Gap of Dunloe Tours

Gap of Dunloe which includes a bridge, a river or creek and tranquil scenes
Gap of Dunloe showing mountains and tranquil scenes
Gap of Dunloe which includes a river or creek, a bridge and mountains
Gap of Dunloe which includes tranquil scenes and a ruin
Gap of Dunloe which includes tranquil scenes and a lake or waterhole


As pretty as a postcard and only reachable by slow travel, this pass gives you time to breathe the clear air and see the beauty of every wildflower.

Look for a spot where two rocky walls rise up on either side of a narrow road winding out to the green horizon and you will have found the Gap of Dunloe. This breathtaking glacial valley cuts through the mountain range of the MacGillicuddy Reeks to the west and Purple Mountain to the east.

See a view that has attracted County Kerry wanderers for centuries. Five glassy lakes, Coosaun Lough, Black Lake, Cushnavally Lake, Auger Lake and Black Lough, lie at the bottom of the valley, tied together by the river Loe. This countryside is untouched, with scrub and wildflowers growing on the hills. Clouds hang low in the magnificent sky as birds dart across overhead.

The whole pass of Gap of Dunloe is about 7 miles (11 kilometers) long. Leave your car behind as this narrow path would be very difficult to navigate by modern vehicles. Instead of driving, make a slow ramble on the path, ideal for meandering and enjoying your surroundings. Journey across the gap in ways travelers have done for hundreds of years before the invention of cars. Leave plenty of time to enjoy the return trip as well.

Pedal your bicycle through the Gap of Dunloe, board a traditional horse and buggy or ride a pony. Hear only the rushing of the clear waters over the rocky riverbed and the gentle noises of sheep and cattle in the hills. At every turn of the winding road, see a new view. These old red sandstone cliffs are also popular for climbing.

Consider one of the tours of the Gap of Dunloe region, which typically start at the historic inn, Kate Kearney’s Cottage. Enjoy coffee and lunch here before you set off on your journey. Go through the pass, then over the Lakes of Killarney by boat to Ross Castle. Many tours go north to south and start close to the village of Dunloe. When reaching the cottage, signage is sparse so bring a good map with you.

Plan a trip to see Gap of Dunloe

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Limerick Strand Hotel
No. 1 Pery Square Hotel & Spa
Madison House

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Best Lodging Options Near Gap of Dunloe

Silver Birch House

Silver Birch House

3.5 out of 5
Dunloe Upper
Silver Birch House
SWEENEY'S COTTAGE, family friendly in Beaufort, County Kerry

SWEENEY'S COTTAGE, family friendly in Beaufort, County Kerry

BEAUFORT
SWEENEY'S COTTAGE, family friendly in Beaufort, County Kerry
Gap of Dunloe Lodge

Gap of Dunloe Lodge

3.5 out of 5
Gap of Dunloe, Dunloe Upper, Kerry
Gap of Dunloe Lodge
The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens

The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens

5 out of 5
Beaufort, Dunloe Lower, County Kerry
The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens
Inveraray Farm

Inveraray Farm

2 out of 5
Killarney, Beaufort, Kerry
Inveraray Farm
Mountain Views on the Ring of Kerry

Mountain Views on the Ring of Kerry

Killarney
Mountain Views on the Ring of Kerry
Beautiful Countryside With A Spectacular View Of The Mountains

Beautiful Countryside With A Spectacular View Of The Mountains

Killarney
Beautiful Countryside With A Spectacular View Of The Mountains
Beaufort, Killarney - 3 bed house, sleeps 6

Beaufort, Killarney - 3 bed house, sleeps 6

Killarney
Beaufort, Killarney - 3 bed house, sleeps 6
Eviston House Hotel

Eviston House Hotel

3 out of 5
97 New Street, Killarney, Co. Kerry
Eviston House Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Gap of Dunloe

Explore the stunning Gap of Dunloe, where you can enjoy relaxing spa treatments and challenging golf courses. Don't miss the opportunity to take a Dunloe boat tour for breathtaking views of the landscape. Various tours are available, so you can easily find a Dunloe tour that suits your interests. Experience the natural beauty and adventures that make this destination a must-visit in County Kerry, Ireland.

Food and drinks

Experience the famous Gap of Dunloe with a meal at the Panorama Restaurant, where you can savor modern Irish cuisine while enjoying stunning views of the Dublin Mountains. Don't miss their local seafood dishes and hearty lamb stews for a true taste of County Kerry.

Shopping

In Gap of Dunloe, you can find charming local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit Manor West Retail Park, located 17 miles away, where you'll discover a variety of shops with family-friendly vibes and plenty of entertainment options.

Recreation

At Killarney Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by breathtaking views and an invigorating outdoor atmosphere, just 4 miles from Gap of Dunloe. For family-friendly fun, visit the Aqua Dome, located 17 miles away, where you can relax in warm pools and thrilling water slides.

Beaufort Golf Course, also 4 miles away, offers another excellent golfing experience amidst the stunning scenery of County Kerry, perfect for sports enthusiasts craving fresh air and outdoor recreation.

Adventure

The Kerry Way offers a breathtaking hiking experience with stunning scenery and outdoor adventure vibes, located 6 miles from Gap of Dunloe. Similarly, the Old Kenmare Road provides picturesque views and a thrilling trek, while the Cloghereen Blue Pool Walk immerses you in nature's beauty, also 6 miles away.

Nightlife

For a night out, catch a movie at Cinema Killarney, located 6 miles from Gap of Dunloe, where you can enjoy a mix of romance and family films. Alternatively, head to the National Folk Theatre, 17 miles away, for a cultural experience filled with captivating performances.

Find the best attractions near Gap of Dunloe

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Gap of Dunloe in County Kerry, Ireland, where you can explore stunning lakes and historic houses. Enjoy outdoor adventures and scenic views while immersing yourself in the local culture. Don't miss the famous Gap of Dunloe, the picturesque gardens, and the enchanting lakes of Killarney. This destination promises unforgettable experiences for every traveler seeking adventure and tranquility.

  • Killarney National Park: Just 4 miles from Gap of Dunloe, Killarney National Park offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures. Explore its lush landscapes, scenic lakes, and stunning mountain views, perfect for hiking, biking, or simply soaking in nature's beauty.
  • Ross Castle: Located 5 miles away, Ross Castle exudes romance and rich cultural history. This enchanting 15th-century castle, surrounded by tranquil waters, invites you to explore its fascinating past and enjoy picturesque views of the landscape.
  • Muckross House: A historic gem situated 6 miles from Gap of Dunloe, Muckross House showcases exquisite architecture and beautiful gardens. Delve into Ireland’s cultural heritage as you tour this Victorian mansion and its stunning surroundings.

Best time to go to Gap of Dunloe

The best time to visit Gap of Dunloe is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January41.5°F (5.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowModerately Low
February42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowAverage
March43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageModerately High
July58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighModerately High
August57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighModerately High
September55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
October50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageModerately Low
December42.4°F (5.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowModerately Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Gap of Dunloe

To save money on your visit to Gap of Dunloe, consider traveling between November and January when hotel prices are lower. Look for last-minute deals on Expedia and use their search tool to find accommodations that fit your budget. Take advantage of free activities nearby, such as Killarney National Park and St. Mary's Cathedral. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can unlock additional discounts and rewards for future stays. Lastly, combine your hotel, flights, and activities into a package for further savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing around Gap of Dunloe is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay around Gap of Dunloe are November to January, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are moderately higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Gap of Dunloe is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and type of hotel you’re looking for. To find the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay at the Gap of Dunloe with your flights and activities.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.