West Donegal Coastal Tour

Starting off in the 17th century market town of Donegal, previously the stronghold of the O'Donnell's at the mouth of the river Eske, follow the N56 as it winds westwards along the coast by small villages till you reach the town of Killybegs, Ireland's premier fishing port and a popular cruise ship destination. Returning to the N56, the heritage town of Ardara with its special focus on hand woven tweeds and aran knits is well known for its hospitality. Continue on route to the award-winning town of Glenties, home of the poet Patrick McGill before crossing the Gweebara River to enter the Rosses one of the most picturesque and unspoilt areas of Donegal with its 100 or more small lakes.

Drive through Dungloe along the rugged coast road past Burtonport keeping north to Kincasslagh home of Daniel O'Donnell. Then it's on to Annagary with many of its people speaking Gaelic and if time permits stopping for a visit to Taibhairne Leo, home Enya and Clannad. From here we leave behind the coast passing Mount Errigal on the left and swinging inland by a sea loch through the 'Poison Glen' till we reach Glenveagh Castle and National Park. Taking the N56 to return home via Letterkenny, Donegal's largest town, then on to the twins towns of Stranorlar and Ballybofey before passing through the glaciated Barnesmore Gap and back into Donegal Town.

Sightseeing on this full day itinerary can be extended by taking a detour around one of the many rocky peninsulas that form the rugged coastline of west Donegal then re-joining the N56 primary route.