Active Pursuits in Killarney

Cycling

Killarney National Park, with its lakeside and forest pathways, trails, and roads, is a paradise for bikers. Bike rental charges average around €20 to €25 per day, €80 to €90 per week. Bicycles can be rented from Killarney Rent-a-Bike, Lower New Street or 49 High Street (www.killarneyrentabike.com; 064/663-1282).

Fishing

Fishing for salmon and brown trout in Killarney’s unpolluted lakes and rivers is a popular pastime. Brown trout fishing is free on the lakes, but a permit is necessary for the rivers Flesk and Laune. Salmon fishing anywhere requires a permit. Permits, tackle, bait, rod rental, and other fishing gear can be obtained from O'Neill's, 6 Plunkett St. (064/663-1970). The shop also arranges boat rentals and ghillies (fishing guides) for around €50 to €100 per day on the Killarney Lakes, leaving from Ross Castle.

Golf

Overlooking the Atlantic ocean, on the southwestern part of the Ring of Kerry, the par-72 Waterville Golf Links, Waterville (www.watervillegolflinks.ie; 066/9476-4102) is considered one of the best courses in Ireland. The 6,200-yard course also has the distinction of containing a “Mass Hole,” a relic of the days when Catholic Mass had to be celebrated in secrecy. Greens fees are €210 weekdays, €230 weekends. Daily second rounds are €100 to €110; early or late €150 and November to March €75. Visitors are always welcome at the twin 18-hole championship courses of the Killarney Golf & Fishing Club, Killorglin Road (N72), Fossa (www.killarney-golf.com; 064/663-1034), 5km (3 miles) west of the town center. Widely praised as one of the most scenic golf settings in the world, its two 18-hole courses—Killeen and Mahony’s Point—have gorgeous lake and mountain layouts. (A third course, Lackabane, is currently being re-developed.) Greens fees are €45 to €110, depending on the course and the time of day.

Horseback Riding

Many trails in the Killarney area are suitable for horseback riding. Hiring a horse costs from around €40 per hour at Killarney Riding Stables, N72, Ballydowney (www.killarney-trail-riding.com; 064/663-1686). Lessons and weeklong trail rides can also be arranged.