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10 Great Reasons to Visit Donegal


Go Visit Donegal has put together a list of 10 great reasons to visit Donegal to whet your appetite to pay us a visit. 

1. Donegal has been Named the Coolest Place in the Planet to visit in 2017

Donegal has been named by NationalGeographic Traveller (UK) as No. 1 place for 2017 in it’s an annual “Cool List” of recommendations for people who love to travel. 


Among plenty of other “culture capitals, hipster hot-spots, wild escapes and places generally keeping it cool” Donegal beat other great destinations to visit such as Santiago, Greenland, Sudan and Seoul. 

So, what attracts people to Donegal? Well, the people here keep it real, tell it like it is, and welcome travellers like long lost friends. How cool is that?!

2.    The Northern Lights
Image - Ronan McLaughlin 
Also known as the Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights are defined as a natural electrical phenomenon in the skies. Charged particles from the Sun's atmosphere collide with gaseous particle's of the Earth's atmosphere creating beams of bouncing light streaming across the night sky with green, yellow & pinkish tones.  The best places to see this spectacular masterpiece is in coastal regions such as Malin Head, Culdaff and Shrove in Greencastle, Inishowen, Co.Donegal. A heavenly experience that will leave you appreciating how special the county is.

Image - Bren Whelan
A county of stunning natural beauty that dazzles the eye and sparkles with Craic. After a visit to Donegal, you’ll leave feeling rejuvenated 
and determined to return! The 
scale of the county, coupled with
 its attendant islands makes Donegal a destination that is impossible to fully experience in
 one visit. We in Donegal are quite used to repeat visits from our 
visitor friends, and many have 
taken the ultimate step and put down permanent roots. Our welcome is legendary because we appreciate    what we’ve got here and are more than willing to share it!
 
 

4.    It’s the Beginning of Your Wild Atlantic Way Journey

From Malin Head to Fanad Head to Slieve League, Donegal's section of the Wild Atlantic Way route is the longest of any county and full of stunning surprises. It’s got three Signature Points 36 discovery points…and thousands of personal highlights to uncover!
Over millions of years the Atlantic has carved dramatic crevices into the rugged headlands that are stunning to behold. Marine sea-stacks, arches, and in the dramatic Slieve League cliffs, some of the best and highest examples of marine cliffs in the world.

5.    It’s light years ahead of other locations

As evidenced by the filming of Star Wars, travellers have even come from far distant galaxies to experience the wonder of the place.
This year Donegal was chosen to film "Star Wars: Episode VIII". 
A set resembling Han Solo's spaceship was set up  on the cliffs at Malin Head, Ireland's most northerly point. Mark Hamill – who plays the iconic Luke Skywalker in the Star Wars series commented on Donegal saying“I love it, it’s gorgeous,” he replied. “(Everyone) has made us feel like part of the family.” Pretty good endorsement all round! 

6.    The Highest Number of Blue Flag Beaches in Ireland


With a coastline of 1235 km /772 miles, the longest on the island, Donegal is blessed with many beautiful sandy beaches, thirteen of which are Blue Flag Beaches. Come and experience beaches of a quality that some appear to be man-made; but all are, in fact, a product of nature at its finest, and as pure and clean as could be wished for.

7.    The music, the music, the music!!!
 
Donegal has one of the richest traditions of Irish traditional music in the country and is home to some of the most talented musicians that this country has ever produced. There is a host of intimate theatre venues throughout the county that are second to none, but the real gems are the myriad of informal pub sessions that can be stumbled upon throughout the length and breadth of the county. A word of warning though… when you do happen upon such a musical treat, it is advisable to remove your watch, pocket it, and immerse yourself in an atmosphere that almost seeps from the walls and makes visitors feel 'at home' with the locals!      

