Torc Waterfall: A Cascading Wonder

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Experience the magic of Torc Waterfall in Killarney National Park: cascading waters, ancient legends, and stunning Irish scenery.

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Torc Waterfall

Torc Waterfall, nestled in Killarney National Park, is a stunning 20-meter high cascade formed by the Owengarriff River. A short walk from the car park leads to breathtaking views of the falls as they thunder down the mountainside. The name 'Torc' comes from the Irish word for 'boar,' adding a touch of local legend to this natural attraction.

A brief summary to Torc Waterfall

Killarney, Torc, Co. Kerry, IE
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Torc Waterfall.

Visit after heavy rainfall for the most powerful and dramatic display of the waterfall.
Arrive early or later in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
Wear appropriate footwear, especially if planning to climb to the top of the waterfall or explore the surrounding trails.
Consider combining your visit with a trip to nearby Muckross House and Gardens.
Be mindful when crossing the road near the trailhead, as cars can travel quickly.

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Getting There

Walking

From the Torc Waterfall car park, the waterfall is a short, 200-meter walk. Follow the well-maintained path through the woodland. The walk to the viewing platform takes approximately 5 minutes. There is no cost associated with walking to the waterfall from the car park.
Public Transport

From Killarney town, take the 'Big Red Bus' hop-on, hop-off service, which stops at Torc Waterfall. The bus also stops at other major attractions in Killarney National Park. A single journey ticket costs approximately €10. Alternatively, take a local bus from Killarney Bus Station (Bus Éireann). Check the Transport for Ireland website for the most up-to-date schedules and fares. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the waterfall.
Taxi

A taxi from Killarney town to Torc Waterfall takes approximately 10-15 minutes. The estimated fare is €15-€20. Taxis are readily available in Killarney town. From the taxi drop-off point, it is a short walk to the waterfall.

Discover more about Torc Waterfall

Torc Waterfall, situated at the base of Torc Mountain in Killarney National Park, is a captivating natural spectacle. The Owengarriff River, originating from the Devil's Punchbowl on Mangerton Mountain, plunges 20 meters (66 ft) down the hillside, creating a powerful and mesmerizing cascade. The waterfall is 110 meters (360 ft) long.The name 'Torc' is derived from the Irish word for 'wild boar' and is steeped in local legends. One tale speaks of a man cursed by the Devil, transforming into a wild boar each night until his secret was revealed, causing him to vanish into the Devil's Punchbowl. Another legend tells of the warrior Fionn MacCumhaill slaying a magical boar on Torc Mountain.The waterfall's geology is also noteworthy, as it sits on the Muckross to Millstreet Fault Line. Torc Mountain is composed of 400-million-year-old Devonian Old Red Sandstone, while the base around Muckross Lake consists of younger Carboniferous Limestone.Torc Waterfall is easily accessible, located 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from Killarney and 2.5 kilometers (1.6 miles) from Muckross House. A short, 200-meter walk from the car park through scenic woodland brings you to the viewing platform. For those seeking a more challenging experience, a stone path with steps leads to the top of the falls, offering panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and landscape. Several trails incorporate Torc Waterfall, including the Kerry Way, the Old Kenmare Road, and the Dundag to Torc trail.