The best walks and hikes around Donegall

Yes, Donegal has several great options for families. A popular choice is the trail system in Belmore Forest, which offers easy paths through woodland. For something different, the gentle riverside walk to Glenevin Waterfall is a fantastic and awe-inspiring trail with picnic areas. Drumboe Woods is another excellent spot, providing short, easy walks by a river that are perfect for a quick nature escape with children.

Many trails in Donegal are suitable for walking with a dog, but rules can vary, especially in national parks and on private land. Glenveagh National Park, for instance, has specific rules requiring dogs to be on a leash. Always check local signage at the trailhead. Open mountain and coastal paths are often more flexible, but it's crucial to keep your dog under control, particularly near livestock.

While many of Donegal's trails are in remote areas best accessed by car, it is possible to reach some locations using public transport. Bus Éireann serves major towns like Donegal Town, Letterkenny, and Dungloe, which can be starting points for local taxis to trailheads like Mount Errigal or Slieve League. For specific route planning, it's best to check the bus timetables in advance as services to rural areas can be infrequent.

Donegal is famous for its dramatic coastline. The Slieve League cliffs offer some of the most spectacular coastal walking in Europe, with paths for different abilities. Another highly-regarded option is the Inishowen Head Loop, an 8km trail providing stunning sea views and, on clear days, a glimpse of Scotland. For a more remote experience, the wild coastline around An Port features breathtaking cliffs and sea stacks.

Absolutely. Many trails are designed as loops so you can start and finish in the same place. The Ancient Chestnut Tree – Enniskillen Castle loop from Enniskillen is a great example of a moderate circular route that combines town and waterside paths. For a more rugged mountain experience, the Muckish Mountain loop offers a challenging circular hike with incredible views.

Both are challenging but in different ways. The ascent of Mount Errigal, the county's highest peak, is a steep and demanding climb on a scree path that requires good fitness and careful footing. The reward is a panoramic summit view. The main path at Slieve League is less of a continuous climb, but the Pilgrim Path is a strenuous route along the cliff edges that requires a head for heights and experience on exposed terrain.

Donegal's weather is famously changeable, so layering is key. Always wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good grip. Pack waterproof trousers and a jacket, even if the day starts sunny. Add a warm mid-layer like a fleece, plus a hat and gloves. In summer, sun protection is also essential. The terrain can be boggy and wet underfoot, so appropriate footwear is the most important consideration.

Yes, Donegal has some beautiful waterfalls. Glenevin Waterfall near Clonmany is a highlight, reached by a well-maintained and accessible path. It's a tall, impressive cascade in a lovely woodland setting. You can also find the 'Secret Waterfall' near Largy, a stunning natural feature that flows directly onto a beach, accessible at low tide.

The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Hikers often praise the region's wild, unspoiled scenery, from the dramatic sea cliffs to the remote mountain landscapes. The variety of trails, catering to both casual walkers and serious mountaineers, is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

For a reasonably fit hiker, the round trip to the summit of Mount Errigal and back typically takes between 2.5 to 4 hours. This can vary depending on your pace, the weather conditions, and how long you spend at the top enjoying the panoramic views. The path is steep and involves loose scree, which can slow progress.

Many of Donegal's villages and towns near popular hiking areas have welcoming pubs and cafes. For example, after hiking in the Inishowen Peninsula, you'll find options in nearby towns like Clonmany or Ballyliffin. Near Mount Errigal and Glenveagh, the pubs and eateries in Dunlewey or Gweedore are popular spots for a post-hike meal and a pint.

Donegal is packed with incredible viewpoints. The top of Mount Errigal offers 360-degree views of the Derryveagh Mountains and the coastline. The viewing platforms at Slieve League provide breathtaking vistas of the sea cliffs. For a different perspective, the drive and walk at Inishowen Head offer spectacular views across Lough Foyle towards Northern Ireland and even Scotland on a clear day.