Donegal, where the accent is strong, the weather is harsh, and the welcome is warm. It is one of our favourite places for an adventure in Ireland. It’s got the highest sea cliffs in Europe, the majestic Sliabh Liag, the chance of spotting golden eagles at Glenveagh National Park and Castle as well as some powerful surf. On top of all that, it’s got locally sourced fresh produce to stuff your face with, the magical Gaeltacht area, and a smattering of stunning islands to explore. Plus, it is only 90 minutes from Belfast and three hours from Dublin and Galway by car. Packed into this guide you will find things to do in Donegal when it rains, when it’s dry, for the individual and for families. Plus some of our favourite Donegal destinations and of course tons of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Things to Do in Donegal
Hiking Routes in Donegal
Inishowen Peninsula Loop This is a firm favourite of ours. An 8km coastal loop along bog roads, laneways, rough tracks and minor roads. The peninsula remains a relatively undiscovered part of Ireland and its wild and rugged beauty is sure to leave you wanting more.
The Bluestack Way If you are in search of a long-distance walk, check out the Bluestack Way, a 65km route through a true wilderness area of Donegal that traverses the Bluestack Mountains. It takes in some idyllic scenic spots like Lough Eske, the ancient mountain graveyard at Disert and the Owenroe river to reach a bog road.
Sli An Earagail – Sli Dhun Na Ngall Another option is Sli An Earagail – Sli Dhun Na Ngall, an 84km looped route that takes in some of the nicest trails and coastlines in western Donegal. As the name suggests Errigal is the centrepiece of this trail. Standing at 751 meters (2,464 feet), Mount Errigal showcases its beauty as you embark on this trail. With its distinctive quartzite peaks and rolling hills, this landscape offers a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Mountains To Climb in Donegal
If it’s climbs and mountains you want, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in Donegal, including Muckish Mountain in the Derryveagh Mountains and the ever-popular 751m Errigal. Of course, you couldn’t come all the way to Donegal without exploring the dizzying heights of the Sliabh League cliffs. The summit is 595m but near the suitably named One Man’s Pass they fall almost 500m straight into the ocean. For the best views, check out the Cliffs of Bunglas. For more walks check out our full list of hikes in Donegal.
Watersports in Donegal
Surfing In Donegal
Donegal boasts a total of thirteen Blue Flag beaches and some of them have some sweet surf spots. Bundoran, Rossnowlagh, and Portsalon Beach are just the start of an abundance of hotspots. There is plenty of surf schools jumping up and down awaiting your business.
Bundoran, Surfworld Bundoran and Bundoran Surf Co.
Dunfanaghy, Narosa.
Rossnowlagh, Rossnowlagh Surf School and Finn McCool Surf School.
Ballyheirnan Bay in Fanad, there is Adventure One. Most of the surf schools also offer SUP lessons and hire if you are looking for something a bit more relaxing.
Coasteering and Gorge Walking
Coasteering and gorge walking are popular adventure sports in Ireland, involving climbing, swimming, and diving. Donegal boasts impressive caves and coastal cliffs, while gorge walking offers a more intense challenge in mountain gorges and rivers. Gartan offers exhilarating experiences for those seeking a thrilling adventure.
Scuba Diving
Mevagh Dive Centre provides Scuba Diving Training and takes you to dive in some of Ireland’s clearest waters, where you can enjoy wreck, scenic or drift sea dives.
Sailing
Donegal’s stunning coastline and lakes are home to many sailing schools and clubs. Rathmullan Sailing and Watersports School, accredited by the Irish Sailing Association, is situated on Lough Swilly, perfect for beginners and advanced sailors alike. Selkie Sailing in Gweedore offers three-hour taster lessons for €35.
Kayaking in Donegal
For the kayaking enthusiast, there is plenty to keep you entertained in Donegal. One such challenge is the East Inishowen Sea Kayak Trail, boasting stunning scenery, diverse wildlife and historical sites along the way. Take the plunge and push yourself to kayak this route. Take a look at our full account of The East Inishowen Sea Kayak Trail.
Rapid Kayaking offers a two-hour scenic trip for €25 per adult. They use user-friendly sit-on-top kayaks, cover basic paddling skills and run trips all over Donegal, including to Boatstrand Carrickfin, Kincasslagh Harbour, Cruit Island and Dungloe Lake.
Donegal Sea Kayaking on the Fanad peninsula.
Kitty’s Kayaks provide rentals which let you go and explore by yourself.
Inish Adventures. Crossing between Donegal and Derry, this idyllic canoeing experience along the River Foyle is incredible.
Places to Visit in Donegal
There is a fair whack of islands off the coast of Donegal. Most are uninhabited and most make for great rock climbing, bird watching or just for generally wandering in. Cruit Island, Gola Island and Owey Island are some of our favourites.
