The Gap of Dunloe (Dunloe means "Fort of the river Loe") is a magnificent glaciated valley comprised of high cliffs and isolated lakes. It formed more than 20,000 years ago when great glaciers carved a path through Ireland's highest mountain range, the McGillycuddy’s Reeks. The Gap is towered over by Tomies and Purple Mountain behind which lie the Lakes of Killarney.

The River Loe runs northbound through the Gap, punctuated by four lakes. As you enter the trail that winds through the Gap, you cross the Wishing Bridge - so-called because wishes made on the bridge are supposed to come true. The bridge passes over Black Lake, whose dark waters result from either the peat bogs surrounding it or from the local population's fondness for Guinness, depending on whom you ask. Legend has it that when St. Patrick drove the serpents out of Ireland, the last serpent went to hide in the Gap of Dunloe. It was in Black Lake, also known as Serpent Lake, that St Patrick hunted the last serpent out of Ireland. The trail continues to follow the River Loe upstream through Cushnavally Lake, Auger Lake, and Black Lough. With its cliffs and waterfalls, the Gap of Dunloe is one of Co. Kerry's most beautiful valleys.

You can travel the Gap by jaunting car – a small, horse-drawn carriage driven by a Jarvey. Killarney is world famous for its Jarveys, their story telling, and their knowledge of local history. The Killarney Jarveys honor a tradition going back many years in tourism, offering the guest a historical picture to reflect on for many a day.

If you have the time and inclination, you can walk the 13.5 km of the Gap as we have on several occasions. Be sure to pack your wet-weather gear. You never know when a spot of rain will fall upon you.

Autos can be left at the car park convenient to Kate Kearney’s Cottage. The Cottage was a coaching inn where the hostess, Kate, allegedly cast her spell on all who entered and toasted them with her special brew. The Cottage is now a pub and restaurant.