The Gaeltacht is the area in Donegal where,
many claim, one of the purest forms of the Irish Language has survived and
where the traditions of Irish song, dance and folklore prevail. The largest
geographical Gaeltacht in the country, and part of the newly established Wild
Atlantic Way, spreads from Glencolumbcille region of the south up along the
west coast and through Donegal's Gaeltacht Lár (central) region of the
Derryveagh range and the scenic Poisoned Glen; and north through the Rosses on
to Fanad Head.
Sitting proudly in the Atlantic
Ocean , are the jewels of Donegal's Gaeltacht. On the islands of Donegal, one can experience a vibrancy to the Irish culture that is both
inspiring and engaging. Wild and
beautiful; the islands have captured the imagination for thousands of years and
provided stimulus for artists and writers alike.
A visit to these any of these islands by
ferry is an experience that will broaden your horizon and linger in your heart
but foresight is forewarned. Accessible by boat, any trip to the islands should
be researched to maximise your experience. For example, high season (July &
August) can be quite busy on some, but out of season may require appropriate
clothing to appreciate the rugged beauty of these jewels on the outer reaches
of Northwestern Europe .
The island is approximately one mile from the
mainland at Gaoth Dobhair (Gweedore). Evidence of past life remains in the form
of the stone homes of families, who have long since moved to the mainland. A
number of houses have been restored by former residents and their families. A regular
ferry service and the growing interest in ecology and cliff climbing are
bringing new life back to the area. Gola Island can be explored in a few hours over
easy walking terrain.
Tel: +3538387 660 7003
Located two miles from Machaire Rabhartaigh
(Magheroarty) on the North West coast and has
been relatively untouched and unspoilt. A rocky coast with cliffs, sea arches,
caves and sandy beaches can be explored. Inland, fields are home to the
globally endangered Corncrake and many other bird species. Barnacle Geese fly
in to winter here. It is renowned for its water sports with surfing, kayaking
and rock fishing growing in reputation annually.
Inhabited for 4,000 years, this Gaeltacht Island Ireland
As well as the unique flora and fauna,
visitors can enjoy diving, fishing, rock climbing, whale or dolphin watching or
walk a portion of the scenic Donegal
Way
A signposted 4km looped walk starting at the
Pier with exceptional scenery will take your breath away. When in Tory, is also
famous for its school of artists, whose work has been exhibited all over the
world.
Probably the most accessible of all the Gaeltacht islands, Árainn Mór has a resident population of approximately 600. From the island’s rolling hills, observe views of the Rosses region (Na Rosa), the islands and the
Tel: +35383 749520532
Arranmore Car & Passenger
Fast Ferry Service
Tel: +3538387 3171810
Inishfree Charters, Burtonport Pier
Tel: +35383 87 9253534 or 086 2209508
Try a few words
Dia dhuit Hello
Cadé mar atá tú How are you?
Tá mé go maith, go raibh
maith agat, agus tú fein? I’m fine, thanks. And you?
Cad is ainm duit? What is your name?
Maidin mhaith Good morning
Oíche mhaith Good night
Cá bhfuil an oifig fáilte? Where is the tourist office?
Go raibh maith agat Thank you
Más é do thoil é Please
Slán, Slán go fóill Goodbye
