Occupying a rugged, wildly beautiful frontier, County Donegal is Ireland’s northernmost county, shaped over millennia by the relentless waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Its landscapes are spectacularly dramatic, highlighted by the vertiginous Slieve League Cliffs that plunge directly into the churning seas below, offering intrepid hikers panoramic views.
The remote, unspoiled nature of Donegal has perfectly preserved not only its landscapes but its rich heritage as well. Gaelic remains widely spoken in its thriving Gaeltacht communities, traditional crafts such as tweed weaving continue to flourish, and its golden beaches often remain blissfully uncrowded. Discovering Donegal is to experience Ireland at its most elemental and authentic.
The county’s coastline is an unparalleled playground for adventurers and nature lovers. To the north, the dramatic sea stacks of Malin Head—Ireland’s most northerly point—offer prime storm-watching, while the majestic Fanad Head Lighthouse stands as a striking beacon against the ocean backdrop. Further inland, the romantic mediaeval ruins of Doe Castle sit peacefully on the River Erne, contrasting with the hidden splendour of the Assaranca Waterfall in its lush glen. Whether you are wandering the golden, uncrowded sands of Falcarragh Beach or spotting vintage cars alongside the renowned fishing waters of Lough Eske, the landscape continuously captivates.
A journey here is incomplete without exploring its remarkable coastal islands and deep-rooted culture. A ferry ride to Arranmore or Tory Island reveals unique communities where the Irish language and traditional music are vibrant daily realities. On the mainland, the Gaeltacht areas echo with the sounds of lively pub sessions, while artisans in towns like Ardara continue the world-famous craft of weaving Donegal tweed. With historic marvels such as the ancient stone forts of Grianán of Aileach and spirited community events like the Cup of Tae Festival, County Donegal seamlessly weaves its ancient history with a genuinely welcoming modern spirit.
donegal
Aghla Beg has two summits, a northern top at 564m and a higher southern one at 603m, and sits third from the north in the locally named Seven Sisters ridge in the Derryveagh Mountains. There are no boardwalks or paved paths on the hill itself, so it is a navigation exercise as much as a walk, usually tackled in a long loop with neighbouring Aghla More.
An Cnoc Fada, donegal
An Cnoc Fada (Crockfadda) offers a solid medium-grade hike in north-west Donegal. The 7.4 km loop climbs 343 m through heather and bog, delivering sudden, expansive views of Mount Errigal and the Poisoned Glen.
Tory Island, donegal
An Eochair Mhór, the 'Big Key', is a long, steep-sided cliff spur on the east side of Tory Island, ending in a crag the islanders call An Tor Mór. Its jagged pinnacles are known as Balor's soldiers, and the cliffs below hold nesting puffins, razorbills and guillemots. Reaching it means a 45-minute, weather-dependent ferry from Magheroarty and a walk along an unfenced coast path.
Ardara, donegal
Ardara is a tweed town and Donegal's festival capital, sitting on the Owentocker River in the south-west of the county. Its Heritage Centre traces Donegal tweed from sheep to cloth, and it makes a practical base for Glengesh Pass, the Maghera caves and Slieve League.
Ardara, donegal
Housed in a restored 19th-century courthouse, the Ardara Heritage Centre brings the story of Donegal tweed to life. Visitors can watch skilled weavers operate a traditional loom, explore displays tracing the cottage industry from the 1870s to modern markets, and enjoy an on-site café and acoustic theatre space.
donegal
Arranmore (Árainn Mhór) is Donegal's largest inhabited island, a 15- to 20-minute ferry from Burtonport. It's a working Gaeltacht of 478 people, 62% of them native Irish speakers, with the 14km Arranmore Way, a clifftop lighthouse, and Ireland's first offshore digital hub.
donegal
Assaranca is one of the few Donegal waterfalls you can watch from the car door, on the coast road west of Ardara. It is at its loudest after rain and barely worth the detour in a dry spell. Combine it with Maghera Beach, a few minutes further on.
Ballyshannon, donegal
Tucked on the western edge of Ballyshannon, Assaroe offers a peaceful escape where medieval heritage meets the wild Atlantic estuary. Wander through the atmospheric ruins of Assaroe Abbey, follow riverside paths to the historic spillway of Cathaleen’s Falls, and explore the restored Abbey Mill complex.
Ballybofey, donegal
Ballybofey and Stranorlar face each other across the River Finn, a combined 5,406 people on the N15. The Balor Arts Centre – Donegal’s oldest continuously running theatre – anchors the cultural calendar, Finn Harps play at Finn Park, and the Finn’s spring salmon and summer grilse draw anglers from well beyond the county.
Ballyliffin, donegal
Ballyliffin is a village of fewer than 500 people known well beyond Donegal for one thing: two championship links courses that have hosted the Irish Open. Beside them runs Pollan Bay, a 2.5 km Atlantic strand backed by dunes, with the ruin of Carrickabraghy Castle at its northern end and Glashedy Island offshore.
Ballyliffin, donegal
Perched on the wild Atlantic Way, Ballyliffin Golf Club offers two championship links that hug sweeping dunes and the sea. From the historic Old Links to the dramatic Glashedy Links, every round feels like a walk through a living landscape.
Fanad Peninsula, donegal
Ballymastocker Bay, widely known as Portsalon Beach, stretches 1.5 km of soft golden sand along Lough Swilly. Backed by the Knockalla Hills and celebrated for its calm waters and panoramic viewpoints, it’s a favourite for sunrise walks, rock-pooling and coastal photography.
Ballyshannon, donegal
Incorporated in 1613, Ballyshannon is Ireland’s oldest town and a historic gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way. Discover Cistercian ruins, the birthplace of blues-rock legend Rory Gallagher, and world-class surfing just minutes away.
Tory Island, donegal
Out on the far-eastern tip of Tory Island, Balor’s Fort is a promontory fort defended by four earthen banks and three ditches across a narrow neck of land, with 90-metre cliffs on three sides. It carries the legend of Balor the Evil-Eyed, and from April to August its cliffs and sea stacks hold puffins.
Barnesmore Gap, donegal
Barnesmore Gap (An Bearnas Mór) is a glacial valley carrying the only direct road between north and south Donegal through the Bluestack Mountains. For two centuries it was highwayman country; today it is a fast scenic drive with a viewpoint lay-by and one famous roadside pub, Biddy's O'Barnes.
Bloody Foreland, donegal
Bloody Foreland, or Cnoc Fola, is the north-west corner of Donegal, named for the way the evening sun turns its rocks a deep red. It is a Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point with views out to Tory Island, a signed 1.5km coastal walk and free parking at the trailhead. Come for the hour before sunset on a clear evening; that is the whole point.
Bluestack Mountains, donegal
The Bluestack Mountains dominate southern Donegal with rugged granite peaks, mist-clad lakes and a rich glacial heritage. Walk the 65 km Bluestack Way for sweeping vistas, ancient graveyards and abundant wildlife, all within a three-day moderate trek.
Bonny Glen, donegal
Bonny Glen Wood is a quiet Coillte forest near Glenties in west Donegal, with two short lakeside loops around Bonnyglen Lough and Lough Namanlagh and a heron colony in the trees. Bonnyglen Falls itself is a noted salmon pool on the Eany River, fished catch-and-release. The land was once the Porter estate, whose landlord paid his tenants' passage to America during the Famine.
Boylagh, donegal
Boylagh is a landscape of dramatic contrasts, where the granite peaks of the Bluestack Mountains meet a jagged Atlantic coastline. Home to the Rosses district, traditional Gaeltacht villages and Ireland’s largest inhabited island, it offers unspoiled walking trails, rich Gaelic heritage and free coastal access.
Bunbeg, donegal
Bunbeg is an Irish-speaking village in Gweedore, where the Clady and Crolly rivers reach the sea. It has a tiny working harbour – often called the smallest in Europe – with ferries out to Tory and Gola Islands, and a kilometre of strand at Magheraclogher known for the wreck of Bád Eddie, half-buried in the sand since 1977.
