An Grianán Theatre is a flagship venue and an integral part of the cultural life of County Donegal. The spacious auditorium has a seating capacity of 345. This dramatic space is also available for use as a corporate venue, offering excellent technical and catering facilities. In addition, a full range of projection equipment is available. The café is open all day, serving full meals, snacks and coffee. A full bar service is available before and after each performance. An Grianán has full facilities for people with disabilities including designated seating in the auditorium, lift and specially adapted W.C. There is also an inductive loop hearing system. There is ample and spacious parking to the rear of the theatre, for both cars and coaches. The theatre provides dressing rooms, workshops and a spacious green room for visiting performers.
The school approach every surf lesson with the objective of not just offering a great one off experience of surfing, but for surfing to become a positive force in the customers lives even in a small way. Narosa Surf School aim for students to have fun and progress faster because they combine decades of surf coaching experience and forecasting expertise with the natural surf resources of this part of Donegal. They offer a range of accommodation from family apartments to glamping pods suitable for couples, allowing the school to offer weekend or week long surfing experiences.
At Inishowen Yoga Studio, Carndonagh, County Donegal, join Odel Ward, a yoga practitioner and holistic therapist with over 10 years experience and immerse yourself in yoga as you visit the most northerly stretch of the Wild Atlantic way. Continue your yoga practice while visiting the area by dropping in for daily classes in a range of styles of yoga. These include vinyasa flow, yin yoga, restorative yoga, pregnancy yoga, youth yoga, yoga nidra, Pilates and meditation. Join in on a mat, at one of the local beaches or in the town park on sunny days and awaken the senses to all the natural beauty of Inishowen. Visitors of all levels of experience are welcome to the studio and your practice will be tailored to your ability. Wellness days including yoga, meditation, sound baths and breath work are all available and can be booked by contacting the studio directly. Enjoy the benefits of the Far Infrared Heating System, a green choice that creates a wonderful ambience. Far Infrared Heat uses significantly less electricity than traditional heaters and radiates a luxurious warmth similar to what you feel outdoors on a pleasantly sunny day, without the dangers of UV from the sun. The heat penetrates deep into the body activating major bodily functions, loosening sore muscles, easing stiff joints and firing up cellular metabolism. If you are visiting the area without your yoga equipment, there are yoga mats and props available to use at no additional charge. All of the yoga mats are created with love by Manduka using natural tree rubber and biodegradable cotton and polyester. The blocks are made from recycled foam and the belts from unbleached cotton.
The Haven Restaurant at Downings Bay Hotel is a fine dining restaurant. Relax in peaceful surroundings as the team of dedicated staff tend to your every need. All produce is locally sourced and cooked to order their head chef, to guarantee ultimate freshness. Sample fine dishes such as Burtonport Crab and Lemon Risotto or Roast Belly of Irish Pork. Treat yourself and your loved ones to an excellent meal with a warm welcome and outstanding food. The restaurant open at weekends year round and every night during holiday periods.
Set amid the magnificent surrounds of Donegal on the Wild Atlantic Way, Lough Eske Castle’s CARA Organic Spa is a dream destination for a romantic or restorative escape. Housed within the footprint of the original Victorian Glass House, the spa features a serene aqua green and gold design. Guests can enjoy seven treatment rooms, including two couples’ rooms with jet bath and steam room, a thermal suite with sauna, sanarium, tropical showers, ice fountain, heated bench, and an infinity pool for ultimate relaxation. The fitness centre provides top tier cardio and strength equipment, ensuring wellness and rejuvenation throughout your 5 star stay.
