Gap of Dunloe

If you are looking for majestic scenery within easy reach of The Killarney Park, you have countless options. One of our favourites The Gap of Dunloe. Carved between the mountains 2 million years ago by slow-moving masses of ice, the Gap of Dunloe is the most impressive glaciated valley in Western Europe – and it is just 16km from the hotel.

Start at Kate Kearney’s Cottage at the entrance to the Gap, and either walk, cycle, hire a pony, or take a jaunting car-ride between the imposing crags, where a narrow road winds its way for 10km around deep lakes between the McGillycuddy Reeks and the Purple Mountain. After cresting the top of the pass, it is downhill to the lakeshore, where light refreshments can be purchased at Lord Brandon’s Cottage. It is here that the open boats gather to take travellers (and their bikes, if necessary) through the three Lakes of Killarney. During this 90 mins journey you can marvel at the majestic mountains that sweep down to the lakes and maybe catch a glimpse of a white-tailed sea eagle, recently re-introduced to the area. The journey ends at Ross Castle, which is only 5 mins away from the Hotel.