Buncrana, donegal
Buncrana sits on the edge of Lough Swilly with a charming Main Street and a string of sandy beaches. A gentle 3 km coastal walk links historic forts, a Norman keep and lively parks, offering stunning sea views and wildlife spotting for all ages.
Bundoran, donegal
Bundoran is Ireland's surf capital – the Peak reef break, Tullan Strand for learners, and a Harry Vardon links course from 1894 above Donegal Bay. Beyond the waves it's a classic seaside resort that stays busy with festivals through the summer.
Bundoran, donegal
Bundoran Main Beach runs 500 metres of sand right off the Main Street, lifeguarded in summer and with a beach wheelchair you can book. The Peak, a fast left-hand reef break a short walk away, is why the town calls itself Ireland's surf capital.
Cappagh, donegal
A small British watchtower built around 1804 still crowns Bunglass Point, alongside stone slabs spelling Éire from the Second World War. It looks out over the serrated Slieve League cliffs, with free parking and a steep 1.5 km walk up from the lower car park.
Buncrana, donegal
Burt sits at the crossroads of the Wild Atlantic Way, offering a compact blend of ancient history and rural Donegal character. Visitors can explore the imposing stone walls of Grianán of Aileach, learn about the O’Doherty clan at Burt Castle, and enjoy panoramic views across Lough Foyle and Lough Swilly.
Ailt an Chorráin, donegal
Burtonport’s colourful harbour and the nearby Magheroarty Pier open the door to Donegal’s island networks, sweeping dunes and the Derryveagh Mountains. Between ferry crossings, waymarked coastal loops and a thriving local food scene, the area captures the rugged character of the Wild Atlantic Way.
R230 between Ballyshannon and Belleek, donegal
Standing sentinel on the R230 between Ballyshannon and Belleek, the castellated gateway of Camlin Castle is all that remains of a grand 19th-century family seat. Designed by architect John Benjamin Keane, the stone arch and soaring flag tower survived the 1940s demolition of the main house, which the ESB mistakenly destroyed fearing it would be submerged by the new Assaroe Lake.
South-west coast of County Donegal, donegal
Carrick serves as a straightforward gateway to Donegal’s dramatic southwest coast. Five minutes from the village centre, the Slieve League cliffs rise above the Atlantic, while the local community keeps 6th-century Columban heritage alive in its stone church and seasonal gatherings.
Isle of Doagh, donegal
Carrickabraghy Castle is a 16th-century O'Doherty ruin perched on a quartz outcrop at the tip of the Isle of Doagh, in the far north of Inishowen. Sir Cahir O'Doherty used this remote spot to plan his 1608 rebellion, and after nearly collapsing it was stabilised by local fundraising in 2013. Time a visit for high tide, when the sea spouts from the fissure known as the Hissing Rock.
Carrickfinn, donegal
Carrickfinn is a Blue Flag beach of white sand and machair grassland in the Donegal Gaeltacht, right beside Donegal Airport. The single runway runs along the shore, so you can watch planes come in low over the dunes while you walk.
Carrigart, donegal
Set at the base of the Rosguill Peninsula, this compact Gaeltacht village blends maritime heritage with rugged coastal scenery. Visitors can explore award-winning parks, cross a tidal causeway to a bird-rich island, and use the village as a base for golf, fishing and Wild Atlantic Way drives.
Castlefin, donegal
Castlefin’s quiet riverbanks mask a bustling 17th-century market heritage, once granted by Sir John Kingsmill in 1631. The town’s streets still follow the plantation-era layout, while a striking 12-arch bridge built from reclaimed O’Donnell castle stones spans the tidal River Finn.
Ballyshannon, donegal
Forty-five metres of vertical drop powers enough electricity for roughly 26,000 homes at this mid-century hydro-electric station. Completed in 1952, its striking modernist generating hall and glass-roofed atrium stand as a lasting symbol of early cross-border cooperation on the River Erne.
Letterkenny, donegal
Rising 240 ft above Castle Street, St Eunan’s Cathedral dominates Letterkenny’s skyline. Inside, white Mountcharles sandstone gives way to marble pulpits, glittering stained-glass and a silver sanctuary lamp, echoing a century-old story of faith and community.
Donegal, donegal
Built in 1846 and funded by the Brooke family, Christ Church stands as a quiet architectural landmark overlooking Lough Eske. Its distinctive tower, Y-tracery windows, and tranquil grounds offer a peaceful pause for heritage and architecture enthusiasts.
Gweedore, donegal
The Clady River carves a lively 8-km path through Gweedore’s rugged landscape, feeding a still-operational 1950s hydro-electric scheme before joining the Crolly estuary. Known for reliable grilse runs, artificial freshets, and stark Atlantic moorland views, it’s a favourite for anglers and quiet coastal walks.
Inishowen Peninsula, donegal
Clonmany's crossroads once guarded the 11th-century copper-silver shrine known as the Míosach, now in Dublin's National Museum of Ireland. The village also remembers the 1815 Poitín Republic of Urris, a fleeting rebellion when locals barricaded the road to protect their stills. Glenevin Waterfall and the Mamore Gap sit a short drive away.
North-west County Donegal, donegal
Cloughaneely is a coastal Gaeltacht district in north-west Donegal, centred on the villages of Falcarragh and Gortahork, where Irish is spoken daily. Its standout day out is the passenger ferry from Magheroarty pier to Tory Island, weather permitting; on land there is hill walking, a nine-hole golf course on an old estate, and the standing stone the district is named after.
Gartan, donegal
The Colmcille Heritage Centre stands on the shore of Gartan Lough, where Saint Colmcille (Columba) was born in 521 before he founded Iona and carried Christianity to Scotland. Its displays run from a 12-foot Celtic cross and a replica of his miracle-working bell to a tapestry of the 19th-century Derryveagh Evictions, and the guided storytelling is what visitors remember most. It opens seasonally, from May to October.
Letterkenny, donegal
An active graveyard about 1.5 km west of Letterkenny, on a site traced to a 7th-century monastery. A late-1960s tidy-up gathered the early cross slabs and cruciform stones onto a flat-topped cairn, among them a 2.36 m slab linked to Godfrey O'Donnell, who died in 1258. A separate IUNVA memorial honours Irish personnel killed on UN peacekeeping missions.
Letterkenny, donegal
Conwal Parish Church has stood opposite St Eunan's Cathedral at the top of Letterkenny's Church Street since the 17th century, two centuries before the cathedral it now faces. Inside is an early-19th-century cast-iron roof; outside, the graveyard holds a niece of Jane Austen and the town's founder. It's an active church, so the interior is often locked outside services.
donegal
Despite the name, the Cope Mountain Walk is a flat lakeside loop, not a hill climb – a 1.6 km extension of the Dungloe River Walk that skirts the low ground called Cope Mountain. The full 3.7 km circuit starts at the Garden of Remembrance in Dungloe and passes a community sculpture trail, sea-trout lakes and reliable birdlife, with only 15 m of ascent.
Dungloe, donegal
Lough Craghy, also called Tully Lake, is a small freshwater lough 3km east of Dungloe in Donegal's Rosses fishery. Its draw is summer sea trout, fished off the bank on a permit from Charlie Bonner's tackle shop in Dungloe. There are no facilities, no marked trails and no visitor centre, which is rather the point.
Creeslough, donegal
Creeslough sits above Sheephaven Bay under the flat table-top of Muckish Mountain, on the N56 between Letterkenny and the north Donegal coast. The big draw is Doe Castle, a MacSweeney tower house from the 1420s with its grounds free and open all year. Ards Forest Park, waymarked loops and a well-rated glamping site round out an easy base on the Wild Atlantic Way.
donegal
Crohy Head is a remote stretch of cliff and sea arch on Donegal's north-west coast, about 8 km from Dungloe. The tall Bristi arch, locally 'The Breeches', is visible straight from the cliff path, while two smaller arches sit on a beach reachable only at low tide. There are no facilities and parking is a single small layby, so come prepared and time the tide.
