subject: See Spring Flowers Bloom at Muckross House [print this page] Spectacular scenic sights surround Muckross House in County Kerry and provide a great day out for visitors to the region.
Sitting on the shores of a glittering lake, the Victorian mansion is a starting point for tourists who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Killarney National Park. Many Irish drivers like to make a special trip to the area as part of a day tour, although they are advised to check their car insurance policies before setting off on their journeys. The ground was broken in 1839 by workers who were tasked with constructing the impressive home for Henry Arthur Herbert and his wife Mary Balfour. The site has seen the family live on it for nearly two hundred years.
The current owners of the house have faithfully recreated the appearance of many of the rooms so they are an accurate reflection of Victorian living. Bedrooms boast the fixtures and fittings commonly installed in this era, such as solid wood beds and heavy curtains. The sumptuous decor continues into the premise's dining areas, which are overlooked by crystal chandeliers.
As well as getting an impression of the surroundings that the wealthy enjoyed, visitors are able to peek into the basement to see the areas where servants carried out their daily tasks. The original owners of the mansion were renowned for enjoying the great outdoors and following landowners showed their shared passion of growing plants by constructing a rock and sunken garden. These come to life with a variety of brightly-coloured flowers in the warmer weather, which impresses visitors to the site.
Farming was a major source of income for people in the area in the past and the attraction gives tourists the chance to see how workers made a living from the land in the 1930s at Muckross Traditional Farms. There is also the option to browse and purchase handmade items at the Mucros Craft Shop, which include pottery and weaved items. In addition to allowing visitors a glimpse into the past, Muckross House has many of the amenities found in modern day attractions. Set within the Walled Garden is the Garden Restaurant, which offers a range of tasty snacks and refreshments.
Before setting off into Killarney National Park, visitors are able to enjoy a 20-minute film that reveals the beautiful features of the surrounding landscape. Measuring 26,000 acres, the attraction is a paradise of glittering mountain lakes, woods and crashing waterfalls. Wildlife includes the native red deer, which has been making its home in Ireland since the ice age. The mild climate ensures there is an abundance of flora, including yew trees and oak woods, as well as environmentally significant lichens and shrubs.
