Gap of Dunloe

Overview

The Gap of Dunloe (Irish: Bearna an Choimín) is a classic Irish postcard landscape in County Kerry. A narrow, north‑south‑running valley about 11 km long, it lies between the towering MacGillycuddy’s Reeks on the west and the Purple Mountain Group on the east. The River Loe threads through the valley, linking five crystal‑clear glacial lakes – Coosaun Lough, Black Lake, Cushnavally Lake, Auger Lake and Black Lough – before spilling into the Black Valley.

The journey begins at the historic Kate Kearney’s Cottage, a 150‑year‑old family‑run restaurant and craft shop that marks the northern entrance. The road winds past silver‑grey Old Red Sandstone cliffs, open pastures dotted with sheep, and the iconic stone Wishing Bridge that spans Coosaun Lough and Black Lake. At the southern end lies Lord Brandon’s Cottage in the Black Valley, with the 15th‑century Ross Castle perched on the lake’s edge.

Visitors can drive, walk, cycle or ride in a traditional horse‑drawn jaunting‑car, each mode offering a slightly different perspective on the dramatic scenery.

History & Landscape Formation

During the last ice age, roughly 25 000 years ago, a massive glacier descended from the Black Valley, carving a deep U‑shaped trough through the rock. As the ice retreated, melt‑water filled the depressions, creating the string of corrie lakes that define the Gap today. The name Dunloe derives from the Irish Dún Lóich – “fort of Lóich” – a reference to an ancient chieftain recorded in the Annals of Clonmacnois.

The valley has long served as a natural corridor for travel and trade, but it only became a tourist magnet in the Victorian era when Kate Kearney opened her cottage to visitors. Horse‑drawn jaunting‑cars ferried early tourists through the pass, a tradition that continues to this day.

Geology & Formation

According to Discover Ireland, the Gap of Dunloe dates back about two million years, when slow‑moving ice sculpted a narrow mountain pass between the Reeks and the Purple Mountains. The retreating glacier left behind the five corrie lakes and the spectacular boulder fields that are still visible along the road. These geological features give the Gap its dramatic U‑shaped profile and make it a showcase of Ireland’s glacial heritage.

What to See & Do

Highlights

• Wishing Bridge – a stone arch where locals swear wishes are granted.
• Ross Castle – a 15th‑century tower house overlooking the lake, offering historic ambience and photo opportunities.
• Sheep‑dotted pastures and the ever‑present rainbow that often arches over the water after a brief shower.

Seasonal Road Closures & Traffic Rules

During the high‑summer season the narrow R568 that forms the Gap is closed to private motor vehicles during daylight hours to protect the fragile environment and to keep the road safe for the limited passing places. Only walkers, cyclists, horse‑riders, and traditional jaunting‑cars are permitted during these closures (Kerry‑beaches.com). In the shoulder season (April‑May and September‑October) the road re‑opens for cars, but drivers must be prepared for a single‑track route with frequent pull‑outs and sharp bends – IrishCentral lists the Gap as one of Ireland’s more challenging roads.

If you plan to drive, aim for early‑morning or late‑evening windows outside the peak closure period, or book a jaunting‑car or boat‑linked tour that bypasses the restriction.

Rock climbing & extra stops

The Gap’s sheer sandstone cliffs attract a modest community of rock climbers, especially on the western side where routes range from easy scrambles to more challenging climbs. While the area is not a commercial climbing venue, experienced climbers can find routes marked on local guidebooks.

For walkers who need a brief rest, the Colleen Bawn Cottage – a modest stone shelter near the centre of the Gap – provides a shaded bench and a place to enjoy the view of the surrounding lakes. It is not a staffed facility but a popular spot for a quick break.

Wildlife & Nature Highlights

The valley’s mosaic of lakes, pasture and woodland supports a variety of wildlife. Red deer are a regular sight, often grazing near the lakeshores, while golden eagles and meadow pipits can be spotted soaring above the cliffs in summer. Early‑morning mist frequently reveals red‑breasted mergansers on the water. The Meeting of the Waters, where the three Lakes of Killarney converge, lies just a short detour from the Gap and offers a tranquil spot for bird‑watching and photography.

Safety on the road

The Gap of Dunloe follows the R568, a narrow, single‑track road with passing places. IrishCentral lists it among Ireland’s more challenging routes, urging drivers to proceed with caution, especially during peak tourist periods or in wet weather. Pedestrians should stay on the paved shoulder and obey any traffic signs. Helmets are mandatory for cyclists.

