Nestled in the heart of Ireland’s stunning Kerry region lies the Gap of Dunloe, a breathtaking natural wonder that draws adventurers from near and far. Set out on a thrilling 5.5-hour journey that combines a 12km self-guided trek through the gap’s rugged landscape with a serene boat ride across the serene Lakes of Killarney. Along the way, you’ll witness the iconic sights that have captivated visitors for generations, from the towering Purple Mountain to the majestic Macgillycuddys Reeks. As you explore this untamed corner of Ireland, you’ll be left wondering what other hidden gems this enchanting land has in store.
Key Points
- A 5.5-hour excursion combining a 12km/7-mile self-guided walk through the scenic Gap of Dunloe and a boat journey across the Lakes of Killarney.
- Highlights include panoramic views of natural landmarks like Purple Mountain, Dinish Island, and Macgillycuddys Reeks, as well as iconic sites like the Meeting of the Waters.
- The tour starts at Kate Kearney’s Cottage and traverses the well-marked, challenging route through the glacial valley, with an elevation gain of 840m.
- The boat journey provides a tranquil experience, showcasing Innisfallen Island, the Meeting of the Waters, and the historic Ross Castle.
- Recommendations include wearing comfortable, sturdy footwear and bringing weather-appropriate gear, hydration, and snacks, as the tour may not be suitable for visitors with mobility impairments.
Tour Overview
The Gap of Dunloe: Lakes of Killarney Boat Tour and Scenic Walk is a 5.5-hour excursion that takes visitors on a picturesque journey through the iconic Gap of Dunloe and across the serene Lakes of Killarney.
Priced from SEK 407 per person, the tour offers a live English-speaking guide and a cancellation policy with free refunds up to 24 hours in advance.
The highlight of the experience is the 12km/7-mile self-guided walk through the Gap, offering stunning views of natural wonders like Purple Mountain, Dinish Island, and the Macgillycuddys Reeks.
After the walk, guests embark on a boat journey across the Lakes of Killarney, taking in sights like Innisfallen Island and the Meeting of the Waters.
Highlights of the Tour
A key highlight of the tour is the scenic 12km/7-mile self-guided walk through the Gap of Dunloe, which features an elevation gain of up to 840m and showcases the area’s most stunning natural wonders. Along the way, you’ll witness breathtaking views of the Purple Mountain, Dinish Island, Innisfallen Island, and the Macgillycuddys Reeks. As you wander through this enchanting landscape, you’ll also come across several iconic landmarks, including the Meeting of the Waters, the Old Weir Bridge, Dinish Cottage, and the Bricin Bridge. Finally, the tour culminates with a relaxing boat journey across the serene Lakes of Killarney, where you can admire the majestic Ross Castle.
| Scenic Highlights | Key Landmarks |
|---|---|
| Purple Mountain | Meeting of the Waters |
| Dinish Island | Old Weir Bridge |
| Innisfallen Island | Dinish Cottage |
| Macgillycuddys Reeks | Bricin Bridge |
Meeting Point and Route
The tour begins at Kate Kearney’s Cottage, located at the entrance of the Gap of Dunloe. From this starting point, participants embark on a self-guided walk through the scenic 12km/7-mile route of the Gap, following a single, well-marked path.
It’s important to note that the order of the tour may be reversed based on prevailing weather conditions.
The walk through the Gap features:
- Stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including Purple Mountain, Dinish Island, and the Macgillycuddys Reeks.
- Passing by key landmarks like the Meeting of the Waters, Old Weir Bridge, Dinish Cottage, and Bricin Bridge.
- A chance to admire the natural beauty of the Lakes of Killarney from the shoreline.
- A final stop at the iconic Ross Castle, where the boat journey across the lakes begins.
Scenic Walk Through Gap of Dunloe
Winding through a dramatic glacial valley, the scenic walk along the Gap of Dunloe offers a captivating 12km (7-mile) journey for adventurous visitors.
Traversing a well-marked path, trekkers are treated to awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and historic landmarks that punctuate this remarkable natural landscape.
The trail takes hikers past the iconic Purple Mountain, offering breathtaking views across the tranquil waters of the Lakes of Killarney.
Along the way, walkers can explore Dinish Island and Innisfallen Island, each with their own unique natural and cultural treasures.
With an elevation gain of 840m, the walk challenges trekkers while rewarding them with an unforgettable immersion in the stunning Kerry countryside.
