Tips
Willem VS
June 1, 2026
Cycling
Doe Castle is a 15th-century tower castle on the edge of Sheephaven Bay, built on a narrow rock spur that is almost completely surrounded by water at high tide. For centuries it was the seat of the Clan MacSweeney and is considered one of Donegal's best-preserved Gaelic castles. The high tower, thick walls, and quiet location on the tidal waters give it an almost timeless atmosphere.
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Willem VS
June 1, 2026
Cycling
On a wall of Doe Castle is a heraldic stone with the letters G V H above a helmet and shield. These initials refer to Sir George Vaughan Hart, who acquired the castle after the 17th‑century conflicts and whose family inhabited it until 1843. The stone marks a period of Anglo‑Irish reorganisation, recognisable by the English helmet style, crest and the formal placement of initials above the shield. It is one of the clearest traces of the Hart family on the site.
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Puffin
October 29, 2025
Hiking
The fortress was built in the 1420s. For nearly 200 years, it served as a home, refuge, and stronghold for at least 13 MacSweeney chieftains—some of whom were participants in and witnesses to some of the most seismic events in Irish history.
For example, MacSweeney Chief Eoghan Og II sheltered survivors of the 1588 Spanish Armada at Doe. The castle's last chieftain, Maolmhuire an Bhata Bhui, marched with Red Hugh O'Donnell, Lord of Tyrconnell, at the Battle of Kinsale in 1601.
For example, MacSweeney Chief Eoghan Og II sheltered survivors of the 1588 Spanish Armada at Doe. The castle's last chieftain, Maolmhuire an Bhata Bhui, marched with Red Hugh O'Donnell, Lord of Tyrconnell, at the Battle of Kinsale in 1601.
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