Local business ‘Larkins of Newmills’ launch ‘Larkins Wild Atlantic Way Tours

The Wild Atlantic Way initiative aims to package the west of Ireland experience and establish a route of international standing that can be ranked alongside the great driving routes of the world.

It has the potential to become the European equivalent of the Great Ocean Road in Australia and the Garden Route in South Africa.  Larkins Wild Atlantic way tours will link the Donegal coastline and landscapes which it has influenced.  Donegal has so much to offer in areas of the history, heritage and culture of the beautiful places and people along the way. Larkins of Newmills would like to open tourism up to parts of the county that are forgotten by most tour operators.  So many tours/tourists come as far as Donegal town or may venture to Glenveagh but the rest of the county is not as well promoted, so does not attract tourists.

Larkinn's aim by these tours that we will showcase the amazing hidden jewels from Slieve Leauge to Kilclooney Dolmen, to Fanad Lighthouse, Doon Rock, Lough Salt, Rathmullan, Inishowen and Bloodyforeland etc. the list is endless, and that the rest of Donegal may benefit from Tourism also and end the use of the term for Donegal as ‘the forgotten county’.   This is our chance to show the world that Donegal is one of the most beautiful places on our planet. 

If businesses would like to promote themselves on our map then please get in touch with Larkins of Newmills on 0749126697.  Also they are looking for local craft workers to get in touch to display crafts for sale in our premises.  Further golfing & fishing tours as well as other products that aim to promote Donegal are awaiting launch over the coming weeks.  We are inviting all businesses to our new product launch evening on Thursday 26^th June 2014 at 8pm in Larkins of Newmills.  

Grianán of Aileach

A Little History  

As he took in the views across Lough Swilly and Lough Foyle, and out onto the stunning landscape of the peninsula that separates both, Saint Patrick reflected on his return to Ireland; the land of his slavery. For as far as the eye could see the tribal clans made their way towards this historic royal site. The pilgrimage to the Royal Seat of the Ui Neill, the northern clan of the dynasty of Niall of the Nine Hostages, his former kidnapper; was an event that would change the lives of these people forever.

On this day, Saint Patrick, now a missionary bishop would baptise the local chieftain leader, Eoghan, who would give his name to this spectacular peninsula. Tonight, there would be much feasting as he had told Eoghan that upon baptism his people would be elevated to being “people of the Lord, and sons of God”. The hill fort and its ramparts is the centre of the political world of the region; a place of inauguration of kings, and ceremonial splendour that has been used for hundreds of years and will continue to be of historical importance for centuries to come.

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This fifth century event is just one of many historical events that have taken place at the site of this designated national monument. Grianán of Aileach has been the royal seat of the high kings of the Ui Neill and the clans of Ulster for centuries and sits just fifteen minutes east of Letterkenny on the main Derry road. It has been built up and demolished on several occasions through plunder and pillage by Vikings and Normans; and also from acts of war by the rival Gaelic chieftains of Munster. 

Nevertheless, this stunning monument of the history and culture of the people of Donegal, still sits proudly on top of the hill. Its name is said to mean “the Stone Palace of the Sunny View” and on a clear day there is probably not a better panoramic view in Ireland, as counties Donegal, Derry and Tyrone can be seen. This magnificent ancient site, which costs nothing to visit, also has on its site just to the south of the fort, a well dedicated to our Patron Saint, known as Saint Patrick’s Well.

This site should be visited by every native and visitor to Donegal. Why not let yourself stand on these historical ramparts and take in the views that were marvelled at by your ancestors and let your mind drift back to times past.

Let 2015 become the year where you and your family truly connect with Donegal. Over the coming weeks and months we hope to showcase the various regions of Donegal; not only for the visitor, but also for our inhabitants. This summer, let’s get outdoors and enjoy what we’ve got in this spectacular county, and make your visit to Grianán of Aileach the first of many adventures that will invigorate your mind, body and soul.

For more information about what Donegal has to offer check out: www.govisitdonegal.com 

Explore one of the Ireland's most intriguing highlights- The Donegal Gaeltacht and Donegal Islands

The Gaeltacht

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.

Gabhla - Gola Island

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.

 Gola Island Ferry Service

Tel: +3538387 660 7003

Inis Bó Finne - Inishbofin Island

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.

Toraigh - Tory Island

Inhabited for 4,000 years, this Gaeltacht Island has its own distinctive Irish Culture and tradition which is preserved by remoteness. Historical sites include a round tower, a ruined church, the Tau Cross (one of only two found in 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.

Árainn Mór - Arranmore Island

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 Donegal Mountains as a backdrop or visit some of the islands lovely beaches. A place to get away from it all and yet mainland Donegal is just a 15 minute boat journey.

Arranmore Island ferries

Tel: +35383 749520532

www.arranmoreferry.com

Arranmore Car & Passenger

Fast Ferry Service

Tel: +3538387 3171810

www.arranmorefastferry.com

Inis Fraoich

Inishfree Island, approximately one square mile of sandy beaches and beautiful scenery, the island was home to thirty six families in a tightly-knit, caring community. Subsequently deserted, the island has been re-inhabited recently and Inis Fraoich’s new residents are eager to help visitors benefit from the spiritual atmosphere that seems to pervade this unique place. Cultural courses are organised on the island at specific times and cover topics such as music, dancing, arts, crafts, poetry, nature and heritage.

Inishfree Charters, Burtonport Pier 

                                                                                    Tel: +35383 87 9253534 or 086 2209508

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