8.    Outdoor Activities
From hill walking to rock climbing; golfing to surfing; bird watching to horse riding, Donegal has some of the finest outdoor activity opportunities in the country. This county of amazing natural landscapes can provide an amazing backdrop, and suitable challenge for any level of thrill-seeker and outdoor enthusiast. From the moment you arrive, it’s literally on your doorstep, just waiting to be explored.


9.    A jam-packed Calendar of Events

With world renowned festivals and events, such as the Mary from Dungloe Festival, the Rory Gallagher Music Festival, Earagail Arts Festival, or the Donegal Rally, to name but a few, Donegal has got a lot going on! That’s not counting the hundreds of smaller community festivals, clan gatherings, and traditional events that happen in almost every community within the county that may be of personal interest to you through family or acquaintances.
For information on more exciting events taking place in Donegal in 2017, visit www.govisitdonegal.com and www.donegalgathering.com


10. Fly into Donegal Airport - Voted one of World's Top 10 Scenic Landings in 2016


In 2016, PrivateFly revealed the top rated airport approach in the world as Malta International with Donegal Airport coming in at number 7 out of 117 nominees, ahead of far more famous approaches including London City, Los Angeles LAX and St. Maarten in the Caribbean.
Set between ocean and mountains at Carrickfinn, in the Gaeltacht region of Rosses/Gweedore, Donegal Airport operates twice daily flights to Dublin, and a four-times weekly service to Glasgow, both by Aer Lingus Regional.
"You arrive in the Emerald Isle adjacent to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world; Carrickfinn with a backdrop of the majestic Mount Errigal on one side and an array of craggy islands on the other," gushed one travel fan. Talk about one hell of an entrance!!


So what are you going to do about it?!

This summer, why not let the road take you on a journey of discovery through Donegal, a county of wonder and magic?! 

You can tailor your stay to suit you. One thing is certain; Donegal is a county that everyone should experience at least once in their life.

 Where heritage, history, tradition, and culture sit hand in hand with excitement, exhilaration, nightlife and craic; like star-crossed lovers in an idyllic corner of the world that knows its own strength and revels in its own confidence. Yes folks, it’s true to say… Donegal; has it all!! 

For all things Donegal check out: www.govisitdonegal.com 

The Coolest Crown on the Planet

In December 2016, Donegal was voted by National Geographic, the ‘Number 1’ place on the planet to visit in 2017.

 A key location within Donegal is the truly iconic Malin Head. As Ireland’s most northerly point the location marks the start / finish of the World’s longest defined coastal route, the Wild Atlantic Way (WAW).

Malin Head, Co. Donegal, Ireland

During May 2016, the area became the only location in Donegal where scenes for the latest edition of the Lucas Film production, Star Wars Episode IIIV were filmed (due to be released in December 2017).

Millennium Falcon, the set of the new Star Wars film. Malin Head, Co. Donegal, Ireland.
So what has the area got to offer those who travel to this stunning location at the top of Ireland?

At Malin Head, often referred to as ‘Banba’s Crown’, visitors will find a wild, rugged coastline that has been scoured by the downward forces of gargantuan ice sheets. They’ll also find a beautiful coastline, festooned with off shore islands, stunning cliff faces and beautifully elegant sea stacks that have been shaped by the constant tidal surge of the Atlantic Ocean.

Banba's Crown, Malin Head, Co. Donegal, Ireland
This area is known internationally for its coastal history, heritage, geology, ornithology and also for its diverse range of flora. It’s known as one of the World’s best places to see mega ocean fauna, such as basking sharks and it is often frequented by whales and dolphins too. For those keen on all things adventure, there are many venues for outdoor activities to suit families and solo travellers alike, such as walking, cycling, sea kayaking, rock climbing, photography, fishing and scuba diving.

Rock climbing, Inishowen, Co. Donegal, Ireland. Image © Bren Whelan
For the tired and weary adventurous traveller, the area is also home to Ireland’s most northerly pub, Farren’s Bar, which has great Guinness and pizzas too. Tasty fresh seafood is available at the Seaview Tavern, which as the name suggests has an amazing view out over Ireland’s most northerly bay and lighthouse!

