Dunfanaghy

Dunfanaghy is a very scenic resort with Killyhoey Beach fringing the Atlantic. The beach . An ideal base for touring Horn Head and the northern peninsulas. 

Dunfanaghy is a very scenic village, located in a deep inlet off wonderful Sheephaven Bay in the heart of North West Donegal. Here in this haven of tranquility Dunfanaghy waits for those perfect days when its compliment of surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing dudes can take to the water to thrill themselves and their spectators alike. They’re not looking for sun but wind, and lots of it, and the Gods of the great Atlantic usually oblige.

Just one mile to the east is Portnablahy with its horseshoe shaped strand. It is a tiny taste of heaven for families, and a superb base for exploring this section of the North West Coast.  Its tiny harbour, appended to one end of the beach, is a rather informal affair with a fair sprinkling of recreational boats in among the traditional work boats.

Dunfanaghy itself is a picturesque fishing village with a generous sprinkling of cafe’s, galleries, and gift shops. Relax in Olivia’s Boutique and Coffee Shop, which was so attractively painted and presented. And just a short stroll from the centre of Dunganaghy village is beautiful Killahoey Beach, a three mile stretch of gorgeous golden sand. Killahoey is a delightful beach with superb views and excellent bathing and features on many of the 18 holes at the scenic Dunfanaghy Golf Club.

Just across the bay, and forming the northmost point of the headland, lies Horn Head with its impressive cliff scenery and its thriving seabird population. Horn Head is a very exposed peak which has been battered by the Atlantic winds and waves since the beginning of time, and all of that fearsome violence can be seen in its weather beaten topography. Although the roadway out to the head is somewhat basic, it is well worth the drive, and should not be missed.

Dunfanaghy’s is the ideal location for a wonderful family holiday. Whether you are into surfing, sailing, horseriding, golf, history, ornithology, or simply having a great time on the beach, Dunfanaghy has it all in spades. And it is said to be the only place in Ireland where the corncrake can be heard in its natural habitat, Dunfanaghy is also a major centre for brown trout anglers and special interest holidays.

How to get to Dunfanaghy

By bus or car. Gallagher Travel provides 4 services daily from Letterkenny to Dunfanaghy. Alternatively follow the N56 north from Letterkenny to Dunfanaghy.

Where to stay in Dunfanaghy

Dunfanaghy has plenty of good accommodation options including hotels, hostels, self-catering holiday homes, guesthouses and B&B's.

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Dunfanaghy is surrounded by beautiful coastal towns. Don't miss Downings and Fanad if you are travelling east, and Falcaragh and Tory Island if you are travelling west.

Things to do in Dunfanaghy

1. You can’t come to this part of the country without visiting beautiful Doe Castle. The interior of this early 16th-century castle isn’t open to the public, but locals open the gates each day, allowing you to wander through the grounds. The castle was the stronghold of the Scottish MacSweeney family until it fell into English hands in the 17th century. It is picturesquely sited on a low promontory with water on three sides and a moat hewn out of the rock on the landward side. The best view is from the Carrigart–Creeslough road. It’s signposted 16km from Dunfanaghy on the Carrigart road.
2. Spend an afternoon with Dunfanaghy’s “Narosa Life”, who offer surf lessons, yoga and fitness classes, as well as guided walks of Muckish Mountain and Horn Head.
3. Take a tour of Dunfanaghy Workhouse, a famine centre in the town recalling the terrible 19th century famine which ravaged Ireland.
4. Seek out "McSwiney's Gun", a natural blow hole which gives a loud blast at certain conditions of wind and tide.
5. Spend a day with Dunfanaghy Stables and explore the expansive beaches and surrounding countryside on horseback. The ultimate horsey experience in the perfect surroundings.