The Gap of Dunloe (Bearna an Choimín) sits between the McGillycuddy’s Reeks and Purple mountain, south west of Killarney town.
The name Gap of Dunloe comes from the Irish Dun Lóich (“Lóich’s fort”), named after the chieftain of a clan who lived here in ancient times. The River Loe flows through the valley, linking its five corrie lakes: Coosaun Lough, Black Lake, Cushnavally Lake, Auger Lake, and Black Lough.
Beginning at the famous Kate Kearney’s Cottage, ‘the Gap’ takes a narrow winding road between Tomies and Purple mountains to the east and Strickeen and the Bull mountains to the west. Part of the classic ‘Killarney Day Tour‘, the Gap of Dunloe can be walked and cycled or you can take a traditional jaunting car to Lord Brandon’s Cottage before taking an open boat along Killarney’s 3 lakes to Ross Castle.
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What a fabulous place to stay! From the warm welcome from Serena and her gorgeous children, to the detailed maps, extensive recommendations for things to do and places to eat and drink, to the lovely cosy and warm room. We were very much spoiled by Serena’s warm personality and friendliness, and she is even an incredible cook. Breakfasts were just lovely, with a good selection of tasty, home-cooked food. And the cakes available every evening after a long day out were very welcome indeed. Serena helped us organise activities, taxis etc and could to have done more.
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