4.0 · 35 reviews
Voyage12150423402
October 2023
What an experience to view the Gap of Dunloe and the Black Valley from a traditional jaunting car! Much quicker than walking, but you need to be fit enough to walk about a quarter mile of the steepest ascent where the horse finds the going tough. We loved the open boat trip through the 3 lakes with amusing commentary from the boatman. The high-light was shooting the rapids in the long reach!
290terryd
July 2023
Incredible tour! The boat ride is fantastic! We walked between the cottages through the Gap of Dunloe, fantastic views! Steady up hill walk but it was worth it. Our boat driver, Paul, was the best! I highly recommend this tour!
Krzysztof K
November 2022
Very well organized tour. The guide was very chatty and friendly with a lot of interesting local stories
485mauraf
November 2022
Loved the scenery on the walk and boat. My only gripe is that the bus driver was impatient even though we were about 2 mins early
hawkmatthews
September 2022
We had a terrible time with the tour and we were soaked to the skin when we were on the boat part of the tour due to the fact that the boatman took us out on the lakes in the middle of a thunder storm with no way of getting back to land for the full 2 hours. We got a text from the operator to say the boat might be cancelled due to the bad weather forecast and we arrived early and we were told that the tour would be going ahead even though I told him that the weather was very bad and possibly a bit dangerous for such a small boat but he was adamant that it would be OK. After the first lake we were told to leave the boat and walk around the lane to the Old Weir Bridge to get picked up ag from the other side. The weather was getting worse and we were all soaked and finally getting to the landing stage at Lord Brandon cottage where we were due to get the jaun car back over the Gap but we were unable to get the Jaunting Car due to the bad weather conditions and starting the walk over the gap to the meeting point and luckily we were found by the driver who brought us down to the meeting point by his suv car. He said that it was madness to bring people across the lakes in that weather and we are all lucky to have got back. I would definitely steer clear of this company for any further tours and check out the options around killarney for a better company to use instead.
JodyM994
September 2022
This tour is really just a transfer by bus to Kate Kearney’s cottage and then another transfer from the boat trip back to the pub starting point. The boat ride was pleasant but I guess I thought there would be more narration. The walk itself is lovely. We did it in 2.5 hours at a reasonable pace I think. The beginning is very gentle then there is a mid section that is much steeper. After the top of the gap, there is a long walk down that goes in the opposite direction of the lake until you reach a hairpin turn that gets you going in the right direction.
whatifwefly
August 2022
I really enjoyed the trip. I definitely recommend to do the walk. Although there is a bit of a pressure to reach the boat in time it is doable. You can still stop at certain points to make photos. There are some hills. The horses in front of the jaunting cars sometimes seemed to be tired and lacking muscles, they need. When you do the walk, you have more time to enjoy the stunning scenery. In the end there was still about half an hour left, to relax and eat something at Lord Brandons Cottage. The boats tour was nice as well. The pick-up and drop-off worked well.
Z7377WMcharlotteb
August 2022
This tour was amazing! The highlight of our stay in Killarney. We walked through the gap of Dunloe and were amazed by the spectacular scenery. The boat trip back to Ross castle was great, we had a nice guide and got the chance to see all three lakes. Had to get off and walk a little stretch because the water was low and that part was amazing as well. Would absolutely recommend doing this when in Killarney, it's better than just being on a bus all day but you don't need to worry about organising getting there and back yourself. Perfect trip!
