The Gap of Dunloe - County Kerry Valley • Go-to-Ireland.com

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Visit Gap of Dunloe

The Gap of Dunloe, a legendary mountain pass in Ireland’s County Kerry, is a must-see for anyone wishing to soak up the breathtaking Irish landscape. Considered a must-see in Ireland’s Killarney National Park, it’s a magical place, 100% wilderness, which is nothing more or less than a narrow valley surrounded by impressive mountains. The site is picturesque and narrow, about a 15-minute drive from Killarney. It’s popular for its magnificent views, lakes, waterfalls, outdoor adventures, stone bridges and unique ruins.

If you’d like to venture out for a stroll, you’ll be able to admire magnificent lakes, a winding road, a pretty stone bridge and incredible mountains. A must-see that will blow your mind!

Visit Gap of Dunloe

A site in the heart of Killarney National Park…

The Gap of Dunloe – © Ire DronePhotography

The Gap of Dunloe is undoubtedly one of the most famous places in the national park.

It offers remarkable landscapes, 100% wild, where nature, triumphant, fills the traveller with wonder every minute.

The light is beautiful, and the sky seems to clash with the mountains, lakes and land. A magnificent sight, not to be missed!

The Gap of Dunloe includes no fewer than 5 lakes, all fed by the River Loe. Here’s the list (from north to south):

Coosaun Lough,
Black Lake,
Cushnavally Lake,
Auger Lake,
the Black Lough.

The site provides access to an absolutely sumptuous panorama overlooking the Black Valley.

This area is particularly popular with walkers. It has to be said that the spot is grandiose, ideal for exploring on foot… or even in a horse-drawn carriage!

In fact, the Gap of Dunloe is one of the region’s most romantic tourist destinations! We’ve lost count of the number of wedding requests made there!

Possible hikes from the Gap of Dunloe

Gap of Dunloe – © Lyd Photography

Looking for a nature hike? The Gap of Dubloe can also be explored on foot! An opportunity to discover the area at your own pace, and take your time!

The most popular circuit is 6km long and requires no special hiking skills. But be warned: this is not a loop: you’ll start at the Visitor Centre, to reach “the Head of the Gap of Dunloe”, the highest point in the valley.

So you’ll have to plan on going the opposite way to get back to your means of transport!

A word of advice: don’t forget to bring suitable hiking equipment. Shoes, warm clothing, food, water and a good windbreaker to keep out the rain. Kerry is a particularly wet region, and changeable weather is a common occurrence in Ireland! So it’s not unusual to come across ill-prepared hikers soaked by a downpour! A real discomfort that can be avoided!

Before entering the park, we recommend a visit to the Visitor Centre. This is located at the entrance, and offers an interesting presentation of Kerry, its history and its places of interest.

A small but important detail: the establishment has a “bar” where hikers can relax before and after their walk… A way to prolong the pleasure while sipping tea, coffee or a small pint! After the effort, the comfort!

Prices are reasonable, and the experience gives you a taste of legendary Irish hospitality… and simplicity!

Just strap on your crampons, grab your rucksack and set off on your adventure: you’ll feel like you’re all alone in the world, surrounded by greenery and lakes. Magic!

How about a horse-drawn carriage ride?

Gap of Dunloe – © Gabriel Cassan

If the idea of walking for hours in the great outdoors gives you a huge case of the blues, you can explore the Gap of Dunloe by horse-drawn carriage. And it’s a pretty tempting business!

You’ll be able to take a ride in a retro carriage (known as a jaunting car), pulled by an Irish-bred horse… all in a breathtaking setting! The 11-kilometre walk takes you back to a bygone era, when the only means of locomotion was the horse.

You find yourself admiring the place in a different way. The Gap of Dunloe looks even more majestic, and the light literally transforms the valley and its mountains with every cloud or sunrise!

Why choose a jaunting car?

Unique atmosphere: Riding in a jaunting car is like stepping back in time. This adds a traditional, authentic dimension to your visit.
Local guides: Coachmen, often called “jarvies”, are usually locals with a wealth of knowledge of the region’s history and culture.
Ecology: It’s a more environmentally-friendly way to visit natural sites, especially compared to motorized cars.

How does it work?

Booking: It’s advisable to book your jaunting car in advance, especially in high season. Departure points are usually located near Kate Kearney’s Cottage.
Itinerary: The route passes through a variety of landscapes, including lakes such as the Upper, Middle and Lower Lakes, and of course the Gap of Dunloe itself.
Duration: Allow 2-3 hours for the complete experience, including photo breaks.

And don’t forget your camera: this is your chance to play apprentice photographer and show off your artistic talent!

A perfect walk for couples in search of romance… even on a rainy day!

But be warned: prices are quite high! Expect to pay around €90 for the trip… The price is a little steep, but it’s sure to make your exploration of the Gap of Dunloe unforgettable!

Reservations can be made at the Visitor Centre, but beware: this activity is very popular. Don’t hesitate to call to book: you’ll be sure to get your slot and avoid the queue!

Finally, there are companies like Gap of Dunloe Tours, which offer alternative tours of the valley by retro bus and boat. Check out their website to find out more!