Killarney Glamping launches 15 new units at racecourse location
Luxury glamping expands to welcome families, with sustainable design and year-round comfort near Killarney National Park
Glamping has just taken the inside track in Killarney and is heading for the holiday winners’ circle with the launch of a new collection of 15 unbridled luxury glamping units, all nestled on the grounds of the town’s prestigious racecourse, just a stone’s throw from Killarney National Park and town centre.
Those seeking to saddle up for serenity will soon be able to stay at one of the adults-only units or family units at Killarney Glamping at Ross Road, thoughtfully separated by landscaped buffers to create privacy and calm. Five units will open by the end of the year, with a full launch of all 15 scheduled for April 2026.
Founded in 2012 by local couple Linda and Mike O’Sullivan, Killarney Glamping has pioneered luxury outdoor escapes in the area. Their first site in Ballycasheen, Killarney Glamping at The Grove, set in a peaceful meadow walking distance from Killarney town received a Fáilte Ireland 4-star rating in 2024 and 2025.
The new site on the Ross Road features family-friendly glamping to meet demand and guests can enjoy fully self-contained, spacious units. The adult retreats feature king-size beds, luxury bathrooms, sitting areas and kitchenettes, while family lodges include open plan living/kitchenette area, large bathroom and two bedrooms. The new location will also feature a fully accessible glamping unit.
Each bespoke unit has been built in Killarney by local tradespeople and using as much locally sourced and sustainable materials as possible, including reclaimed flooring from a Kilkenny basketball court and a Cork badminton court, highlighting the couple’s circular-economy ethos.
Guests can walk or cycle to Killarney town centre in under ten minutes or explore the National Park directly from the racecourse along dedicated cycle paths leading to both, Ross Castle and Muckross House.
An onsite reception, private parking, and optional breakfast hampers complete the experience. The site also offers easy access to classes at Navé Yoga overlooking the mountains, discounted tee times at Ross Golf Club, the award-winning Celtic Steps show and specials at the Racecourse Café.
The project has been supported by Fáilte Ireland, LEADER programme funding through South Kerry Development Partnership, and Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce, recognising the value of sustainable, experience-led accommodation in strengthening Killarney’s tourism offering.
Linda O’Sullivan, owner of Killarney Glamping said: “We wanted the entire site to feel luxurious but also sustainable, and now we can finally cater for families too. Each unit is self-contained, fully insulated, and heated, so they’re perfect for cosy winter breaks. People want an experience that feels special and delivers all the comforts they love, and this new site captures that spirit right in the heart of Ireland’s leading tourist destination.
“We’re so grateful to Killarney Racecourse Company, Fáilte Ireland, LEADER, and the Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce too for their support in making it happen,” Linda said.
Killarney Glamping is just one of a handful of glamping businesses in the country operating all year round who have designed and built their own unique accommodation units, rather than purchasing purpose-built pods.
Domestic breaks
Linda said the new units are vital as there is a great need for more self-catering accommodation for families in Kerry.
According to the Central Statistics Office (CSO), there was an 8.2% increase in Irish residents’ domestic trips in 2024, compared with 2023. The Southern region was the most popular domestic destination for overnight trips in 2024, accounting for 43% of all trips.
However, the CSO reported that in Q1 2025, friends or relatives were the main type of accommodation used in 43% of domestic trips, closely followed by hotels (42%). Self-catering or rented properties were reported as the main type of accommodation in just 5% of domestic trips.
“We are thrilled to be able to deliver quality and affordable family accommodation in Killarney as family glamping is really taking off. We have reached full potential at our existing site and we know this project will benefit the region, adding further diversity to the accommodation product in Killarney,” Linda said, adding that their team will now grow from 7 people employed to 12.
Linda and Mike, both Killarney natives, have grown their business from one bell tent into an award-winning, year-round destination.
To learn more or book a stay, visit killarneyglamping.com.