407marijaz
December 2020
We had great time, our tour guide was very knowledgeable and boat was not crowded at all. Day as nice and sunny and we really enjoyed the ride. It is beautiful to see Killarney from the boat. We took the boat from the castle to Lord Brandon's cottage, from where we hiked to Kate's cottage. Fabulous views. we then took a shuttle bus back to Killarney. Lovely day
MM8267
November 2020
This is a great tour including a stunning boat ride through the lakes and rivers of Killarney with a knowledgeable guide followed by a not to be missed walk through the gap of dunloe with just enough time for a well earned drink same bite to eat before getting collected as arranged. Would highly recommend
littlemommyholly
September 2019
This ended up being my favorite tour, Gap of Dunloe is breath taking! If catching the bus at O'Connors parking is in the back, turn right at ally before the pub, 5 Euro's for the day. Don't forget to pay like we did, car will get clamped for an authentic Irish experience. Amazing, truly wonderful lady at the reception paid for us once we realized boyfriend didn't see the electronic pay station, he was in a hurry as he dropped me off to check in and then parked (paid her back after finishing the tour). Was a bit of organized chaos at the jaunting cart location but we're a go with the flow, no worries kind of people, it's vacation don't stress it. Be prepared to get cozy with another couple if there's only 2 of you. They like to fit 4 to a cart, maybe a little more awkward for the men lol. They will only take 2 but will cost you more. There is a part you have to get and walk as it's too steep.for the horses to make it up with the extra weight...it's steep sooo the treke could be difficult for some. Was a bit of a wait between the jaunting cart and boat, just relax, enjoy the beautiful surroundings, people watch and have an Irish coffee (or 3 is even better :*) Take cash!!! Had to jump off the boat so it could make it through a low part in the water. Take magical walk through a path that leads you to a cottage with snacks and refreshments if needed, cash only as well. I LOVED the walk, an extra adventure for me but might not be your thing if you worry about "rocky" terrain. Hung out at the cottage for a bit before they picked us again, boat ride back was gorgeous! Loved every second of it and would do again.
Peter J
August 2019
We went to the Bus, Boat & Jaunting Cart Tour and had an absolutely fantastic day. We had pre-arranged to be picked up from our B&B, which they were very happy to accommodate. From there, we were taken to Kate Kearney's Cottage and put on a Jaunting Cart with two others. Our driver was excellent. She had great control of the horse. From our discussions, she clearly loved her horses and took great care of them, ensuring that they are not overworked. The ride was comfortable (for a jaunting cart) and the views were excellent. After the ride, we had some lunch at Lord Brandon's Cottage, where there was a good selection of food at reasonable prices (but make sure you have cash with you). We then took a short walk and rested until it was time of the boat. The boat ride back across the three lakes was great fun and the scenery was incredible to look at. The helmsman had good control of the boat and we felt very safe and comfortable. He got out some plastic sheeting to cover us as we went over the big lake - this was definitely needed as quite a bit of water came in as we bounced across the waves. At Ross castle the bus was there to take use back to our B&B. We spent two weeks in Ireland and NI, seeing lots of scenery and other sights. I think that this was my favourite day.
joanaala
August 2019
Hi I just want to write here, that people running Gap of Dunloe tours need to improve. All day went well, ticket for the tour was collected from me when entering the boat. On arriving at Ross castle the guy who drives the bus back to town demanded from me extra 5€ for the return trip. When paying for my ticket the very morning I was told the price of 35€ covers the bus journey to the Gap and from Ross castle to Killarney plus the boat trip. And....there he demands extra money for no reason.. I refused to pay, he demanded the money until I said I m going to file a complain about it... Then he backed down, no apologies and let me get into the bus. I find it unacceptable.
4567812390
August 2019
I booked for a large family group the team were so helpful from my first contact, even when I had to cancel unexpectedly for 2 members of the group the Gap team were so efficient and helpful. On our trip we were so well looked after by everyone, the bus driver, pony men and our boat men were all local men with a huge knowledge of the area. The amazing scenery was made more special by their stories and local information and we were even treated to a song by our boat man. Typical Kerry men the humour was brilliant and they made our day out so enjoyable. A huge thankyou to all involved it's a trip not to be missed.
