Donegal and Northwest Ireland
Northwest – Donegal, Leitrim & Sligo
The Northwest region includes the counties of Donegal, Leitrim and Sligo. The area is known for its beautiful mountains, lakes, and great outdoor activities. These include world-class golfing, fun water sports, surfing, angling, deep-sea fishing, horseback riding, and mountain climbing.
Donegal
Donegal is the most northerly of the Irish counties. It has the largest number of links courses in Ireland, drawing golfers from around the world. Famous for its beautiful landscape (Bunglass Cliffs are the highest cliffs in Europe and twice the height of Ireland’s famous Cliffs of Moher). Donegal is also renowned for its fresh seafood and traditional Irish culture (music, dance, concerts). County Sligo is a fun place to enjoy surfing, wind-surfing, kite-surfing, and kayaking. Donegal is also home to Ireland’s largest Gaeltacht (Gaelic speaking area).
Northwest Ireland Attractions
Fun attractions in Donegal and Northwest Ireland include:
- Bunglass Cliffs – Europe’s highest cliffs; twice the height of Ireland’s famous Cliffs of Moher.
- Bundoran – a surfer’s paradise, located on the most southwesterly tip of Donegal.
- Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery – Ireland’s largest megalithic burial site, featuring over 60 tombs, located near County Sligo.
- Donegal Golf Courses – Donegal has the largest number of links courses in Ireland.
- Fanad – beautiful scenery and beaches.
- Glenveagh National Park – the second largest park in Ireland.
- Grianan Aileach Stone Fort – sits on a hilltop in County Donegal.
- Inch Wildfowl Reserve – Ireland’s premier wetland site.
- Parke’s Castle – on the shores of Lough Gill, County Leitrim.
- Sliabh Liag – cliffs on the West Coast of Donegal.
- Rathmullan – small seaside village in County Donegal.
Book Ireland Sightseeing Tours & Day Trips
Take a Highlights of Donegal Day Tour. Discover the mysteries of Inishowen on a Private Day Tour. Have fun exploring Ireland’s largest peninsula.
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The Best Time To Visit Ireland
Ireland’s temperatures are moderate year-round. The best time to visit Donegal and Northwest Ireland is during Spring and Fall (May and September). Summer (June-August) is peak tourist season and the most crowded. Spring can also be a busy time (St. Patrick’s Day Festivals and Parades). Expect rain year-round, so be sure to pack an umbrella and wear layers.