Best Travel Guide Donegal & The North West

Donegal & The North WestGuide was updated: 2024-09-14

Breathe in the ocean air as you embark on a journey along emerald scenery and rugged limestone cliffs. Donegal's windswept coastal landscape is a treasure trove for all those interested in history. The region is known for producing the finest of traditional tweed garments, as well as a few mythic tales. Wash it all down with a creamy Guinness and experience and sublime marine cuisine.

Do & See

There's a lot to see and do in Donegal, from places of stunning natural beauty to adventure parks for the whole family to sites housing years of history.

Glenveagh National Park & Castle

Ireland's second-largest national park offers several walking and cycling trails for you to admire its scenic views and abundant wildlife, which also includes a remarkable red deer habitat. Stop for a tea and travel back in time at the 19th-century Victorian castle, also enjoyed by Greta Garbo during her visit to Donegal.

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Donegal Castle

The Donegal castle was built by the mighty O'Donnell dynasty in the 15th century. After the Flight of the Earls in 1607, which saw the O'Donnells leave the country, the castle was granted to the English Brooks family, whose ownership also left remarkable marks on one of the most prominent landmarks of Irish history.

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Dunlewey Centre

Weaver Manus Ferry's farmhouse in Dunlewey welcomes families with interesting stories and vast entertainment in a scenic rural setting, with stunning views of Lough Dunlewy (boat trips available) and Donegal's highest mountain, Errigal. Learn about the story of the haunted witch.

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Killybegs Maritime and Heritage Centre

The Killybegs Maritime & Heritage Centre was established to give visitors an introduction to the main industries in the region. Admire some hand-knotted carpets, many of which also appear at places as venerable as Buckingham Palace, learn about the know-how of the weaving industry, and try your skills at the world's largest loom!

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Donegal County Museum

A rich collection of artifacts, galleries, and exhibitions showcasing the county's history, located in the former Warden's House dating back to the era of the Great Famine. Admission is free.

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Benbulbin (Dartry Mountains)

Benbulbin is a large flat-topped rock formation in the Dartry Mountains (Sligo, Ireland). This magical scenery has long sparked the imagination - the site of many mythical tales. The area later inspired the evocative poetry of renowned Irish writer W.B. Yeats and is thus known as "Yeats Country". The mountain is certainly unique, home to Arctic-Alpine plants, and many species of flora not found elsewhere in Ireland. Fossils are also regularly found. Climbers should approach the mountain from the gentler and safer South Side (avoid the North Side and its dangerous Atlantic winds!) and are recommended to follow the Gortarowey Forst Loop to take in views of Donegal Bays.

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