Gap of Dunloe Tour by Foot & Boat

The Gap of Dunloe Tour by Foot & Boat promises an immersive journey through Ireland’s stunning landscapes. Trekking 7 miles with expert guides, you will uncover the region’s captivating folklore and history. Complementing the scenic hike, a peaceful boat cruise across three lakes offers breathtaking vistas of Lord Brandon’s Cottage and Ross Castle. This 5-hour experience caters to all ages, showcasing the natural beauty that has enchanted visitors for generations. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, this tour promises to leave you with memories that will linger long after your visit.

Contents hide

1 Tour Overview

2 Experience Highlights

3 Tour Details

4 Participant Information

5 Customer Feedback

6 Getting to the Meeting Point

7 What to Expect on the Tour

8 Optional Activities

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

A 5-hour experience exploring the scenic Gap of Dunloe, Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, and Purple Mountain with an expert guide sharing local folklore and history.
The tour includes a 7-mile trek to Lord Brandon’s Cottage and a scenic boat cruise through 3 lakes.
Offers flexibility with transportation options, including walking, pony/cart ride, and boat services with courtesy pick-up from Killarney.
Caters to various age groups, with alternatives available for those unable to complete the full walking route.
Highly rated by previous customers for its knowledgeable guides, seamless transportation, and immersive experience showcasing Ireland’s stunning countryside.

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Tour Overview

The ‘Gap of Dunloe Tour by Foot & Boat’ is a 5-hour experience that takes visitors through the dramatic terrain of the Gap of Dunloe, including the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks and Purple Mountain, for a price starting from $42.58 per person.

The tour’s availability is limited, so it’s advisable to check for starting times. Cancelations can be made free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

Round-trip transportation from Killarney is included, making it a convenient choice. With an expert guide, visitors can discover the folklore, facts, and history of this glacier-formed landscape, which offers scenic views of 5 lakes and landmarks like Lord Brandon’s Cottage and Ross Castle.

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Experience Highlights

Explorers can traverse the dramatic terrain of the Gap of Dunloe, including the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks and Purple Mountain, and discover the folklore, facts, and history of this glacier-formed landscape with the help of an expert guide.

They’ll visit Lord Brandon’s Cottage and Ross Castle, and have the option to journey by foot, boat, or pony/cart ride.

Along the way, they’ll enjoy scenic views of five lakes, gaining a deeper appreciation for this unique natural wonder.

Whether it’s soaking in the stunning vistas or learning about the region’s rich cultural heritage, this tour offers an immersive experience that showcases the very best of Ireland’s breathtaking countryside.

Tour Details

This Gap of Dunloe Tour begins at the Ardross on Ross Road in Killarney, where round-trip transportation by bus and boat is included, with a courtesy pick-up service available from the Killarney bus and rail stations.

Over the course of the 5-hour experience, you’ll embark on a 7-mile journey to Lord Brandon’s Cottage, which you can tackle on foot or by pony trap.

From there, you’ll hop aboard a boat and cruise through 3 scenic lakes, taking in the dramatic landscapes of Macgillycuddy’s Reeks and the Purple Mountain.

Throughout the tour, your expert guide will share folklore, facts, and historical insights to enrich your understanding of this glacier-formed natural wonder.

Participant Information

According to the information provided, the Gap of Dunloe Tour caters to a range of age groups, including adults aged 13 to 99, children aged 3 to 12, and infants 2 and younger. Plus, the tour offers an optional pony/cart ride, with additional costs potentially applicable for this activity.

Age Group	Minimum Age	Maximum Age
Adults	13	99
Children	3	12
Infants	2	–

The availability of the pony/cart ride option provides an alternative mode of transportation for those who may not wish to or are unable to complete the 7-mile journey on foot. Participants should be aware of any additional costs associated with this optional activity.

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Customer Feedback

The Gap of Dunloe Tour has garnered overwhelmingly positive customer feedback, with an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 148 reviews.

Travelers were especially impressed with the tour’s key elements:

The knowledgeable and engaging guides, who received a 4.6/5 rating for their expertise in sharing the region’s folklore, facts, and history.
The seamless transportation, including the round-trip bus service and boat rides, also earning a 4.6/5 rating from guests.
The overall service and organization of the tour, though slightly lower at 3.9/5, still received praise for delivering a memorable experience through the dramatic and scenic Gap of Dunloe landscape.

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Getting to the Meeting Point

To reach the meeting point for the Gap of Dunloe Tour, visitors can take advantage of the round-trip transportation service included in the tour package.

The tour departs from Ardross, Ross Road in Killarney, and the company offers a courtesy pick-up service from the Killarney bus and rail stations to ensure a seamless start to the day’s adventure.

This convenient option allows participants to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic journey to the starting point without the hassle of driving or finding parking.

What to Expect on the Tour

The Gap of Dunloe Tour offers a captivating journey through the dramatic landscapes of Ireland’s wild and rugged countryside.

Participants can expect to embark on a 7-mile trek, either on foot or by traditional pony trap, traversing the glacier-carved terrain of the Gap while learning about the region’s rich folklore and history from an expert guide.

Following the land-based portion of the tour, guests will then board a boat and cruise through a series of tranquil lakes, taking in the breathtaking scenery of Macgillycuddy’s Reeks and the Purple Mountain.

The tour includes:

Guided exploration of the Gap of Dunloe’s natural wonders.
Visit to Lord Brandon’s Cottage and Ross Castle.
Scenic boat ride through a glacier-formed landscape.

Optional Activities

Along With the core tour activities, participants have the opportunity to enhance their experience through optional add-ons, including a traditional pony and cart ride along the Gap of Dunloe.

This leisurely mode of transportation allows visitors to sit back, relax, and soak in the breathtaking scenery at a slower pace. The pony and cart ride is a popular choice among those who prefer not to walk the entire 7-mile route.

While this optional activity incurs an additional cost, it provides a unique way to take in the region’s rich heritage and culture.

Travelers should note that availability and pricing for the pony and cart ride may vary, so it’s best to inquire about the specifics when booking the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be fully suitable for people with mobility issues. While there’s a boat option, the walking portions and optional pony/cart ride could present challenges for those with limited mobility. Customers should check with the tour operator about accessibility accommodations.

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

Yes, participants are typically allowed to bring their own food and drinks on tours. However, it’s best to confirm the specific policy with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have restrictions or recommendations regarding outside provisions.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Tour Route?

There are typically restroom facilities available at the starting/ending points of the tour, as well as at any stops along the route. However, options may be limited during the tour itself in more remote areas.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, many tour operators offer the option to extend the tour duration for an additional fee. This allows participants more time to explore the sights and activities at their own pace.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are generally not allowed on this tour. The tour operator’s policy is to prohibit animals for the safety and comfort of all participants. Guests should leave their pets at home or make alternative arrangements for their care during the tour.