Killarney: Jaunting Car Tour to Ross Castle & Lakes Views

Summary

Jaunting car ride through killarney’s lakes and up to ross castle with small group stops

You’ll ride a traditional jaunting car through Killarney’s parklands with a local guide sharing stories along hidden trails not open to cars. There are stops by Ross Castle and along the lakeshore for photos (and maybe feeding Molly if you bring an apple). Expect warmth from wool blankets and real Irish humor—plus time for tea at Deenagh Lodge when you finish.

What’s the experience like?

It started with our driver, Tomás, waving us over by Deenagh Lodge—he had that kind of gentle, sideways smile you see a lot in Killarney. The horse (Molly, apparently a bit of a diva) was already pawing at the gravel. Tomás handed us woolen blankets—good thing too, because there was this sharp chill in the air that morning, even though it was already May. He asked if we’d brought apples for Molly (we hadn’t), but he just laughed and said she’d forgive us. You could smell damp grass and hear crows arguing somewhere above the trees.

The jaunting car rolled quietly into the heart of Killarney, hooves thudding on soft earth as we left behind any trace of traffic. We passed under branches heavy with moss, everything green and a little wild. Tomás pointed out Ross Castle across the water—a bit misty but still somehow solid and proud—and told us about its old ghosts (he swears he’s seen one). When we stopped by the lake shore for photos, I tried to pronounce “Innisfallen” like he did—Li laughed at my attempt; probably butchered it. There was this moment where everything just felt slow—the only sounds were Molly’s snorting and distant water lapping at rocks.

We looped around for views of Ireland’s tallest mountain—Carrauntoohil—and honestly I didn’t expect how quiet it would be out there. Just us, some sheep in the distance, and those shifting clouds that never seem to settle. It’s not far from town really (maybe 10 minutes from Deenagh Lodge), but it feels like another world once you’re inside the parklands. The private jaunting car tour meant no crowds or rushed stops; Tomás let us linger by the lakes as long as we wanted. On colder days he said they sometimes spot red deer moving through the trees—didn’t see any myself but kept looking anyway.

Afterwards we ended back at Deenagh Lodge for tea—the kind that tastes stronger after fresh air. I still think about that view across the water near Ross Castle; something about how quiet it got stays with me. If you’re thinking about a day trip from Killarney town or want something different than hiking or driving, this is worth it just for those little moments you don’t plan for.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Scenic Jaunting Car Tour in Killarney

• Start at Deenagh Lodge Tea Cottage
• View Ireland's second tallest cathedral
• Tour inside Killarney National Park
• See views of Ireland's tallest mountain
• See picturesque Lakes of Killarney
• View Innishfallon Island
• Choose route to Ross Castle or lakeshore stop
• Stop for walk or photos at Ross Castle
• Return to Deenagh Lodge Tea Cottage

Top questions

How long is the jaunting car tour in Killarney?

The exact duration isn’t listed but most routes cover highlights like Ross Castle and lakeshores within a few hours.

Is pickup included for this Killarney jaunting car tour?

The tour starts and ends at Deenagh Lodge tea cottage; hotel pickup isn’t specified.

Can children join this jaunting car ride?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller or sit on an adult’s lap.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board during the tour.

What will I see on this day trip from Killarney?

You’ll see Ross Castle, views across The Lakes of Killarney, Ireland’s tallest mountain Carrauntoohil, Innishfallen Island, and more inside parklands not accessible by car.

Is lunch included on this private jaunting car tour?

No lunch is included; however, you can enjoy tea or snacks at Deenagh Lodge before or after your ride.

How many people are on each jaunting car?

This operator focuses on small group tours for a more personal experience.

What’s included

Your day includes entry into exclusive park routes only accessible by jaunting car with commentary from your local guide sharing history and folklore along the way; cozy wool blankets are provided onboard for chilly weather; plus time to stop at Ross Castle grounds or along the lakeshore before finishing up with tea or snacks at Deenagh Lodge cottage.