Highlights of Donegal

Named "The World's Coolest Destination" by National Geographic Traveller and one of Lonely Planet's top destinations for 2024, Donegal is one of Ireland's true gems. This self-guided tour has everything: amazing coast, stunning national parks, open boglands, ancient history, pleasant villages and legendary hospitality in family-run B&Bs and small hotels.

From historic Donegal Town you ride along Donegal Bay to Killybegs and Carrick, then on to the towering Sliabh Liag Cliffs, the Silver Strand and the ancient sites of Glencolmcille. Wild boglands lead to the thrilling Granny Valley descent, Maghera Beach and the weaving town of Ardara.

From Glenties, explore Portnoo, Rossbeg and Kilclooney Dolmen, then follow Gweebarra Bay north to Annagry, with an optional ferry to Arranmore Island. The final day crosses the Donegal Highlands past Mount Errigal and the Poisoned Glen into Glenveagh National Park, finishing in Letterkenny.

Highlights:

• Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) Cliffs, among the highest sea cliffs in Europe
• Glenveagh National Park, home to red deer and golden eagles
• Ancient sites at Glencolmcille, Kilclooney and Glenveagh
• Granny Valley descent to Maghera Beach, caves and waterfall
• Mount Errigal, the Poisoned Glen and the Donegal Highlands
• Golden beaches, traditional music and legendary Irish hospitality

Surface and terrain:
Mostly quiet, sealed back roads open to traffic, with short stretches of moderate traffic, a new cycle path to Portnoo and park paths in Glenveagh. Very hilly, with constantly changing gradients from gentle to very steep. E-bike strongly recommended.

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

Suitable for:
Competent cyclists with a reasonable level of fitness who are comfortable riding 60 km+ a day on public roads. The very hilly routes make an e-bike strongly recommended.