Gap of Dunloe

Gap of Dunloe showing a river or creek, tranquil scenes and a bridge
Gap of Dunloe
Gap of Dunloe
Gap of Dunloe which includes tranquil scenes and building ruins
Gap of Dunloe showing a lake or waterhole and tranquil scenes


As pretty as a postcard and only reachable by slow travel, this pass gives you time to breathe the clear air and see the beauty of every wildflower.

Look for a spot where two rocky walls rise up on either side of a narrow road winding out to the green horizon and you will have found the Gap of Dunloe. This breathtaking glacial valley cuts through the mountain range of the MacGillicuddy Reeks to the west and Purple Mountain to the east.

See a view that has attracted County Kerry wanderers for centuries. Five glassy lakes, Coosaun Lough, Black Lake, Cushnavally Lake, Auger Lake and Black Lough, lie at the bottom of the valley, tied together by the river Loe. This countryside is untouched, with scrub and wildflowers growing on the hills. Clouds hang low in the magnificent sky as birds dart across overhead.

The whole pass of Gap of Dunloe is about 7 miles (11 kilometres) long. Leave your car behind as this narrow path would be very difficult to navigate by modern vehicles. Instead of driving, make a slow ramble on the path, ideal for meandering and enjoying your surroundings. Journey across the gap in ways travellers have done for hundreds of years before the invention of cars. Leave plenty of time to enjoy the return trip as well.

Pedal your bicycle through the Gap of Dunloe, board a traditional horse and buggy or ride a pony. Hear only the rushing of the clear waters over the rocky riverbed and the gentle noises of sheep and cattle in the hills. At every turn of the winding road, see a new view. These old red sandstone cliffs are also popular for climbing.

Consider one of the tours of the Gap of Dunloe region, which typically start at the historic inn, Kate Kearney’s Cottage. Enjoy coffee and lunch here before you set off on your journey. Go through the pass, then over the Lakes of Killarney by boat to Ross Castle. Many tours go north to south and start close to the village of Dunloe. When reaching the cottage, signage is sparse so bring a good map with you.

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Colleen Bawn Cottage, Gap Of Dunloe, Kerry

Colleen Bawn Cottage, Gap Of Dunloe, Kerry

Killarney, Co Kerry, County Kerry
Colleen Bawn Cottage, Gap Of Dunloe, Kerry
Silver Birch House

Silver Birch House

3.5 out of 5
Dunloe Upper, County Kerry
Silver Birch House
SWEENEY'S COTTAGE, family friendly in Beaufort, County Kerry

SWEENEY'S COTTAGE, family friendly in Beaufort, County Kerry

BEAUFORT, South West
SWEENEY'S COTTAGE, family friendly in Beaufort, County Kerry
ROCKLANDS HOUSE, pet friendly in Beaufort, County Kerry

ROCKLANDS HOUSE, pet friendly in Beaufort, County Kerry

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ROCKLANDS HOUSE, pet friendly in Beaufort, County Kerry
The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens

The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens

5 out of 5
Beaufort, Dunloe Lower, County Kerry
The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens
Inveraray Farm

Inveraray Farm

2 out of 5
Killarney, Beaufort, Kerry
Inveraray Farm
Mountain Views on the Ring of Kerry

Mountain Views on the Ring of Kerry

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Mountain Views on the Ring of Kerry
Beautiful Countryside With A Spectacular View Of The Mountains

Beautiful Countryside With A Spectacular View Of The Mountains

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Beautiful Countryside With A Spectacular View Of The Mountains
The Europe Hotel & Resort

The Europe Hotel & Resort

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Gap of Dunloe

The Gap of Dunloe offers a range of delightful activities for visitors, including relaxing spa treatments and scenic golf courses. Nature enthusiasts can also enjoy a picturesque picnic area, perfect for unwinding amidst the stunning landscapes. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, the Gap of Dunloe is an idyllic destination for a memorable experience in County Kerry.

Shopping

In the scenic Gap of Dunloe, you can enjoy local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, Manor West Retail Park, located 10.6km away, boasts a variety of stores and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for family and entertainment.

Recreation

INEC Killarney, a vibrant music venue 3.7km from Gap of Dunloe, offers an energetic atmosphere perfect for entertainment lovers. Fitzgerald Stadium, also 3.7km away, is ideal for sports enthusiasts, while Dunloe Golf Course, just 1.2km away, presents a stunning outdoor setting for golf aficionados.

Adventure

Explore the Old Kenmare Road, a scenic hiking trail 3.7km from Gap of Dunloe, offering stunning views and a sense of adventure. Discover the Mossy Woods Nature Trail, also 3.7km away, where lush greenery surrounds you. Finally, trek the Arthur Young Trail for more breathtaking landscapes.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Gap of Dunloe with a visit to the National Folk Theatre, 10.6km away, for cultural performances. For a relaxed evening, enjoy a film at Cinema Killarney, just 3.7km away, or catch a show at St John's Theatre and Arts Centre, 18.6km away.

Find the best attractions near Gap of Dunloe

Gap of Dunloe, a stunning location in County Kerry, offers a wealth of attractions, including historic houses, picturesque lakes, and ancient castles. Visitors can immerse themselves in outdoor activities while enjoying the breathtaking scenery and rich culture. Notable highlights include the famous Gap of Dunloe and the historic Dunloe Castle, making it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and exploration in a captivating landscape.

  • Killarney National Park: A stunning expanse of natural beauty, Killarney National Park offers endless adventure with its scenic trails, lush woodlands, and breathtaking views. It's perfect for hiking, cycling, and immersing yourself in Ireland's diverse wildlife.
  • Torc Waterfall: Nestled in a romantic setting, Torc Waterfall cascades gracefully down the mountainside. The short hike to the waterfall is invigorating, and the tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat.
  • St. Mary's Cathedral: A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, St. Mary's Cathedral boasts intricate stained glass and a rich history. Explore its serene interior and admire the artistry that reflects the culture and heritage of the region.

Best time to go to Gap of Dunloe

The best time to visit Gap of Dunloe can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Gap of Dunloe falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Gap of Dunloe falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January41.5°F (5.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
February42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April47.1°F (8.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
August57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
September55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
October50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
December42.4°F (5.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Gap of Dunloe

To save money on your visit to the Gap of Dunloe, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January to February and November, when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance or search for last-minute deals on Expedia for potential savings. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s filters to find eco-friendly options and sort by price to find the best deals. Combining your hotel with flights and activities in a package can also help you save significantly.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Gap of Dunloe are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Gap of Dunloe is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Gap of Dunloe is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Gap of Dunloe is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay in the Gap of Dunloe with your flights and activities.