Experience the magic of Ireland’s stunning coastline coupled with incredible outdoor adventures when you book in with Wild Atlantic Adventure Centre. Choose from adventure, heritage, language and environmental packages and soak up the stunning scenery of the Inishowen Peninsula. Check out the heritage trail on a horseback ride as you look out for stone circles, ancient castles and high crosses, or get out on the water and go kayaking. Wild Atlantic Adventure Centre combines adventure with learning. There's an English language programme and a Scouting Ireland approved campsite. Experienced English language teachers and qualified adventure sports instructors work in partnership at this family-owned centre. Breathe in the fresh sea air, discover the area’s fascinating history, and enjoy an unforgettable Wild Atlantic Way experience.
The Stone Fort of Grianán of Aileach sits on a hilltop in Inishowen County Donegal. 250m above sea level, the stone fort was probably first built on an earthen rath. The view from Aileach is breathtaking. The glistening waters of Lough Foyle and Lough Swilly are clear, as is the form of the entire peninsula. A windy and exposed place, Grianán has been a silent witness to the history of Ireland. The origins of the Grianán of Aileach fort are dated back to 1700 BC. It is linked to the Tuatha de Danann who invaded Ireland before the Celts and built stone forts on top of strategic hills. They worshipped Dagda (the Good God) and he too is associated with the origins of Aileach. It was he who ordered the building of a stone fort to act as a burial monument to his dead son. The round fort is built largely without mortar. The interior has three terraces and wooden structures were built against the terraces to provide accommodation. The outline of Bronze Age or Iron Age ramparts can be seen below the fort. Legend states that the giants of Inishowen are lying sleeping but when the sacred sword is removed they will spring to life reclaiming their ancient lands. Mr Walter Bernard of Derry restored the stone fort or cashel in the 1870s. It is the centrepiece of the site, 23m in internal diameter with walls measuring 5m in height and approximately 4m in thickness. The dry stone walls contain two passages within them as well as terraces along their interior which would have allowed access to their summit. It is thought that St Patrick visited the site in the 5th century and baptised the local chieftain, Eoghan (from whom Inis Eoghan gets its name), here.
Century Complex evolved from the successful family run business that was Century Cinemas, which has been operating for over 75 years. With the addition of Century Play, Bida's Bar, and Backstage Bar & Grill, the company has continued to expand and thrive. Century Cinemas provides eight screens, stadium seating and American rocker seating, all with 2D and 3D digital cinema projectors, Dolby Digital 7.1 surround sound, and a 4K RGB laser projector for the ultimate cinematic experience. There are two VIP screens at Century Cinemas adding that extra bit of luxury. Century Play features a junior area, toddler area, baby area, sports area and an arcade entertainment area, all under the one roof. It is a safe, supervised area combined with an adjoining coffee dock for parents to relax and unwind. Century Play is operated on a first come, first served basis, so you only need to call ahead if you have a group. Century Play is also host to six themed VIP party rooms, each tailored to suit your little one's needs and party size. Backstage Bar & Grill is a great place to enjoy a family meal, share a platter with friends or date night. The Backstage menu caters to everyone and includes sharing platters, burgers and steaks. Bida's Corner Bar is a quaint and intimate bar which seats approximately 40 people. Bida’s is available for parties, functions or a friendly get together. Bida's boasts a large variety of drinks including a bespoke whiskey menu, cocktail menu and a selection of wine and beers.
Doe Castle Coffee is a family run business located beside majestic Doe Castle, situated on Sheephaven Bay, in north County Donegal, which is steeped in history dating back to the 14th century. Relax and unwind in tranquil surroundings while enjoying a freshly brewed LavAzza Coffee or a choice of teas, snacks, ice creams and cold drinks. The coffee shop also stocks a range of exclusive Doe Castle souvenirs as well as a range of local handmade crafts.
