The charm of Killarney is undeniable. The town itself is small, walkable, and lined with the kind of pubs and shops that feel genuinely Irish rather than assembled for tourists. But it is the landscape surrounding Killarney that makes the visit remarkable — and that landscape is best accessed on foot, by bike, or by horse-drawn carriage through Killarney National Park.
The Gap of Dunloe
The Gap of Dunloe is a nearly seven-mile mountain pass that cuts through the MacGillycuddy's Reeks, passing lakes, ancient ruins, grazing sheep, and scenery that stops you regularly enough that the miles go slowly in the best possible way. You can travel it by horse-drawn carriage, by bike, or on foot.
A few practical notes: bring snacks — there is only one stop along the route with any facilities, at the very end of the pass. Dress in layers regardless of the forecast; the weather in Kerry changes fast and the pass can be significantly cooler than the town. And start early if you can — by midday in summer it gets busy.
The Ferry on Lough Leane
The Gap of Dunloe walk concludes at the shores of the Upper Lake, where a short ferry crosses to Lough Leane (the Lower Lake). The boat is guided by a local who knows the lake and its history — it is the kind of narrated experience that adds genuine context rather than feeling like a formality. The crossing ends at Ross Castle, a well-preserved 15th-century tower house on the lake's edge.
"The Gap of Dunloe passes lakes, ancient ruins, and grazing sheep — scenery that stops you regularly enough that the miles go slowly in the best possible way."
The Ring of Kerry
The Ring of Kerry is a 179-kilometre scenic driving route that circles the Iveragh Peninsula, offering coastal views, mountain passes, and a succession of small villages that vary enormously in character. It is one of Ireland's iconic drives — and it is crowded in summer.
The most useful practical tip: drive it clockwise. Tour buses travel the Ring counterclockwise, which means going clockwise puts you in the opposite lane on the narrow sections, which is considerably safer and less stressful. Start early, carry a good map alongside your GPS, and allow a full day if you plan to stop along the way.
Practical Tips for Killarney
- Rent a car — Killarney and the Ring of Kerry are best explored independently, and the roads reward drivers who can stop on impulse.
- Drive on the left — Ireland drives on the left. If you're not accustomed to it, give yourself a day in the town before attempting the Ring.
- Book accommodation in advance — Killarney fills up in summer, particularly on weekends.
- The Gap of Dunloe: bring snacks and start early.
- Ring of Kerry: drive clockwise to avoid tour buses.
Adding Ireland to Your Itinerary?
Our advisors can combine Dublin, Killarney, and the Wild Atlantic Way into a seamless driving itinerary — including car hire recommendations, the best country house hotels, and routing that avoids the worst of the summer traffic. Contact us to begin.