Donegal Coastal Treasures

Breathe in the salty Atlantic air on this self-guided cycling holiday along one of the world's most beautiful stretches of coastline. Starting in historic Donegal Town, once the stronghold of the O'Donnell chieftains, you pedal past secluded bays, golden beaches and dramatic cliffs rising above the Wild Atlantic, staying in welcoming B&Bs and small hotels with your luggage moved ahead each day.

The route circles tranquil Lough Eske, follows the coast via St John's Point to the fishing port of Killybegs, then heads west through Kilcar, a centre of traditional tweed, to Carrick and the towering Sliabh Liag Cliffs. A day around Glencolmcille reveals 5,000 years of history, from Stone Age court tombs to Celtic ringforts.

Next comes a memorable descent of Granny Valley to Maghera Beach and its sea caves, before a final coastal loop around Portnoo and Rossbeg from Ardara or Glenties.

Highlights:

• Rugged Donegal coastline, cliffs and wild Atlantic waves
• Donegal Castle, a restored 15th-century stronghold
• Sliabh Liag Cliffs, with views high above the Atlantic
• Stone Age tombs, standing stones and early Christian sites around Glencolmcille
• Granny Valley descent to Maghera Beach, its sea caves and Assaranca Waterfall
• Golden sandy beaches for a swim or seaside walk

Surface and terrain:
Mostly quiet, sealed back roads open to traffic, with a few short stretches of moderate traffic. Very hilly, with gradients from gentle to very steep and around 400 m of climbing per 40 km. E-bike recommended.

Likely weather:
Expect mild, changeable Atlantic conditions from April to September, typically 12 - 19°C, with showers possible on any day and frequent coastal winds. June to August is warmest with the longest daylight hours.

Suitable for:
Competent cyclists with a reasonable level of fitness who are comfortable on public roads. Daily distances are short (typically 30 - 40 km, with longer options), but the very hilly routes make an e-bike the recommended choice.

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