Gap of Dunloe Tour ( Boat & Bus)

The Gap of Dunloe Tour provides visitors with a captivating full-day excursion through the stunning landscapes of Killarney National Park. Departing from Old Weir Lodge, travelers can choose between a scenic walk or a charming horse-drawn carriage ride through the breathtaking Gap. The adventure culminates with a guided boat tour of Killarney’s lakes and rivers, complemented by a delightful lunch at Lord Brandon’s Cottage. With a maximum of 48 travelers and a Badge of Excellence, this tour promises an intimate and memorable exploration of Ireland’s natural beauty. However, the true highlights of this experience are yet to be discovered.

This experience made our list of the 11 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Killarney.

Key Points

• The Gap of Dunloe tour is a full-day experience that combines a bus ride, walking or horse-drawn carriage ride through the Gap, and a guided boat tour of Killarney’s lakes and rivers.
• The tour departs at 10:00 am from Old Weir Lodge in Killarney, Ireland and includes lunch at Lord Brandon’s Cottage.
• Customers can choose between walking or taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the scenic Gap of Dunloe.
• The tour is rated 4.5 stars based on 43 reviews and has been awarded a Badge of Excellence.
• The tour is priced from $66.60 with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, and has a maximum capacity of 48 travelers.

Tour Overview

The Gap of Dunloe Tour is a full-day experience that allows visitors to explore the scenic mountain pass and Killarney National Park through a combination of bus and boat transportation.

Known for its 4.5-star rating based on 43 reviews, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence.

The tour starts at 10:00 am and departs from the Old Weir Lodge in Killarney, Ireland.

Travelers can opt to walk or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the Gap of Dunloe, followed by a guided boat tour around Killarney’s lakes and rivers.

Lunch is included, with a break at Lord Brandon’s Cottage.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and can accommodate up to 48 travelers.

Itinerary

Commencing with pre-arranged bus transportation, the Gap of Dunloe Tour takes visitors to Kate Kearney’s Cottage at the entrance of the mountain pass.

From there, guests can choose to either walk or opt for a horse-drawn carriage ride (at an additional cost) through the scenic Gap of Dunloe.

Following this, a guided boat tour takes travelers around the serene lakes and rivers of Killarney National Park, with a break for included lunch at Lord Brandon’s Cottage.

The tour’s varied activities, from traversing the mountain pass to exploring the lakes by boat, provide a well-rounded and immersive experience for visitors to take in the natural beauty of the region.

Pricing and Booking

After experiencing the varied activities of the Gap of Dunloe Tour, visitors can explore the pricing and booking details.

The tour is priced from $66.60, with a lowest price guarantee, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

With a maximum capacity of 48 travelers, the tour ensures an intimate group experience.

Accessibility is a consideration, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but does allow strollers and service animals. Infants must sit on laps.

Booking in advance is recommended, as the tour’s popularity may result in limited availability, especially during peak seasons.

Reviews and Highlights

Visitors to the Gap of Dunloe Tour have overwhelmingly praised the scenic beauty and fresh mountain air, with many highlighting the boat ride and horse-drawn carriage experience as particularly memorable. Guides are often noted for their humor and engaging storytelling, immersing participants in the rich history and culture of the region.

While the tour generally receives excellent reviews, some participants found the experience poorly organized, with long waiting times and issues with overcrowding in the horse-drawn carts.

The highlights of the tour include:

1. Breathtaking vistas of the Gap of Dunloe mountain pass

2. Tranquil boat ride through Killarney’s picturesque lakes and rivers

3. Unique opportunity to travel by traditional horse-drawn carriage

4. Informative and entertaining commentary from the knowledgeable local guides

Meeting Point

The designated meeting point for the Gap of Dunloe Tour is the Old Weir Lodge, located on Muckross Road in Scrahane, Killarney, County Kerry, Ireland. This convenient location serves as the starting point for the excursion, where you will board the pre-arranged bus that will take them to Kate Kearney’s Cottage at the entrance of the Gap of Dunloe.

The Old Weir Lodge offers free parking for tour participants, making it easy to leave your vehicle and embark on the day’s adventure. From this meeting point, the tour will commence, leading you on a journey through the stunning natural landscapes of Killarney National Park and the iconic Gap of Dunloe.

Experience Duration

The Gap of Dunloe Tour is a full-day excursion, starting at 10:00 am. Participants can expect to spend the entire day exploring the scenic mountain pass and Killarney National Park, with the tour concluding at the end of the day.

This immersive experience allows visitors to:

1. Soak in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Gap of Dunloe and its surrounding landscapes.

2. Set out on a guided boat tour to navigate the serene lakes and rivers of the national park.

3. Enjoy a leisurely lunch break at the charming Lord Brandon’s Cottage.

4. Choose between walking the gap or taking a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride.

With a full day dedicated to this captivating tour, guests can expect to create lasting memories of Ireland’s stunning natural wonders.

Transport and Activities

To begin the Gap of Dunloe Tour, pre-arranged buses transport guests to Kate Kearney’s Cottage at the entrance of the scenic mountain pass.

From here, visitors have the option to either walk the 7-mile Gap or take a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride (for an additional cost).

Following this, the tour transitions to a guided boat cruise along Killarney’s picturesque lakes and rivers.

During the boat portion, guests will enjoy a lunch break at Lord Brandon’s Cottage, allowing them to refuel and take in the stunning natural surroundings.

Whether traversing the Gap by foot or carriage, or sailing the serene waterways, the tour delivers an immersive experience showcasing the breathtaking beauty of Killarney National Park.

Additional Information

Free parking is available at the Old Weir Lodge, the designated meeting point for the Gap of Dunloe Tour.

The tour operator prioritizes guest safety, with the potential to cancel tours in the event of inclement weather.

Throughout the experience, knowledgeable guides provide historical context and engaging storytelling, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the local culture and landscape.

The tour highlights include:

1. Breathtaking views of the majestic Gap of Dunloe mountain pass.

2. A serene boat ride across the picturesque Killarney lakes and rivers.

3. Opportunities to take in the tranquility of Killarney National Park.

4. Insights into the region’s rich history and folklore shared by the passionate guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Gap of Dunloe?

The best time to visit the Gap of Dunloe is during the summer months of June, July, and August when the weather is mild and dry, making it ideal for exploring the scenic mountain pass and surrounding Killarney National Park.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, visitors can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour operator allows participants to pack lunches and snacks to enjoy during designated breaks. Bringing your own refreshments can help save money and customize the experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

Yes, the tour operator offers discounted tickets for seniors and students. Customers must provide valid ID to receive the reduced rate, which is typically around 10-15% off the standard adult ticket price.

How Much Time Is Allocated for the Boat Tour and the Carriage Ride?

The tour includes a guided boat tour around Killarney’s lakes and rivers, and an optional horse-drawn carriage ride at the Gap of Dunloe. However, the tour itinerary does not specify the exact duration allocated for each of these activities.

Is There an Option to Explore the Gap of Dunloe Independently Without the Guided Tour?

The tour overview indicates there is an option to walk or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the Gap of Dunloe, suggesting it can be explored independently. However, booking the full tour package provides transportation and a guided boat tour.

Recap

The Gap of Dunloe Tour offers a captivating full-day experience through Killarney National Park‘s stunning landscapes.

Participants can choose between a scenic walk or a charming horse-drawn carriage ride through the breathtaking Gap, followed by a guided boat tour of the lakes and rivers.

With lunch at Lord Brandon’s Cottage and a Badge of Excellence, this tour promises an intimate and memorable exploration of Ireland’s natural beauty.