Things To Do

Kilcar

Kilcar (Cill Charthaigh) in County Donegal is a small, scenic village in southwest Donegal, known for its traditional culture, stunning coastal beauty, and proximity to some of Ireland’s most dramatic landscapes. Here are a few great things to do while you’re in Kilcar:

1. Visit the Slieve League Cliffs

Just a short drive away, these are some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe — nearly three times the height of the Cliffs of Moher. The views over the Atlantic are spectacular, especially at sunset.

2. Explore Muckross Head

Closer to Kilcar, Muckross Head is a scenic coastal headland known for its unusual rock formations, sea stacks, and great surf. It’s a great spot for photography, rock climbing, or simply walking.

3. Walk the Kilcar Heritage Trail

This is a gentle walking trail through the village and its surrounding countryside. It highlights local history, traditional thatched cottages, and beautiful views of Donegal Bay.

4. Tour a Tweed or Knitwear Shop

Kilcar is famous for its tweed and knitwear. Visit Studio Donegal, a working woolen mill where you can see the weaving process and shop for authentic handwoven garments.

5. Go to a Traditional Irish Music Session

Local pubs like John Joe’s or The Auld Triangle often host traditional music nights with live fiddles, flutes, and bodhráns — a true Donegal experience.

6. Hit the Beaches

Check out Trá Bán, Fintra Beach, or Port a’ Chabhlaigh for a more secluded spot. Great for a cold dip, beach walk, or just relaxing by the sea.

7. Take a Boat Trip or Go Sea Fishing

From nearby Teelin Pier, you can arrange boat tours to view Slieve League from the water or go fishing for mackerel and pollock.

Would you like some recommendations on places to stay or eat in Kilcar?

Donegal

County Donegal is one of Ireland’s most rugged and beautiful counties, with a mix of wild coastline, dramatic mountains, traditional Irish culture, and friendly small towns. Here are some top things to do across the county:

1. Slieve League Cliffs

These are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe — even taller than the Cliffs of Moher. You can hike to the summit or take a boat trip from Teelin to see them from below.

2. Visit Tory Island

A remote island off the northwest coast, Tory is known for its Gaelic-speaking community, traditional music, birdwatching, and the legendary King of Tory who greets visitors personally.

3. Glenveagh National Park

A vast and scenic park featuring:

  • Glenveagh Castle (a 19th-century mansion)
  • Beautiful gardens
  • Hiking trails in the Derryveagh Mountains
  • Spotting red deer and golden eagles

4. Relax on Donegal’s Beaches

Donegal has some of Ireland’s best beaches:

  • Rossnowlagh – great for surfing
  • Ballymastocker Bay – one of the most beautiful in the world
  • Silver Strand (Malin Beg) – a hidden gem near Glencolmcille

5. Experience Traditional Irish Culture in Glencolmcille

Visit the Folk Village Museum to see historic cottages, and take part in Irish language or music sessions. This area is a hub for traditional Donegal culture.

6. Hike Mount Errigal

Donegal’s tallest mountain offers a steep but short hike with sweeping views of the county. The quartzite peak often glows pink in certain light.

7. Explore the Inishowen Peninsula

This northernmost part of Ireland features:

  • Malin Head (Ireland’s northernmost point)
  • Stunning drives on the Inishowen 100 Route
  • WWII lookout posts, and even Star Wars filming locations

8. Discover Donegal Town

A lovely base for exploring:

  • Donegal Castle
  • Great pubs and restaurants
  • Shopping for tweed and wool
  • Easy access to Lough Eske and nearby attractions