Gap of Dunloe & Lakes of Killarney

Check in at 06:40H for the 07:00H Train Departure Time.

Check-in is beside the Customer Service Desk at Heuston Station where our representative will be waiting for you in their bright yellow jacket!

Check in for the 07:00H departure from Dublin Heuston Station, opened in 1844 as the headquarters of the Great Southern & Western Railway, and now the official principal station of Iarnród Éireann, Ireland’s national railway company.

As your train departs, we travel in a south westerly direction, through Dublin's western suburbs and then through the lush fertile countryside of Co. Kildare. Our journey takes us through the Curragh which is famous for its racecourse, home of the Irish Derby, and there are many stud farms in the vicinity. Look out for the best of Irish bloodstock training on the Curragh plain as we pass. We continue our journey to the Southwest through Portlaoise, Thurles, Limerick Junction, Charleville arriving at the junction station of Mallow where we change trains to Killarney. You don't need to worry about this change as you will be fully escorted from Dublin all the way to Killarney by our Railtours Ireland First Class host.

You will take a traditional bus ride from Killarney to either Kate Kearney’s Cottage or the historic Ross Castle. From here, climb aboard a traditional jaunting car and travel through the heart of the Gap of Dunloe, an awe‑inspiring 11 km glacial pass carved two million years ago. Framed by the dramatic peaks of Purple Mountain and the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, this winding valley reveals five sparkling lakes connected by the gentle River Loe. Every turn offers a view more magical than the last.

After approximately 1.5 hours of scenic travel, you’ll arrive at the picturesque Lord Brandon’s Cottage, the perfect place to relax, enjoy a refreshment, and soak in the views.

Next, board your open‑roof boat (with cover available if needed) for an unforgettable voyage through the Lakes of Killarney. Glide past Dinis Island, Innisfallen Island, and through serene waterways that showcase some of Ireland’s most enchanting landscapes. Your journey finishes at Ross Castle, where your bus awaits to bring you comfortably back to the city.

Highlights include:
• Purple Mountain
• MacGillycuddy’s Reeks
• Lord Brandon’s Cottage
• Dinis Island
• Innisfallen Island
• Augher Lake & Black Lough
• Head of the Gap

Please note: Depending on weather and water levels, the route may run in reverse, and short walks to and from the boat may require care.

At the end of the day's touring you will be returned to Killarney Station for your return train to Mallow and onwards to Dublin, which departs at 17:41. On arrival at Mallow, you will change to the intercity service to Dublin, departing from the adjacent platform, accompanied by your Railtours Ireland host.

Returning to Dublin Heuston at 21:00hrs.