Dungloe, donegal
Straddling the boundary between Gweedore and The Rosses, Crolly blends rugged Donegal landscapes with rich local heritage. Visitors can explore the folklore-laden Crolly Stone, watch salmon leap in the river, and tour the historic Croithlí Distillery for a taste of authentic Gaeltacht whiskey.
Urris, donegal
Crossconnell is a quiet farming townland in the Urris Valley on Inishowen – more a place you pass through than a destination. Its draws sit around the edges: the 502 m climb up Raghtin More behind it, an early-1800s thatched cottage at Bunacrick, and the Rusty Nail bar down near Tullagh Bay.
Derrybeg, donegal
Derrybeg (Doirí Beaga) is a working Gaeltacht village in Gweedore, where more than half the people speak Irish daily. It's better as a base than a destination, within easy reach of Mount Errigal, Bloody Foreland and the beaches of north-west Donegal.
donegal
The Derryveagh Mountains cover the most thinly populated ground in Ireland, rising to Errigal at 751 m, Donegal's highest peak. They wrap around Glenveagh National Park, a free wilderness of lakes, oak woods and red deer with a Victorian castle on Lough Veagh. Walks run from a one-kilometre lakeshore stroll to a half-day ridge climb.
Doagh Island, donegal
Home to original thatched cottages inhabited until the late 20th century, Doagh Famine Village offers a vivid window into 19th-century rural life. Guided by former residents, the open-air museum stages a life-size 1848 eviction scene and an authentic Irish wake, set against Atlantic vistas.
Sheephaven Bay, donegal
A four-storey tower house rises from a tidal peninsula in Sheephaven Bay, surrounded by a rock-cut moat and Atlantic waters. Step inside for guided tours by appointment, or wander the free grounds to trace MacSweeney clan history, Spanish Armada connections, and 19th-century restoration work.
Donegal Abbey, donegal
A stray spark in 1601 ignited gunpowder stores in the abbey, sending a massive explosion through the stone cloisters during the Nine Years’ War. Despite the devastation, the Franciscan community rebuilt and later compiled the Annals of the Four Masters within its walls, cementing the ruin’s legacy as a cradle of Irish scholarship.
Northwest Ireland, donegal
Donegal Bay is Ireland's largest, and its funnel-shaped mouth concentrates Atlantic swell into some of the most reliable surf in Europe. The Slieve League cliffs rise 601m at its northern edge – nearly three times the height of the Cliffs of Moher – and a waterbus from Donegal Town runs out to the seal colony on the bay's islands.
Donegal Town, donegal
When Sir Basil Brooke added a Jacobean manor wing in 1611, the O’Donnell stronghold transformed from a Gaelic fortress into a hybrid of native and English architecture. Today the restored tower and wing stand beside the River Eske, allowing visitors to explore the 15th-century keep that once housed one of Ireland’s most powerful dynasties.
Gweedore, donegal
Around 20,000 people in this corner of Donegal speak Irish daily, the largest such community in the north, and the Ulster dialect still shapes everyday life here. The land runs from Errigal (751 m) and the Poisoned Glen out to the Atlantic coast and the islands of Arranmore and Tory. Gweedore alone produced Altan, Clannad and Enya, and pubs across the region still run nightly trad sessions.
Donegal Highlands, donegal
The Donegal Highlands stretch across County Donegal’s north-west, a rugged plateau of heather-stained slopes, deep glens and Atlantic headlands. Once the domain of ancient clans and whaling families, the area today offers hikers and cyclists unspoiled trails, historic ruins and some of Ireland’s most dramatic coastal scenery.
donegal
The Donegal Islands stretch across the Wild Atlantic Way, offering a mix of living Gaeltacht communities, ancient stone ruins and uninhabited nature reserves. From the bustling piers of Burtonport to the quiet heather-covered shores of Inishfree, each island holds its own distinct character and seafaring legacy.
Donegal Town, donegal
Where the River Eske meets Donegal Bay, this market town wears its Gaelic past plainly. The 15th-century O'Donnell castle is the one must-do, with the free Franciscan abbey ruins a short walk on, a Diamond full of trad pubs, and a waterbus running out onto the bay in summer.
Ardara, donegal
Doon Fort is a drystone cashel that fills its own island in Loughadoon, walls 15 feet high reflected in the water. Once an O'Boyle stronghold, it's reachable only by boat hired locally in summer – hidden from the road and all the quieter for it.
Killybegs, donegal
Drumanoo Head commands a sweeping vista over Donegal Bay, Fintra Beach and the rugged Atlantic. Once proposed as a lighthouse site in the 1830s, it remains a favourite stop for coastal walkers, photographers and boat-tour passengers exploring the Wild Atlantic Way.
Dunaff Bay, donegal
Dunaff Bay is a wild, unmarked headland on the north-west corner of Inishowen, ringed by exposed cliffs and steeped in coastal history. One of Ireland's oldest Neolithic campsites sat here, Wolfe Tone was captured offshore in 1798, and on clear winter nights it is among Donegal's best spots for the northern lights.
Dunfanaghy, donegal
Perched on Sheephaven Bay, Dunfanaghy blends rugged Atlantic scenery with a tight-knit village atmosphere. Visitors can explore lifeguarded golden sands, drive the scenic Horn Head loop, and step into Ireland’s famine past at the community-run Workhouse Heritage Centre.
Dungloe, donegal
An Clochán Liath sits on Donegal’s rugged west coast as the lively heart of The Rosses. Known for its annual international festival, easy riverside trails, and gateway access to island ferries, the town blends authentic Gaeltacht charm with coastal adventure.
Dungloe, donegal
Dungloe Lake is a freshwater lough just east of the Gaeltacht town of Dungloe, one of eight in the Dungloe fishing system and part of a Rosses fishery of more than 130 lakes. A day's permit is about €10 and a boat €15, both from Charlie Bonner's tackle shop in town. A short waymarked river walk from the Garden of Remembrance loops past the lake's southern shore.
Dunlewey, donegal
Dunlewey sits in a bowl of mountains on Lough Dunlewey, with Errigal behind it and the Poisoned Glen to the south. The lakeshore centre runs a restored weaver’s cottage, boat trips and a play area; the village is also the nearest trailhead for the Errigal climb.
fermanagh
The former Enniskillen-and-Bundoran Railway once connected the Erne Valley to the Atlantic coast, driving Bundoran’s growth into Ulster’s fastest-growing seaside resort. Today, the dismantled 36-mile corridor offers a peaceful walking and cycling route through rolling countryside, with heritage sites and greenway plans in progress.
Cavan, cavan
The River Erne runs 120 km from the Cavan hills through Upper and Lower Lough Erne to the Atlantic at Ballyshannon, spreading into a maze of more than 150 islands rather than a single channel. Monastic ruins, crannogs and Enniskillen Castle line the water, and since 1994 the Shannon–Erne Waterway has linked it to the Shannon for boats.
Inishowen Peninsula, donegal
Remarkably, a single stone slab bears the only known Greek inscription in early-Christian Ireland. St Mura’s monastic graveyard, with its 7th-century cross-slab and later medieval ruins, watches over Lisfannon Beach and the busy Lough Swilly marina.
Falcarragh, donegal
Falcarragh is a small Gaeltacht town in north-west Donegal where most people speak Irish daily. It is less a destination than a base: Errigal and Muckish are a short drive, the Tory Island ferry leaves from nearby Magheroarty, and Ireland's tallest Celtic high cross stands at Ray.