Finally, staying overnight? You might just be lucky enough to catch a beautiful Northern Lights display over Malin Head! So, for a good night’s rest, look no further than the Sandrock Hostel, White Stand B&B or the aptly named Malin Head View B&B or the nearby Malin Hotel where you will receive a very warm Donegal welcome!

Northern Lights, Inishowen, Co. Donegal, Ireland

© Bren Whelan
Wild Atlantic Rock Climbing & Photography
www.wawclimbing.com


*Visit also: www.visitinishowen.com for more details & a Step by Step Guide to chasing the Northern Lights in Inishowen.

Donegal Has It All this Christmas

 Donegal has so much to offer you at this magical time of the year, there are a host of events and adventures that cater for families, friends, couples, the young, and the not so young. Go Visit Donegal has put together a range of suggestions that will help to maximise your Christmas experience if you are thinking of paying us a visit. It is by no means all that Donegal has to offer this festive season but may whet your appetite to jump on board the magical sleigh ride of festive fun that will be passing your way in the coming weeks.


Date: 1st – 21st December 2016
Where: Oakfield Park, Raphoe, Co.Donegal

Santa can make your wishes come true…..


This Christmas, for the first time ever, Oakfield Park will be opening its gates for a very special event. The Santa Express will be running daily from the 1st to 21st December, from 3.30pm till late.

This promises to be an extraordinary Santa experience. Board the Santa Express at the Station and enjoy an enchanting train ride through Oakfield’s magnificent woodlands to meet Santa and his special helpers.
More info: here 
Donegal’s Lapland
Date: 25th November 2016 - 22nd December 2016
Where: Clonmany, Inishowen, Co. Donegal

Christmas in Donegal can be a magical and fun-filled experience, especially if you visit Santa’s Island at Donegal’s very own Lapland.
The longest running Christmas show in Donegal is back again this Christmas and you do really have to pass the North Pole to get here, we kid you not!
At Santa’s Island, they aim to create a world for the young and old that helps capture the magical spirit and enchantment of the festive period from the moment you arrive.

Christmas Carols at Glenveagh Castle 


Date: 8th December 2016 - 9th December 2016
Where: Glenveagh National Park, Churchill, Co. Donegal
Time: 8.30pm

If you are in Donegal, why not come along to the magnificent setting of Glenveagh National Park for Traditional Christmas Carols performed in 4 part harmony by the chorus of North West Opera led by professional soprano Ann Jennings. Featuring beloved works such as O Holy Night, Silent Night and many others sung in the beautiful, atmospheric surroundings of the library of Glenveagh Castle. It is a unique Christmas treat not to be missed.



Date: 10th December 2016 - 21st December 2016
Where: 
The IOSAS Centre, Derryvane, Muff, Co. Donegal
Follow the Star to the Celtic Garden Christmas Trail at the IOSAS Centre. A wonderful family Christmas experience in a truly unique setting. Storytelling, Christmas themed arts and crafts, a very special dramatic performance and Christmas carols.
Each little house in the garden will have its own Christmas theme and, in the tradition of the great Irish storytellers, will have characters telling the Christian stories behind some of our favourite Christmas traditions. These include the story of St Nicholas, the Christmas Tree Miracle, and of course, the greatest story ever told, the birth of Jesus.

The tranquil setting will be an oasis for families looking to escape the commercialism, and hustle and bustle which can dominate this time of year. Take some time together to enjoy an experience which will have the children discussing the real Christmas story long after this event.

‘Christmas Presence’ Craft & Design Fair

 Date: 10th December 2016 - 11th December 2016
Where: Rathmullan House, Rathmullan, Co. Donegal 
Time: 12pm - 5pm

Donegal Designer Makers present ‘Christmas Presence’ Craft & Design Fair showcasing the work of the county’s leading designers and artisan craft workers with a unique range of quality gifts.
This is the perfect place to pick up that unique gift for someone special. There will also be workshops  and demonstrations during the weekend to keep you entertained. 

