PLAN
PLAN
Donegal (and by the Northwest region) offers the walking (or cycling) enthusiast the opportunity to discover one of the few remaining unspoiled landscapes in Europe.
Whether by following way-marked (signposted) routes or simply your instinct, the visitor can explore a region that is truly breathtaking in its beauty and splendour.
Bealach na Gaeltachta is a series of four primary circular walks traversing the Donegal Gaeltacht; a land steeped in the rich heritage of the Celt and the Gael, where the Irish language is still an everyday language spoken by it’s people. It is a place of outstanding natural beauty, of purple heather covered mountains, lake filled valleys and a coastline blessed with countless beautiful sandy beaches. Starting points for way-marked routes include Dungloe for Slí na Rosann / Slí Árainn Mhór (80kms), Gweedore for Slí an Earagail (64kms), Ardara for Slí Cholmcille (70kms) and Fintown for Slí na Finne (48kms). Connections include Slí Ulaidh & Glenveigh National Park via Gweedore and Falcarragh.
Starting in either Pettigo (142kms) or Donegal Town (117kms) this challenging route traverses an area with a series of peaks in excess of 600m along remote bogland tracks. However, most of the route is below 300m and offers alternative routes in the event of inclement weather. It affords the walker the chance to view the fascinating geology and varied flora and fauna associated with this mountainous area. Connections include Slí na Gaeltachta via Ardara or Glenties and Slí Ulaidh.
Europe’s highest sea-cliffs are to found at Sliabh Liag and offer a stunning view of the surrounding coastline and the awe inspiring sight of the waves from the mighty Atlantic Ocean as they crash onto the shore some 1972 ft below. There is a pick-up and drop-off service offered by a local charter boat for those who wish to view the cliffs from offshore prior to walking Sliabh League.
County Donegal is rich in archaeological monuments, from megalithic tombs to early Christian sites, ship wrecks to World War 2 plane crash sites. Many of these monuments and sites are in good condition and accessible, some are open to the public others require more local archaeological knowledge.
The Donegal section of the Ulster Way which is way-marked for a part of the way (111km) leads northwards from Lough Derg near Pettigo through the Bluestack and Derryveagh Mountains onto Falcarragh. This walk features the most demanding stretch of the route but the walker will be rewarded with some of the most spectacular scenery to be found anywhere in Ireland. This is only for the serious and experienced hill walkers. Connections include the Poison Glen Horseshoe from Dunlewey and Glenveagh National Park.
Glenveagh National Park lies in the heart of the Derryveagh Mountains in the northwest of County Donegal. It is a remote and hauntingly beautiful wilderness of rugged mountains and pristine lakes. There are 5 signposted walks/trails within the Park ranging in length from 3km to 22km long to suit both the casual and experienced walker. The only restriction on hill walkers is that they should not stray from the access roads during the deer-culling season (Sept-Feb).
There are a number of guided trails in the Forest Park, on each on them you will find a series of lettered/numbered stops. Each of the trails will return you to your starting point in the car park and they are signposted throughout so that there is no risk of losing your way.
Safety Notice Seek advice and guidance locally, tell someone where you are going and when to expect your return. Check the weather forecast and wear suitable clothing and footwear.
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County Donegal offers endless attractions, secret beaches and waterfalls, wonderful food and hospitality, and many more hidden gems for you to explore and discover on your trip.
