DONEGAL DAY TOUR: Coast and Castles

Enjoy a day tour of coastal and inland attractions incorporating those breathtaking views of the idyllic North West. Setting off in the morning by luxury minibus or car, your fully guided excursion will journey along Mulroy bay to the picturesque Fanad Lighthouse. A maritime marvel, this magnificent and current working lighthouse was an essential service to seafarers negotiating the wild and dangerous seas around the North West coast. We learn about the lights and aids to navigation past and present and we hear the stories of shipwrecked parrots and lost gold on the lighthouse tour.

Next we continue along the Wild Atlantic Way towards Doe Castle. Dating to the 1420’s, this castle nestled on the shores of Sheephaven Bay was the medieval home and bastion for the MacSweeney chiefs for over 200 years. Know as "gallowglass" these fearless warriors fought and were rewarded by one of Ireland's last Gaelic chieftain - Red Hugh O Donnell.

Leaving Doe castle we travel through the vast boglands of mid Donegal as we descend on the sweeping glens of Glenveagh National Park and Castle. Situated in the heart of the Derryveagh mountains, you will learn and become immersed in the chequered history of this unspoiled Special Area of Conservation which is Ireland’s second largest national park.

On the final leg of the tour we travel to Grianan an Aileach. Said to have been built by the Tuatha De Danann, this ancient stone ringfort dates its origins to 3000 BC. Located 250m above sea level, this spectacular hilltop site was visited by St Patrick who baptized the local chieftain Eoghan.