Practical Information

• Access: The Gap is reachable by car from Killarney (A84) or by public bus to Kate Kearney’s Cottage. Parking is available at the cottage and at Lord Brandon’s Cottage (limited spaces).
• Parking: The northern car park at Kate Kearney’s Cottage provides about 30 spaces. The southern lot at Lord Brandon’s Cottage is smaller and fills quickly in peak season – exact capacity to be confirmed.
• Opening hours: Kate Kearney’s Cottage and Ross Castle are open year‑round. Jaunting‑car and boat services operate mainly from April to October; exact timetables vary each season.
• Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn offers the clearest skies and longest daylight; early morning often brings the iconic mist over the lakes.
• What to bring: Sturdy walking shoes, waterproof jacket, water, and a camera. If cycling, a helmet is mandatory. Dogs are allowed on leashes.
• Facilities: Restrooms and a café are available at Kate Kearney’s Cottage; a small shop at Lord Brandon’s Cottage sells snacks and souvenirs.

Getting There & Parking

By car – From Killarney follow the A84 north‑west for about 12 km; turn left onto the narrow Gap road at the sign for Kate Kearney’s Cottage. The drive offers spectacular views, but be prepared for a single‑track road with passing places.

Public transport – Bus Éireann operates a limited summer service (route 275) from Killarney to the northern entrance. Timetables change seasonally; check the latest schedule before travelling.

Seasonal Highlights & Wildlife

• Spring (April‑June) – Wood anemone, bluebell and other wildflowers carpet the valley floor. Birdwatchers can spot meadow pipits, golden plovers and occasional red‑breasted mergansers.
• Summer (July‑August) – Lakes reach their deepest and water is warm enough for a quick dip. The Gap of Dunloe Summer Festival (mid‑July) brings traditional music sessions to Kate Kearney’s Cottage.
• Autumn (September‑October) – The surrounding hills blaze with amber and copper foliage, providing dramatic backdrops for photographers.
• Winter – Snow may linger on the higher Reeks, creating striking contrasts. Boat and jaunting‑car services run reduced schedules.

Events & Community

The Gap hosts occasional community events. In June 2024 a charity walk organised by Corcoran’s Furniture & Carpets raised almost €12,000 for Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland. Participants enjoyed a boat ride with Gap of Dunloe Traditional Boat Tours, walked the full 11 km route, and finished with a meal at Kate Kearney’s Cottage. The event highlighted the Gap’s capacity to bring together locals and visitors for a good cause.

Guided Tours & Nearby Sights

Most commercial tours combine the Gap walk with other Killarney National Park highlights. A typical full‑day package includes:

• A boat cruise from Ross Castle across the three Lakes of Killarney (Upper, Middle and Lower), often with the option to bring bicycles on board.
• Stops at Torc Waterfall, the Ladies View, and Muckross House & Abbey.
• A jaunting‑car ride or pony trek through the Gap, ending with refreshments at Lord Brandon’s Cottage. These tours are run by local operators such as Gap of Dunloe Traditional Boat Tours and often provide commentary on the area’s myths, geology and wildlife.

Adventure & Extra Activities

• Strickeen Mountain walk: A well‑marked path that zig‑zags up Strickeen, offering panoramic views of the Gap and the surrounding Reeks. The trail is a popular stage of the Killarney Adventure Race.
• Rock climbing: Small sandstone crags on the western side host a handful of traditional routes for experienced climbers.
• Deer spotting: Early‑morning walks often reveal red deer grazing near the lakes.

Nearby Attractions

A visit to the Gap pairs well with other Kerry highlights:

• Beaufort – Just a short drive east, this village offers access to the Reeks and the scenic Beaufort Bridge over the River Laune.
• Black Valley – Continue south from Lord Brandon’s Cottage for rugged mountain scenery and the historic Muckross House estate.
• Ross Castle – While already mentioned, the castle hosts guided tours and a small museum that delves into its 15th‑century history.

Popular Itineraries

1. Early‑morning drive (under the crowds)

Start from Killarney before 9 am, drive the Gap north‑to‑south and continue through the Black Valley to re‑join the Ring of Kerry at Moll’s Gap. Allow an hour for photo stops.

2. Food‑focused walk

Enter the Gap from the Black Valley side, walk north to Kate Kearney’s Cottage for a hearty lunch, then either return on foot or catch a taxi back to the valley.

3. Boat‑first adventure

Take the morning boat from Ross Castle to Lord Brandon’s Cottage, then walk or jaunt‑car south to Kate Kearney’s Cottage. Return to Killarney by boat in the afternoon.

4. Kerry Way extension

Combine the Gap walk with the Kerry Way: start at Glencar, follow the Kerry Way through the Bridia Valley (≈20 km) and finish with the 7 km stretch from the Gap to Kate Kearney’s Cottage.

Each itinerary can be adapted for walkers, cyclists or families with children.