Arrive from a drive through the green countryside to Ladies View, a breathtaking panorama over the finest jewels of Killarney. Look out at Black Valley, the Upper and Middle Lakes, the Gap of Dunloe and the mountains of Macgillycuddy Reeks, as well as Derrycunihy Wood, the Eagles Nest and Torc Mountain and Purple Mountain rising around the lakes.
When Queen Victoria visited the region in 1861, her ladies-in-waiting all gasped with delight and awe at this stunning outlook. Standing looking at such beauty, you may feel as if you have stepped into a gorgeous painting. See the clouds moving slowly, high over the view, as they have done for thousands of years. Enjoy brilliant sunshine and see even farther on a clear day. Gently rising ancient mountains frame a meandering blue river that reaches through the landscape to the dreamy horizon beyond.
From Ladies View, see the wonders of Killarney National Park. Leave your vehicle in the parking lot and enjoy a cup of coffee at Ladies View Industries, where you can also find a unique souvenir at the gift shop or have a drink at the bar. The shop has local treasures such as jewelry, perfumes and sheepskins. Walk down into the valley, a popular place to take photos.
Spend the day at Ladies View or make it a stopping point on a longer journey for a breath of fresh mountain air. Follow a narrow winding road to reach this point, well worth the journey. Every time you return to Ladies View you’ll have the treat of seeing how the colors change with the time of day. Notice new details in the light and shadows of the panoramic view.
Find Ladies View on the beloved Ring of Kerry road, about 11 miles (17 kilometers) from Killarney on the way toward Kenmare. If the weather is good and you feel like getting some exercise, make the trip by bicycle.
