Donegal Visitor Attractions : Visitor Attractions in Donegal

There are so many worthy visitor attractions in Donegal that it is difficult to reduce them to a managable half dozen. Best to contact the Tourist Office in Letterkenny at tel. 074 9121160 or call in to the tourist office in Dungloe, June to September. Below we offer some helpful suggestions for clients of Donegal Thatched Cottages.

Glenveagh National Park

This is the largest national park in Ireland and is situated in the Derryveagh Mountains about 25 miles from the cottages. The estate was presented to the Irish nation by Mr. Henry McIlhenny in 1983 and includes a Scottish style castle and one of the finest gardens in Ireland. The golden eagle was reintroduced to the estate a few years ago. Very good restaurant attached.

Dunlewy Lakeside Centre

Situated about 20 miles north of the cottages in the Poison Glen this community enterprise has grown up around the story of a local well known weaver. Ideal for families with children. Besides a very good craft shop there is also a restaurant, boat trips on Dunlewy lakes, an assortment of various animals and activities for children.

The Grianan Ailigh Visitor Centre

Housed in the beautifully refurbished old stone churc, this centre offers information on the history of the mysterious and unique stone fort dominating the landscape, the Grianan Ailigh itself. It dates back to around 170 BC and is said to have been built by Dagda, the king of the ancient Tuatha de Dannan. It is located on the Inishowen Peninsula, about sixty miles from the cottages.

Doagh Visitor Centre

Located on Doagh Island on the Inishowen Peninsula this outdoor museum tells the story of of life in the area going back to Famine times.

Mount Errigal

This is Donegal’s highest peak standing at 750 metres. However it is relatively easy to climb and can be accessed from the public road, close to Glenveagh National Park. Allow about two hours for the ascent and 1.5 hours for the return journey. Like Croagh Patrick in Co. Mayo Errigal is a perfect pyrmid and with its bright quartz cone dominates the skyline. Clearly visible from the cottages.

Slieve League

At over 300 metres the Slieve League cliffs are the highest marine cliffs in Europe, dropping straight down to the wild Atlantic below. There is a fine walk with spectacular scenery right along the cliffs, past the narrow “One Man’s Pass” to Malinbeg about 10 miles to the west.

Donegal Visitor Attractions : Visitor Attractions in Donegal