The Gap of Dunloe - Day Trip (One Way Only)

Killarney , Ireland

The Gap of Dunloe - Day Trip (One Way Only)

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(17 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Beautiful guided tour through the 3 Lakes of Killarney. Guests will enjoy 90 minutes of the best of Killarney's scenery. Boat departs from Ross Castle on Killarneys lower lake and brings guests on a meandering tour through Lakes, rivers and bridges to the upper lake. Your captain will regale you with stories and history and apply Irish wit at times to ensure you leave with a mind of information but also a smile on your face. This tour allows guests see Ross Castle, Brickeen Bridge, Dinis Cottage, the Meeting of the Waters, The Old Weir Bridge and Lord Brandon's Cottage. While navigating the Lakes and rivers, it is also likely you will encounter Red and Sike Deer as well as our famous White Tailed Sea Eagles. This really is a see it all tour and is highly recommended. Once guests are dropped to Lord Brandon's Cottage they can walk, cycle or enjoy a daunting car ride through the world famous Gap of Dunloe.

Available options

The Gap of Dunlop - Day Trip (subject to minimum numbers)

What's included

Guests who wish to cycle through the Gap of Dunloe can bring bicycles on the boat at no extra charge

Car Parking

Life jackets are provided to all guests.

Detailed itinerary

Meeting point of the 3 Lakes of Killarney.

Double arch stone bridge.

Beautiful old hunting lodge on the edge of the Muckross Lake.

A beautiful arched bridge connecting Lough Leane and the Muckross Lake which guests pass under as part of the tour.

Stop 5 Pass by

A fully restored 15th Century castle on the shores of Lough Leane. Guests will have an opportunity to get great photos of the castle from the lake as the tour commences.

This is the final stop on our tour. Guests will depart and can stop here for light refreshments before continuing their journey through the Gap of Dunloe.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We are located on Reen Pier, which is adjacent to the first car park on your right as you arrive at Ross Castle. ask for Mike or Tony or call us on 085 1742997.
IMPORTANT - THIS IS A ONE WAY TOUR ONLY. GUESTS DISEMBARK AT LORD BRANDONS COTTAGE AND WALK, CYCLE OR JAUNTING CAR VIA THE GAP OF DUNLOE.

Important notes

We are located on Ross Castle Pier, directly in front of the castle. Ask for Charlie on arrival.

About Killarney

Killarney is a picturesque town in southwestern Ireland known for its stunning natural beauty, historic sites, and vibrant cultural scene. Nestled in the heart of County Kerry, it serves as a gateway to the famous Ring of Kerry and offers a blend of outdoor adventures and charming Irish hospitality.

Top Attractions

Killarney National Park

A vast park featuring lakes, waterfalls, and scenic walking trails, including the famous Torc Waterfall and the Ross Castle.

Nature Half day to full day Free (some attractions within the park have entry fees)

Ross Castle

A 15th-century castle on the shores of Lough Leane, offering guided tours and historical reenactments.

Historical 1-2 hours €7-10

Muckross House and Gardens

A 19th-century mansion with beautifully maintained gardens and a traditional farm.

Historical 2-3 hours €12-15

Gap of Dunloe

A stunning glacial valley with hiking trails, horseback riding, and boat tours on the lakes.

Adventure Half day to full day €20-50 depending on the activity

Staigue Fort

An ancient stone fort dating back to the Bronze Age, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Historical 2-3 hours including travel Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Irish Stew

A hearty dish made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian with substitutions.

Boxty

A traditional Irish potato pancake, often served with fillings like cheese or meat.

Main Course Can be made gluten-free.

Seafood Chowder

A creamy soup made with fresh local seafood, potatoes, and leeks.

Soup Contains dairy and seafood.

Soda Bread

A traditional Irish bread made with buttermilk and baking soda.

Bread Contains gluten.

Popular Activities

Hiking Horseback riding Boat tours Spas Scenic drives Café hopping Visiting historic sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the busiest time with warm weather and long daylight hours, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

15-20°C 59-68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Irish
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (GMT+1 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Killarney is generally safe with low crime rates. Standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis
• Be cautious at night in less populated areas

Getting there

By air

Kerry Airport • 20 km from Killarney
Shannon Airport • 120 km from Killarney

By train

Killarney Railway Station

By bus

Killarney Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with frequent services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Local taxi services

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Killarney Town Center Muckross Fossy Bridge

Day trips

Gap of Dunloe

10 km from Killarney • Full day

A stunning glacial valley offering hiking, horseback riding, and boat tours on the lakes.

Ring of Kerry

160 km loop from Killarney • Full day

A famous circular route offering breathtaking coastal and mountain views, historic sites, and charming villages.

Dingle Peninsula

60 km from Killarney • Full day

A picturesque peninsula with stunning coastal views, historic sites, and the famous Dingle town.

Festivals

Killarney Food and Drink Festival • September Killarney House Traditional Music and Dance Festival • July Killarney Christmas Market • December

Pro tips

Visit the national park early in the morning for fewer crowds and better wildlife sightings.
Try traditional Irish music sessions in local pubs for an authentic experience.
Book boat tours and guided activities in advance, especially during peak season.
Explore the town on foot to discover hidden gems and local shops.
Visit the Killarney Market for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal foods.