Bunbeg Holiday Homes
Bunbeg, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal. Rep. Of Ireland
Phone +353 (0)75 31401 or Fax +353 (0)75 32749
Attractions
Errigal Mountain is Donegals highest mountain peak. Errigal Mountain is one of the most popular climbs in Ireland. The ascent to Errigal in Dún Lúiche is clearly marked and this climb can be started at Mín na gCapóg near Dún Lúiche. Be sure to bring with you a good pair of Hiking boots/shoes and warm clothes if planning on ascending Errigal. Also make sure someone knows you are climbing in case of sudden fog or low cloud. Even though Errigal is the highest peak in Donegal it is a relatively easy climb and the visitor will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the three neighbouring parishes on reaching the summit. Other popular mountain climbs include An Mhucais and Sliabh Sneachta.
Cnoc Fola has some breathtaking scenery for your eyes to see. Legend states that Balor of the Evil Eye was eventually slain by his grandson Lugh Lámh Fhada on the slopes of Cnoc Fola. Some people believe that the blood which came from Balor's evil eye gave the hill its name. Others claim that it derives its name from the fact that the rock takes on a warm, ruddy hue when lit by the sitting sun.
There is a 9 hole Golf Course at Machaire Gathlán, Gaoth Dobhair. The modern clubhouse provides all the necessary facilities. The course is open all year to visitors on payment of moderate green fees. Other 9 hole Golf Courses situated nearby include Cruit Island Golf Club and Cloughaneely Club in Falcarragh.
This area is a fisherman's haven with ample facilities available for fresh water fishing and deep sea angling.
There is an abundance of safe sandy beaches to be found right along the coast. Óstán Ghaoth Dobhair have indoor leisure facilities which include a 17m swimming pool, jacuzzi and health club equipped with Nautilus health and fitness equipment.
There is a wide variety of evening entertainment available in the local hotels, bars, lounges and clubs, ranging from traditional Irish music, ballad sessions, discos and céilí. Even enjoy a local GAA match in the nearby pitch, where you can see some of the future county players....
Various festivals are held in and around the North West throughout the year, the most notable being:
Bunbeg Harbour to Tory Island Ferry timetable (Updated)
Tory Island is located some 9 miles off the coast of North West Donegal. According to legend, Tory was the home of the afore mentioned Balor, the one eyed celtic god of darkness. The island has been inhabited since pre-historic times and there are many features of historical and archaeological interest relating to the Iron Age and the Early Christian Era in Ireland. Such features include the remnants of a four walled fort at the east of the island, a round tower, a T-shaped cross, which is one of only two such crosses in Ireland, the other being in Co. Clare, Saint John's Altar and the ruins of ancient monastic buildings. Saint Colm Cille built a monastery on Tory in the sixth century, which thrived until mid 1595 when George Bingham, Queen Elizabeth's Governor of Connaught raided it and destroyed everything he could not take away. Tory is the last remaining place in Ireland where you will find a King! The present monarch is Patsy Dan Mac Ruairí, who acts as the island's Ambassador.
Conditions are excellent for wind surfing along the many beaches. "Surfs up dude"
There is ample scope for boating but experience of the open sea is necessary as Donegal is bordered by the tremendous Atlantic Ocean and seas can become rough very quickly.
There is freedom to walk almost anywhere you wish in the open country, along the beaches and to ramble among the mountains and valleys. The Ulster way, which passes through various parts of the Donegal Gaeltacht, has a large portion of its route marked. More information on these walking routes can be obtained from Dunlewey Lakeside Centre at: +353 (0)75 31 699.
This is one of the largest national parks in the country covering an area of approx. 14,000 hectares of mountains, lakes, glens and woods. The Park has also one of the largest herds of red deer in the country. The central feature is a nineteenth century castle surrounded by the famous Glenveagh Gardens. Facilities include a visitors centre, audio-visual show, exhibitions, restaurant, garden and Castle tea room, nature walks and garden tours. The park is located within easy reach of Gaoth Dobhair approx 20mins drive. A great place to bring the family for a relaxing day.
Donegal Harvest Rally takes place in Gweedor each Autumn. The rallys main point of call is Seaview Hotel which is .5km from the holiday homes or 5mins walking distance. This event is part of the Circuit Of Ireland Rally and is a spectucular event. Book early for this time period as houses are often unavailable for this time period.
This small area of Donegal is home to many popular Irish Atrists including Altan, Aine , Clanad, Daniel O'Donnell and Enya. All are originally from within 20mi of Bunbeg. You can even go down and visit Daniel's "Mammy's House"!!!