Northwest Ireland Overview

Northwest Ireland consists entirely of Co. Donegal. Among Ireland’s counties, Donegal (DUN-ee-gahl) is second to Cork in size and second to none in glorious wilderness. Although its name means “fort of the foreigner,” this county is the least touristed, least Anglicized, and most remote of the “scenic” provinces. Its landscape contrasts sharply with that of Southern Ireland, replacing lush, smooth hillsides with craggy, jagged coastlines and rugged mountains. Vast wooded areas engulf many of Donegal’s mountain chains, making for some of Ireland’s best hiking. Its coastline alternates between beach and sheer rock face, including the towering Slieve League, where the brave traverse Europe’s tallest sea cliffs.

Chat with the King of Tory Island and view his artwork.
Listen IN on Irish-speakers in the pubs of the Northwest gaeltacht.
Sift for amethysts on the raised beaches of Malin Head.
Watch weavers and glass-blowers at work in the Donegal Craft Village.

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