Fanad Lighthouse is undoubtedly one of Donegal’s most iconic images and a great place to start your exploration of North Donegal. The region is rich in dramatic coastal scenery, with spectacular views from Horn Head to Mulroy Bay, and round the Fanad Peninsula to Lough Swilly’s shores.
Fanad Lighthouse has been voted one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world and is a Signature Point on the Wild Atlantic Way. You can actually stay in one of the beautifully restored lighthouse keepers’ cottages and you can tour the lighthouse. The tour takes you through the area’s rich maritime history and heritage. Climb the 76 steps up to the viewing balcony at the top of the lighthouse – the vista will take your breath away.
Harry Blaney Bridge ©Failte Ireland/Tourism Ireland
Rest those legs now for Mulroy Drive, a 35k route of outstanding natural beauty down the Fanad Peninsula’s western coast. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, shops and hospitality to enjoy along the way too. You can also stop off and try walking and cycling routes, canoeing, swimming and fishing
activities on Mulroy Drive.
Ramelton - courtesy Gareth Wray Photography
Check out
Donegal Heritage Trails for a tour of the Fanad Peninsula’s most beautiful towns. Check out some of the walking tours of the elegant, tree-lined Georgian town of Ramelton. From the 12th century it was an important seat of Donegal's ruling clan, the O'Donnells. Next, visit the seaside village of Rathmullan, to share the story of the Flight of the Earls – who sailed from Rathmullan for Spain in 1607.
The nearby Cathedral Town of Letterkenny offers you a vibrant mix of lively pubs and restaurants, but is rich in culture, history and heritage too. Enjoy a guided Cathedral Quarter tour, a visit to the County Museum, a show in An Grianán Theatre or a tour of the famous local craft beer brewery,
Kinnegar.
Market Square, Letterkenny - courtesy Failte Ireland
Another jewel in North Donegal’s crown is
Ards Forest Park - 1200 acres of amazing trails, beaches, salt marshes, lakes, rock face and woodlands. The park is on the sheltered western shore of glorious Sheephaven Bay. It offers 9
walking trails for both strollers and hikers to choose from - which match all abilities.
Ards Forest Park courtesy Gareth Wray Photography
Take a breather in the picturesque seaside village Downings, home to
McNutt of Donegal – a family-run working Woollen Mill for over 65 years. Every collection is designed in-house. They stock a selection of the finest quality Irish crafts and gifts, in rich and varied shades and tones.
Downings - Courtesy Failte Ireland
Make time for a visit to the ‘links of heaven’ at Portsalon Golf Club for a round of golf. Then take your shoes off, step barefoot onto the nearby beach for a stroll on a soft golden-sand and feel the waves washing over your feet. Bliss!
Portsalon - courtesy Portsalon Golf Club
Finish the day spectacularly with a
Sunset Kayak Tour of Sheephaven Bay from Downings with Eco Atlantic Adventures. Watch the colours and reflections on the waters, shift from golden yellows to purples and reds. The whole experience will fill your heart with amazement.
Note - this blog doesn't claim to be a comprehensive list of everything to do - for more inspiration visit
www.govisitdonegal.com/things-to-do
Check out Donegal's other regions:
https://www.govisitdonegal.com/blog/april-2025/journey-through-donegal-south
https://www.govisitdonegal.com/blog/april-2025/journey-through-donegal-west-and-gaeltacht
https://www.govisitdonegal.com/blog/april-2025/journey-through-donegal-east
https://www.govisitdonegal.com/blog/april-2025/journey-through-donegal-inishowen
Now is the Time to Visit Donegal
It’s no surprise that Donegal was named ‘the coolest place on the planet’ by National Geographic. We’ve given you just a small taste of what we have to offer. So, there’s only one thing left to do – book a trip to Donegal that will give you a lifetime of memories. We’ll be waiting with a warm welcome!