County Donegal

Donegal, Ireland's fourth-largest county, spreads into the remote northwest corners of the island. It stretches from the border with Northern Ireland, across deep green valleys and over rounded mountains, to a rugged coastline of rocky peninsulas, hidden coves, pristine beaches and dramatic cliffs. There is a breathtaking drive to the top of Bunglas Cliffs, the highest sea cliffs in Europe. The colorful fishing port of Killybegs and the wool town of Ardara give a fine glimpse of Donegal life, while Glencolumbkille, at the end of a beautiful valley, has restored traditional village houses from 1750 to 1900. Not to be missed are the ...

Donegal, Ireland's fourth-largest county, spreads into the remote northwest corners of the island. It stretches from the border with Northern Ireland, across deep green valleys and over rounded mountains, to a rugged coastline of rocky peninsulas, hidden coves, pristine beaches and dramatic cliffs. There is a breathtaking drive to the top of Bunglas Cliffs, the highest sea cliffs in Europe. The colorful fishing port of Killybegs and the wool town of Ardara give a fine glimpse of Donegal life, while Glencolumbkille, at the end of a beautiful valley, has restored traditional village houses from 1750 to 1900. Not to be missed are the magnificent gardens beside the castle in Glenveagh National Park, surrounded by the Derryveagh Mountains. Nearby are Glebe House, a Regency manor full of artworks, and the Colmcille Heritage Centre which traces the life of Columba, one of Ireland's patron saints. Sights in Donegal Town include Donegal Castle and the ruins of Donegal Abbey. For many, the highlights of Donegal are its slow, scenic coastal drives to such beauty spots as the Bloody Foreland, Horn Head, and Fanad Head.

About the Expert

Donna Dailey is the author of Thomas Cook’s Ireland driving guide, coauthor of DK’s Back Roads Ireland and several other titles, as well as the author of Thomas Cook’s HotSpots Costa Blanca and a contributor to AA Publishing’s Key Guide Spain.