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Where do we start?! - Donegal county is a magical place with some of Ireland's most desolate and barren, yet romantic, scenery.
Donegal's biggest attraction is the exceptional landscape that includes Europe's highest sea-cliffs; the Glenveagh National Park that offers amazingly scenic drives, even in winter, and literally dozens of deserted white sandy beaches, 12 of them Blue Flag rated.
There are two permanently inhabited islands in Donegal - Tory and Arranmore – both worth a visit.
Letterkenny the major town in the area, to the North has enjoyed a massive boom in the Celtic Tiger years, helped no doubt by its proximity to Derry across the border. Its central position makes it an ideal place to start if you are looking for tours or events
Donegal Town is a good place to look for art and music events or exhibitions. It's fantastic place with many shops, restaurants and bars. It has its own Castle, a 15th century fortress on the river Eske. Local buskers have been known to bring merriment to the streets. And a real highlight to visit is Magees, the place to have a hand tailored suit made from Donegal tweed, if you are into tweed of course! But if you can't run to that expense, then maybe just a hat!
Bundoran has become something of a mecca for surfing and other activities.
On the edge of Lough Veagh, the Glenveagh National Park is Ireland's largest National Park. It's a magnificent 16,000 acre estate of lakes, gardens, glens and mountains and is undoubtedly the county’s top tourist attraction. The park has red deer and is home to the country's only wild Golden Eagles, having being re-introduced to Ireland in 2007 after an absence of more than 100 years. The park and visitor centre are open all year round. Discover the castle, which is easily reachable by a bus service (€10 for a family of 4) from the visitor centre, or a 40 minute walk if you are up to it and the weather is fine! You can look around the house on a guided tour for €10 for a family of 4. There are lovely gardens to look around. - 11 hectares actually, which are all laid out in a network of different themes. There's a lovely tea room offering home baking straight from the castle kitchens.
Mount Errigal, Donegal's highest mountain and one of its most memorable sights, is part of the national park.
Sea cliffs at the famous Slieve League are amazingly high at 600m, with views across Sligo and Mayo on a clear day.
Another dramatic sight includes Hell's Hole in the cliff face of Malin Head, Ireland’s most northerly headland.
The islands of Tory, Arranmore, Gola, and Inish Free are all accessible and are well worth a visit. (See Links Page for further details)
An ancient ring fort called the Grianán of Aileach is one of the country’s most impressive dating back to early Christian times – almost 4,000 years old – and offers spectacular views over Lough Foyle and Lough Swilly.
Killybegs is a large fishing port on the south coast of the county. Amazing views of Mayo on a clear day. Fish lovers should attend the annual Seafood Festival on the bank holiday weekend at the beginning of May and if you are an angler, then you can charter a deep-sea fishing trip.
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