- Slieve League Cliffs Walk (8 km, Moderate, ~2-3 hours: Starting at Bunglass Point, this trail follows the towering Slieve League cliffs, among Europe’s highest sea cliffs, offering breathtaking Atlantic views. The path includes the challenging One Man’s Pass (optional) and stunning vistas of Donegal Bay. Sturdy boots and caution are needed for exposed sections.
- Errigal Mountain Trail (4.5 km, Challenging, ~2-3 hours: Ascending Donegal’s highest peak (751m), this trail near Dunlewey offers panoramic views of the Derryveagh Mountains and Poisoned Glen. The steep, rocky ascent requires fitness and proper footwear, but rewards with dramatic landscapes. Check weather, as mist can reduce visibility.
- Inishowen Head Loop (8 km, Moderate, ~2-3 hours: Starting at Stroove Lighthouse, this coastal loop on the Inishowen Peninsula features cliffs, beaches, and views across Lough Foyle. The trail passes historic sites and offers chances to spot seabirds. Well-marked paths make it suitable for most walkers.
- Glenveagh National Park: Glen Walk (8 km, Moderate, ~2-3 hours: Located in Glenveagh National Park, this trail loops through lush woodlands, along Lough Veagh, and past Glenveagh Castle. Expect serene lake views, diverse flora, and opportunities to spot red deer. The path is well-maintained, ideal for a scenic half-day hike.
- Ards Forest Park Trails (3-13 km, Easy to Moderate, ~1-4 hours: Near Dunfanaghy, this park offers multiple trails through woodlands, sand dunes, and along Sheephaven Bay. The Red Trail (4 km) is family-friendly, while longer loops like the Green Trail (13 km) explore salt marshes and beaches. Perfect for nature lovers and casual walkers.
- Malin Head Coastal Walk (5 km, Easy to Moderate, ~1-2 hours: At Ireland’s northernmost point, this trail follows rugged cliffs and offers sweeping Atlantic views, with chances to see the Northern Lights in winter. Starting at Malin Head, it passes WWII lookouts and dramatic seascapes. Paths are clear but can be windy.
- Bluestack Way (Section: Donegal Town to Barnesmore Gap) (15 km, Moderate, ~4-5 hours: Part of the 65 km Bluestack Way, this section traverses the Bluestack Mountains, offering rolling hills, boglands, and views of Lough Eske. Ideal for day hikers, it’s well-marked but requires sturdy boots for wet terrain. Shorter segments are available.
- Horn Head Loop (12 km, Moderate, ~3-4 hours: Near Dunfanaghy, this coastal trail circles Horn Head, featuring dramatic cliffs, heather moorlands, and views of Tory Island. The loop includes historic signal towers and abundant birdlife, making it a favorite for coastal hikers. Caution is needed near cliff edges.
- Fanad Lighthouse Loop (6 km, Easy, ~1.5-2 hours: Starting at Fanad Lighthouse, this coastal walk along the Fanad Peninsula offers stunning views of Lough Swilly and the Atlantic. The gentle, well-marked path is family-friendly, with opportunities to explore the lighthouse and spot seals or dolphins.
- Poisoned Glen Walk (6 km, Moderate, ~2 hours: In the Derryveagh Mountains near Dunlewey, this trail explores the eerie, beautiful Poisoned Glen, with its rugged cliffs, boglands, and views of Errigal. The path follows a river and old ruins, offering a mystical hiking experience. Proper footwear is essential for uneven terrain.
Walking
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