Walking

The Inishowen Gateway Hotel in Donegal is in one of the most scenic locations in Ireland, perfect for walking breaks Ireland.

 

Guided Walking Tours

Solas Ireland provide walks and hikes along Ireland’s most northernly peninsula, and the gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way, Inishowen. Your qualified local guide will share hidden gems and magical places that will immerse you in the peace and dramatic scenery of this corner of the Wild Atlantic Way.

If you would like to explore the local walking routes at your own leisure, see below some of our recommended routes:

Victoria Bridge in Buncrana Co Donegal TI71ANQ 1 1 - Inishowen Gateway

Buncrana Shore Path

The Buncrana Shore Path is a traffic-free walk following the shoreline of Lough Swilly between Buncrana and Stragill Strand. This gently undulating route passes quiet beaches, old forts and historic sites, with abundant wildlife and superb views throughout.

photo4jpg - Inishowen Gateway

Swan Park

Swan Park is a peaceful riverside park on the edge of Buncrana, following the River Crana through a scenic woodland setting. Nearby, the Buncrana Shore Path continues from Crana Bridge to Ned’s Point, passing Porthaw Beach, Fr. Hegarty’s Rock and Stragill Beach.

For a quieter walk, explore the Urris Hills or the surrounding bog roads, where you can enjoy beautiful scenery and a real sense of tranquillity.

Fort Dunree Inishowen Peninsula Co Donegal TI71BNF 1 1 - Inishowen Gateway

Fort Dunree Walks

Fort Dunree offers three signposted walks around the former military fort complex, ranging from an easy cliff-top route to a more strenuous climb up steep steps. Along the way, visitors can enjoy outstanding views across Lough Swilly, with information panels, seating, picnic areas and timber shelters throughout.

d2563b14 dc1e 41a5 80b0 d7edb7e6a6e6 - Inishowen Gateway

Mamore Gap

Once the main gateway between Buncrana and Urris, this steep road is home to holy relics and a well dedicated to St. Eigne. Locals gather here each year on 15th August for an annual mass.

Glenevin Waterfall Clonmany Co. Donegal. TI7ONB 1 Custom - Inishowen Gateway

Glenevin Waterfall

Glenevin Waterfall is located one mile from Clonmany, with a safe, well-signposted walk through Glenevin Valley. Footbridges cross the stream along the route, leading to a beautiful wedge-shaped waterfall cascading 30ft over black rock.

Malin Head Inishowen Peninsula Co Donegal TI71AEQ 1 Custom - Inishowen Gateway

Inishowen Head Walk

This spectacular walk follows through some of Donegal’s most impressive scenery. Within a short distance from the trail head, you are in a remote county with spectacular views.

Clara Bog Nature Reserve Wildflower Co Offaly TI713L4 1 - Inishowen Gateway

Inch Wildflower Reserve

Inch Island sits at the edge of Lough Swilly, linked to the mainland by two slim embankments built by the Londonderry & Lough Swilly Railway in the 1850s. Today, it is a peaceful spot known for its scenery, wildlife and birdwatching.