Is the walking route suitable for young children?

Yes, the 7-mile route is manageable for active families, but jaunting cars are available as an alternative for those who prefer less walking.

Can we bring a picnic lunch on the tour?

Absolutely, there are ideal spots like Lord Brandon’s Cottage for a scenic picnic break along the trail.

Are the jaunting car rides included in the trip price?

No, jaunting cars are operated independently and cost €140 per carriage, payable in cash on the day.

What happens if the weather changes during the tour?

The tour route may be reversed or adjusted to suit weather and water levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Is there parking available at the departure point?

Yes, private parking is available behind O’Connor's Pub, just off High Street.

Can the tour accommodate more than 2 children?

Yes, additional children can be added by contacting Gap of Dunloe Tours Ltd directly via phone or email.

Family Bus & Boat Adventure with Gap of Dunloe Tours

Killarney, located in Ireland’s County Kerry, is an outdoor playground framed by rugged mountains, shimmering lakes, and ancient woodlands. Gap of Dunloe Tours Ltd offers a unique family-oriented six-hour journey that blends transport and nature seamlessly, making this part of Ireland accessible and engaging for all ages. The Family Bus & Boat trip starts at O'Connor's Traditional Pub on High Street in Killarney, where participants gather before boarding a scenic bus heading into the heart of the Gap of Dunloe. This narrow mountain pass contrasts steep rocky ridges with sweeping green valleys, carved by glacial forces during the last Ice Age. A bus ride here means you get front-row seats to the region’s most iconic features, including the jagged peaks of the Purple Mountain and the wide reach of the MacGillycuddy's Reeks. Once at Kate Kearney’s Cottage, families have the choice to venture on a self-guided 7-mile walk or jump in a jaunting car, a traditional horse-drawn carriage that meanders through winding trails beneath soaring cliffs. The walking path, though hilly, is manageable for active kids and includes stops like Lord Brandon’s Cottage, a picturesque spot perfect for a rest and waterside views. The journey continues by open-roof boat across the serene Lakes of Killarney. Passing names like Innisfallen Island and Augher Lake, visitors can spot herons or even otters during quiet moments on the water. The boat trip ends at Ross Castle, a 15th-century fortress standing proud on the lakeshore, before the bus returns the group to O'Connor's Pub for a relaxing finish. This combination of bus, walk or jaunting car, and boat offers a dynamic way to see this celebrated landscape, especially for families who want to soak in natural beauty without the logistical hassles. Gap of Dunloe Tours Ltd provides a carefully crafted way to connect with this part of Ireland’s outdoor heritage — culture, nature, and adventure in one true package.

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.

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.

Gap of Dunloe Tours Ltd is a Killarney-based tour operator offering guided and self-guided experiences around the Lakes of Killarney and the Gap of Dunloe. The company operates a range of boat, bus, cycling, walking and jaunting car combinations that depart from Reen Pier and local meeting points in Killarney, County Kerry. Signature experiences include the Boat Trip Return Journey across the lakes with views of Dinis Cottage and Innisfallen Island and a stop at Lord Brandon's Cottage for refreshments. The operator runs multi-modal options such as the Bus, Boat & Jaunting Car Tour and the Bus & Boat Tour, both combining scenic bus transfers with traditional jaunting cars and open-boat crossings. Active itineraries include Bike on Boat, a five-hour boat-and-cycle route finishing at Kate Kearney’s Cottage, and the Backpacker Walker Tour, which pairs an open-boat crossing with a self-guided seven-mile hike through the Gap of Dunloe. Family-friendly options are available, including a Family Bus & Boat package for two adults and two children that blends bus travel, open-boat sightseeing and optional jaunting car or walking segments. All trips focus on showcasing local landmarks, rugged mountain silhouettes and lake scenery in County Kerry. As a local company based in Killarney, Gap of Dunloe Tours Ltd works with local boatmen, carriage drivers and hospitality partners to deliver authentic access to the region’s natural and cultural highlights. Booking information, schedules and accessibility details are available through local visitor centres and official booking channels to plan each tour with confidence. Year-round options available.

Base locationKillarney, County Kerry

Tours offered6+

Specialtywater-activities

StewardshipLeave No Trace