Cinderella Christmas Panto


Date: 26th November 2016 - 9th December 2016
Where: Balor Arts Cente, Ballybofey, Co. Donegal
Time: 4pm / 8pm

The Balor welcomes you and your family to a captivating re-telling of a time honoured classic that is sure to enthral the bright-eyed dreamer in all of us. Packed with brilliant comedy, stunning song and dance routines, dazzling costumes and delightful sets this is an unforgettable evening of hilarity and audience participation for all the family. 
Date: 15th December 2016 - 18th December 2016
Where: Gartan Outdoor Education & Training Centre, Churchill, Co. Donegal
Not long now until the start of a Magical Christmas Wonderland at Gartan.
Santa’s team are working really hard to get the setting ready and it is coming along tremendously well. 
Follow your Wonderland map and Christmas lights through the magical woods. Santa says you must bring warm clothes, waterproof jacket and wellies!
Join Santa by the fireside for your pressie, before he sets off on his very long sleigh journey with Rudolph and all of the other reindeer.


Christmas Storytelling in Donegal County Museum

Date: 12th December 2016 
Where: Donegal County Museum, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal 

Donegal County Museum invites you to free Christmas Storytelling in Donegal County Museum on Saturday 12th December. Maybe you and your family can take some time out from your festive shopping in Letterkenny to come along and enjoy some Christmas stories and songs to inspire the Christmas spirit and create memories that will stay with your precious little ones long into their adulthood!

Sessions at 1.30pm and 3pm.
Admission free –  most suitable for U10’s.
Don’t forget to wear your Christmas jumper or hat!

Perhaps an Overnight Stay?

There are many great deals on accommodation in Donegal if you fancy popping by for a visit. So whether you want to avail of one of the many charming self-catering cottages, apartments or holiday homes available, or are looking to sample some first class service in one of our many hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses. Come and enjoy the feast of festive fare on offer as Donegal prepares to celebrate the holiday period in style.
Finally, we at Go Visit Donegal wish you and your family a Christmas that is as breath-taking as our landscape, as heartfelt as our welcome, as pure as our water, and as peaceful as our lakes! 
Nollaig Shona Daoibh!     

Donegal Tourism Businesses ‘Go Digital’

Over 100 of Donegal’s key tourism industry stakeholders gathered in the An Grianan Theatre, Letterkenny on Tuesday for a 'Tourism Marketing Seminar'. 

Organised by Donegal Tourism and Donegal County Council, the event provided an ideal opportunity for local stakeholders to come together and gain a better understanding of the online marketing strategies from leading Marketing experts in the Irish Industry.

Speakers on the day L-R: Darragh Doyle, Online Engagement Strategist; Seamus Neely, Chief Executive of Donegal County Council and Chairman of Donegal Tourism Ltd; Cllr Terence Slowey, The Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council; Joan Crawford, Client Services Manager, Fáilte Ireland; Barry Walsh, Digital Marketing Executive, OSD.
The goal of the seminar was to provide useful advice on promoting various Donegal tourism businesses online using the latest Digital Marketing techniques. The feedback from attendees after the seminar was very positive and it was very clear that this goal was achieved. Those that were there left feeling inspired, motivated and ready to take on the world of online marketing for the benefit of their business.

Cllr Terence Slowey, Cathaoirleach
of Donegal County Council
Two of Ireland’s leading Marketing experts, namely, Barry Walsh, Digital Marketing Executive in OSD; and Darragh Doyle, Online Engagement Strategist provided a magnificent insight on topics such as social media, e-mail marketing, SEO, the latest tourism trends, website internationalisation and much more.

Cllr. Terence Slowey Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council commented that, “Donegal Tourism Ltd has a vision and a strategy for the development of the tourism sector in County Donegal. This vision is to develop and promote Donegal as a world class tourism destination on the Wild Atlantic Way.”

