The Gap of Dunloe day tour is a journey which encompasses Killarney’s entire National Park. During the tour, guests will see such sights as the Gap of Dunloe, the Old Weir Bridge and Ross Castle.
The tour involves 3 separate stages:
1. Bus Transport from our office at the Old Weir Lodge on Muckross Road, Killarney to Kate Kearney’s Cottage at the beginning of the Gap of Dunloe.
2. Travel through the world famous glacial valley that is the Gap of Dunloe. Horse and carriage transport is available to rent (extra payable directly to the ponyman) when you arrive at Kate Kearney’s Cottage. Alternatively, you can walk through the ‘Gap’.
3. Boat transport through the National Park with one of our experienced Drivers. The boat tour brings you through the lakes and rivers of the Park. A guided tour by the driver full of folklore and legends will ensure a memorable day for all ages.
Note: depending on water levels, a moderate walk through an uneven wooded area may be required.
The Old Weir Lodge is 1 Kilometer from the centre of Killarney town. We offer free parking, Tea/Coffee is also available for purchase here prior to departure.
The bus which departs from the Old Weir Lodge will bring passengers to the world famous 'Kate Kearney's Cottage'. Here, passengers will make contact with the Horse and Carriage drivers. Note: Payment for the Horse and Carriage section of the tour is made to the drivers themselves and due to the mountainous nature of the area, cash is required. Unfortunately, the carriage drivers may not charge a children's rate due to limited seating.
The Carriage ride is roughly 1.5 hours through the Glacial Valley known as The Gap of Dunloe. The distance is 11 Kilometers. Passengers will then arrive at Lord Brandon's Cottage.
Lord Brandon's Cottage is an old hunting lodge which has been transformed into a cafe for those hiking and cycling in the area. After the walk or carriage ride through the Gap of Dunloe, Guests will have up to 1 hour to have lunch and enjoy this peaceful setting. Boats leave here at 2pm daily.
The boat tour by our experienced guides will bring you through the 3 lakes and 2 rivers of Killarney National Park. The trip is around 1.5 hrs depending on water levels and weather conditions. Guests will see The Meeting of the Waters, Dinis Cottage, the Old Weir Bridge, Brickeen Bridge and Innisfallen Island. Our experienced local guides will provide a full commentary throughout the tour and will answer any questions you may have.
At the end of the boat tour is the famous Ross Castle. Built in the 15th century, Ross Castle was the seat of the Chieftain O'Donoghue. The bus will meet guests at the castle immediately after the boat tour so unfortunately the Castle isn't part of the tour. As the castle is less than 2km from Killarney, some guests opt to explore the area and walk to the town through the National Park afterwards. Please let the bus driver know if this is something you would like to do.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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