In the northwest of Ireland, at the very edge of Europe, lies the Donegal Gaeltacht, a wild and storied land where Irish traditions and the Gaeilge language still thrive. As a local, I’ll take you beyond the guidebooks, sharing the hidden corners of the Wild Atlantic Way where I grew up. You’ll hear personal stories, legendary myths, and a few tall tales along the way. Explore Glenveagh Castle and its dramatic past, stand in awe at the mystical Poisoned Glen, and reflect inside the haunting ruins of Dunlewey Church. Sip Irish whiskey at Crolly Distillery and journey through Donegal’s rugged highlands, where generations have cut turf from the vast Atlantic bog. Gaze out over the sea to the Gaeltacht islands, including Tory Island, where my ancestors came from, and hear the stories that have been passed down through generations. This is my home, let me show it to you as only a local can.
Pick up is available from accommodation in and around Buncrana, Letterkenny and Donegal Town. If pickup is required from a different location, please get in touch for a customised quote.
Glenveagh, in the heart of the Derryveagh Mountains, is the second largest national park in Ireland and home to the largest herd of red deer in the country. Glenveagh Castle, a 19th century mansion, sits on the edge of Lough Veagh. A self-guided castle tour is highly recommended on your Donegal tour (additional cost, not included).
Errigal in the Derryveagh Mountains is the tallest peak in County Donegal. Its quartzite stone often glows pink in the setting sun. The small Gaeltacht village of Dunlewey sits at the foot of Errigal Mountain. Take in the view of Donegal's highest peak and its six sisters.
According to legend, the huge ice-carved hollow of the Poisoned Glen got its name when the ancient, one-eyed giant king of Tory, Balor, was killed here by his exiled grandson, Lughaidh, whereupon the poison from his eye split the rock and poisoned the glen.
Donegal's answer to the Taj Mahal, Old Dunlewey Church is a ruined 19th-century Church of Ireland building set dramatically in the Poisoned Glen (Gleann Nimhe), near Errigal mountain.
The Crolly Distillery is a small, award-winning craft distillery located in the heart of the Donegal Gaeltacht, bringing distilling back to the village for the first time in over 180 years. Whiskey tasting is optional. (additional cost, not included)
Bloody Foreland or “Cnoc Fola” (The Hill of Blood) derives its name from the evening sun which illuminates the rocks along this section of the coast to a rich red hue and ties in with the legend of Balor of the evil eye.
View the Gaeltacht islands of Inishboffin, Inishdooey and Tory Island from Magheroarty Pier
Dunfanaghy is a scenic little village and former fishing port with a population of around 300. The main street is typical of Irish communities with colourful terraced houses and local businesses
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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