A 15th-century tower house on the shore of Lough Leane, the last stronghold in Munster to hold out against Cromwell, and the departure point for boats across the Killarney lakes.
The interior is seen by guided tour only, on a first come first served basis, with a maximum of 15 people per tour. Guides lead small groups up worn spiral stairs through the guard room, parlour and Great Hall, past period furniture and tapestries.
Ross Castle was likely built in the 15th century by the chieftain O'Donoghue Mór, who legend says sleeps beneath Lough Leane and rises on a white horse every seven years on the first morning of May.
Walking trails and a bike trail loop through the parkland around the castle, with the Lakeshore Walk linking back towards Killarney town. Ground is stony and uneven in places, so watch your footing.
The castle sits in an inlet of Lough Leane, backed by the mountains of Killarney National Park. Expect swans, ducks and maybe horses on the walk back to the car park.
An interpretive exhibition to the left of the reception desk covers the castle and the history of the area, with information panels and a model of the tower house and its rooms. Entry to the exhibition is free.
Ross Castle is a main departure point for boats on Lough Leane. Operators run guided trips to Innisfallen Island, one of Ireland's oldest monastic settlements, and to the Meeting of the Waters, with tours across all three lakes.
Ross Castle Garden Café, in the grounds, serves freshly ground barista coffee, cakes and pastries, cold drinks and ice cream. A kiosk near the toilets sells drinks, ice creams and light snacks and has a picnic area.
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