- Glenveagh Castle Gardens: Located within the vast Glenveagh National Park in the Derryveagh Mountains, these renowned Victorian gardens surround a romantic castellated castle on the shores of Lough Veagh. The informal yet meticulously planned grounds showcase a multitude of rare and exotic plants from Chile, Madeira, Tasmania, and beyond, sheltered by windbreaks of pines and spectacular rhododendrons. Highlights include the Italian Terrace, Tuscan Garden, Gothic Orangery, and lush Pleasure Grounds with vibrant seasonal blooms — a magical contrast to the wild moorland surroundings, free to enter year-round and perfect for leisurely exploration.
- Oakfield Park: This privately owned estate near Raphoe is often called the ‘secret jewel of Donegal’, featuring 50 acres of superbly manicured formal gardens, ponds, a large lake with Nymphaeum, walled gardens, glasshouses, and wildflower meadows. Set in lush parklands, mature woodlands, and overlooking distant mountains, the grounds include a hedge maze, sculptures, miles of walking paths, and Ireland’s longest miniature-gauge railway weaving through the trees. Award-winning for its restoration and beauty, it provides a delightful blend of structured elegance and family-friendly charm.
- Dunmore Gardens: A fabulous private walled garden near Carrigans, this botanical treasure boasts an impressive collection of plants with vibrant colour, foliage interest, and even tropical specimens in mature sizes. Described by visitors as one of the best in Ireland, it features winding paths through a huge network of displays, a nursery offering excellent plant selections at good prices, and a peaceful, well-maintained atmosphere. Ideal for plant enthusiasts seeking inspiration and rare finds in a beautiful corner of east Donegal.
- The Glebe Gallery Gardens: On the shores of Lough Gartan near Churchill, these informal parkland-style gardens sweep down to the water’s edge on the grounds of the former home of artist Derek Hill. Delightful walking trails wind through mature trees, unusual shrubs, and naturalistic planting, creating a serene, family-friendly haven with scenic views and a sense of timeless tranquility. Free entry makes it an accessible spot to appreciate subtle, artistic horticulture amid Donegal’s scenic lakeside beauty.
- Salthill Garden: A contemporary walled garden near Mountcharles, just 200 metres from the sea, pays homage to traditional designs while standing independently of trends. Since the 1980s, the historic walls have sheltered a stylish transformation with gravel paths, a greenhouse, a central circular lawn wreathed in crocosmia, seasonal displays from spring bulbs to hardy perennials like thalictrums, agapanthus, and phlox, plus traditional Donegal-style vegetable ridges. The microclimate protects against coastal winds, offering a charming, year-round display of individual creativity and colour.
Gardens to Visit
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Donegal:
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