Fanad, donegal
Fanad Peninsula juts between Lough Swilly and Mulroy Bay, offering sweeping sea views, rugged coastal trails and a living Gaeltacht community. From the quartzite ridge of Knockalla Hill to Fanad Head Lighthouse, the landscape blends natural beauty with maritime heritage.
donegal
Jutting between Lough Swilly and Mulroy Bay, this narrow Donegal peninsula offers rugged coastal drives, ancient tombs and Ireland’s northernmost Blue Flag beach. Climb the historic Fanad Head Lighthouse, surf the Atlantic swells, or wander through a landscape where Irish is still spoken daily.
Faugher, donegal
Perched above the rural landscape near Dunfanaghy, Faugher House offers a striking glimpse into 17th-century Donegal. Built by the O'Boyle family and later rebuilt by the Wrays, these roofless ruins retain massive chimney stacks and defensive bawn walls. Visitors can walk the perimeter and imagine the fortified life of this historic estate.
Stranorlar, donegal
The Finn Valley stretches across north County Donegal, following the River Finn from Lough Finn to Lifford. Home to the Finn Valley Centre and surrounded by rolling countryside, it offers walking trails, sporting facilities, and a gateway to the region’s rich history and outdoor pursuits.
Fintra Beach, donegal
Fintra Beach delivers one of County Donegal’s widest, most sheltered sandy stretches, backed by rolling dunes and grassy hills. A steep stone-step descent leads to calm waters ideal for families, while the far western end forms a quiet lagoon perfect for wading and rock pooling.
Inishowen Peninsula, donegal
Five Fingers Strand on the Inishowen Peninsula is backed by dunes up to 30 metres high, among the tallest in Europe, with the five sea-stacks that name it rising offshore. The sand is spectacular and the water is dangerous, so it's a beach for walking, photography and low-tide rock pools rather than swimming.
Inishowen Peninsula, donegal
Wind and time have sculpted Lagg Beach into one of Europe’s most striking coastal landscapes. Towering dunes, weather-worn sea stacks and fine golden sands draw walkers and photographers to this quiet stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Buncrana, donegal
Stony gun emplacements and underground bunkers stand sentinel over the Atlantic at Fort Dunree, blending two centuries of martial history with wild Donegal scenery. Visitors can explore restored artillery, discover local wildlife, and enjoy a waterfront café with sweeping coastal panoramas.
The Diamond, donegal
Standing at the heart of Donegal Town’s pedestrianised Diamond, this 20-foot sandstone memorial honours the four medieval chroniclers who preserved Ireland’s history. Adorned with Celtic interlacing motifs and unveiled in 1938, it remains a quiet tribute to the scholars who wrote the Annals between 1630 and 1636.
Frosses, donegal
Frosses sits on the R262 about seven miles west of Donegal Town, its name 'the showers' tied to a famine-era tale of food falling from the sky. St Mary's Church and its 1892 bell tower mark the centre, and the village is the angling gateway to the Eany Water, a spate river system draining a 125 km² catchment.
Gartan, donegal
Situated on the shores of Lough Gartan, this village marks the birthplace of St Columba and hosts a premier outdoor-education hub. Visitors can explore early-Christian ruins, tackle lakeside walking trails, or join guided adventure courses set against the backdrop of the Derryveagh Mountains.
donegal
Glashedy Island rises sharply from the Atlantic just off Malin Head, its 30-metre cliffs a dramatic backdrop for photographers and wildlife. Accessible via the Wild Alpaca Way viewpoint, this remote townland offers sweeping coastal panoramas without leaving the mainland.
Churchill, donegal
The portraitist Derek Hill bought this 1828 rectory above Lough Gartan in the 1950s and filled it with more than 300 works by Picasso, Kokoschka, Yeats and others, hung as if he still lived there. He gave the house, its contents and 20 acres of garden to the state in 1981. Gardens are free and open daily; the house is tour-only and seasonal.
Glencolmcille, donegal
Glen Head offers a dramatic coastal walk in County Donegal, featuring a Napoleonic watchtower, the jagged Sturrall sea-arête, and views of the Atlantic. This free, moderate trail passes through a landscape steeped in the history of Saint Colmcille.
South-west County Donegal, donegal
Perched on the rugged southwest coast of Donegal, Glencolmcille blends Neolithic monuments and early Christian pilgrimage sites with a vividly recreated 18th-to-20th-century clachán. Visitors can wander through authentic thatched cottages, join the historic Turas pilgrimage, and enjoy sweeping views over Glen Bay and the Atlantic.
Clonmany, donegal
Tucked into a quiet glacial valley near Clonmany, Glenevin Waterfall drops 12 metres over dark volcanic rock into a clear plunge pool. The short, mostly flat trail through ancient woodland makes it an accessible family outing, while the nearby Glen House tea room offers a perfect rest stop.
Glenfin, donegal
Glenfin sits at the geographical centre of Donegal, a Gaeltacht parish of about 330 homes where Irish is the daily language. The Heritage Centre marks Home Rule founder Isaac Butt, a free trad session runs the first Tuesday of every month, and Oideas Gael takes over the school each summer.
Glengad, donegal
Ireland’s most concentrated collection of Neolithic dolmens crowns the cliffs near Glengad, where wedge and portal stones dot the rugged coastline. The remote Gaeltacht village also guards a cup-and-ring carving on Glengad Head, linking present-day visitors with Bronze-Age ritual landscapes.
donegal
Glengesh Pass is a narrow, hairpin mountain road between Ardara and Glencolmcille in south-west Donegal, climbing to about 275m through a glacier-cut valley. It's a Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point with a small viewpoint car park; drive in from the Ardara side so you descend the switchbacks into the valley.
Glenties, donegal
A compact, award-winning town where Victorian architecture meets rugged mountain scenery. Glenties offers easy access to the Bluestack Way, a rich literary heritage, and a welcoming main street of local cafés and pubs.
Glenveagh National Park, donegal
Perched on the edge of Lough Veagh, Glenveagh Castle crowns a vast wilderness of mountains, lakes and ancient oak woods. Inside, Victorian rooms and exotic gardens tell stories of ambition and mystery, while the surrounding park shelters Ireland’s largest red-deer herd and soaring golden eagles.
donegal
Perched on the shores of Lough Veagh, Glenveagh Castle anchors a vast 165 km² wilderness of mountain glens, blanket bogs and ancient oak woods. Wander through meticulously restored Victorian gardens, join guided tours of the neo-Gothic mansion, or trek scenic trails that wind through one of Donegal’s most dramatic landscapes.
Gweedore, donegal
Just a kilometre off the Gweedore coast, Gola Island offers a car-free escape featuring pristine white-sand beaches, a tranquil inland lake and the striking Cnoc an Choillín hill. Walk ancient bog-paths, explore restored 19th-century cottages, and discover a community woven into Donegal’s maritime and revolutionary history.
Gort an Choirce, donegal
Gortahork recorded 41.6% of residents speaking Irish daily in 2016, among the country’s strongest Gaeltacht communities. The village sits under Mount Errigal and beside Magheroarty Pier, the launch point for the 45-minute ferry to Tory Island.
Greencastle, donegal
Perched on the edge of Lough Foyle, Greencastle blends dramatic medieval stonework with a sleek Martello tower and a lively maritime heritage. Visitors can explore centuries-old ruins, cross the water to the Causeway Coastal Route, or wander along a kilometre of golden sand. It’s a compact coastal village where history, sea views, and Irish charm meet.
Greencastle, donegal
Perched on a rocky promontory at the mouth of Lough Foyle, Greencastle Castle watches over a golden-sand beach and a bustling fishing harbour. Visitors can wander medieval stone ruins, climb a historic Martello tower, and cross the water on a scenic seasonal ferry.
