10 Rainy Day Activities in Killarney During Your Stay at The Brehon
Rainy days in Killarney? We say: embrace them! As we know, summer in Ireland can be unpredictable… while the blue skies light up the greenery of the park and the blue hues of the lake, rainy days can be just as magical, and there’s plenty to do indoors as well!
Indoor Activities In Killarney
If you don’t fancy braving the elements and are looking to stay cosy inside, there’s plenty to do both inside and outside the hotel.
1. Discover Killarney’s Historic Sights
Killarney is rich in history, and a rainy day is the perfect excuse to explore some of its most famous sites. Muckross House was famously visited by Queen Victoria in 1861. This is actually where ‘Ladies View’ originated from, as her ladies admired this spectacular view on their visit to Killarney. Muckross House offers a glimpse into the grandeur of 19th-century estate life.
Ross Castle, perched on the edge of Lough Leane, dates back to the 15th century. This castle was the last place in Munster to hold out against Oliver Cromwell when he led the reconquest of Ireland by the Commonwealth of England in the 17th Century. The castle is open for guided tours that bring the story of the past to life.
St. Mary’s Cathedral is another must-see. Construction began in 1842, but progress was halted during the Great Famine. The building became a shelter for the poor and sickly of the town. It wasn’t until 1853 that work resumed, with the interior finally completed in 1907.
Killarney House and Gardens was hidden behind high walls for decades, the house had fallen into disrepair until a full restoration brought it back to its former glory. The House and Gardens are open to the public now.
2. Visit Killarney Brewing Company
The Killarney Brewing Company sits along the Ring of Kerry overlooking the MacGillycuddy Reeks. Take a tour of the brewery, where you’ll see the brewing team in action and sample three of their signature beers in the tasting room. Killarney Brewing Company also have a distillery where you can take a similar tour but for their whiskey. Discover the history of Irish whiskey, admire the striking architecture of the building, and finish with a tasting of their whiskeys.
3. Relax in the Vitality Pool
Put on your robe and slippers in your bedroom and head down to Anú Spa on the ground floor. All hotel guests have complimentary access to our Vitality Suite. You can enjoy a range of experiences: sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, tropical shower, Kubledusche bucket shower and ice fountain. The Vitality Suite has a 12m heated pool and loungers to relax on.
4. Indulge in a Treatment at Anú Spa
Take the extra step in Anú Spa and book yourself a treatment. We offer a range of treatments, from targeted deep-tissue massages and brightening facials to the simple bliss of an Indian Head Massage. Pre-booking is recommended when going for a treatment.
Outdoor Activities
If you came prepared – raincoat, umbrella and plenty of spare changes of clothes… nothing can you stop you! We’ve put together a list of the most rewarding outdoor activities.
1. Watch Torc Waterfall in Full Flow
Torc Waterfall is at its most spectacular after rainfall, as the water tumbles down a 20m height. It is set within a lush woodland, creating a magical experience as you walk up to the waterfall.
2. Take a Jaunting Cart Ride Over the Gap of Dunloe
Blue skies are only optional for a jaunting cart ride over the Gap of Dunloe. Formed during the last ice age over 25,000 years ago, the Gap of Dunloe was carved by slow-moving glaciers that carved a narrow mountain pass between the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and Purple Mountain. The Gap of Dunloe is breathtaking on a clear blue sky as it is with looming clouds coming down from the mountains. This dramatic landscape is equally impressive beneath a clear blue sky or even under heavy skies, with clouds drifting down from the mountains.
3. Explore the Trails of Ross Island
A raincoat will do when you’re roaming the sheltered Ross Island trails. Wind your way through woodlands to discover hidden gems like Copper Mines, Library Point, and Governor’s Rock. The 200-year-old trees overhead will protect you from the showers. No cars allowed – just peace and natural beauty.
4. Browse the Shops in Killarney
Rainy weather makes for the perfect retail therapy opportunity. Explore Killarney’s mix of high street names, charity shops and souvenir shops. A favourite amongst tourists is the unexpected ‘duck shop’ on High Street.
5. Visit Killarney’s Hidden Gem – The Blue Pool
Blue Pool is located just across from Muckross and is home to two walking trails that loop around. The Blue Pool is a former open-pit mine that’s now filled with water. The copper and minerals left behind give the water a striking, almost surreal blue colour. This is a magical spot in any weather, but when rain falls gently through the tall woodland canopy and ripples across the surface of the pool, it creates an otherworldly, almost enchanted atmosphere.
6. Cosy up in one of Killarney’s many pubs
If you’re in the mood to venture out while still keeping dry, cosy up in one of Killarney’s many traditional Irish pubs – the perfect way to spend a rainy afternoon, tucked away with a pint, live music, and the unmistakable joy of being on holiday, rain or shine.
With Killarney’s rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes, there’s always something to do. At The Brehon, we’ve got the warmth, the welcome, and the inspiration to help you enjoy every moment, regardless of the weather.