Tory Island
Situated 14.5km from the mainland, Tory is one of Ireland’s most remote islands. Steeped in history, mythology and folklore, Tory is home to an Irish-speaking community of just 130 people who funnily enough are led by a king; a fellow islander elected by the people. Tory must be visited if you want to really see the rugged beauty that holds such an attraction for its inhabitants that they endure the full fury of the North Atlantic winter for the pleasure of living here in summer. The island is home to incredible swimming spots, walks and diving too. The sunsets on Tory Island are also mind-blowing.
Arranmore Island
Arranmore is one of Ireland’s largest inhabited islands and has plenty to offer the enthusiastic explorer. Its clear waters circling it are ideal for diving, sea angling, sailing, and kayaking. As for on land, it has several coastal and inland walks. Or bring/hire a bike and go explore its hidden gems on two wheels.
Inishowen
Donegal’s Inishowen Peninsula has long been fondly referred to as Ireland in miniature. It is simply stunning. Depending on when you go, you may just have to enjoy the views sitting down, as this is the windiest place on our little rock. Up on the headland is Banba’s Crown, a tower built by the British at the turn of the 19th century in case Napoleon ever decided to visit. Below on the cliff edge, you will find the EIRE sign made up in nicely painted white stones as a reminder of our neutrality during the World Wars for whoever was flying over. So historically, geologically and aesthetically, this remote spot has a lot going for it. Have a read of all our favourite things to do in this wonderful part of the county.
Malin Head
Malin Head is the northernmost point on the Irish mainland and marks one end of the Wild Atlantic Way. It is best known for being the beginning/end point of the length of Ireland cycle. While there, why not go rock climbing and abseiling or visit Glenevin Waterfall. Enjoy a pint at Farren’s Bar, the most northerly pub in the country or a coffee at Caffe Banba. If you’re here at the right time then you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
Fanad Head Lighthouse
Tucked away within the Donegal Gaeltacht area, is Fanad Head Lighthouse, voted one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world. The area boasts all the rugged beauty typical of Donegal. Plus whales, porpoises and dolphins regularly visit the area so keep your eyes peeled. Just down the road is the 150 feet tall Great Arch on Lough Swilly, another stunning viewing spot that is not to be missed.
Where to stay in Donegal
Sleepy Hollows Camping and Glamping
When we go to Donegal, our go-to place to stay is Sleepy Hollows. The campsite is peaceful and ideally located for a weekend full of exciting activities. Despite being in a rural area, it’s just a 3-minute walk to local pubs like Teach Tessie and Leo’s Tavern, both of which are worth checking out. Carrickfinn Beach, Errigal Mountain, and Glenveagh Castle & National Park are all within easy driving distance. They’ve created a great community atmosphere with the communal spaces on the campsite. Every evening, Ian lights a campfire to help everyone relax before bed. Sleepy Hollows campsite is spacious, comfortable and near the amenities. They also offer 3 glamping options; the sleepy cabin, the sleepy hut and the sleepy bell tent. These provide added privacy and make for a memorable stay.
Amazing shipping container house + sea views+ WIFI
This modernist retreat for two has been voted No.1 in the “Top 50 Best Places To Stay In Ireland 2021” by the Irish Independent. It’s a perfect year-round destination with access to some of the most stunning beaches. Well-behaved dogs are welcome, but a fee applies.
The retreat is delicately cantilevered over a pond, creating a gentle bouncing effect above the water. With its large windows, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Deer are often seen in the vicinity, and there have even been sightings of otters.
Wild West Irish Cabin
The area of Donegal where this cabin is located is incredibly beautiful, with wild and wonderful scenery. It’s a great spot for those with a car or bike, but even those on foot can easily reach the nearby bus stop in Crolly.
You’ll find two lovely local pubs, Teach Tessie and Leo’s Tavern, just a short 100m walk away. Keep in mind that Teach Tessie only accepts cash payments. Leo’s Tavern is particularly interesting as it’s the birthplace of Clannad and Enya.
If you have a car, you can reach the Blue Flag Beach Carrickfinn in just 10 minutes, while Errigal Mountain is only 15 minutes away. For a longer day trip, consider visiting Glenveagh Castle & National Park, which is about 25 minutes away.
The Blue House – Romantic Mountain Cabin
Teach la Fhada
Discover Teach Loch Fhada, a charming and traditional cottage that has been recently updated to include luxurious amenities such as a private hot tub. Located in the heart of the Gaeltacht on the picturesque Loch Fhada lake, Annagry, this cottage offers breathtaking views of the lake and Errigal Mountain. Conveniently situated just 10 minutes away from Gweedore, Dungloe, and Carrickfinn Blue Flag Beach, it serves as a central location for exploring the surrounding areas. It sleeps 2 and has a minimum stay off 2 nights.
Where To Eat & Drink
Foam Coffee
Batch
Crolly Distillery
Time and Tide
Rusty Oven
Gap Coffee Co
Like this? Read more like it…