Two features well worth a visit near Bundoran, County Donegal are The Fairy Bridges and The Wishing Chair. It is believed that locals thought The Fairy Bridges to be haunted by the fairies, which resulted in them being named The Fairy Bridges. Due to the peculiar rock formations, there are a series of natural blow or puffing holes that cause the seawater, under suitable tidal conditions, to crash through and blow water upwards, creating an impressive spectacle. Early travellers to the area were thought to be more interested in coming to see The Fairy Bridges than to experience the natural health benefits of the area’s golden beaches and proximity to the wild Atlantic Ocean. Indeed, this natural rock formation was one of the main attractions to visit in Bundoran at the time. The Wishing Chair gives visitors the opportunity to take advantage of the magical powers of the natural stone chair located adjacent to the Fairy Bridges. Having gone through the official ritual of sitting slowly, contemplating the stunning surroundings, and then tapping the chair twice, those who make a wish are advised to keep their dreams a secret in the hope that they will become true. The Fairy Bridges and The Wishing Chair can both be accessed either from Tullan Strand Road or from the main beach via the Roguey Walk.
This spot gets its name not from some ancient battle, but rather the red of the cliffs at sunset. The view toward the southern coastline is dominated by a rugged landscape with many inlets, beaches and headlands. The three Islands of Inishsirrer, Inishmeane and Gola all add to this excellent view.
Dunfanaghy in North West Donegal can be described as a place made for holidays. Set against the stunning backdrop of Horn Head there are an abundance of top notch beaches in the area. And what better way to keep the family entertain than to make the most of those beaches. Jaws Watersports, located in Dunfanaghy and in Downings offer a wide range of water based activities including surfing, SUP, kayaking and windsurfing. Heading up by experienced instructors, you safety will be ensured at all times. Kids camps are held throughout the summer months.
Namaste Nomad is a team of Irish travel professionals, guides and Sherpas who are passionate about delivering unique treks, climbs and tours in the most amazing regions in the world including North West Ireland. The company was founded by Mr. Harri Mohan, an Irish citizen, born in Nepal, and living in County Donegal for the past 12 years. He has experience of mountaineering and trekking in the Himalayas. Donegal is a prime scenic and ideal location to bring people to discover and explore these beautiful mountain treks along the Wild Atlantic Way. Namaste Nomad offers activity packages, designed to specific client needs. These include day tours to the local islands, kayaking, rock climbing, camping and hill walking to many destinations throughout Donegal.
Nestled along the Wild Atlantic Way in the picturesque town of Ardara, one of the five designated heritage towns in County Donegal, guests will find the hidden gem that is the Triona Donegal Tweed Visitor Centre. The centre welcomes all who visit and offers the opportunity to experience the history, skill, and craft that has gone into hand weaving Donegal tweed for generations. In 1984, 10 years after the collapse of the local tweed industry, Dennis Mulhern, a fifth generation hand weaver founded Triona as a small bespoke tweed company in the front room of his Ardara family home. As the Mulhern family business expanded, The Mart, which had historically been the central marketplace where local tweed was produced, inspected, stored and sold, became the new home of Triona. The Mulhern family now welcome thousands of visitors from all around the world to their spacious factory. The Mulhern family have dedicated their lives to protecting and nurturing the skill, craft and heritage of Donegal tweed. At the Triona Donegal Tweed Centre, master weavers still make handwoven tweed on looms that have been used for centuries and visitors are offered an authentic window into the ancient art of hand weaving. The Triona workshop employs three full-time weavers and three apprentices who, using the same time honoured skills that made Donegal tweed famous the world over, create the Mulhern family’s exclusive Triona tweed in rich colours inspired by the ever-changing landscape of Donegal’s hills and wild Atlantic coast. The guest experience at the Triona Donegal Tweed Visitor Centre isn’t limited to hand weaving demonstrations. In 2017 Dennis Mulhern's dream of recreating his family homestead was realised with the introduction of The Weavers Cottage. The cottage is a scale replica of the home in which Dennis grew up, complete with thatched roof and loom house at the side. Guests step back in time and experience the history of how people in rural Ireland lived in those days. The Centre’s Guides are on hand to answer questions and offer historical insights, including details of how all the family were involved in age old traditions such as knitting, spinning and hand weaving. To round off the visit, guests are also treated to a short audio visual display that includes local archival footage bringing to life the history and heritage of Donegal tweed in Ardara, exploring the entire creative process from fleece to fashion.
