The first part of
the trip round the Lakes and the Gap of Dunloe starts from the quay at Ross Castle on the Lower Lake.
The open boat passes through all three lakes on its 14 mile journey, surrounded by magnificent views of
the mountains.
Lord Brandon's Cottage
Lord Brandon's Cottage
Passengers leave the boat and walk along a narrow path
through reed beds to Lord Brandon's Cottage
(formerly a hunting lodge, now an open-air restaurant).
Stop here for
a light lunch before walking round the back of
the restaurant to meet the horse and driver who will take you on the
second stage of the journey.
The road from Lord Brandon's
passes the end of the Black Valley and then turns sharply up
the mountain, winding for seven miles through spectacular scenery to
the Gap itself and then making its way down to Kate Kearney's
Cottage, a comfortable pub/restaurant where there will be time for
some more refreshments before returning to Killarney town.
The Black Valley
The Black Valley A remote valley, nestling at the foot of
Ireland's highest mountain, Carrauntuohill. The Black Valley was the
last district in Ireland to benefit from the Rural Electrification
Scheme in the 1950s.
The Approach to the Gap
Approaching the Gap from the South, the road passes the
Serpent Lough. The river filters from
here through an underground passage, re-appearing further down the
mountain.
The Gap of Dunloe Having passed through the Gap, this is the
view (from the North) most often seen on postcards. The narrow road
twists and turns between the mountains.