Mbfeldt
August 2019
If you are in Killarney, this needs to be on your list of things to do. This is one of the best things we did in Ireland. We did the jaunting cart with an awesome Irish cattle farmer who also owned and raised the horse who pulled the cart. The horse was well cared for and the tour was excellent. At Lord Brandon’s Cottage we had a great lunch and then took off across the lakes. Again, a fantastic experience.
meghi2016
July 2019
It was ok. The boat trip was great. I took the boat trip in the am and then hiked down to Kate Kearney. They said 3 hours you should make it., Definitely not...unless you speed walk the whole time without taking a moment to catch breath after walking uphill. Needless to say, I didn’t make it back by 4, so ended up having to take a cab, which was frustrating. Had I known, I would probably have either just walked in the park or taken the jaunting carts. As far as scenery, it was pretty enough, but I dont think it was spectacular. Probably could have gotten just as nice in the National Park. Show less
Christine M
July 2019
Rocked up at the office at 9.30 on a Sunday morning and booked 4 places with out a problem. Took a charming old bus to Ross Castle and had 30 min to have a look around the grounds. We then jumped on a boat and were givin very flattering lifejackets. The boat man and his furry little helper Bailey the dog were very informative and interesting. As the water levels were low we had to disembark the boat at dinis cottage and follow a little path to where we met the boat again. The path is absolutely fine to walk and gives you a chance to stretch the legs and the area is beautiful. They could have asked us to help with the boat it would have added to the adventure and we were up For the challenge. We followed the lakes to the black valley where we jumped off the boat again to a grass verge which was very easy to do. I can see it might be difficult if the weather isn't great but the worse that would happen is you ll get a little muddy. But again the grass verge adds to the adventure. We followed the path the Brandon cottage and met the pony man Donal casey. Who took us through the Gap with his ponies. Gap its self is stunning. The horses were fat and were in good health (as horse people this is super important) and the quietest I've met in a long time. We did not stay in Brandon cottage as we all had been there before. We arrived in Kate's Kerneys cottage at 2.15 and spent time watching and chating to the pony men while they tended to there horses. We had dinner in Kate's which was amazing. While we ate the bus driver who we did not meet in the morning found us and introduce himself to tell us that he ll be taking us back to Kilarney. Overall a great day out! As locals we were treated just as well as the over sea tourist and found out alot more about the locality. It was super value for money and we were well informed through out. Highly recommended and thank you guys it was super.
jbarton
June 2019
My husband and I took this day trip two days ago. Luckily it was a beautiful day so the weather was very pleasant. We were picked up from our hotel as arranged. I will go into a lot of specifics here as I think it is important for people to know. First of all there is little commentary on the bus but that is no problem as you are not on the bus for long. We began the trip at Ross Castle and were given a half hour to look around and take photos. Then we got on the boat which is open and put on our life jackets. There are no seating cushions so for the entire hour and a half ride you are sitting on hard fiberglass. The three lakes and two rivers are scenic but its all very similar scenery and again hardly any commentary as of course the motor creates enough noise making commentary difficult and also the driver was on the phone a lot organizing whatever. At the old Weir Bridge the water levels in the river had dropped substantially so we all had to get off the boat and walk about 150 yards to get back on the boat. He of course needed to reduce the weight substantially to get the boat under the bridge. That would not have been a problem but the trail is extremely uneven with rocks and small boulders everywhere you have to pick your way over making it very easy to twist or sprain your ankle. To be fair my husband and I are reasonably fit but being a retired couple and in the middle of nowhere it made us nervous so we took our time as if you were injured I cannot imagine how you would return to civilization except by boat. There is a notice on the brochure that a moderate level of fitness is required which we are but I would never recommend this trip to anyone who has any health problems whatsoever. My husband has a bit of an inner ear problem making it very difficult for him to be comfortable keeping his balance on this "path" and I