Family Bus & Boat Adventure with Gap of Dunloe Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for families with moderately active children capable of walking up to 7 miles over varied terrain, with options to reduce exertion through jaunting cars.
Overview
Journey through Killarney’s dramatic Gap of Dunloe on a family-friendly 6-hour trip that combines a scenic bus ride, a self-guided walk or jaunting car ride, and an open-roof boat cruise across stunning lakes. Discover why this unique tour is a standout adventure for all ages.
Family Bus & Boat (2 Adults 2 Kids)
Nature in a safe environment! • 6 hours • all ages
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About This Adventure
Embark on a breathtaking 6-hour adventure through the stunning landscapes of Killarney. Begin with a scenic bus ride, followed by a self-guided 7-mile walk or a charming jaunting car ride. Experience the beauty of the lakes on an open-roof boat, culminating with a relaxing return to O'Connor's Traditional Pub.
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 between 9:45 -10:00 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
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 at Kate Kearney's Cottage & Lord Brandon's Cottage
- The cost of a jaunting car is €140 (€35 pp) 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.
- If you have additional children you wish to add please ring us at (+353)646630200 or email info@gapofdunloetours.com
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
Choose Your Pace
Opt between a self-guided 7-mile walk or a jaunting car ride to match your family’s energy levels.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The walking route includes hilly and sometimes uneven terrain; proper shoes help prevent slips.
Pack for Variable Weather
Bring a rain jacket and sun protection as conditions in Killarney can change quickly during the day.
Bring Snacks or Picnic
There are scenic spots along the route perfect for a picnic—consider packing food and water for the family.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Herons often seen fishing along the lake edges
- Red deer occasionally spotted in the Gap’s wooded areas
History
The Gap of Dunloe is a glacial valley shaped over thousands of years, with nearby Ross Castle dating back to the 15th century, adding rich cultural layers to the landscape.
Conservation
Gap of Dunloe Tours Ltd promotes sustainable tourism by minimizing vehicle traffic and encouraging walking and traditional jaunting car use to preserve the fragile environment.
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Adventure Hotspots in Killarney
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry during frequent spring showers and unpredictable weather.
spring specific
Comfortable walking shoes
Supports your feet for the hilly and uneven terrain along the walking route.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protects skin during open stretches on the bus, walk, and boat under direct sunlight.
summer specific
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is key on a full-day adventure, especially for kids.