Chairman of Donegal Tourism Ltd and Chief Executive of Donegal County Council, Mr. Seamus Neely presented the latest tourism strategies for County Donegal and future plans for 2017 marketing initiatives. “We will continue to promote Donegal to the UK and US market, but will also increase marketing activities towards other EU markets such as France and Germany with plans in place towards internationalisation of our online presence, including aspects such as translation and multi-lingual focused marketing campaigns.”

Seamus Neely, Chief Executive of Donegal County Council/Chairman of Donegal Tourism Ltd
Donegal Tourism would like to thank all those who attended the seminar and encourage businesses to get in touch, register on their database, and have their tourism business listed on the website www.govisitdonegal.com 

This can be done by emailing: info@govisitdonegal.com

Speakers with Donegal Tourism staff L-R: Sarah Meehan, Donegal Tourism; Darragh Doyle; Seamus Neely, CE; Cllr Terence Slowey; Barney McLaughlin; Joan Crawford; Barry Walsh; Iga Lawne, Donegal Tourism; Joy Harron, Donegal Tourism.


Byrne Brothers to Help Promote Donegal to Global Market

They captured the hearts of the nation at the recent Fleadh Cheoil Na hÉireann in Clare performing the Siege of Ennis and have since amassed over 2.8 million views on their Facebook video of it. Now Luca, Finn and Dempsey Byrne from Mountcharles in County Donegal are set to perform to event organizers from both home and abroad.

L-R Sarah Meehan & Barney McLaughlin of Donegal Tourism, Luca, Dempsey & Finn Byrne and Shane Smyth Donegal Tourism
The performances will be one part of the Donegal Tourism  stand, which will be promoting all aspects of the county at the Connect 16 trade show happening at the RDS in Dublin on Wednesday September 28th.  The event itself is expected to attract companies organizing events, conferences and meetings in Ireland over the coming years with Donegal set to display venues, activities and travel options to the county.

Chairman of Donegal Tourism Ltd and Donegal County Council CEO Seamus Neely said ‘this is a wonderful and unique opportunity for the county to present itself to buyers both domestic and international. It has become quite the norm for large multinational companies to reward their employees by bringing them overseas or indeed have their annual conference abroad and there’s every reason why that destination should be Donegal.  The county can offer a wealth of facilities up to 5 star, as well as outdoor activities, its own airport and convenient access to other transport hubs.’

Mr Neely added ‘On the day, 6 hotels from the county will be exhibiting as well as activities and transportation options. And while we can’t bring the county to the RDS a number of fun activities will be available for attendees to try out. Our food stand will carry items that are “uniquely Donegal” with food and drink suppliers from the county providing samples of their produce.’

The Connect 16 event happens on Wednesday 28th September at the RDS in Dublin and attendees can register for tickets on www.connectshowcase.ie



DPWN Publishing Signs Moira Ní Ghallachóir to their “Overcoming Mediocrity” Project