Greenan Mountain, donegal
Perched 250 metres above the Inishowen Peninsula, the Grianán of Aileach is a dramatic multivallate hill-fort that once served as the royal seat of the Northern Uí Néill. Visitors can wander through its restored dry-stone walls, explore hidden terraces, and take in panoramic vistas stretching to Derry and the Atlantic coast. Free to enter and open year-round, it offers a powerful glimpse into early medieval Irish history.
donegal
The Gweebarra River carves a deep gorge through the Derryveagh and Glendowan Mountains before emptying into a sheltered bay on the Wild Atlantic Way. Visitors can walk a tidal causeway to a 6th-century monastic island, follow award-winning bridges, or tackle the exposed surf at Dooey Beach.
donegal
Gweedore is the cultural heart of the Irish language in Donegal, where the Atlantic coast meets the dramatic quartzite summit of Mount Errigal. Visitors find a landscape of wild beaches, historic glens and a community where Irish is spoken on the street and music flows from every pub.
Near Killea, donegal
Rising 260 m on the Inishowen peninsula, Holywell Hill offers a short, accessible walk to sweeping views across County Donegal and Northern Ireland. The summit blends ancient archaeology with modern broadcasting history, making it a rewarding stop for walkers and history enthusiasts.
Horn Head, donegal
Horn Head's quartzite cliffs rise about 180m straight out of the Atlantic at the mouth of Sheephaven Bay, a few kilometres north of Dunfanaghy. The clifftop drive and the short walk to the WWII lookout give some of Donegal's best sea views, on a clear day as far as Tory Island, Errigal and Muckish. McSwyne's Gun, the old blow-hole, is a shadow of the spouting spectacle it once was.
Lough Swilly, donegal
Step off the mainland onto Inch Island, where 19th-century railway embankments give way to a thriving wetland reserve. Walk past 15th-century castle walls, spot thousands of wintering swans and geese, and finish your visit with a quiet stroll along the sheltered sands of Strand Beach.
Narin, donegal
Inishkeel (Inis Caoil) is a 6th-century monastic island off the Donegal coast, reached on foot across a sandbank that surfaces for about an hour around low tide. Its enclosure holds two 12th-century church ruins, rare carved cross-slabs and an old graveyard, though Heritage Ireland currently lists the site as inaccessible.
Inishowen Peninsula, donegal
Breathing in the salty air at the start of the Inishowen 100, motorists are greeted by sweeping sea vistas that frame the ancient Grianán of Aileach. The sign-posted loop then weaves past golden beaches, historic forts and the world-class artillery displays at Fort Dunree.
Inishowen Peninsula, donegal
Sunlight glints off the ancient stones of Grianán of Aileach as you step onto the Inishowen Heritage Trail. The 14-stop route weaves through Neolithic cairns, early-Christian high crosses and the 1305 Norman Northburgh Castle, offering a vivid walk through millennia of Donegal history.
Inishowen Peninsula, donegal
Ireland's northernmost land sits on the Inishowen Peninsula, where Atlantic headlands meet centuries of Gaelic history. Follow the signposted Inishowen 100 loop or the 14-stop heritage trail to discover ring forts, Victorian coastal defences, and pristine beaches.
Off the coast of Malin Head, donegal
Perched ten kilometres north-east of Malin Head, Inishtrahull is a windswept plateau of 1.7-billion-year-old rock, home to a dramatic lighthouse and bustling seabird colonies. Though uninhabited, its ruins, wildlife and stark Atlantic beauty make it a compelling day-trip for adventurous visitors.
Inver, donegal
Where the River Eany spills into Donegal Bay, Inver is a compact coastal village with a rich maritime past. From weathered whaling-station ruins to seasonal dolphin and whale charters, it’s a quiet base for exploring Donegal’s rugged north-west coastline.
Carrigart, donegal
This 90-acre island in Mulroy Bay is joined to the Donegal mainland by a causeway built in 1927 that disappears under the sea at high tide. Around 26 people still live here by farming and shellfish. In 2010 NASA named an iron-nickel meteorite on Mars Oileán Ruaidh after the island, for the rust colour its winter vegetation shares with the rock.
Inishowen Peninsula, donegal
Salt-laden breezes sweep the dramatic cliffs of the Isle of Doagh, revealing Neolithic petroglyphs and the ruins of Carrickabraghy Castle. This rugged peninsula on Donegal's north coast weaves together 5,000 years of history, from medieval strongholds to the poignant stories of the Doagh Famine Village.
Kerrykeel, donegal
Perched between Knockalla Mountain and the waters of Mulroy Bay, Kerrykeel is a compact Donegal village that punches above its weight for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is best known for its lively Saturday Country Market, well-maintained coastal paths, and two popular holiday parks offering luxury cabins and camper touring spots.
Kilcar, donegal
Kilcar is a compact Gaeltacht village where the rhythmic click of hand-weaving looms still echoes alongside the Atlantic swell. Framed by the Muckross Peninsula and the Slieve League cliffs, it offers surf breaks, ancient court tombs and a vibrant traditional music scene.
Dunfanaghy, donegal
Killahoey Beach stretches 1.5 km of golden sand beneath the cliffs of Horn Head, offering crystal-clear Atlantic waters and a thriving bird-watching haven. With lifeguarded swimming, world-class surf and easy access to nearby attractions, it’s the perfect blend of wild beauty and family-friendly fun.
Killybegs, donegal
Perched on Donegal Bay, Killybegs blends a bustling deep-water harbour, ancient stone churches and rugged coastal scenery. From Neolithic cairns to modern pelagic trawlers, the town offers vivid maritime history, hand-knotted carpet art and unforgettable Atlantic boat trips.
Kilmacrennan, donegal
Kilmacrennan sits on the N56, framed by the Lennon and Lurgy rivers and steeped in O'Donnell heritage. Visitors can wander ruined abbey walls, climb Doon Rock, and step back in time at Lugyvale Thatched Cottage, all within a friendly village of under 900 residents.
Kincasslagh, donegal
Kincasslagh is a quiet Irish-speaking village in the Rosses, famous as the hometown of Daniel O'Donnell and a base for exploring Cruit Island. With a sheltered harbour, dramatic coastal paths, and a welcoming community, it offers an authentic slice of West Donegal life.
Knockalla, donegal
Rising 363 m above the Fanad Peninsula, the Knockalla Mountains form a jagged spine known locally as the Devil’s Backbone. Walk the heather-clad ridge for sweeping views of Lough Swilly, discover twin alpine-style lakes and a quiet outdoor chapel, then unwind at the nearby caravan park on the golden sands of Ballymastocker Bay.
Buncrana, donegal
Once reserved for Victorian ladies seeking privacy, this sheltered 550 m cove now welcomes families and walkers along its paved Shore Path. Situated just minutes from Buncrana’s centre, it offers calm waters for boating, nearby picnic grounds, and reliable access to Lough Swilly’s scenic coastline.
donegal
Mist rises off the glistening surface of the Leannan River as it winds from the Glendowan Mountains toward Lough Swilly. Designated a Special Area of Conservation, the waterway supports thriving brown trout and salmon, while its tranquil banks offer peaceful walking routes and rich riparian wildlife.
Urris, donegal
Step onto Lenan Beach and find a stretch of golden sand backed by the Urris Hills and overlooked by the Atlantic swell. Clear waters, easy access and the nearby Lenan Loop hillwalk make it a quiet coastal escape on Inishowen’s edge.
Inishowen Peninsula, donegal
Perched on a rugged headland overlooking Lough Swilly, Lenan Head Fort is a remarkably preserved late-Victorian coastal battery. Explore concrete gun platforms, caponiers, and underground magazines while taking in sweeping Atlantic vistas across the Inishowen Peninsula.
Meenaleck, donegal
Step into Leo’s Tavern in the Donegal Gaeltacht and hear the same walls that nurtured Clannad and Enya. Run by the Brennan family since 1968, this Wild Atlantic Way pub blends nightly traditional music, a restaurant-quality menu, and a living archive of Irish musical history.
