The paths travels alongside the raod for about a kilometre, before veering right into the Yew Valley Wood and towards the 15th century Muckross Abbey. Take time at the abbey and explore the well-preserved ruins and vaulted cloister. Muckross Abbey was also the burial place of local chieftains, and in the 17th and 18th centuries, the three Gaelic poets, Geoffrey O’Donoghue, Aodhagan O’Rathaille and Eoghan Rua O’Suilleabhain.
From here, travel on past Muckross Traditional Farms and the fine Victorian mansion that is Muckross House. Guided tours are available of the house and a tour of the Farms is a must for both adults and kids alike. Muckross Craft Centre, located close to the house has a great restaurant and shop as well as a number of craft workshops which include Bookbinding, Weaving and Pottery.
Beyond Muckross House lies the famous Torc Waterfall. You’ll need to walk for 5-10 minutes from the road to see the waterfall.
If you have more time, the Muckross-Dinis loop around Muckross Lake is a great trip. Be sure to travel the loop in an anti-clockwise direction only.
From the Cathedral Place, you can cycle north on the Fossa Way towards the village of Fossa or alternatively head west towards Killarney Golf and Fishing Club (beware of golfers playing across the paths, so prepare to dismount). You can also cycle to Ross Castle and Ross Island to enjoy the Copper Mines trail and the views from Governor’s Rock and Library Point.
There are some lovely deli’s in town if you want to bring a packed lunch. Cycling back the Killarney you can stop for refreshments at either Kate Kearney’s (just as you get to the main road) or just slightly further (200m) on Heather Restaurant (lovely home baking) to fuel up for the 10km cycle back to town. You will be on the main road for most of this part but once you pass the Hotel Europe (4-5km from end of Gap) on the right and side of the road you will see the entrance to a cycle path, that allows you to cycle through the park back to the town centre away from all the cars
The rate for Bike €15.00 per person and includes helmets, repair kits and locks and you would need to be at our shop on Beech Road between 9.00am and 9.30am to be fitted for your bike and make your way to Ross Castle. Boat tickets can be pre booked direct with either of these companies and check with them the departure time from Ross Castle www.gapofdunloetours.com or www.killarneydaytour.com