Join us in Ireland’s most northerly county, Donegal, one of the most unspoilt landscapes in Europe. It’s famous for its beautiful scenery, coastline, impressive mountain ranges, glens and lakes and rich reminders of a historic past.
This week long tour is based in Donegal town, centrally located for the best walks in the area, and famous for it’s 15th century castle, tweeds and traditional music. Routes, with a variety of ground underfoot, are from 6 to 10 miles (9.5 to 16km) each day and take you to Slieve League, among Europe’s highest sea-cliffs and into the glorious Glenveagh National Park.
Tour Highlights • Slieve League – Europe’s highest sea cliffs • Glenveagh National Park – it’s gardens, castle & Irish red deer • Donegal’s history of traditional Irish music • Donegal town – overlooking Donegal Bay, 15th century castle, pubs and home of Irish tweed • Optional boat trip
Itinerary Day 1 - Arrival 19.00 hrs. Dinner/welcome briefing with guide at accommodation
Day 2 - Blue Stack Mountains A gentle walk*, around Banagher Hill, to distil the essence of Donegal - glens offering peace and greenness, deserted hills, lakes and rivers. *can be extended
Day 3 - Barnesmore Continuing exploration to the east of the Blue Stacks, you walk by streams and lakes, mainly along forest roads. A descent through Barnesmore Gap is along the former railway line. Finish at the famed Biddy o’ Barnes pub.
Day 4 - Glenveagh National Park You walk, mainly on green/unsurfaced road, through this narrow glen. There are legends, waterfalls, old woods, the castle, formal gardens, the island-dotted lake and a visitor centre. *add if taking in gardens (international) and nature walk
Day 5 - Option Day You can laze around Donegal town or take a gentle stroll or cycle. Options: boat trip to Aranmore Island or visit to Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh.
Day 6 - Slieve League A spectacular walk over some of Ireland’s finest sea-cliffs. The Atlantic Ocean has carved a variety of shapes and the rocks and vegetation produce a kaleidoscope of colour. The faces are nesting-places for choughs, guillemots, puffins, etc. * The climb to the summits is undertaken only in favourable weather conditions.
Day 7 - By Donegal Bay A leisurely coastal walk from Ballyshannon to Rossnowlagh – two beaches (Wardtown and Belall Strands), sea cliffs, wildlife, Kilbarron Castle – to leave you with memories to take home..
Day 8 Departure
Note that, for weather or other reasons, on occasion the guide may have to change the sequence of walks or the walks themselves.
Price includes • 7 nights accommodation in Irish Tourist Board approved luxurious guesthouse • 7 full Irish breakfasts • 5 packed lunches • 6 dinners • Experienced guide • Transfers to and from walks
Note: The minimum number required for the above itinerary is 8 persons
