2 Days | The Ring of Kerry, 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 your 07:00 departure from Dublin Heuston Station, opened in 1844 and now the principal station of Iarnród Éireann, Ireland’s national railway. Sit back and relax as we travel southwest through Dublin’s western suburbs and into the lush countryside of County Kildare.

Our route crosses the Curragh Plains, famous for its racecourse, home of the Irish Derby, and renowned thoroughbred stud farms, keep an eye out for some of Ireland’s finest bloodstock in training. We continue through Portlaoise, Thurles, Limerick Junction and Charleville, arriving at Mallow, where we change trains to Killarney. There’s no need to worry about the change, you are fully escorted from start to finish by your Railtours Ireland First Class host.

On arrival at Killarney Station, you'll be transfered directly to your motorcoach for a scenic drive around the world-famous Ring of Kerry. With plenty of stops for photos, refreshments and lunch, this unforgettable journey showcases Ireland at its most beautiful. Kerry is home to Ireland’s highest mountains, including Carrauntoohil (1,041m), visible en route.

We visit the unique Kerry Bog Village Museum, offering a fascinating insight into rural Irish life in the 18th century. Later, weather permitting, enjoy views of the dramatic Skellig Rocks, filming location for Star Wars: The Force Awakens. There are several photo stops, lunch along the way, and time to explore the colourful village of Sneem.

An essential Irish experience, the Ring of Kerry circles the MacGillycuddy Reeks, passes along Dingle Bay and Kenmare Bay, and returns via Ladies View, the Lakes of Killarney and the oak woodlands of Killarney National Park.

After the tour, we transfer you to your city-centre hotel, with the evening free to explore and enjoy Killarney at your leisure.

Enjoy your full Irish Breakfast at lesiure before checking out and joining the Gap of Dunloe & Killarney Lakes tour.

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.