Donegal is a well-known county in Ireland for its stunning scenery and friendly people. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break or an action-packed adventure, the county has something to offer everyone. There are plenty of things to see and do in Donegal and you can never get bored. Some of the best things to do in Donegal include hiking through the glens, visiting the many castles, and taking a trip to one of the island beaches. There is also plenty of fishing, golfing, and horse riding to be enjoyed in the county. Here are the best things to do in Donegal, Ireland.
1. Visit Glenveagh National Park
Glenveagh National Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Donegal. The park is home to a large lake, waterfalls, and mountains. In the park, you can also find a castle that is open to the public. There are plenty of walking and hiking trails in Glenveagh National Park so you can explore the stunning scenery. If you’re lucky you might even spot some wildlife such as red deer and golden eagles. These are just some of the reasons why Glenveagh National Park is one of the best things to see in Donegal.
2. Go hiking in the Mourne Mountains
The Mourne Mountains are a stunning area of natural beauty and a popular place for hiking. The highest peak in the range is Slieve Donard which is 849 meters tall. There are many different hiking trails to explore in the Mourne Mountains so you can find one that suits your fitness level. Hiking in the Mourne Mountains is one of the best things to do in Donegal if you love being outdoors.
3. Take a scenic drive along the Causeway Coast
If you’re looking for things to do in Donegal that are more relaxing, then take a drive along the Causeway Coast. This coastline is one of the most beautiful in Ireland and it’s easy to see why. There are many different places to stop along the way so you can admire the views. Some of the places you can stop include the Giants Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and the Dark Hedges. The Causeway Coast is one of the best things to see in Donegal if you’re looking for a scenic drive. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even walk the coastal path from start to finish.
4. Explore the Giants Causeway
Exploring the Giants Causeway is one of the best things to do in Donegal if you’re interested in geology. The Giants Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s easy to see why. The site is made up of over 40,000 hexagonal columns of basalt rock. It’s thought that the causeway was formed by a volcanic eruption over 60 million years ago. The Giants Causeway is a must-see if you’re visiting Donegal.
5. Visit Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Donegal. The bridge spans 20 meters and it’s 30 meters above the sea. The views from the bridge are stunning and you can see for miles. If you’re feeling brave, you can walk across the bridge. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is one of the best things to do in Donegal if you’re looking for some adventure.
6. See the Dark Hedges
Another one of the best things to see in Donegal is the Dark Hedges. The Dark Hedges is a scenic avenue of trees that were planted in the 18th century. The avenue is two kilometers long and it’s a popular place for walking and cycling. The Dark Hedges is one of the most photographed places in Ireland and they’re definitely worth a visit if you’re in Donegal.
7. Visit Belfast Zoo
If you find yourself in Northern Ireland, a stop at Belfast Zoo is a must. The zoo is home to over 140 species of animals, including lions, red pandas, and gorillas. There are also plenty of opportunities to learn about the natural world, with educational talks and feedings taking place throughout the day. The zoo is located just a short drive from the city center, making it easy to add to your itinerary. You can purchase tickets in advance or at the gate.
8. Take a day trip to the Aran Islands
The Aran Islands are a group of three islands located off the west coast of Ireland. The islands are known for their rugged beauty, traditional Irish culture, and friendly locals. Visitors can take part in activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding. There is also a rich history to explore, with ancient castles and forts dotting the landscape. A visit to the Aran Islands is the perfect way to get off the beaten path and experience a different side of Ireland.
9. Visit Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors from all over the world to see their spectacular views. The cliffs rise to a height of 214 meters (702 feet) at their highest point and stretch for 8 kilometers (5 miles) along the Atlantic Coast. You can enjoy the views from the cliff-top walkway, or take a boat tour out to see them from the water.
10. Go kayaking in Killarney National Park
If you love being outdoors, kayaking in Killarney National Park is one of the best things to do in Ireland. The park is located in southwest Ireland and it’s home to pristine lakes, mountains, and forests. You can explore the park on foot, by bike, or by boat. There are many different kayaking trails to choose from, so you can find one that’s right for your skill level. Kayaking is a great way to see the beauty of Killarney National Park and it’s an activity that the whole family can enjoy.
11. Stand at the edge of Europe at Slieve League
Slieve League is one of the best places to visit in Donegal if you’re looking for some adventure. The cliffs are located on the west coast of Ireland and they rise to a height of 601 meters (1,972 feet). Slieve League is one of the tallest sea cliffs in Europe and it’s a popular spot for hiking and climbing. If you’re feeling brave, you can even walk out to the edge of the cliff. Just be sure to take caution as the winds can be very strong.
12. Take a scenic ferry ride to Inishmore
Inishmore is the largest of the Aran Islands and it’s a great place to visit if you’re looking to get off the beaten path. The island is home to ancient ruins, traditional Irish villages, and stunning coastal views. You can reach Inishmore by ferry from Rossaveel or Doolin. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Once you’re on the island, there are plenty of things to keep you busy, including hiking, cycling, and exploring the village of Kilronan. The ferry ride is an experience in itself and it’s one of the best things to do in Ireland.
13. Tread along the Carrick-a-Rede Cliff Walk
Carrick-a-Rede is a small island located off the coast of Northern Ireland. The island is connected to the mainland by a suspension bridge, which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, you can walk along the cliff-top path that leads to the island. The walk takes about 30 minutes and it’s not for the faint of heart. But, the views are well worth it. From the top of the cliffs, you can see for miles in every direction. Some of the things you might see include the Scottish Isles, Giant’s Causeway, and Rathlin Island.
14. Discover the pre-historic site of Newgrange
The prehistoric site of Newgrange is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland. With its ancient tomb and mysterious carvings, it’s no wonder why. Newgrange is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s located in the Boyne Valley, just a short drive from Dublin. If you’re interested in Irish history, this is definitely a place you won’t want to miss. You can learn more about Newgrange by taking a guided tour or by visiting the on-site visitor center. There are also many other historical sites in the Boyne Valley, so you can make a day of it.
15. Visit the Hill of Tara, an ancient royal site
Are you a history buff? If so, you’ll want to add the Hill of Tara to your list of things to do in Ireland. This ancient royal site was once the seat of the High King of Ireland and it’s located just outside of Dublin. Today, you can explore the hill and see the remains of the ancient buildings. You can also walk along the ancient roads that once led to the hill. The hill of Tara is a must-see for any history lover.
There are many wonderful things to see and do in Ireland. Whether you’re looking for adventure or history, there’s something for everyone. From hiking and kayaking to visiting ancient sites, you’re sure to find something that interests you. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Ireland today!