Muckross Lake is one of those places that reveals new facets with every bend on the tour around Killarney. If you are on a bike, the route takes you through dense forests, over historic bridges and along the shores of this fascinating lake. Things get particularly exciting on the Muckross Peninsula, where the calm waters of Muckross Lake separate from the larger Lough Leane. On your way you pass the Brickeen Bridge, a narrow connection that takes you first to Brickeen Island and then on to Dinis Island - a nice place for a break in the café in the historic Dinis Cottage.
In addition to the quiet riverside paths and impressive views, there is also the wild element here: at the "Meeting of the Waters" the watercourses from the Upper Lake, Muckross Lake and Lough Leane meet and create a strong current - a real nature experience. It is said that the local clan leader O’Donoghue once challenged the devil at this lake, which led to the creation of Devil’s Island – a small island that is now populated by sea eagles rather than the devil. These majestic birds, introduced as part of a reintroduction project, circle above the lake, giving the landscape a wild, unspoilt feel.
For nature lovers, there is more to discover here: Muckross Lake is home to the rare Blunt-nosed Irish Charr, an endangered species of fish that is only found here and in neighbouring Lough Leane. Sika deer and the last population of Irish red deer also roam the forests along the shore – if you’re lucky, you might spot one of these animals.