Cushnavally Lake

Overview

Cushnavally Lake sits in the middle stretch of the Gap of Dunloe, a narrow U-shaped valley that forms a natural boundary between the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks to the west and the Purple Mountain group to the east. It is the third in a chain of five corrie lakes that trace the valley floor, following Coosaun Lough and Black Lake, and leading toward Auger Lake and Black Lough. All five are threaded together by the River Loe, which gives the valley its Irish name, Dún Lóich (the fort of Lóich), a reference to an ancient chieftain recorded in local annals.

The landscape here was shaped roughly 25,000 years ago when a massive glacier broke through the head of the valley, carving a deep trench through ancient Old Red Sandstone. As the ice melted, water pooled in the depressions left behind, creating the series of lakes that define the Gap today. Cushnavally Lake is the most accessible of the chain, making it the natural stopping point for visitors driving or walking the route.

Getting There & Parking

The standard starting point for visiting the lake is Kate Kearney’s Cottage, a historic family-run bar and shop that marks the northern entrance to the Gap. From Killarney, follow the N72 west for approximately 12 km until you reach the clearly signposted turn-off into the valley.

Parking is free at the Kate Kearney’s Cottage lot, which also houses basic public toilets. The road into the Gap is narrow and winding, with only occasional lay-bys. During peak summer months, traffic can back up quickly, so arriving before 07:30 or after 16:30 will give you a better chance of securing a space and enjoying the valley without congestion.

Walking the Gap

Cushnavally Lake is roughly 1 km (0.6 mi) from Kate Kearney’s Cottage, a walk that takes 15–20 minutes each way on a relatively even gravel track. The path runs alongside the River Loe and offers uninterrupted views of the lake’s still surface and the surrounding craggy peaks.

For those looking to cover more ground, the full Gap walk stretches approximately 11 km to the Head of the Gap. The route passes directly beside Cushnavally Lake, allowing you to pause, stretch, and take in the waters before continuing toward the higher pastures. The trail is well-trodden but uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Dogs are welcome on leads, though you should keep them under control as sheep regularly graze the lower slopes.

Jaunting Cars & Boat Transfers

If walking isn’t your preference, the traditional jaunting car remains the most iconic way to experience the lake. Horse-drawn carriages depart regularly from Kate Kearney’s Cottage and follow the same road as pedestrians. The ride costs around €140 per carriage (roughly €35 per person), though prices vary by operator. Note that the route includes steep sections where passengers may be asked to dismount temporarily to let the horses rest.

Many visitors combine the jaunting car with a boat transfer. At the end of the carriage route, you can board a boat at Lord Brandon’s Cottage for a return trip to Ross Castle on the Lakes of Killarney. The boat ride costs approximately €25 per person and offers a unique perspective of Cushnavally Lake from the water, especially when the River Loe is running clear. Advance booking is highly recommended in summer.

Photography & Wildlife

Cushnavally Lake is a favourite among photographers because of its reflective surface and dramatic backdrop. Early morning light works best, casting a warm tone across the Reeks and minimising shadows on the water. A polarising filter will help cut through surface glare and deepen the sky’s colour. The nearby “Turnpike” boulder and old stone bridges make useful foreground elements for adding scale to your shots.

Wildlife is present but unobtrusive. The River Loe attracts swans, ducks, and occasional kingfishers, while the lower pastures are grazed by local sheep. The lake itself is not a designated fishing spot, but the wider Loe system supports brown trout, and guided boat tours sometimes include angling stops further downstream.

Practical Information

Note: Shuttle schedules, boat departures, and carriage availability change with the season and weather conditions. Always verify times with operators before planning your route.

Nearby Stops

If you have time to extend your visit, Ross Castle sits just a short shuttle or boat ride away on the shores of Lough Leane, offering medieval architecture and lakeside walks. For a broader exploration of the area, head south to Beaufort, the gateway village to the Reeks and a popular starting point for the southern section of the Ring of Kerry. Both locations are easily reached using the same local transport links that service the Gap.

Plan your visit for late September if you want to see the surrounding hills turn copper and amber, or aim for a quiet weekday in May when the pastures are green and the morning light is soft. Arrive early, keep your camera ready, and allow plenty of time for the narrow valley road.