FAQ
Frequent Questions
Quick answers to help you organize your transport, budget, and walking route through the valley.
Can you drive through the Gap of Dunloe?
Local authorities strongly discourage driving the Gap of Dunloe during the day. The road is a single lane with blind corners. It experiences heavy pedestrian, cyclist, and horse-drawn carriage traffic. Read more about Driving Guide.
How long does it take to walk the Gap of Dunloe?
A walking round trip to the Head of the Gap and back covers about 12 km (7.5 miles). This takes 2.5 to 3 hours at a moderate pace. Walking the full one-way route to Lord Brandon's Cottage takes about 2 to 2.5 hours.
Where do you park for the Gap of Dunloe?
You can park at Kate Kearney's Cottage at the northern end. Parking here is free but fills up quickly in summer. Read our Parking Guide guide for arrival times.
How much does a jaunting car cost at the Gap of Dunloe?
A shared jaunting car ride costs €35 per person. A private carriage costs €140. You must pay the driver (jarvey) directly in cash. Check our Carriage Costs guide for details.
How to get to the Gap of Dunloe from Killarney?
You can drive 15 minutes to Kate Kearney's Cottage and park. Alternatively, book a Tickets combo tour that includes bus transport from Killarney.
Can you cycle the Gap of Dunloe?
Yes. The paved road is open to cyclists. Exercise extreme caution on steep descents and tight corners. Yield to jaunting cars and pedestrians.
Where does the Gap of Dunloe start and finish?
The traditional route starts at Kate Kearney's Cottage in the north. It finishes at Lord Brandon's Cottage in the Black Valley to the south. The total distance is approximately 11 kilometres (7 miles).
Are there toilets at the Gap of Dunloe?
Toilets are located at Kate Kearney's Cottage (start) and Lord Brandon's Cottage (finish). There are no public restrooms along the 11-km mountain pass itself.
What is a jaunting car in Ireland?
A jaunting car is a traditional horse-drawn wagon or carriage. At the Gap of Dunloe, local drivers (jarveys) use them to transport visitors safely through the mountain pass.
Can you do the Gap of Dunloe in the rain?
Yes, the pass remains open in the rain. Pack waterproof gear and wear sturdy shoes with good grip. The Weather & Seasons changes fast, so layering is essential.
What are the lakes in the Gap of Dunloe?
The valley features five distinct lakes connected by the River Loe. They are Coosaun Lough, Black Lake, Cushnavally Lake, Auger Lake, and Black Lough.
Who is Kate Kearney?
Kate Kearney was a famous local woman who supposedly died in childbirth at the age of 102. Today, a 150-year-old family-run cottage bears her name at the start of the pass.