Letterkenny, donegal
Set where the River Swilly meets the glacial waters of Lough Swilly, Letterkenny is Donegal’s largest town and a vibrant cultural hub. Beyond its award-winning tidy streets and bustling markets, the ‘Cathedral Town’ offers a rich mix of 17th-century history, contemporary arts, and easy access to the rugged beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Lifford, donegal
Lifford is the county town of Donegal and seat of the county council, sitting where the Finn meets the Mourne on the border with Strabane. Its standout is the 1746 Old Courthouse, now a gaol-tour museum with a free heritage collection, paired with the cross-border Lifford Slí walk.
Lisfannon Beach, donegal
On the tranquil north-eastern shore of Lough Swilly, Lisfannon Beach dazzles with golden dunes, calm waters, and spectacular sunsets. It’s a family-friendly Blue Flag haven for swimming, kite-surfing, and birdwatching, as well as one of Ireland’s top spots for chasing the northern lights.
Lough Anure, donegal
Lough Anure mirrors the sky across its shallow, island-dotted surface in County Donegal’s Rosses district. The neighbouring Gaeltacht village of Loughanure preserves the legacy of a once-thriving lime-making industry, while the surrounding landscape offers lakeside walks, trout fishing, and quiet coastal escapes.
Donegal, donegal
Mist rolls over the granite cliffs, revealing a lone island shrouded in local legend. This remote glacial basin, framed by sheer slabs and heather-covered bogs, draws walkers, climbers, and photographers seeking untouched wilderness.
Milford, donegal
The Colmcille Trail circles Lough Colmcille just north of Milford, blending gentle forest tracks with rocky lakeside paths. Walkers encounter early medieval ruins, standing stones, and abundant wildlife in a landscape steeped in saintly legend.
North County Donegal, donegal
Lough Craghy (Loch na Cráiche), locally known as Tully Lake, sits just east of Dungloe with a mirror-like surface framed by craggy outcrops and heath-covered hills. Anglers target the seasonal summer run of sea-trout, while walkers and photographers explore sheltered bays, small islands and abundant birdlife along the informal shoreline trail.
donegal
Set within a natural amphitheatre of ancient peaks, Lough Eske draws visitors with its glassy waters, rich O’Donnell history, and accessible lakeside trails. Anglers prize the clear waters for salmon and trout, while walkers and heritage seekers explore woodland paths, a restored 19th-century castle hotel, and the tranquil shores of this Donegal retreat.
Milford, donegal
Set just south of Milford, Lough Fern offers a quiet escape into Donegal’s rural heartland. The lake’s shallow waters and extensive reedbeds make it a vital wintering ground for pochards, while a historic crannog island hints at early medieval life.
Church Hill, donegal
Tucked into the foothills of the Derryveagh Mountains, Lough Gartan is a serene freshwater lake steeped in early Christian history. Traditionally the birthplace of St Columba in AD 521, the lough offers waymarked walks, tranquil angling and easy access to Glenveagh National Park.
donegal
Lough Nacung is a pair of adjoining freshwater lakes, Upper and Lower, in the Gweedore district of north-west Donegal, split by a narrow strip of bog and forest. A vehicle-free track runs the shore with Mount Errigal often mirrored in the water, and the lakes hold wild salmon, sea trout and brown trout. The whole area is the Fawnboy Bog/Lough Nacung Special Area of Conservation, home to the rare freshwater pearl mussel.
donegal
Lough Swilly, one of Ireland’s three true fjords, stretches between the Inishowen and Fanad peninsulas, its limestone outcrops – the Swilly Rocks – rising like sentinels from the deep blue water. From ancient stone-age middens to Napoleonic forts and a gold-laden shipwreck, the area blends rugged history with thriving wildlife, offering a compelling mix of coastal exploration and maritime heritage.
Glenveagh National Park, donegal
Tucked into a dramatic Donegal valley, Lough Veagh reflects towering granite cliffs and the historic Glenveagh Castle. Discover Ireland’s largest national park through marked trails, golden eagle sightings, and a landscape shaped by centuries of history.
Ardara, donegal
Stretching along the Slieve League Peninsula, Maghera Beach offers miles of soft sand backed by towering cliffs and dunes. At low tide, the famous Maghera Caves emerge from the rock face, inviting careful exploration. It’s a rugged, atmospheric coastal spot perfect for walkers, photographers, and families seeking unspoilt Donegal scenery.
Bunbeg, donegal
Magheraclogher Beach, also known as Bunbeg Beach, stretches along Donegal’s wild Atlantic coast beneath the looming silhouette of Mount Errigal. The rust-streaked hull of Bád Eddie, a 1970s fishing boat, anchors the shore as a photogenic reminder of the region’s maritime heritage. Low-tide reveals expansive dunes, rock pools and bird-rich flats, making it a perfect spot for walkers, photographers and families.
Magheraroarty, donegal
Magheroarty Pier serves as the mainland gateway to Tory Island and a lively base for exploring Donegal’s north coast. With a sweeping sandy beach, reliable Atlantic winds, and straightforward family facilities, it’s a practical and scenic stop for travellers.
Maghery, donegal
Maghery sits on a bay in the Rosses, west Donegal, where a short white-sand strand meets cliffs, sea arches and a scatter of islands in Dungloe Bay. Its built heritage runs to the Georgian Termon House of about 1770, a Napoleonic signal tower with an 'Éire' sign, and the Red House left from the old kelp trade, with sea-kayaking and climbing run from the pier and the community hub at the strand.
Malin Beg, donegal
A steep descent of roughly 170 steps leads to a sheltered bay of clear Atlantic water, cradled by a horseshoe of ancient rock. Just north of Glencolmcille, this Gaeltacht hideaway offers dramatic coastal views, tranquil swimming and a direct connection to the rugged Donegal landscape.
Inishowen Peninsula, donegal
At the tip of the Inishowen Peninsula, Malin Head marks the start of the Wild Atlantic Way with rugged cliffs, a raised beach and the iconic Lloyds Signal Tower. Walk coastal paths, search for semi-precious stones, watch for dolphins and explore the area’s rich maritime history.
Malin More, donegal
Six portal tombs form a rare concentration of Neolithic burial monuments along Donegal’s coastline. Their varied orientations suggest sophisticated celestial alignments overlooking Malin Bay, offering a quiet, atmospheric visit to Ireland’s ancient past.
Inishowen Peninsula, donegal
Mamore Gap slices through the Urris Hills, delivering steep hairpin bends, sweeping Atlantic vistas and a centuries-old pilgrimage well. History, local legend and raw coastal scenery converge at this iconic Inishowen landmark.
Marble Hill Beach, donegal
Marble Hill Beach offers a sweeping stretch of golden sand backed by vibrant dunes and headlands. With consistently clean waters, beginner-friendly surf conditions, and easy access to the Rosguill Peninsula, it’s a relaxed coastal escape on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Rosguill Peninsula, donegal
Perched on the Rosguill Peninsula, Melmore Head offers a pristine Blue-Flag beach, the tide-dependent Murder Hole sea cave, and sweeping views across Mulroy Bay. Home to frequent dolphin sightings and accessible coastal walks, it’s a versatile stop on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Milford, donegal
Milford sits on the shores of Mulroy Bay, offering a compact town centre and a direct launchpad for Donegal’s dramatic coastal routes. The 35 km Mulroy Drive winds past historic viewpoints and lighthouses, while the 16th-century ruins of Moross Castle anchor the area’s rich past.
Milford, donegal
Only the southwest corner of the 1532 Mac Sweeney tower remains today, perched on a tidal causeway and offering sweeping views across Mulroy Bay. This atmospheric ruin is a key stop on the Mulroy Drive coastal route, easily accessible by foot or bike.
