The Gap of Dunloe, in Ireland, provides stunning scenic views whether you hike, bike or drive. Here are 6 photos to inspire you to make the trip to the mountain pass.
Out of all the things I did on my short trip to the south west of Ireland, The Gap of Dunloe is one of the things that sticks in my mind the most.
Driving around Killarney you almost get used to stunning scenery everywhere you turn but the view of the mountain pass and the nerve-wracking drive – and I was only a passenger! – through it was a highlight of the trip.
A bit of background on The Gap of Dunloe
The mountain pass, between MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and Purple Mountain, in Country Kerry, was carved out around two million years ago by slow moving ice. Yes, two million years ago. Pretty hard to get your head around that eh? Makes you feel pretty insignificant!
As we were there early in the morning the pass was almost deserted which really made you feel like you were alone in the middle of nowhere.
The climb up the mountain, with the narrow twisty road, seemed like it was taking you up to the top of the world. It also seemed to go on forever.
Since returning home I discovered it’s not really recommended to drive the route. I’m not sure if that is an official recommendation or just a local suggestion. There are very few places to pass another vehicle safety and I imagine the Wishing Bridge can get very crowded in peak tourist times.
However, we took it slowly and had no issues. Well, apart from the fact we thought the road would never end and had no idea where we were heading too – no google maps up there!
The Gap of Dunloe In Pictures
There are five lakes within The Gap and they are connected by the River Loe. Between two of the lakes is a picturesque bridge called the Wishing Bridge.
Apparently wishes made on the bridge are destined to come true. I wish I had known that before I visited. You get some of the best views of The Gap of Dunloe from this viewpoint.
Read more | Visit the Lonely Planet guide for more information on the Gap of Dunloe.
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What nerve wrecking drives have you done on your travels? I’d love to hear about them in the comments below.