Attractions and Places To See around Portnablahy - Top 13
Attractions and places to see around Portnablahy include a variety of natural features and historical sites in County Donegal, Ireland. The region is characterized by its coastal landscapes, including sandy beaches and dramatic headlands, alongside diverse forest parks. Visitors can explore ancient castles, unique historical monuments, and scenic viewpoints offering panoramic vistas. This area serves as a base for discovering the Wild Atlantic Way and its cultural heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Portnablahy
- The most popular attractions…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Castle Caldwell Ruins
Highlight • Castle
Tip by
Tully Castle Ruins
Highlight • Castle
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
View of Lough Erne from Cliffs of Magho
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
St Patrick's Purgatory
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Portnablahy.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
From here over the Lough you can see St Patrick's Purgatory which is an ancient pilgrimage site that is suggested to have not been interrupted for fifteen hundred years, with it continuing in the present day. Its importance in medieval times is clear due to its present on maps all over Europe as early as the 15th century. It was the only Irish site designated on Martin Behaim's world map of 1492.
1
0
The viewpoint at the Cliffs of Magho is sensational. Enjoy panoramic views over Lough Erne and towards the Atlantic Ocean and Blue Stack mountains. Picnic benches, bins, and an information board are provided at the top.
5
0
Built in the 17th century, Castle Caldwell was part of the Ulster Plantation, a province of Ireland colonised by British settles throughout King James I era. The castle had a number of inhabitants after that and fell into ruin towards the 1800s. Although access to the castle is now forbidden due to its dangerous state of repair, the surrounding park and forest can be explored freely. Keep your eyes peeled for the ruined chapel and overgrown graveyard.
1
0
From here over the Lough you can see St Patrick's Purgatory which is an ancient pilgrimage site that is suggested to have not been interrupted for fifteen hundred years, with it continuing in the present day. Its importance in medieval times is clear due to its present on maps all over Europe as early as the 15th century. It was the only Irish site designated on Martin Behaim's world map of 1492.
1
0
This fortified house is on Tully Point and built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641 when it was attacked by John Maguire and burned on Christmas Eve with all its inhabitants massacred. After that it was not lived in again. There is a visitors centre in a restored farmhouse that has an interesting exhibition telling a number of stories relating to the castle. To visit the castle be sure to step off the bike as it is on foot only!
1
0
Built in the 17th century by Francis Blennerhasett of Norfolk, Castle Caldwell was once part of Ulster Plantation, a province of Ireland colonised by British settlers during the reign of King James I. The castle had various inhabitants over the centuries until it fell into ruin towards the end of the 1800s. Today, Castle Caldwell lies within Castle Caldwell Forest Park, a nature reserve on the banks of Lower Lough Erne. Although access to the castle is forbidden due to its ruinous state, you can visit the surrounding park for free. Look out for the ruined chapel and overgrown graveyard too.
0
0
This fortified house and bawn are set on Tully Point and were built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641 when it was attacked and burned on Christmas Eve by Rory Maguire and the inhabitants massacred. It was not lived in again. A visitor’s centre, located in a restored farmhouse, houses an exhibition telling local stories relating to the castle. (https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/tully-castle-p675521)
3
0
Breathtaking views of Lough Earne.
3
1
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Portnablagh?
The region is rich in history. You can visit the unique Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery, featuring pre-Christian stone figures. Explore the 17th-century Castle Caldwell Ruins within a forest park, or the fortified Tully Castle Ruins, which also has a visitor's centre. Further afield, Doe Castle and the Dunfanaghy Workhouse offer more insights into the area's past.
Are there any family-friendly attractions near Portnablagh?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The View of Lough Erne from Cliffs of Magho offers panoramic views with picnic benches, making it a great spot for a family outing. The surrounding park of Castle Caldwell Ruins is also free to explore, and Ards Forest Park provides extensive grounds for family walks and exploration.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Portnablagh?
For breathtaking vistas, head to the View of Lough Erne from Cliffs of Magho, which offers expansive views over Lough Erne and towards the Atlantic Ocean and Blue Stack mountains. Horn Head is another dramatic headland renowned for its stunning coastal views and rugged landscapes, with the Horn Head Loop Road offering a scenic drive.
What natural features are prominent in the Portnablagh area?
Portnablagh is surrounded by diverse natural beauty. You can enjoy the sandy shores of Marble Hill Strand, Carrigart Beach, Magaharthy Beach, and Tramore Beach. Ards Forest Park boasts a variety of habitats including sand dunes, beaches, salt marshes, and woodlands. The dramatic Horn Head offers stunning coastal scenery, and Muckish Mountain provides an enjoyable climb for those seeking mountain views.
Are there opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking or cycling near these attractions?
Absolutely. The region offers numerous routes for hiking and cycling. For easy hikes, consider trails like Rossergole Point Walk or Cliffs of Magho loop. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore routes such as the Scarplands Cycle Trail. Road cyclists might enjoy the Castle Caldwell, Boa Island and Pettigo loop. You can find more details on these and other routes in the easy hikes, MTB trails, and road cycling routes guides for the area.
What is the best time of year to visit Portnablagh attractions?
The best time to visit Portnablagh and its attractions is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September). This period offers milder weather, ideal for exploring beaches, hiking, and enjoying outdoor activities. However, the dramatic coastal scenery and historical sites can be appreciated year-round, with each season offering a unique atmosphere.
Are there any unique cultural or religious sites to see?
Yes, you can observe St Patrick's Purgatory from across the Lough. This ancient pilgrimage site has a rich history, dating back over fifteen hundred years, and was even featured on 15th-century world maps.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Portnablagh?
Visitors particularly appreciate the unique historical significance of sites like the Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery and the picturesque ruins of Castle Caldwell. The breathtaking panoramic views from locations such as the Cliffs of Magho are also highly praised, offering memorable experiences of the region's natural beauty.
Can I go wild swimming near Portnablagh?
The coastal village of Portnablagh is surrounded by beautiful sandy beaches, making it an excellent spot for wild swimming. Marble Hill Strand, Carrigart Beach, Magaharthy Beach, and Tramore Beach are all popular choices for enjoying the ocean.
Are there any hidden gems or less-trafficked spots worth visiting?
While popular spots are well-known, exploring the extensive grounds of Ards Forest Park can lead to discovering quieter trails and diverse habitats. For a less-trafficked climb, Muckish Mountain offers an enjoyable challenge with distinctive views. The isolated Caldragh graveyard, home to the Janus Stones, also offers a unique and serene historical experience.
What kind of walks are available near Portnablagh?
You'll find a variety of walks, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. Many routes offer circular options, such as the Cliffs of Magho loop or the Old Man's Head loop. Distances vary, with some easy hikes like Rossergole Point Walk being around 4 km. For more detailed information on routes and their lengths, consult the easy hikes guide for Portnablagh.
Are there any golf courses or equestrian activities in the area?
Yes, golf enthusiasts can enjoy rounds at Sandy Hills Golf Course and Dunfanaghy Golf Club. For those interested in horse riding, Ashtree Stables and Carrigart Riding Stables offer opportunities for equestrian activities in the vicinity.
Most popular routes around Portnablahy
Most popular attractions around Portnablahy
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