The Glenveagh Castle Gardens are part of Glenveagh National Park in the north west of County Donegal. The site occupied by the castle and gardens was formerly wild mountain moorland, with construction of the castle beginning in 1869 and the gardens in the mid 1880s. The two major elements of the garden, the Pleasure Gardens and the Walled Garden, were built in the late 1880s. The gardens, which were constructed for Cornelia Adair, still retain their original Victorian layout. From the late 1950s through to the early 1980s, the design and layout of the garden were developed to include the Gothic Orangery, the Italian Terrace, the Tuscan Garden and the development of the plant collection. Today, Glenveagh is well known for its rich collection of trees and shrubs specialising in southern hemisphere species and a diverse rhododendron collection. Displays of rhododendrons are at their best from late March to the end of May. Access to the gardens is from dawn to dusk all year round. Admission to the park, including the gardens, is free.
Lough Beagh is nearly four miles long by about half-a-mile wide. It is fished for its sea trout and the best of the fishing is through August and September. The season runs from 15th July to 30th September and sea trout and salmon run right through this period. Bank fishing is not permitted but two boats with engines are available for hire on the lough.
St Patrick’s Purgatory, Lough Derg, in County Donegal, is a beautiful island of peace. Pilgrims have been travelling to this sacred site on Station Island, County Donegal, for centuries on a spiritual quest or journey seeking something deeper, getting closer to their authentic selves, and continuing a ritualistic tradition of their ancestors. Lough Derg is the perfect haven to truly get away from the daily grind. Stunning scenery and soothing surroundings allow visitors to reflect and meditate on their life's journey. The small island, set in calm lake waters, offers no distractions, artificialities or interruptions. Instead, visitors and pilgrims are welcomed and cared for. The first sanctuary of St Patrick, Lough Derg has offered rest and growth to generations of visitors from Ireland and beyond. It offers an opportunity to be part of an Irish tradition that has spanned centuries, bringing with it an opportunity for calm, hope and for renewal. They welcome visitors to enjoy their day retreats, tailored workshops, faith based seminars, family focused events and special events. Visitors can discover a new way to relax, unwind and explore their spirituality. Whether it's a holiday, a break from the norm or looking for something more, the ancient sanctuary of St Patrick’s Purgatory, Lough Derg, is the perfect place to start. Bus Éireann, in conjunction with Translink Northern Ireland, operate a regular service to Lough Derg during the three day pilgrimage season each year from various towns and cities throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Seán Óg's Bar & Restaurant, premier venue in Gaoth Dobhair for visitors and locals alike, rises in a sparkling location overlooking the islands and glistening in the Atlantic Ocean where the warm waters of the Gulf Stream sweep northwards. Atlantic salmon swim homeward to their breeding grounds of the limpid waters of the Clady River. A hearty welcome awaits visitors to savour Seán Óg's renowned seafood menu with daily specials straight from the sea, featuring local mussels and crab, and the chef's acclaimed seafood chowder. An ideal spot for enjoying a relaxing beer and chatting with the locals, the pub's friendly staff will share their knowledge of events and activities in the area. Within a stone's throw of picturesque Bunbeg Harbour, it is an excellent starting point for water sports and sea angling. Slí an Earagail, the Errigal walking trail, offers unforgettable vistas of the Derryveagh Mountains and the seas stretching below. The serene beauty and wildlife of Glenveagh National Park promises to be a worthwhile daytrip. Seán Óg's is the perfect stopping point for enjoying the Wild Atlantic Way in all its captivating and rebellious majesty.
