Killarney: Gap of Dunloe Hike & Lakes Boat Trip with Pickup

Summary

Gap of Dunloe walk or carriage ride then boat across Killarney’s lakes to Ross Castle

You’ll start at Kate Kearney’s Cottage with a choice to walk or ride a jaunting carriage through Ireland’s legendary Gap of Dunloe. Pause for coffee at Lord Brandon’s Cottage before gliding across all three Lakes of Killarney by boat, ending at historic Ross Castle. The rhythm shifts from mountain quiet to lake breeze—leaving you with more than just photos.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the soft clop of hooves outside Kate Kearney’s Cottage, and the way the air smelled like wet grass and peat smoke. We’d barely finished our tea when our guide, Padraig, waved us over — he had that easy Irish way of talking, half story, half directions. You can walk the Gap of Dunloe or hop on one of those old jaunting carriages (we did both, long story), and either way you end up threading between these wild green mountains that look like something out of a movie. It’s quieter than I expected — just sheep somewhere in the mist and the odd laugh from another group winding up behind us.

After a couple hours (I lost track — my legs definitely noticed), Lord Brandon’s Cottage appeared like some mirage at the end of the pass. There’s a little café there, cash only, where I bought what might be the best scone I’ve ever tasted. The boatmen were waiting by the water, joking in that rapid-fire Kerry accent. Getting into those narrow boats for the trip across the Lakes of Killarney was a bit wobbly — someone nearly lost their hat to a gust off Upper Lake — but once we set off it was all glassy water and mountain reflections. The boat engine was quieter than I thought; mostly you hear wind and sometimes just silence.

I didn’t expect Ross Castle to look so solid against all that green when we finally drifted in. Our driver pointed out where O’Donoghue supposedly vanished into the lake centuries ago (Padraig swears he saw his ghost once — not sure if he was joking). There wasn’t time to tour inside unless you stayed longer, but honestly I was happy just sitting by the water watching clouds move over Lough Leane. The whole day felt like it slipped by sideways — slow in places, then suddenly you’re done and wishing you could rewind part of it. I still think about that view through the Gap when it gets too noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Gap of Dunloe and Lakes of Killarney

• Start tour from Killarney office
• Walk or take horse carriage through Gap of Dunloe
• Visit Kate Kearney's Cottage
• Reach Lord Brandon’s Cottage for rest
• Enjoy coffee or snack at Lord Brandon’s Cottage
• Board boat at Lord Brandon’s Cottage
• Boat trip through the three Lakes of Killarney
• View Ross Castle from the lake

Top questions

How long is the Gap of Dunloe walk?

The walk through the Gap of Dunloe is about 7 miles (11 kilometers) and takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Can I take a horse carriage instead of walking?

Yes, traditional jaunting carriages are available at Kate Kearney's Cottage for an extra fee paid directly in cash.

Where does the tour start and finish?

The tour starts at Kate Kearney's Cottage and finishes at Ross Castle in Killarney.

Is hotel pickup included?

Pickup is available at Ross Castle with prior notice; otherwise, transport is provided from central Killarney to Kate Kearney's Cottage.

Are meals or snacks included?

No meals are included but there is a café at Lord Brandon's Cottage where you can buy snacks (cash only).

Is there time to visit inside Ross Castle?

No guided visit is included due to timing, but you can stay longer after the tour if you wish.

Are infants or strollers allowed?

Yes, infants can join and strollers are allowed; service animals are also permitted.

What should I bring for this day trip?

Bring comfortable shoes for walking, cash for snacks or carriage rides, and weather-appropriate clothing.

What’s included

Your day covers bus transfer from central Killarney to Kate Kearney’s Cottage, your choice between hiking or paying directly for a jaunting carriage ride through the Gap of Dunloe, plus a guided boat journey across all three Lakes of Killarney ending near Ross Castle—with pickup options available if arranged ahead.