Great Places to Visit

Kevin Hennessy's Boat Tours

Explore the dramatic coastline around Horn Head with local expert Kevin Hennessy. See amazing sea caves, wildlife, and experience Donegal's coast from the water with safety equipment provided.

Distance: ~41 km (~35–45 min from Letterkenny)
Special: Local expert guide with safety equipment included

Slieve League Cliffs

Among Europe's highest sea cliffs, rising nearly 2,000 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. A testament to nature's grandeur, offering unparalleled vistas across Ireland's western frontier.

Distance: ~83 km (~1 hr 30 min from Letterkenny)
Best Time: Clear weather for optimal views
Note: Weather conditions can be variable at elevation

Glenveagh National Park

Ireland's second-largest national park, featuring beautiful wilderness and stunning gardens. The Victorian castle and grounds represent the pinnacle of 19th-century landscape design.

Distance: ~30 minutes from Letterkenny
Experiences: Castle tours, hiking trails
Access: Seasonal operations, advance booking recommended

Horn Head Peninsula

This beautiful peninsula offers some of Ireland's best coastal experiences. The scenic drive offers incredible views along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Distance: ~41 km (~35–45 min from Letterkenny)
Exclusive: Bespoke maritime excursions available

Dunfanaghy Golf Club

A championship links course with stunning views across Sheephaven Bay. This meticulously maintained course presents both challenge and scenic reward in equal measure.

Distance: ~35 km (~30–35 min from Letterkenny)
Access: Private arrangements preferred

Portsalon Golf Club

Recognized as one of the world's most beautiful golf courses, offering an amazing golfing experience. Panoramic vistas encompass Lough Swilly and the majestic mountain ranges beyond.

Distance: ~35 minutes from Letterkenny
Distinction: Internationally acclaimed championship venue
Setting: Links course with great coastal and mountain views

Ballyliffin Golf Club

Ireland's northernmost championship venue, featuring two great links courses. This European Tour destination represents the pinnacle of Irish links golf in an unrivaled coastal setting.

Distance: ~50 minutes from Letterkenny
Courses: Old Links & Glashedy Links
Prestige: European Tour championship venue

Grianan of Aileach

An ancient stone fort on a hilltop above Inishowen, with over 1,000 years of Irish history. This ancient seat of power offers profound connection to Ireland's remarkable past.

Distance: ~25 minutes from Letterkenny
Heritage: Ancient royal fortress and national monument
Prospect: Commanding 360-degree panoramic views

Fanad Head Lighthouse

An iconic beacon positioned on the dramatic Fanad Peninsula, representing maritime heritage at its finest. The approach reveals a succession of spectacular coastal vistas and secluded coastal sanctuaries.

Distance: ~42 km (~45–55 min from Letterkenny)
Optimal: Golden hour and sunset viewing

Tropical World

A micro-zoo and butterfly house featuring exotic birds, raccoons, miniature monkeys, Bug World, the Jurassic zone and more. A perfect escape for rainy days!

Distance: In Letterkenny
Features: Butterfly house, mini zoo, indoor activities
Perfect for: Rainy day entertainment

Wild Ireland

A wildlife sanctuary nestled in a Celtic rainforest setting, home to rescued wildlife like bears, wolves, lynx, wild boar, swans, otters, owls—and includes a Fairy Trail for imaginative fun.

Distance: Burnfoot area, near Letterkenny
Animals: Bears, wolves, lynx, wild boar, otters
Special: Celtic rainforest setting, Fairy Trail

Rathmullan Beach

A beautiful long 3km sandy beach perfect for relaxing walks, swimming, and enjoying the peaceful coastal atmosphere. Great views across Lough Swilly with plenty of space to unwind.

Distance: ~30 minutes from Letterkenny
Beach type: 3km sandy beach
Activities: Swimming, walking, relaxing

Ballymastocker Beach

A Blue Flag beach celebrated for its picturesque beauty—it was once named the second most beautiful beach in the world. Great for swimming, surfing, and wildlife watching.

Distance: ~40 minutes from Letterkenny
Recognition: Blue Flag beach, world-renowned beauty
Activities: Swimming, surfing, wildlife watching

More Great Options

Arena 7 Entertainment

Bowling, Laser Quest, arcade games, a kids' adventure centre, pool tables, plus fast food and dining—ideal for mixing high-energy fun with relaxed downtime.

The Rusty Oven - Pizzeria

Great pizza in the heart of Dunfanaghy. Perfect for a casual meal after exploring the town or visiting our engagement beach!

Donegal Town Centre

Home to amazing eateries, coffee shops, hotels and the famous Magee Tweed. A great pit stop on the way to Letterkenny or home!

Distance: ~48–50 km (~37 min) from Letterkenny

Ards Forest Park

Coastal forest trails, picnic areas, and hidden coves make this ideal for those who enjoy a mix of woodland and beach!

Distance: ~31 km (~27 min) from Letterkenny

Wild Alpaca Way

Enjoy guided walks with friendly alpacas along scenic coastal routes near Malin Head—fun, unique, and lots of photo ops. Pre-booking recommended!

Lurgybrack Open Farm

Pet and feed farm animals, enjoy pony rides, playgrounds, and farm trails. Picnic spots and a tea room make it a full-day family outing.

Great for Kids & Families

Perfect activities to keep the little ones entertained

Tropical World

Butterfly house, mini zoo with raccoons and miniature monkeys, Bug World, and Jurassic zone. Perfect for rainy days!

Indoor Fun

Wild Ireland

See bears, wolves, lynx, wild boar, otters, and owls in a Celtic rainforest setting. Includes a magical Fairy Trail!

Distance: ~29 km (~21 min) from Letterkenny

Wildlife Adventure

Arena 7 Entertainment

Bowling, Laser Quest, arcade games, kids' adventure centre, and pool tables. Plus food and drinks for the whole family.

Action & Games

Lurgybrack Open Farm

Pet and feed farm animals, pony rides, playgrounds, indoor play area, and farm trails. Perfect for a full family day out.

Distance: Just 2 miles (~3.2 km / 5–10 min) from Letterkenny

Farm Fun

Wild Alpaca Way

Guided walks with friendly alpacas along scenic coastal routes near Malin Head. Unique, fun, and lots of photo opportunities!

Distance: ~80 km (~1h 10m–1h 15m) from Letterkenny

Unique Experience

Oakfield Park

Beautiful gardens and Ireland's longest miniature railway track (4.5km)! A magical train ride with scenic views perfect for all ages.

Distance: ~18 km (~15 min) from Letterkenny

Train Adventure

Rainy Day Tip

Tropical World and Arena 7 are perfect indoor options when the Irish weather doesn't cooperate!

Your Exceptional Donegal Experience

From the commanding heights of Slieve League to championship links courses, from pristine national parklands to exclusive maritime excursions— Donegal presents extraordinary experiences curated for the discerning visitor.