Trail takes 1 hour and 10 minutes. It follows a gentle incline through woodland, along stretches of coastline and beside a stream; its name commemorates Dr. Graves, the Bishop of Limerick. The route known as Bessies Trails takes 50 minutes, has a gentle incline and is associated with Bessie, the Graves family’s longtime housekeeper.

For a longer outing, consider the Herons Trail: it takes 1 hour and 30 minutes, climbs gently and leads to the top of one of the islands. At 1 hour and 40 minutes, the Clashnacree Trail is the longest of the routes described here. It has a moderate incline and offers 360-degree views of the Kenmare River and the mountains along the way. The ten mapped walking trails are suitable for all ages and fitness levels. When choosing a route, you can focus on your preferred walking time, incline and scenery.

Ruins and the Resort’s History

The Castle Trail combines woodland and coastal stretches, passing the ruins of Derryquin Castle and walled gardens. The castle’s history dates back to a turbulent period in Ireland: Derryquin Castle was one of almost 40 historic houses in Ireland burned down by the Irish Republican Army during the unrest of 1922.

The 70-minute History Walk offers a different perspective: a guided tour through the resort’s history. It covers Derryquin Castle as well as Dorothy Bland’s family history, which is intertwined with that of the hotel. If you’d like to combine nature with historical themes, you can make these insights a focus of your stay alongside the trails.

More Activities in Parknasilla

For an outing on the water, guided kayak tours with experienced guides are offered in Parknasilla along the Kerry coast. The Sunfish Explorer Kayaking Tours set off directly from the pier. The Parknasilla Golf Club offers another way to spend time outdoors: its parkland course has nine holes and is played over 18 holes as a par 72.

Wellness is also part of what’s on offer locally. The Spa at Parknasilla offers spa treatments and natural therapies, including massages, body and facial treatments, as well as hydrotherapy. The spa also has a large swimming pool with floor-to-ceiling windows. Whether you focus on walking, history, kayaking, golf or relaxation, the range of experiences can help you decide what kind of Parknasilla trip suits your interests.

More places to discover: Ballybunion, Chapeltown, Dingle, Ballyheige, Valentia Island, Cahersiveen, Glenbeigh and Ballynaskreena.

For the broader travel overview: County Kerry.