On a narrow road from Glencolumbcille to Ardara, past remote mountain bogland, magnificent Glengesh Pass (Glean Géis; meaning 'Glen of the Swans'), scoured out aeons ago by implacably vast glacial forces, is approached down several switchbacks that lead towards thatched cottages and a swath of pastoral beauty. There are spots and visitor viewpoints where you can pull over and take in the whole epic scenario before you.
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Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
10.11 MILES
The Cliffs of Moher get more publicity, but the cliffs of Sliabh Liag are higher. In fact, these spectacular sea cliffs are among the highest in Europe,…
3.64 MILES
This astonishing beach is a dream come true, especially if you are rewarded with a gorgeous sunset. Get here during lowish tide to explore the caves in…
22.08 MILES
Curving, dune-backed, 3km-long Streedagh Strand occasionally sees parts of the Spanish Armada washing up on its shores from three wrecks offshore: La…
15.65 MILES
Guarding a picturesque bend of the River Eske, well-preserved 15th-century Donegal Castle is an imperious monument to Irish and English might. The castle…
12.27 MILES
At Malinbeg you'll find this stunning, sheltered bay bitten out of low cliffs, with 60 steps descending to a gorgeous little sandy beach. It's 6km past…
27.19 MILES
Yeats was long believed to be buried next to the doorway of Drumcliff Parish Church, but recent evidence suggests that the bones shipped here from France…
26.42 MILES
The imposing ancestral home of the Gore-Booth family is one of Sligo's top sights. Revolutionary nationalist and socialist Constance Goore-Booth (Countess…
Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre
22.92 MILES
The imposing Georgian-style building beside Belleek's main bridge houses the world-famous Belleek Pottery, founded in 1857. It has been producing fine…
Nearby Southwestern Donegal attractions
2.87 MILES
These impressive falls are a worthwhile stop on the way to Maghera Strand. There's a small makeshift shrine to the left of the waterfall.
3.64 MILES
This astonishing beach is a dream come true, especially if you are rewarded with a gorgeous sunset. Get here during lowish tide to explore the caves in…
4.06 MILES
Set in the old town courthouse, this volunteer-run centre traces the story of Donegal tweed, from sheep shearing to dye production and weaving.
5.98 MILES
The best beach in the Killybegs area is at secluded Fintragh Bay, about 3km west of town, a gorgeous stunner of a Blue Flag beach and a must-see. Go down…
6.01 MILES
Backed by sand dunes, this remote and beautiful beach is worth a detour. It's south of Kiltoorish; look for a right turn off the R261 just north of…
6. Killybegs International Carpet Making & Fishing Centre
6.05 MILES
The former factory of Donegal Carpets provides a good overview of the town's history. The fun wheelhouse simulator lets you 'steer' a fishing trawler into…
6.37 MILES
Pull your car in here for excellent, serene and sublime views over the sea. It's west of Killybegs along the R263. On a clear day, you can see four…
7.21 MILES
Learn about several local prehistoric sites, including the grand Kilclooney More Court Tomb, as well as a tortoise-like passage tomb a short walk up a…