My Ireland
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Wander through the shaded, mossy woods draped in deep green foliage to Torc Waterfall and you’ll soon see why this County Kerry spot is so captivating.
It may reach up to 20 metres, but height is not what makes Torc such an impressive spot – it’s the cascade of water over boulders, the lush green of the trees that gently frame it, the soft mosses that cling to its sides. Sit on a rock by its edge and you’ll be almost overwhelmed by the expansive tranquillity of the place – a mystical beauty that has made it one of County Kerry’s most popular beauty spots.
The waterfall is formed by the Owengarriff River as it drains from the intriguingly titled Devil’s Punchbowl – a glacial lake in Mangerton Mountain – but it wouldn’t be Ireland without a legend. In Irish, “Torc” means wild boar and one of the myths surrounding the waterfall involves the golden-haired Irish warrior Fionn MacCumhaill who is said to have killed a magical boar on Torc Mountain. Unsurprisingly, this place has been enchanting visitors for centuries, so find a quiet spot, take a few moments and see what it might inspire in you…
Torc Waterfall, County Kerry
Need to know
Torc Waterfall can be busy in the peak summer months and is best enjoyed off-season.
There is a car park five minutes away from the waterfall, but it is best accessed by bike from Killarney or on foot on one of the many walking trails from Muckross House and Gardens. A 2.5km route starts at Dundag Point in the park and leads to the waterfall.
Climb the steps beside the waterfall for great views of Muckross House & Gardens and the Lakes of Killarney.