At the Blue Goat Ramelton, you will find Irish raw milk cheeses, Irish and Spanish charcuterie, fresh olives and personalised cheese boxes. They have a range of Irish made condiments including Burren Balsamics, Lilliput Olive Oils, Mama Bear Ketchup, Masaalon Chutneys along with their pastes and hot sauces. They also stock Rude Health non dairy milk and granola, and Merry Mill porridge oats. They offer gourmet takeaway food from Rathmullan House Hotel and Castle Grove Country House Hotel. You can enjoy a takeaway Cloud Picker Coffee with alternative types of milk, Intelligent Tea and Valrhona Hot Chocolate. Dessert options include brownies, cookies, shortbread and ice cream. There are gluten free and vegan options also available. You will also find a range of gifts to buy such as Irish made soap, bath salts, wax melts, Marley Press stationary, Robert Vaughan greeting cards and prints, organic bees wax food bags and covers.
Donegal English Language School is an award winning school that provides English language adventure and experience packages to adults and juniors from all over the world, to suit every need and budget. They provide expert tuition, quality accommodation and action packed activity programmes in a stunning, scenic location on the Wild Atlantic Way. Packages are designed to ensure that each client receives individual attention and the ‘Donegal experience’. The assurance of a world class product is built on thirty years of established experience and internationally recognised accreditations. The school is set in an inviting Georgian building overlooking Donegal Bay at Bundoran. The location allows them to offer students a comfortable, secure and enjoyable experience. This can be seen in the 20% of students that return each year.
Take in the views from the winding road that leads up and around the head, or stop and grab a photo of Sheephaven Bay or the cliffs jutting out into the Atlantic. The cliffside is open and unprotected, so take caution on windy and rainy days.
Ross Fine Art Gallery and Craft Boutique has built a reputation for carrying important paintings and sculpture by some of the most established and emerging artists in Ireland and overseas. Artists such as Stephen McKenna, Melita Denaro and Heidi Nguyen hang beside sculpture from Bettina Seitz and Deborah Brown. Ross Fine Art Gallery and Craft Boutique, in Ramelton, County Donegal, stocks pieces from craft artists both here in Ireland, and further afield. They host the work of leading ceramicists, jewellers and textile artists. The owner carefully curate pieces that cater for the collector, and also for those searching for a beautiful piece to own or to give as a special gift. They are pleased to represent some of the top craft artists in the UK and also show work by Ireland’s leading ceramicists. The work of these talented artists is finding its way into international private and public collections in Europe, India and China. New ceramic artists join the gallery continually. By adding jewellery to their portfolio, Ross Fine Art Gallery and Craft Boutique offer pieces by prominent designers who want to showcase their talents. Pieces available include items that are fashioned out of gold and silver, as well as beaded and leather statement pieces. The owner stocks bespoke jewellery at affordable prices.
Cruit Island Golf Club, in County Donegal, is set on the edge of the wild and rugged Atlantic Ocean, next stop America. Cruit Island is nestled mid way within the Rosses. The Rosses being the local name for the townlands between the Gweebara Bridge and the Crolly Bridge. Enjoy unrestricted panoramic sea views that will take your breath away. Cruit Island Golf Club is a true natural 9-hole links short golf course, par 68, where every shot must be methodically thought out. From the scratch golfer to the fresh beginner, you are guaranteed to enjoy this little piece of heaven, when you play at Cruit Island Golf Club.
Letterkenny Golf Club takes advantage of natural variances of elevation, with four holes wrapped around the banks of Lough Swilly. The top seven holes gives the golfer a panoramic view of the lough, the picturesque hills, and the wooded countryside. The course's layout was part of a 2007 revamp by Declan and Ronan Branigan, which incorporated the land of the Barnhill Estate, bordering the Lough, to produce 147 acres of tranquil bliss. The golfer will not only enjoy the fine course, but also the splendid natural beauty of the location. Conference facilities and special golfing packages are available. Visitors can be assured of a warm Donegal welcome. The Open Week during the third week in June is a must for non members who want to join a competition.