Wander beyond the formal gardens into the adjoining arboretum or take the two nature trails, Old Boathouse (approx 40 minutes) or Mossy Woods (approx 90 minutes), on either side of Dundag Bay on the lake to escape the crowds. Note, though, that the National Park inexplicably does not mark the trail heads with signs and the original booklets matching the trail markers are no longer available. Don’t let this stop you following these less-travelled paths, though, because they are truly remarkable for the limestone cliffs and caves and the flora. There is free admission to Muckross Gardens. There is a charge for the guided tour of the house. The tour should be booked as soon as you arrive because demand can be high.