DPWN Publishing Signs Moira Ní Ghallachóir to their “Overcoming Mediocrity” Project
West Chicago, IL – August 15 – DPWN Publishing announces that Moira Ní Ghallachóir, will be a contributing author to their next publication, “Overcoming Mediocrity Volume IV-Remarkable Women”.  The publication is the fourth volume in a series of highly successful motivational books filled with personal, inspirational stories from women who have created significance and impact in their personal and professional lives. 
Moira helps small business owners and entrepreneurs who hate sales - inspire their way to more clients, customers and profits without being salesy.  She wants them to have the increased profits they yearn for, that fuels a life they love ... doing what they love!"
"I walked out on my 9-5 job in London four years ago, because I felt that my soul was dying.  I moved back home to Donegal - a picturesque area in a tiny corner of Ireland. Despite that its beauty was unappreciated, with many businesses closing. I was determined to do what I could to bring it back to life. I began to work with business owners in the area, to use their talents, resources and abilities to not only turn Donegal around, but turn their businesses around. Because I helped those business owners to see a bigger vision for themselves, my own business took off!"
Moira now brings her inspired, dynamic, successful brand of business mentoring to the U.S., to show American entrepreneurs a bigger vision for their own businesses, and a powerful, authentic path to inspire their way to more contacts, contracts, clients and cash! She also books one-of-a-kind business retreats to beautiful Donegal, for entrepreneurs to refresh, renew, and rediscover the power of their own business vision.
For more information about Moira Ní Ghallachóir please feel free to visit her website www.mng.ie, call +353 83 123 0529 mngDonegal Skype or email at Moira@mng.ie.
“Overcoming Mediocrity” offers insight from authors of various industries on:
•    Banishing self-sabotaging beliefs to create an empowered life
•    Creating a successful and well balanced life
•    Lessons of faith, love and joy
The publication in progress, “Overcoming Mediocrity Volume IV--Remarkable Women” follows the first three volumes of “Overcoming Mediocrity” from DPWN Publishing: “Overcoming Mediocrity Volume I--Dynamic Women” published in 2013, “Overcoming Mediocrity Volume II-Courageous Women” published in 2014 and “Overcoming Mediocrity Volume III--Strong Women” published in 2015. DPWN Publishing is a subsidiary of the Dynamic Professional Women’s Network.  
Past volumes of “Overcoming Mediocrity” books, both hard cover and kindle versions, can be found at www.amazon.com.
About the Dynamic Professional Women’s Network
The Dynamic Professional Women’s Network, Inc. (DPWN) is an industry exclusive, networking organization for professional, dynamic women to create partnerships, generate ideas, alliances, and revenues. DPWN is based in the Chicago area with chapters nationwide. For more information about DPWN, visit www.OurDPWN.com. To learn more about becoming an “Overcoming Mediocrity” author, visit www.dpwnpublishing.com.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Christie Ruffino
Dynamic Professional Women's Network, Inc.
publishing@ourdpwn.com
630-336-3773 

A Taste of Donegal Food Festival 2016

A warm welcome awaits you in Donegal Town on the Wild Atlantic Way. Everyone is invited to attend the biggest Gastronomic Food Extravaganza Party of the North West equally rivalling the major Food Events on the Island of Ireland.

From humble beginnings we now attract Food Lovers from all over the world to our beautiful tented village on the Pier in Donegal Town with the backdrop of the Blue Stack Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. The success of this three day celebration of great food and drink is due to the vibrant personalities of the celebrity and local chefs who will be cooking up a storm over the weekend.



Foodies will particularly enjoy 120 plus food and drink exhibitors, top hotels and restaurants who will showcase and sell artisan produce, wine and craft beers from all over Ireland and the UK, with tastings from an unbelievable variety of food ranging from, confectionary, specialist foods, meat, fish, and dairy products as well as high profile cookery demonstrations with World Class talented and stylish celebrity chefs:

Catherine Fulvio TV Presenter, Food Writer, Award Winning Proprietor of Ballyknocken House & Cookery School, Neven Maguire, Mc Nean House the Nations Favourite, TV3’S The Restaurant and Donegal‘s Food Ambassador Gary O’ Hanlon,  Supervalu Ambassador and more recently winner of “ The best Culinary Show in the world at the New York Festival 2015 Kevin Dundon, Paul Kelly “The Great Irish Bake Off” and the Merrion Hotel Dublin,  Edward Hayden Tv3’s Ireland AM Chef and Food Writer, Chef Brian Mc Dermott “ The No Salt Chef”  Shane Smith Head Pastry Chef ,Fallon and Byrne Dublin and In-House Chef for Coole Swan Irish Liquor. Comedy Cookery Theatre by Joe Shannon Radission Blu Sligo and TV3 & Comedian Frank Forde, Maire Dufficey  Bord Bia will also be on hand to share her expertise from the Irish food business. We will also have our Local Celebrity Chefs Anthony Armstrong, Colin Mc Kee, Martin Anderson, and Zack Gallagher.

