Discover the Magic of the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney: A Complete Guide

Tucked away in the scenic mountains of County Kerry, the Gap of Dunloe near Killarney is one of Ireland’s hidden gems. With its rugged beauty, narrow winding roads, and serene lakes, the Gap offers an experience that is both breathtaking and peaceful—perfect for those looking to escape more commercialized, touristy sites and explore something off the beaten path.

My own first encounter with the Gap of Dunloe was an unforgettable solo journey while living in Ireland for a summer internship. What started as a spontaneous decision turned into one of the most magical experiences of my life. I was dropped off at Kate Kearney’s Cottage, where I was meant to join a jaunting car, but due to a mix-up, I found myself on an old Irish cob horse named Billy. Despite the pouring rain and Billy’s slow pace, I wouldn’t have had it any other way. This adventure became a cherished memory, a reminder of the beauty of stepping into the unknown and experiencing something truly magical.

What is the Gap of Dunloe and What is it Known For

The Gap of Dunloe is a narrow, glacier-carved mountain pass in County Kerry, set between the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and Purple Mountain. Its rugged beauty is defined by winding roads, serene lakes, and the quiet charm of the Black Valley. The Gap is also home to the famous Wishing Bridge, where tradition says your wishes may come true as you cross.

Its location near Killarney National Park and the Ring of Kerry makes the Gap of Dunloe a must-see for travelers exploring the region. You can easily visit nearby attractions like Ross Castle and the Lakes of Killarney, making it a perfect addition to your County Kerry itinerary. The Gap’s peaceful seclusion offers a refreshing contrast to the more crowded tourist destinations in the area.

Getting to the Gap of Dunloe from Killarney

The Gap of Dunloe is just 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from Killarney, and while you can drive to the starting point at Kate Kearney’s Cottage, navigating the Gap itself by car is not recommended. The road is incredibly narrow, often crowded with walkers, cyclists, and jaunting cars, making it both stressful and difficult to enjoy the scenery. If you must drive it, early morning is the best time to go to avoid the crowds.

Instead, I recommend booking a guided tour, which allows you to sit back and enjoy the journey. One of my top recommendations is this Full-Day Tour that starts and ends in Killarney. The tour starts by dropping you off at the Gap of Dunloe for a jaunting car ride or hike, followed by a scenic boat ride across the lakes of Killarney National Park, ending at Ross Castle.

I highly recommend this option: Full-Day Tour of the Gap of Dunloe

Walking, Hiking, Cycling, or Jaunting the Gap of Dunloe

One of the best ways to experience the Gap is by foot, bike, or horse. Walking through the Gap of Dunloe is about an 11-kilometer (6.8-mile) journey that takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on your pace. It’s a moderately challenging route with unforgettable views of lakes, valleys, and mountain peaks. You’ll pass by iconic spots like the Black Lake and Wishing Bridge, which are said to grant wishes if you cross them.

If you prefer a faster pace, cycling the Gap of Dunloe is also an option. You can easily rent a bike and cycle through the Gap while taking in the stunning landscape. Just be sure to watch for jaunting cars and walkers sharing the narrow road.

For a more relaxing option, you can take a jaunting car (horse-drawn carriage) from Kate Kearney’s Cottage through the Gap. Your driver will share stories about the local area, adding to the charm of the journey. For me, the unexpected ride with Billy the cob horse is one I’ll never forget!

Another great tour option is the Bus, Boat, and Jaunting Car Tour, which makes everything seamless by picking you up in Killarney and including both a jaunting car ride through the Gap and a scenic boat trip across Killarney National Park.

Recommended Tours to Explore the Gap of Dunloe

There are several great tours that cater to different types of travelers. Whether you want to explore by foot, bike, jaunting car, or boat, here are some top recommendations:

Full-Day Tour of the Gap of Dunloe – This tour departs from Killarney and covers the Gap of Dunloe, including a boat ride across the lakes of Killarney and a visit to Ross Castle.
Boat-Only Ticket – If you’d rather start with a boat ride, this option takes you from Ross Castle across the lakes of Killarney National Park, ending at Lord Brandon’s Cottage.
Gap of Dunloe Adventure Tour – Starting at Ross Castle, this tour includes a boat ride to Innisfallen Island, followed by a journey through the Gap of Dunloe and the Old Weir Bridge.
Private Killarney National Park Tour – For those who want a private, chauffeured experience, this tour covers the highlights of Killarney National Park, including Torc Waterfall, Muckross House, and ends at the Gap of Dunloe.

Where to Stay When Visiting the Gap of Dunloe

If you’re planning to stay in the area, I recommend booking a hotel in or near Killarney (12 kilometers / 7.5 miles from the Gap), which gives you easy access to both the Gap of Dunloe and other key attractions like Killarney National Park and the Ring of Kerry.

Here are a few great options that I recommend:

The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens – Perfect for those looking to stay near the Gap with beautiful surroundings.
The Lake Hotel – A charming lakeside hotel offering stunning views of Killarney National Park and Lough Leane.
Muckross Park Hotel & Spa – Located in the heart of Killarney National Park, this luxurious hotel provides an excellent base for exploring the Gap.
Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa – A stylish option located in the town of Killarney, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and the park.
The Ross Hotel – A boutique hotel in Killarney Town, perfect for those who want to stay centrally with access to both nightlife and outdoor activities.

Renting a Car for Your County Kerry Adventures

While I don’t recommend driving through the Gap of Dunloe itself due to the narrow roads, cyclists, and jaunting cars, renting a car can still be a great option for exploring the surrounding areas like Killarney National Park or the Ring of Kerry. If you do decide to drive the Gap, the best time to do so is early in the morning when there are fewer people on the road, but even then, the drive can be stressful.

If you decide to rent a car, I recommend renting a car with Auto Europe.

Why the Gap of Dunloe is a Must-Visit in County Kerry

The Gap of Dunloe remains one of the most magical places I’ve visited in Ireland, a destination that effortlessly combines natural beauty with a sense of timelessness. Its quiet, almost otherworldly atmosphere, surrounded by rugged landscapes, shimmering lakes, and towering mountains, creates an experience that stays with you long after you leave. For those traveling through County Kerry, it’s a must-see location that offers more than just scenic views—it’s a journey into Ireland’s wild, untouched side.

Whether you’re walking through the winding paths, cycling alongside peaceful lakes, or taking a traditional jaunting car ride through its heart, the Gap of Dunloe offers a unique blend of tranquility and adventure. The serenity of the Black Valley and the winding, narrow roads through the mountains make it feel like you’ve stepped back in time, away from the hustle of everyday life. This hidden gem is unlike any other place in Ireland, providing visitors with a truly immersive and unforgettable connection to nature.