Bus & Boat Tour in Killarney with Gap of Dunloe Tours
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good walking condition, able to handle hilly terrain and up to 7 miles of walking.
Overview
Spend six hours traversing Ireland’s iconic Gap of Dunloe with Gap of Dunloe Tours Ltd. Combining a scenic bus trip, a 7-mile self-guided walk or jaunting car ride, and a serene boat cruise across the Lakes of Killarney, this experience offers a comprehensive glimpse into Kerry’s rugged beauty and history.
Bus & Boat Tour
See why Kerry is The Kingdom! • 6 hours! • Historical Landscape! • all ages
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About This Adventure
Embark on a breathtaking 6-hour adventure starting from O'Connor's Traditional Pub. Enjoy a scenic bus ride to Kate Kearney's Cottage or Ross Castle, followed by a self-guided 7-mile walk through stunning landscapes, or opt for a charming jaunting car ride. Conclude with a picturesque boat trip across the Lakes of Killarney.
Let us take care of the transport, while you take in the experience
Duration
6 hours
About
Your trip
- Join us at O'Connor's Traditional Pub (7 High Street) Eircode V93 DV26 for the departure (10:00 am check in)
- Alternatively we can collect you from your accommodation from 10 am.
- Private car park available behind O Connors (up the alley way)
Please Note - The tour can go in two directions
- Your journey begins with a bus trip to Kate Kearney's Cottage or Ross Castle*
- From Kate Kearney's there is a Self Guided walk (you can’t get lost) that is 7 miles (12km) in length and takes approximately 2.5-3 hours to walk
- The terrain is hilly and picturesque.
- The highest elevation is 840ft
- The Gap walk ends at Lord Brandons Cottage (Beautiful cafe and view)
- The boat takes you through the Lakes of Killarney and to Ross Castle (1 hour 30 mins)
- Open roof boat with cover if needed
- And then from Ross Castle our bus will bring you back to the pub (O Connors Irish Pub).
- If you wish, feel free to bring your own picnic lunch.
- *For those guests leaving from Ross Castle, you will start your journey on the boat across the lakes and finish at Kate Kearney's and then a bus journey back to O'Connors Pub. The bus leaves Kate Kearney's at 4pm sharp.
Points of Interest
- Purple Mountain
- Dinish Island
- Lord Brandons Cottage
- Innisfallen Island
- Augher Lake
- Black Lough
- Macgillycuddy's Reeks
- Head of the Gap
Extra info
- For those who may chose not to walk, Jaunting cars are available to hire at at Kate Kearney's Cottage and Lord Brandon's Cottage
- The cost is €140 per Jaunting Car (€35pp) that sits 4 people to be paid in cash on the day.
- The Jaunting cars take approximately 1.5 hours to travel the 7 mile journey through the Gap.
- Please note, as you may know the Jaunting Cars are operated independently of ourselves by the Ponymen's Association.
Weather conditions:
- Sometimes the tour is done is reverse to suit weather conditions
- If the water level is low, please be careful as the short walk from the boat to path can be tricky.
What to bring
Please wear comfortable footwear and bring a rain jacket and/or sunblock, you will need one or the other or both!
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy footwear
The 7-mile walk includes uneven, hilly terrain with some elevation gain up to 840 feet.
Bring weather-appropriate gear
Pack a rain jacket and sun protection as weather can change quickly on the lakes and mountains.
Reserve jaunting cars early
Jaunting cars are operated independently and paid in cash; booking early secures availability.
Mind boat boarding points
Boat-to-path access can be slippery or tricky if water levels are low—exercise caution.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Red deer
- Golden eagle
History
Ross Castle dates back to the 15th century and is rich with tales from the Gaelic chieftains and Norman invaders.
Conservation
Efforts to preserve the Lakes of Killarney focus on maintaining water quality and protecting native flora and fauna amid growing tourism.
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Adventure Hotspots in Killarney
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof jacket
Protects against spring rain and unpredictable weather on the trail.
spring specific
Sun protection
Sunscreen and a hat shield from strong summer sun during the boat and trail portions.
summer specific
Comfortable hiking shoes
Necessary for walking on uneven and sometimes muddy terrain.
Layered clothing
Allows for adjustment to temperature changes throughout the day.
fall specific