The Gap of Dunloe, located in CO Kerry, is a narrow north-south mountain pass separating MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range to the west and the Purple Mountain Group range to the east. Due to it’s closeness to Killarney and Killarney National Park, it’s a popular spot. Especially on the weekends. I found the best time to enjoy the Gap of Dunloe was in the early morning or evening time.

Views from the Gap of Dunloe. Looking north.

Looking South to Black Valley.

Looking south east towards the Upper Loughs of Killarney National Park.

Just above the Black Valley Hostel, my home for four nights.

Augher Lake, Just below the Gap of Dunloe.

Carrauntoohil. At 3,047ft (1,038.6 mtrs), Carrauntoohil is Ireland’s highest mountain. Located in County Kerry west of Killarny. Carrauntoohil is the central peak of the MacGillycuddy Reeks mountain range ( Ireland’s highest mountain range).

To access Carrauntoohil, I drove to Cronin’s Yard from the hostel in Black Valley (going over the Gap of Dunloe). There are a few trails to access the peak of Carrauntoohil, but being that I was still a bit out of shape from a recent surgery, I took a loop trail that got me to the base of the mountain.

First views of Carrauntoohil after leaving Cronin’s Yard.

Looking back towards Cronin’s Yard.

I took the loop trail from Cronin’s Yard. Part of it goes through the grass/marsh. Quite muddy in places.

Lough Callee.

Carrauntoohil. I decided against making the climb to the top, being that i’m still a bit out of shape (could have been a bit more active this summer!).

A nice spot along the Lough for a rest.

Watched these hikers for a bit.

Looking back at Carrauntoohil while heading back to Cronin’s Yard and the vehicle.

End.