Mountcharles, donegal
Set against the Bluestack Mountains and overlooking Donegal Bay, Mountcharles blends 17th-century market history with serene coastal walks. Visitors can explore the Wild Atlantic Way pier, wander through Salthill Gardens, and enjoy local crafts and café culture in this peaceful seaside village.
Derryveagh Mountains, donegal
Muckish rises 666 m above north-Donegal, its flat top a beacon from the surrounding villages. Walk the historic Miner’s Path or the gentle Gap route to discover ancient cairns, quarry relics and panoramic Atlantic vistas.
Kilcar, donegal
Muckross Head juts into Donegal Bay with two contrasting beaches, a striking WWII-era EIRE sign and remnants of a Neolithic stone wall. It’s a free, unspoiled coastal spot for climbing, wildlife watching and sweeping Atlantic views.
Muff, donegal
Muff marks the official start of the Wild Atlantic Way and draws visitors with its cheeky viral Diving Club, centuries-old August livestock fair, and Bronze Age standing stones. This compact Donegal border village also offers craft gin tastings, peaceful coastal walks, and views stretching across Lough Foyle.
Kerrykeel, donegal
Mulroy Bay is a 12 km Donegal sea loch winding past Milford, Kerrykeel and Cranford, with three narrows only 100-150 m across where currents reach 3-5 knots. Red Island, a Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point, is reached by a tidal causeway near Carrigart and nests summer seabirds; the 35 km Mulroy Drive links the bay to Fanad Head.
Rawros, donegal
A dramatic grey-stone mansion rises from a sheltered peninsula on Mulroy Bay, its crenellated tower and steep slate roofs echoing 19th-century estate grandeur. Set within 325 acres of mature planting and historic outbuildings, the private residence offers striking exterior views and peaceful coastal walks for visitors exploring north-west Donegal.
Dunfanaghy, donegal
Reachable only by a steep coastal path, Murder Hole Beach reveals a sweeping sandy bay, a dramatic low-tide sea cave and a fleeting sandbar to Rough Island. The exposed Atlantic waters draw experienced surfers, while walkers and photographers come for the raw, unspoilt Donegal coastline.
Portnoo, donegal
Portnoo Strand stretches two kilometres of pristine white sand beneath the shelter of Dunmore Head, with clear Atlantic waters and a backdrop of Inishkeel Island. Award-winning Blue Flag standards, wildlife-rich dunes and a historic 18-hole links course make it a standout stop on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Narin, donegal
Golden dunes roll inland behind Narin Strand, their pale crests framing the crystal-clear waters of Gweebarra Bay. The Blue Flag beach offers lifeguarded swimming in summer, a tide-linked walk to the 6th-century ruins on Inishkeel Island, and a sweep of bird-watching across the protected dune habitat.
Ned’s Point, donegal
Perched on a rocky headland at the mouth of Lough Swilly, Ned’s Point Fort is a well-preserved Napoleonic battery built in 1812–13. Walk the free public shoreline path to explore its weathered stone blockhouse, learn about its 19th-century artillery upgrades, and enjoy panoramic Atlantic views.
Churchill Road, donegal
Set beside the River Swilly, this restored industrial heritage site keeps a 7.63-metre steel waterwheel turning at three revolutions per minute. Step inside to see original corn-grinding stones and flax-scutching equipment in action, all while enjoying free entry and scenic riverside walks.
Greencastle, donegal
A striking example of Anglo-Norman military architecture, Northburgh Castle commands the entrance to Lough Foyle with its distinctive twin polygonal towers. Visitors can wander the ancient stone ruins, trace the footsteps of the Red Earl, and enjoy sweeping coastal views from one of Ireland’s most atmospheric heritage sites.
Fahan, donegal
Perched on a hill overlooking Lough Swilly, Othan Mor is the birthplace of Fahan and home to a rare 7th-century cross-slab bearing a Greek prayer. Wander among ruined walls, ancient graves and sweeping coastal scenery for a vivid taste of Ireland’s early ecclesiastical heritage.
donegal
Flowing through the wild heart of Glenveagh National Park, the Owencarrow River is a haven for walkers, history enthusiasts, and anglers. Explore its scenic lakeside trail, cross the sustainable footbridge, and learn the sobering history of the historic railway viaduct.
Ardara, donegal
The Owenea River winds through a lush valley beneath the Bluestack Mountains, offering an 11.7 km riverside walk that links Ardara to Glenties. Anglers, birdwatchers and hillwalkers follow its clear waters past stone bridges, woodland stretches and seasonal waterfalls.
Donegal, donegal
Straddling the border of Donegal and Fermanagh, Pettigo is a historic market town on the Termon River. Known as the gateway to the ancient St Patrick’s Purgatory on Lough Derg, it offers pristine nature reserves, rich angling lakes, and deep local history.
Dunlewey, donegal
Poisoned Glen cuts through the Derryveagh range with a striking mix of quiet valley walks and serious granite climbing. The route passes a historic white-marble church and opens to sweeping views of Mount Errigal, while the north-facing Bearnas Buttress draws climbers to Ireland’s longest continuous rock face.
Pollan Bay, donegal
Pollan Bay and the neighbouring Pollan Green stretch over five kilometres of golden sand on Donegal’s rugged north-west coast. With surf-ready waves, a Blue Flag dune walk, a 15th-century castle and family-friendly facilities, the site offers a vivid mix of adventure and heritage.
Tullyarvan, donegal
A quiet white-sand cove just outside Buncrana, Porthaw Beach provides a calm swimming spot for families and a scenic stop on the coastal trail. The nearby RNLI lifeboat station and Ned's Point Fort add maritime character to this well-maintained stretch of the Inishowen coast.
Portnablagh, donegal
Portnablagh offers a peaceful escape on Donegal's Wild Atlantic Way, combining a family-friendly beach with the rugged charm of a working fishing harbour. Visitors can explore the nearby Faugher House ruins, enjoy coastal walks, and take in sweeping views of the Atlantic and surrounding headlands.
Inishowen Peninsula, donegal
A crisp sea breeze carries the scent of heather across the Urris Hills as you approach Raghtin More's summit cairn. This moderate 8.5km loop from Glenevin Waterfall rewards walkers with sweeping views of Lough Swilly, Malin Head, and the distant Mourne and Sperrin ranges.
Mouth of the River Lennon, donegal
Ramelton sits at the mouth of the River Lennon, blending 10th-century Viking history with Georgian charm. Explore the town's famous three-arch bridge, browse the Saturday Country Market in the Town Hall, and enjoy traditional music sessions in pubs that have welcomed visitors for generations.
Raphoe, donegal
Eighty stones once formed Beltany’s ancient circle, a number reduced to sixty-four yet still echoing its 2000 BC origins. The nearby Diamond market square, framed by Georgian façades, showcases the town’s layered history from early monastic settlements to 17th-century plantation planning.
Fanad Peninsula, donegal
Remarkably, ninety-nine Gaelic nobles embarked from Rathmullan’s harbour on 14 September 1607, marking the historic Flight of the Earls that ended the Gaelic order. Today the village’s ruined 1516 Carmelite friary, a Martello tower-turned heritage centre, and the golden sands of Rathmullan Bay blend history with a vibrant coastal lifestyle.
donegal
First light catches the turquoise flow of the Drowes as it cuts from Lough Melvin to the Atlantic, revealing a cascade of more than 70 named pools. The river’s famous New Year’s Day opening draws hundreds of anglers for the season’s first salmon, while the sheltered estuary offers quiet walks and rich coastal wildlife.
Donegal Town, donegal
The River Eske winds just 5km from Lough Eske to Donegal Bay, threading past 15th-century Donegal Castle and a series of striking bridges. Renowned for its spring salmon fishing and peaceful promenade, it offers a perfect blend of angling heritage and accessible outdoor leisure.