Boat Journey Across Lakes of Killarney
After traversing the scenic Gap of Dunloe on foot, visitors embark on a tranquil boat journey across the serene Lakes of Killarney, allowing them to soak in the breathtaking vistas from a new perspective.
The boat ride offers four key highlights:
- Gliding past the picturesque Innisfallen Island, home to ancient monastic ruins.
- Admiring the imposing peaks of the Macgillycuddys Reeks mountain range.
- Drifting through the serene ‘Meeting of the Waters,’ where three lakes converge.
- Catching sight of the historic Ross Castle, a 15th-century tower house overlooking the lakes.
This aquatic interlude provides a peaceful contrast to the earlier hiking experience, capping off an immersive exploration of Killarney’s natural splendor.
Key Sights Along the Tour
As visitors embark on the Gap of Dunloe walking tour, they’ll encounter a series of captivating natural landmarks that showcase the region’s rugged beauty.
Purple Mountain, with its distinctive hue, rises majestically to the east, while the tranquil Dinish Island sits nestled within the lakes below.
The ancient Innisfallen Island, once home to a monastic settlement, beckons explorers to discover its historic ruins.
The imposing Macgillycuddys Reeks mountain range towers in the distance, a testament to the area’s dramatic geological formations.
Along the way, the ‘Meeting of the Waters’ and the old Weir Bridge offer picturesque vantage points to admire the serene lakes.
The tour culminates at the majestic Ross Castle, a medieval stronghold that overlooks the stunning Killarney landscape.
What to Bring and Recommendations
To fully enjoy the Gap of Dunloe walking tour, visitors should come prepared with a few essential items.
Comfortable, sturdy footwear is a must for navigating the uneven terrain, while a lightweight rain jacket or sunblock can provide protection from the ever-changing weather conditions. Carrying a reusable water bottle ensures easy hydration throughout the scenic journey.
The tour organizers also recommend bringing:
- Comfortable, breathable clothing to stay comfortable during the 2.5-3 hour walk
- A small backpack or daypack to carry personal items
- A camera or smartphone to capture the stunning landscapes
- A few snacks or cash for lunch at Lord Brandon’s Cottage
Accessibility and Customer Reviews
The Gap of Dunloe boat tour and scenic walk may not be suitable for visitors with mobility impairments, as the 12km (7-mile) self-guided hike through the gap involves uneven terrain and a significant elevation gain.
While the overall experience has been positively reviewed, with an average rating of 3.8/5 based on 4 customer reviews, some visitors have noted issues with the website information and tour planning. One reviewer mentioned the lack of clear instructions on the starting location and meeting point, while another highlighted the need for better coordination between the boat and hiking portions of the tour.
Despite these minor hiccups, the tour is still widely regarded as an excellent way to explore the stunning landscapes of the Killarney region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?
This tour is only available in English. The tour guide provides live commentary throughout the experience, but there are no other language options offered. Participants should be comfortable understanding and communicating in English to fully enjoy the tour.
Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group?
Yes, you can book a private group tour. The tour operator offers customizable options for private groups, allowing you to enjoy the scenic walk and boat journey at your own pace with a dedicated guide.
Is There an Option to Extend or Customize the Tour Length?
There’s no option to extend or customize the tour length directly. However, visitors can explore the Gap of Dunloe at their own pace and arrange private boat transfers across the Lakes of Killarney to extend their experience as desired.
What Happens in Case of Extreme Weather Conditions?
In extreme weather, the tour may be reversed or rerouted to ensure guest safety. The tour operator closely monitors conditions and will make adjustments as needed to provide the best possible experience given the circumstances.
Is There a Mobile App or Online Portal to Manage the Booking?
According to the information provided, there does not appear to be a dedicated mobile app or online portal for managing bookings for this tour. Customers can likely make and manage their bookings through the tour operator’s website or by contacting them directly.
Recap
The Gap of Dunloe: Lakes of Killarney Boat Tour and Scenic Walk offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Ireland’s natural splendor.
From the challenging yet rewarding trek through the Gap to the serene boat ride across the Lakes, this tour provides a comprehensive and unforgettable exploration of the region’s iconic landmarks.
Breathtaking vistas, rich history, and a chance to connect with the stunning Irish landscape make this a must-do experience for any visitor to the Killarney area.
