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A Day in the South Donegal Gaeltacht

Publish date: 26th August 2020

Donegal’s South Gaeltacht has some of the most stunning scenery and is well worth a visit while on your staycation in Donegal. Here you will hear our native language being spoken in An Charraig all the way over the Gleann Cholm Cille. 

The starting point for your day in the South Donegal Gaeltacht is of course the obligatory stop to take in the breathtaking scenes that are the Sliabh Liag Cliffs. Why not take in the views of one of Donegal’s three Signature Discovery Points on the Wild Atlantic Way from the water by taking a trip out on Sliabh Liag Boat Trips

Once back on terra firma stop in to The Rusty Mackerel for a delicious meal using locally sourced produce. And after seeing the cliffs from the sea don’t forget to make your way up the viewing area at Bunglas where you truly feel like you are on the edge of the world. 

The first Discovery Point after Sliabh Liag is the small picturesque village of Málainn Bhig is just south of Gleann Cholm Cille and has spectacular views of the Silver Strand beach. When here a visit to Away to Me Sheepdog Demonstrations is a must! Here you can observe the tradition of sheepdogs herding sheep and you never know you may even meet some lambs and puppies!

Away to me Sheepdog Trials, Malinbeg, Co. DonegalImage: © Away To Me Sheepdog Trials

One of the most popular attractions in the area is the Glencolmcille Folk Village, a traditional thatched cottage museum where the Ireland of the 1700’s, 1800’s and 1900’s can be relived. The museum is located in the heart of Gleann Cholm Cille and has some of the best home baking around. The new Rockwell Kent themed Tearooms are a great spot to have a cup of tea and a scone. 

Glencolmcille Folk Village, Co. DonegalImage: Glencolmcille Folk Village

Heading north you will pass through the Glengesh Pass, another Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point which is a winding road that is not for the faint of heart! Stop at the viewing point and look down at the green glen that leads towards the heritage town of Ardara.

Glengesh Pass, Co. DonegalImage: Glengesh Pass, Co. Donegal

Have a great time exploring the South Donegal Gaeltacht!

If you are interested in returning to the area to learn or improve your Irish then Oideas Gael is the place to go. Oideas Gael run week long courses that include not just classes but also workshops where you can learn new skills such as sean-nós dancing, tin whistle, bodhrán, song and hill walking!


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