The Gap of Dunloe offers an unforgettable journey through Ireland’s stunning landscapes. Combining a 12km hike with a scenic boat cruise, this tour showcases the region’s natural beauty and rich history. Trekking through the hilly terrain, visitors can marvel at the majestic Purple Mountain and discover historic sites like Innisfallen Island. Capping off the adventure, a cash-only lunch at the rustic Lord Brandon’s Cottage provides a unique opportunity to take in the local culture. For outdoor enthusiasts seeking a blend of nature and exploration, this 5.5-hour tour promises an experience that may leave them eager to uncover more of Ireland’s hidden gems.
Key Points
- A 5.5-hour tour combining a 12km hike through the Gap of Dunloe and a scenic boat trip on the Lakes of Killarney.
- The hike across hilly terrain takes 2.5-3 hours, with a lunch stop at Lord Brandon’s Cottage.
- The boat trip offers views of natural wonders like Purple Mountain and historic sites like Innisfallen Island and Ross Castle.
- The tour is self-guided, with a straightforward hiking path, but may be affected by weather conditions.
- The tour has an overall rating of 3.8 out of 5, with feedback highlighting scenic aspects but communication issues regarding boat schedules.
Tour Overview
The Gap of Dunloe Boat Tour and Scenic Walk offers visitors a comprehensive half-day experience, encompassing a picturesque walk through a glacial valley and a tranquil boat cruise across the Lakes of Killarney.
Priced from £30.03 per person, the tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours and is conducted in English.
Travelers can reserve their spot and pay later, and there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
This adventure takes participants on a 12km (7-mile) hike through the Gap of Dunloe, followed by a boat trip showcasing the region’s natural beauty, including landmarks like Purple Mountain and Innisfallen Island.
Itinerary Details
At the starting point of Kate Kearney’s Cottage at the entrance of the Gap of Dunloe, you will embark on a 12km (7-mile) walk through the glacial valley, a journey that typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours to complete over hilly terrain with the highest elevation reaching 840m.
Along the way, they’ll stop for lunch at Lord Brandon’s Cottage, where they’ll pay in cash before boarding a traditional boat for a cruise across the picturesque Lakes of Killarney.
The boat trip highlights include stunning views of Purple Mountain, Dinish Island, Innisfallen Island, Macgillycuddys Reeks, the Meeting of the Waters, Old Weir Bridge, Dinish Cottage, Bricin Bridge, and Ross Castle.
Walking the Gap of Dunloe
After exploring the itinerary details, participants can now look forward to walking the iconic Gap of Dunloe.
This glacial valley stretch spans a distance of 12km (7 miles) and typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours to complete, offering a challenging yet rewarding hike with a maximum elevation of 840m.
The terrain is hilly, and the path winds through the stunning natural landscape, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks.
Walkers should come prepared with comfortable footwear, rain gear, and hydration, as the weather can be unpredictable.
While the walk is self-guided, the route is straightforward, following a single path through the Gap of Dunloe.
Boat Trip on the Lakes
Upon completing the scenic walk through the Gap of Dunloe, participants board a traditional boat for a relaxing cruise across the Lakes of Killarney.
The boat trip takes visitors past an array of natural wonders, including the towering Purple Mountain, the serene Dinish Island, and the historic Innisfallen Island.
Along the way, they’ll marvel at the majestic Macgillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range and witness the meeting of the waters at the Old Weir Bridge.
The tour also offers views of the Dinish Cottage and the Bricin Bridge before arriving at the iconic Ross Castle.
This leisurely boat ride provides a perfect complement to the previous guided walk, allowing participants to soak in the stunning scenery of the Lakes of Killarney.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyLunch at Lord Brandon’s Cottage
Midway through the scenic walk, participants reach Lord Brandon’s Cottage, where they can stop for a cash-only lunch before continuing the boat tour.
This rustic cottage offers a welcomed respite and the chance to refuel with a hearty meal. The menu features local favorites like Irish stew, soda bread, and fresh seafood. Visitors should bring cash as the cottage doesn’t accept credit cards.
After enjoying their lunch, hikers can board the traditional boats waiting to take them on the tranquil Lakes of Killarney cruise, marveling at the stunning mountain and island landscapes along the way.
This stop at Lord Brandon’s Cottage adds an authentic touch to the overall Gap of Dunloe experience.
Important Considerations
There are some important considerations for those interested in the Gap of Dunloe boat tour and scenic walk. The tour may be done in reverse order depending on weather conditions, and low water levels can affect accessibility to certain areas.
Participants should dress appropriately and bring essentials like comfortable footwear, rain jackets, and water. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, and large bags or luggage aren’t allowed.
The self-guided walk through the Gap of Dunloe is straightforward, with only one path to follow.
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Weather conditions may affect the tour order
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Low water levels can impact accessibility
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Appropriate clothing and supplies are essential
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Not suitable for those with mobility issues
Meeting Point and Directions
The meeting point for the Gap of Dunloe tour is Kate Kearney’s Cottage, which is accessible via Google Maps.
The route through the Gap of Dunloe is straightforward, with only one path to follow. This self-guided walk takes participants through the glacial valley, with no need for complicated directions or navigation.
Visitors can simply start at the cottage and follow the well-marked trail. This simplicity allows them to focus on the stunning scenery and natural beauty of the region, without worrying about getting lost.
With clear directions and a single path, the Gap of Dunloe tour provides a hassle-free experience for those looking to explore this picturesque landscape.
Customer Feedback
Customers have provided a mix of feedback on the Gap of Dunloe tour, with an overall rating of 3.8 out of 5 based on 6 reviews.
Positive experiences with the scenic walk and boat trip have been commonly reported, though some customers have noted communication issues regarding boat schedules and return transport arrangements.
To improve the customer experience, reviewers have made the following recommendations:
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Provide clearer information on booking and transportation details
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Enhance communication about any changes to the itinerary or schedules
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Offer more flexibility for those with mobility challenges
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Consider additional amenities or services to enhance the overall tour experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Available on All Days of the Week?
The availability of the tour depends on the specific tour provider. Many tours operate on a daily basis, but some may have limited schedules or be closed on certain days of the week. It’s best to check with the tour provider for their specific operating hours.
What Are the Options for Transportation to the Starting Point?
There are two options for getting to the starting point at Kate Kearney’s Cottage – visitors can either self-drive and park at the cottage, or they can arrange a shuttle service from nearby towns like Killarney.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Stops?
The tour can generally be customized to include additional stops, though details may vary. Customers should check with the tour provider about the availability and cost of any customizations to the standard itinerary.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Families?
There are no explicit discounts mentioned for seniors or families on this tour. However, the tour operator may offer occasional promotions or discounted rates, so it’s best to check their website or contact them directly for the latest pricing information.
How Does the Weather Impact the Duration and Route of the Tour?
The weather can significantly impact the duration and route of the tour. Low water levels may affect accessibility, and the tour may be done in reverse order to accommodate changing conditions. The tour is designed to be adaptable to weather changes.
Recap
The Gap of Dunloe: Lakes of Killarney Boat Tour and Scenic Walk offers a unique combination of breathtaking landscapes, historic sites, and cultural experiences.
It’s a perfect blend of nature and adventure for outdoor enthusiasts, with a 12km hike, scenic boat cruise, and a rustic lunch stop.
This 5.5-hour adventure through the stunning Irish countryside is a must-do for visitors to the Killarney region.
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