Top 3 Natural Monuments in Derrycunihy Nature Reserve

Tip from my carpool from 2019. A nice starting point for the day hike through the Gap of Dunloe.

A passable gate starts this part of the trail. The trail is absolutely ridable by almost anyone but is a little rocky at times and we pushed a little, after a couple of kilometers the forest opened up to a beautiful marsh

Beautiful panorama enjoyable on every day regardless of the weather

The "Magic Forest" in Killarney National Park lives up to its name. On your bike you will pass through an enchanted forest, where thick cushions of moss cover the rocks and the light falls in green tones through the dense treetops. It is a scene that immediately transports you to another world - almost like a picture from a fairytale book. The route winds through the lush green, and you keep discovering interesting details, such as the gnarled branches of the trees that protrude over the path, or the gentle rustling of the leaves, which almost makes you forget that you are in the middle of the national park. The ground is mostly firm and offers you a good surface for riding, but caution is advised when it is wet - then the mossy areas can quickly become slippery. For a short break, it is worth parking your bike and exploring the forest on foot. Nature here lives and breathes, and you can feel that this place has been allowed to grow undisturbed for a long time. A tip for photographers: The atmosphere in the “Magic Forest” changes depending on the time of day – especially in the early morning or late afternoon, the magic of this place unfolds.

If you're on a road bike, the route from Ladies View to Muckross Park is definitely one of the highlights of Killarney National Park. The first part of the route takes you through stunning scenery, with sweeping views over the lakes and rolling hills that disappear into the distance. There's something rugged but calming about this area, and on two wheels you'll experience the panorama even more intensely. Ladies View is perfect for a quick stop - take a moment to enjoy the view. If the traffic is right, you can really pick up the pace here, but it's worth slowing down and taking in the surroundings. The narrow roads meander through the hilly terrain, and sometimes you have to watch out for hikers who are enjoying the view as much as you are. A tip: The Avoca Café is the ideal place for a little break. A hot coffee and a slice of cake with a view of this spectacular landscape - that's what makes the tour special. Then, refreshed, you continue towards Muckross Park, where even more impressive nature awaits you. The route is varied, from gentle climbs to fast descents where you can feel the wind in your face. For me, this tour was the perfect mix of sporting challenge and nature experience. And don't worry, even if there are a lot of hikers on the way, as a racing cyclist you will always find your way through this fascinating landscape.

The boardwalk in the Derrycunnihy Nature Reserve offers a unique hiking experience – almost like a floating path through the lush, green landscape. A stroll here promises a relaxing walk, elegantly bypassing the wetlands and keeping your feet dry, even when the ground around you is boggy and wet. The wooden walkway leads you through dense forests, past tall grasses and gnarled trees that sometimes lean over the path. What immediately struck me was the tranquility. You hear nothing but the rustling of the wind in the leaves and, occasionally, the babbling of a small stream in the distance. The boardwalk not only provides comfort but also a completely new perspective on the landscape. It almost feels as if you're floating lightly through the nature reserve. While the boardwalk is generally easy to walk on, sturdy shoes are recommended for a secure footing. Especially when it's damp, the wood can become slippery in places. And keep your eyes peeled – particularly in the mornings, you might encounter shy animals hanging around the edge of the boardwalk. For me, this hike was a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The narrow path and the unspoiled surroundings create a special atmosphere that immerses you in the lush green wilderness of Ireland.

Where the two trails meet, walk a short distance to the right to reach this beautiful little waterfall.

This road can get busy with large buses in the summer