If you’re looking for an adventure that combines dramatic landscapes, serene lakes, and a taste of Ireland’s natural beauty, the Gap of Dunloe is a must-see. Located near Killarney, this glacial valley offers some of the most breathtaking views in Ireland. Whether you’re an active hiker or you feel like exploring nature’s beauty, this place can’t be missed when you visit Ireland and is one of the top 10 things to see in Ireland (coming soon). In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about visiting the Gap of Dunloe, from the best hiking routes to where to park and the spots you won’t want to miss. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t forget!
Read more about the best things to do around Killarney here.
It is also possible to book a full day boat and pony tour through the Gap of Dunloe.
O'Sheas Ceol Na Habhann B&B (€120), Kingdom Lodge in Killarney, The Brehon Hotel & Spa (€225)
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The best time to visit the Gap of Dunloe is between April and October, when the weather is generally milder and you’ll get the clearest views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The spring and summer months (June through September) are ideal for hiking, with the trails being at their best, though it’s also the busiest time, so be prepared for more fellow hikers.
If you prefer a quieter experience, late spring or early autumn can be perfect, as you’ll avoid the peak crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather. During winter, the gap can be quite cold, with some trails potentially icy, so it’s not the best time for outdoor activities.
The Gap of Dunloe is located just 10 km (6 miles) west of Killarney, a popular base for exploring County Kerry. The easiest way to get there is by car, but there are also local buses and organized tours available from Killarney. If you’re driving, follow the N72 road from Killarney and look for the signs pointing to the Gap.
The key parking spot is next to Kate Kearneys Cottage, where there are plenty of parking spots available. I would highly advise you to not drive any further, as this is only allowed for locals and not for travellers visiting. Parking here is convenient and a good starting point. It takes approximately 1 km to the Wishing Bridge, from where you will first see the lakes.
Tip: Parking can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season, so arriving early is a good idea to grab a spot.
There are several ways to experience the Gap of Dunloe, depending on your preferences and the time available. Here are the three most popular options:
Walking is the best way to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Gap. You can explore the trails at your own pace, soaking in nature and hidden views that are not accessible by other forms of transport. It’s the ideal option if you want to experience the landscape at ease and enjoy an active experience. The hike to the Auger Lake viewpoint takes around 1,5 to 2 hours each way, depending on your pace. When walking, you will experience full freedom to explore and access the best viewpoints (highlighted later in this article!) at no extra cost.
Taking a horse-drawn carriage ride is a popular way to explore the Gap, especially for those who prefer not to walk. Local coachmen offer rides through the valley, providing a comfortable way to see the stunning scenery without the effort of hiking. The ride typically lasts around an hour, and the coachmen often share interesting stories about the history and landscape of the area. This option is comfortable and informative and great for families or those with limited mobility. Nevertheless, I would personally highly recommend hiking. The costs for a carriage ride are around €25-€30 per person for a ride through the Gap, depending on the duration of the ride and the provider.
The final option to explore the Gap of Dunloe is to take a boat ride across the lakes at the foot of the mountains. A boat trip starts at Lake Brandon’s Cottage and takes you through the Upper Lake offering stunning views. The boat of course provides a different perspective than from the land, however, I would do it as an addition to the hike to fully enjoy the Gap. A boat trip costs around €20-€25 per person, and you can also book a combined walking and boat tour for about €40-€50 per person.
If you love hiking and are in good physical condition, walking is the best option to fully experience the Gap. For families or those looking for a more relaxed experience, the horse-drawn carriage is a great choice. If you want to see the area from a different perspective, the boat ride is worth considering, especially for those who enjoy exploring landscapes from the water.
This hike is one of the best ways to take in the full beauty of the Gap. Starting at the Wishing Bridge, you’ll quickly be immersed in the dramatic landscape of jagged mountains and lush valleys. This spot offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially of the Black Lake below. A couple of meters before the Wishing Bridge on the right side of the road (when facing the lake) there is a hill you can climb. At first, we were in doubt whether this was possible, however, it left us with the most beautiful views over the lake!
Trail Details: The walk to the Auger Lake viewpoint is easy in difficulty and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours each way, depending on your pace. Along the trail, you’ll hike along Black Lake and you can enjoy views of some waterfalls along the way. However, next to the starting point, the highlight is the view from above Auger Lake, offering one of the best panoramic perspectives of the entire valley.
Alternatively, you can continue your way to Lord Brandon’s Cottage from where the boat trips start. This extends the one-way hike by over an hour.
While the Gap of Dunloe itself doesn’t have a lot of dining options, there are several spots nearby where you can enjoy a hearty meal after your hike. This also means that you have to take sufficient water and a snack for your hike. If you’re looking for something traditional Irish straight after your hike, Kate Kearney’s Cottage (where you park your car) is a classic stop with a cosy atmosphere.
Alternatively, you can head back to Killarney and explore the town including its many restaurants and pubs. We had a lovely lunch at J.M. Reidy’s, a very cool pub with multiple rooms. Other popular spots in Killarney are The Laurels and The Porterhouse Gastropub.
Check out other sights on the list of the top 10 things to do in Ireland.
There are several options for accommodation in the area, with something for every budget. You could consider staying in Killarney to further explore Killarney National Park and the city. However, we decided to stay in Kenmore where prices were lower and we loved this small town!
These are some of my recommended places:
O’Sheas Ceol Na Habhann B&B in Kenmare: We stayed for two nights at this B&B and loved it! It is slightly outside Kenmore (30 minutes walking) and the owner is so incredibly nice! You can book a room starting at €120 a night.
Kingdom Lodge in Killarney: An affordable option right in the city centre of Killarney offering rooms for 2 persons or a family room for 4. Prices start at €130 a night.
The Brehon Hotel & Spa near Killarney: A luxury hotel offering beautiful views of Killarney National Park and great spa facilities while also being near Killarney town. You can book a room for €225 a night.
The Gap of Dunloe is one of those places that will leave you in awe of Ireland’s natural beauty. Whether you’re hiking up to the Auger Lake viewpoint or simply soaking in the scenery at the Wishing Bridge, it’s a destination that promises unforgettable memories. Make sure to bring your camera and good hiking boots!