use that term loosely. Anyway with a bit of help getting in and out of the boat we were OK. (Huge step required from boat to path and again at Lord Bandons Cottage). You disembark at Lord Bandons Cottage for a snack, only sandwiches and soup with a few sweets on offer. You would be better off to bring your own, however be aware the cafe has notices everywhere telling people who bring their own refreshments that they cannot leave anything behind and are not allowed to use their rubbish bins. They have soda, water and irish coffees for sale but nothing else. The sandwiches we had were dry and certainly not fresh for 4.50 Euros each. After our snack we went to the jaunting cars which are about 200 yards down a pea gravel path and a hill. We got a great driver and jaunting car with Buster the horse and thoroughly enjoyed the spectacular scenery with lots of commentary. Highly recommend this part of the journey. You are given the option to go over the mountain in a jaunting car for 50 Euros additional , or walk for 7 miles or bicycle. When you arrive on the other side at the cafe you will wait around an hour and a half for the bus as they have to wait for the walkers. Why they dont put walkers on a different tour I dont know as after a glass of wine we would have liked to return to our hotel. Also be aware that the weather in this area can change rapidly so it is possible a clear lovely day can dump buckets on your open boat. I guess rain gear might be provided but I did not see any. Also while the motor was running on the boat trip, the driver filled up the tank with petrol. It wasnt a problem but surely you would fill it up when the motor was turned off? As you can tell we were not impressed with the boat excursion, nice scenery but uncomfortable seating and not a lot of information. Also bring sun screen as it is easy to get burned in an open boat for an hour and a half! Cannot really recommend this tour except for the wonderful trip over the mountain in the jaunting cart.
mtyhoughts
June 2019
The tour not only offers a variety of transport but also beautiful scenery and the chance to learn about the area from the local people. It is great value for money and I would certainly recommend it.
oioiSAVLOY
August 2018
Signed up for bus and the boat tour - last week ( August 18). PLUS - paid extra on the day for the pony & trap excursion up through the gap ( rather than walking) - A MUST!. NOW - it has to be said, this is hugely weather dependent as for a large part of the trip ( 3-4 hours), you are exposed to the weather. We had brilliant weather - as shown in attached piccys - and had a real crack!! Collected from hotel at 9.45am. 40 min drive to pick-up pony & trap excursion. Toilets and snacks are available before the trap departs. Met by Donal our tour lead - brilliant character. Top tip - if you are not a Manchester Utd supporter - don't mention soccer - the man's an encyclopedia on united stats and players! We left promptly and travelled up through the gap - lovely steady ride (4 of us - with Donal "driving") with beautiful scenery around us - just very special sights & views. On occasion Donal asked to get out the trap & walk - as gradient was too steep for pony to pull us. No issue - actually quite pleasant to get out and walk. Throughout the trap ride we had the absolute pleasure of a special "escort" - Donal's 10 year old niece, Ava (photo attached) - I think her first ride through the pass. What an absolutely lovely young lady - chatted the whole way. The trap travelled at a steady trot - always under control, so never concerned over speed.Felt safe throughout trip. We arrived at Lord Brandon's cottage for lunch after 2 hours - fresh sandwiches, cakes, soups & warm snacks are available - more than adequate. Plenty of time is allowed for relaxing, lunch, toilet break & recharge for afternoon boat trip.We then left Donal & Ava with pony &trap & climbed aboard a small motorised boat - driven by an amazing local character. Great fun - shared all local info of route & local sites - again weather was very kind & sunshine abounded. Boat trip through lake & river was just a delight - water was very calm and again no concerns over safety. One period you travel through narrow channel section - subject to height of water in river/lakes, you may be asked to get out & walk around this narrow section. We stayed on board & floated through the light rapid section - again, all very safe! Passed by Ross's Castle - again great photo shot opportunity and arrived back to shore after 1.5 hours. Buses were there ready to take us back to hotel - arriving around 4.45 pm. A really brilliant adventure - something very different. HIGHLY recommended - subject to weather. If you are in the area - sign-up IN ADVANCE, as this was a very popular tour.

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