Exhibitors and Chefs: www.atasteofdonegal.com

The event will also include master classes by leading experts Coole Swan, Brendan and Sinead O’ Reilly Donegal Brewing Company, Ciaran Kennedy Hunny Pots,  Sian Breslin Donegal Manor and Cookery School and Sians Plan, Suzanne Bogan Waste Awareness Officer Donegal County Council, Anna Jane Kingston Food Blogger Thyme -To – Eat who will showcase their specialist skills in planning healthy meals without spending a fortune, recipes to keep the body healthy and happy all with some key messages on waste prevention in particular food waste, cocktail making using fresh fruits, proper ice, decent spirits and balanced measures and specialised craft beer tasting, “Hunny Pots” tray bakes made from 100% pure and natural local Wexford honey.
Experts: www.atasteofdonegal.com
The 2016 A Passion To Inspire Chefs Competition will take place under the watchful eye of Anthony Armstrong a judge from the World Association of Chefs Society , Peter Griffths M.B.E., President British Culinary Federation, Gerard M. Molloy American Culinary Federation and Mr Bob Mc Donald, a judge from the Master Chefs of Great Britain. Entrants will be required to cook and present two different dishes, a starter and a main course, each for two covers, showcasing the best of Irish produce.

Competitions: www.ataasteofdonegal.com

Head lining this year’s entertainment The singing Chefs are guaranteed to entertain the crowds with melodic tones that would fill any grumbly bellies! These culinary wizards will sing and play all day and may get a little too close for comfort… but if you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen! Listen to wonderful live Swing and Jazz music from Adrian Cullen the “Dean Martin Tribute Show” and classical operatic from Eugene Ginty “The Singing Chef” There will be lots of crowd interaction amongst the young and old when larger than life vintage stilt walker Lady Longbottom arrives straight out of the early 1900′s with her old world charm, vintage parasol and exquisite costume. Expect honking horns, juggling tricks and most of all expect the unexpected from a unique roving clown on a mini penny farthing bicycle accompanied by two of Disney’s much loved characters Mickey & Minnie. Visitors watch your back! No one is safe! Another great attraction will be free admission to  Donegal Town Castle all day Sunday 28th August.

Entertainment: www.atasteofdonegal.com

This year’s Festival opens on Friday 26th August at 4pm. The Official Opening will be preformed by Donegal’s Person of the year Deidre Mc Glone, Harvey’s Point Country Hotel at 7.00 pm. The MC for the evening will be TV3’s Star and General Manager of Harvey’s Point Country Hotel Mr. Noel Cunningham. The opening evening will conclude with Pains Fireworks staging a professional ceremonial display of cracking colour over Donegal Bay.

Click on the image for Full Programme of Events 2016

A Taste of Donegal is truly a food lovers dream and will showcase Donegal Town and the surrounding area as a region of high quality restaurants and hotels, with a vibrant and growing Artisan Food Production Family. With the extensive variety of products available throughout the marquee your palette will explode from the diverse tastes which will leave you coming back again and again. To quote Chairperson Ernan Mc Gettigan “ Come along and experience the wonderful food and drink variety available , we promise to tantalise your taste buds and as our caption says, Discover, Dine, and Delight in Donegal Town over this festival weekend and indeed every time you visit this region”

Admission is €5.00 per adult, €1.00 per child, €12.00 for a weekend pass.

For the full programme of events and regular updates, visit: www.atasteofdonegal.com and find A Taste of Donegal on Facebook.

Contact details:
Donegal Town Community Chamber Exhibitors – Businesses – Visitors
Tel. +353 (0) 74 97 23760
Email: development@donegaltown.ie

For all things Donegal check out: www.govisitdonegal.com

WIN a trip to Ireland from the US!