Donegal, donegal
The Finn River winds through County Donegal’s fertile valley, offering prime Atlantic salmon fishing, dramatic stone bridges and a scenic heritage trail linking Ballybofey and Stranorlar. History, sport and countryside converge along its 60 km course to the River Foyle.
Letterkenny, donegal
Legendary tales of a multi-eyed water monster haunt the Swilly, while today its calm banks host bustling bridges and a revived milling heritage. The river’s gentle bends draw anglers to thriving salmon runs, and the historic Newmills Corn and Flax Mills still harness its flow, linking the town’s industrial past with modern recreation.
Donegal, donegal
A compact coastal loop in north Donegal where dramatic headlands meet golden surf beaches. The Rosguill Atlantic Drive winds through one of Ireland's most easterly Gaeltacht zones, offering a mix of driving, walking, and traditional Irish culture.
Rossapenna, donegal
Rossapenna Golf Resort on Donegal’s Rosguill Peninsula offers three championship links courses, including the world-ranked St Patrick’s Links. Set against dramatic sand dunes and the tidal island of Oileán Ruaidh, it combines sporting heritage with rugged coastal scenery.
Dungloe, donegal
Where the Atlantic meets a living Irish-speaking tradition, The Rosses offers dramatic low-tide bays, ancient monastic ruins and world-class traditional music festivals. Discover a landscape defined by headlands, lakes and the enduring spirit of west Donegal.
Rossnowlagh, donegal
Rossnowlagh boasts a 3.2 km stretch of golden sand, award-winning surf and sweeping Atlantic views. The modest Franciscan friary adds a quiet spiritual dimension, while the dunes and cliffs invite wildlife spotting and leisurely walks.
Rotten Island, donegal
Rotten Island Lighthouse has marked the entrance to Killybegs Harbour since 1838, a 14-metre ashlar granite tower painted white and still working as a harbour light. Designed by George Halpin for the Ballast Board, it cost around £8,850 and was first lit on 1 September 1838. The island is uninhabited and the tower closed to the public, so the best views are by boat or from the headlands.
donegal
Once a bustling 18th-century planned settlement with its own post office and school, Rutland Island is now a tranquil haven of dunes, lagoons, and holiday homes. Located just off Burtonport, it offers visitors scenic coastal walks, birdwatching, and a glimpse into Donegal's maritime history.
Carrick Lower, donegal
Salmon Leap on the R263 near Carrick Lower is one of the few Irish waterfalls where Atlantic salmon surge upstream during their late-summer spawning run. The roar of the cascade and flash of silver fish create a dramatic natural spectacle, set against the rugged backdrop of Donegal's Wild Atlantic Way.
Ballybofey, donegal
Seán MacCumhaill Park sits on the border of Ballybofey and Stranorlar, Donegal's Twin Towns, and is the county's main GAA ground with a capacity of 17,500. Its steep terraces put you close to the pitch, and it is named for Seán MacCumhaill, a republican and GAA secretary who died in 1949. The main pitch is currently closed for a redevelopment, so home games have moved to Convoy.
donegal
A striking north-south chain in the Derryveagh Mountains, the Seven Sisters links seven rugged peaks across heather-clad ridges and quartzite scree. From the historic Miners Path to the ruins of Altan Farm, this unsignposted mountain traverse rewards prepared walkers with sweeping Atlantic panoramas and deep Donegal heritage.
North coast of County Donegal, donegal
Sheltered by the Rosguill and Horn Head peninsulas, Sheephaven Bay is a wide, shallow inlet where calm waters meet rugged Donegal coastlines. Explore the 15th-century MacSweeney stronghold of Doe Castle, swim at Blue Flag beaches, or dive into clear Atlantic waters for an unforgettable coastal escape.
donegal
Slieve League rises 601 m above the Atlantic, offering dramatic sea-edge views and a historic pilgrimage landscape. Brave the exposed One Man's Pass for unrivalled vistas, then unwind at the visitor centre or on a boat cruise along the cliffs.
Carndonagh, donegal
In 1825 Thomas Drummond and his team erected a shelter on Slieve Snaght's summit, beaming the first limelight signal across Ireland's triangulation network. The snow-capped peak still crowns the Inishowen horizon, rewarding hikers with sea-spanning panoramas that stretch to Scotland on clear days.
Station Island, donegal
St Patrick's Purgatory occupies Station Island, a 50-metre patch of rock in Lough Derg four miles north of Pettigo, Co Donegal. Its three-day pilgrimage of fasting, barefoot prayer and an all-night vigil still draws more than 8,000 people a summer, and a sealed cave once held the legend that drew medieval Europe here.
Stranorlar, donegal
Stranorlar sits at the western edge of the Finn Valley, where 19th-century railway heritage meets vibrant community life. Walk through ancient ring forts and Civil War-era woodlands, follow the River Finn for salmon fishing, or join the annual literary festival celebrating East Donegal’s storytelling tradition.
Sturrall Headland, donegal
Known locally as An Stural, this formidable headland juts nearly a kilometre into the Atlantic with a narrow knife-edge ridge. It challenges experienced climbers with Ireland’s longest rock climb while rewarding visitors with raw coastal scenery and seabird colonies.
Teelin, donegal
Teelin sits at the foot of Ireland’s highest sea cliffs, where dramatic Atlantic views meet a lively Irish-speaking community. Visitors can explore rugged coastal trails, join impromptu céilí sessions, and watch for dolphins and basking sharks from the sheltered harbour.
Glencolmcille, donegal
Perched above Glencolmcille, Tobar Cholm Cille blends ancient cairn traditions with 6th-century monastic history. Pilgrims and walkers alike climb to the spring for its reputed healing waters, folk-art statue, and panoramic views across the Donegal coast. A key stop on the Turas Cholm Cille, it offers a quiet, reflective escape steeped in Irish spiritual heritage.
donegal
Tory Island rises 83 m above the Atlantic, crowned by Tor Mór’s sweeping vistas and the iconic black-and-white lighthouse. Steeped in myth, monastic ruins and Iron-Age forts, the island’s Gaelic community welcomes visitors to a living heritage.
Rosguill Peninsula, donegal
Framed by steep, heather-clad hills and looking out across the Atlantic to Tory Island, Tra na Rossan offers a wild, uncrowded coastal escape. Visitors should note recent access changes, but the area remains a favourite for walkers, anglers and photographers.
Inishowen Peninsula, donegal
Trawbreaga Bay is a sheltered sea lough where shallow sandbanks create a constantly shifting mosaic of turquoise and green waters. Designated a Special Protection Area, it draws birdwatchers for wintering geese and choughs, while nearby Carrickabraghy Castle and the R242 coastal road offer historic and scenic stops.
Inishowen Peninsula, donegal
First light paints the curved sands of Tullagh Bay in soft gold, while Binnion Hill looms over the calm inlet. The wide, gentle beach invites long walks and safe swims, and a modest climb up the hill rewards visitors with sweeping views of the Inishowen coastline and, on clear days, distant Scotland.
Bundoran, donegal
Crisp Atlantic breezes sweep over Tullan Strand, where turquoise water laps a two-kilometre ribbon of golden sand backed by rolling dunes. The reliable beach break draws surfers of every level, while the panoramic view of the Sligo-Leitrim Mountains offers walkers an ever-changing backdrop of colour and light.
Arranmore Island, donegal
First sight of Uilinn Fort reveals a stone-capped wall clinging to a sheer Atlantic cliff, the wind whipping salty spray over ancient ramparts. The dramatic panorama of glittering sea and distant mainland peaks makes the 800 BC promontory feel both isolated and timeless.
Urris, donegal
Framed by the Urris Hills and opening onto Lough Swilly, this secluded valley combines dramatic sea cliffs, quiet sandy beaches and a colourful past of poitín stills and 1798 rebellion. Walk the Mamore Gap, surf Tullagh Bay or stay in a restored thatched cottage for an authentic Donegal escape.
