Donegal

Donegal is renowned all over the world for its spectacular scenery, endless unspoilt Atlantic coastline, long stretches of sandy beaches, sheltered inlets and as the songs goes, the ‘hills of Donegal’. Two mountain ranges form the ‘hills of Donegal’. The Bluestack Mountains run towards the south and the Derryveagh Mountains run to the north. The stunning Slieve League Cliffs which are the highest sea cliffs in Europe are also worth a visit when touring the region as it Malin Head, which is the most northerly point on the island of Ireland. 

Located in the northwest of Ireland, beautiful and wild Donegal is an ideal place to recharge. Away from the hustle and bustle of the cities is is one of Ireland’s best-loved holiday destinations. There are numerous mountains to climb, extensive stretches of coastline to explore, lots of quaint towns & villages to stop into for a break amongst the generally beautiful countryside. Donegal county borders counties Leitrim, Derry, Tyrone and Fermanagh which is in Northern Ireland.

Many visitors to Donegal will commence their tour in Bundoran in the south of the county. Bundoran is a  lively seaside town with lots to offer including fine restaurants, golden sandy beach which is popular for surfing and nightly entertainment in some of the many pubs in the town. For more adventurous travellers there are many outdoor pursuits to enjoy including a wide range of watersports like windsurfing, surfing, kite surfing along with with great golf courses, fishing and hiking opportunities.

From Bundoran you can head north to experience Donegal Town, which is steeped in history and has excellent pubs, restaurants and shopping.

Leaving Donegal town, you can drive west through Dunkineely and out towards the village of Killybegs. Killybegs is the main fishing port of the region and is popular with anyone into watersports or hill walking.

Any time spent in this area of Donegal would be incomplete if you don't visit the awesome Slieve League Cliffs which are, at 600 metres tall, the highest sea cliffs in Europe. 

Travelling northwards you’ll find yourself in the centre of the Donegal Gaeltacht. By spending a few days here you’ll find you're speaking a few words of Irish (Gaelic) before you know it. To the northwest you'll find the town of Dungloe, which is popular for visitors throughout the year but particularly over the August bank holiday weekend when the Mary of Dungloe Festival features prominently on the Donegal festival calendar.

Gweedore on the coast of Donegal has some of the most spectacular in the whole country. It's fine sandy beaches and wild mountain ranges make it a wonderful places to explore.

Near Glenties is Glenveagh National Park which is made up of over 13,000 hectares of mountains, pristine forests, crystal clean lakes and blanket bog lands is one of the main attractions inthis area and worth a visit.

This area also has many excellent links golf courses such as Dunfanaghy Golf Course and it is worth stopping for a walk on the gorgeous Killyhoey Beach if you have time.

Moving onto Donegal’s main shopping town at Letterkenny, you'll find vibrant nightlife, cosy pubs and lovely restaurants. From Letterkenny drive northeastwards to the Inishowen Peninsula and the the seaside town of Buncrana.  Popular activities here include golfing, windsurfing, sailing, equestrian and fishing on the shores of Lough Swilly and on the River Crana.

To the very north of the Inishowen Peninsula is Malin Head, familiar to those following the fishing forecasts. It is Ireland’s most northerly point and has wonderful scenery, long stretches of fine sandy beaches along with great angling and watersports.

 Here is a small sample of what is available for you but don't take our word for it, come and see it all for yourself!