Incomparable in beauty and charm, Donegal, one of the leading tourism spots in Ireland is packed full of both magic and history. Every part of the county is loaded with culture whether you’re standing 2000 feet above sea level on Sliabh Liag or watching over the courtyard from the window of castles built in the 15th Century.

Irish House - WIN a trip to Ireland from the US.
Click to watch the video
Everywhere you look holds abundant beauty from the nature preserves in Glenveagh National Park, to the clear expanse which is Donegal Bay. We at Irish House are offering an opportunity to experience these wonders firsthand. Indeed, if you’re a history enthusiast, a first time explorer or someone in need of a relaxing break – Donegal is without a doubt the place which will fulfill your expectations.

Irish House & Lough Eske Castle Hotel along with Aer Lingus are giving 2 lucky people the chance to win a trip along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way staying at a 5 star Castle Hotel.

Visit www.irishhouse.com to enter.

For all things Donegal visit: www.govisitdonegal.com 

Image courtesy of Irish House

Image courtesy of Irish House

The Many Faces of Donegal

For many years now, County Donegal has been firmly established as one of the premier tourism destinations within Ireland. Throughout this time, Donegal has been many things to many people. Anyone who visits this truly unique county, will take away with them memories and experiences that are highly personalised that will live long after the encounter.

So what is it about Donegal that makes it so special?

Donegal is a county of vast expanses, extremes and excitement. Situated in the North West of Ireland, the ingredient of the tourist experience of this magical county is the people who inhabit it. Indeed, it is a testament to the friendliness and welcoming nature of the people of Donegal, that many who now reside there are not necessarily native to the region. Many of these people of the ‘new’ Donegal have since become some of the county’s greatest ambassadors, at home and abroad. And why not?! It is the jewel in the crown of a country renowned for its tourist attractions. A cradle of the Irish tradition of music, song and craic that almost permeates the countryside.

When one visits Donegal, the unique welcome that is afforded the visitor does not come from its rugged landscape, nor its many islands, or from its glorious coastline either. It comes from the greeting of the lone walker on one of its 13 Blue Flag beaches or mountain walks. From the chatter of the family descending Errigal mountain. From the socialising shopper in any of its bustling towns. 
From the assured guidance of the surf instructor in the world class surf of Bundoran.  From the jovial banter of publican and punter savouring one of the county’s fine craft beers. From the shrieks of excited children in any of its numerous playgrounds and adventure parks.


Donegal is one of three counties of Ulster that is not in Northern Ireland. It is the most northerly point of the island that remains in the south! It is a county that is steeped in Irish culture and heritage that transcends borders and traditions. The county’s many regions are connected by many newly established cycle routes and the longest stretch of the famous Wild Atlantic Way, a coastal tourist route that spans the western seaboard of Ireland.

Donegal is also a mystical county of ancient sites and folklore, where little minds can be fired up to take flight across the realms of imagination. A place where all cultures, old and new, are accepted wholeheartedly. Where smiling faces are generous with their time and with their surroundings. It’s as if they realise just how special this extreme North West corner of Europe is; and want to share its treasures and secrets with all who take the time to take in the splendour of the county that has so much to offer.

 Donegal is an area of outstanding natural beauty but is also a county of people who are the face of modern Ireland. Optimistic and open-minded, with an eye for detail who excel in customer service. Where luxury accommodation, superb cuisine, and easily accessible amenities are part and parcel of the visitor experience.




A county where you can take in the breath-taking scenery of places like Malin Head, Fanad Lighthouse, and the sea cliffs of Slieve League as you begin your Wild Atlantic Way adventure, or settle into the welcoming cosiness of a relaxing stay in some of the most unspoilt countryside in the whole of Ireland. A county with an array of activities that are second to none, and a variety of regional landscapes within its vastness that make it appear like a miniature province. All that is left is for you to explore it, create your own memories and discover the many faces of Donegal.

Experience a place where everyone feels welcome and everyone feels at home.  Donegal, has it all!