things to do
Inishowen Attractions
The Inishowen Peninsula, a hidden gem nestled at the very top of Ireland in County Donegal, is an idyllic haven that captures the very essence of Ireland’s raw beauty and serene countryside. The peninsula itself feels like an isolated world away from the rush of city life, with sprawling green fields, impressive mountain ranges, and the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean surrounding it.
Driving the Wild Atlantic Way or the Inishowen 100 on the peninsula is an absolute must, providing stunning sea views and leading you to attractions like the iconic Fort Dunree or the remarkable Mamore Gap. The scenery shifts from rugged cliff edges to pristine sandy beaches in the blink of an eye. The captivating Malin Head, Ireland’s northernmost point, offers panoramic seascapes and a chance to feel the bracing Atlantic winds.
Inishowen is teeming with history, too. Sites such as the ancient Grianan of Aileach, a stone fort atop a hill offering panoramic views, and the Doagh Famine Village, providing a haunting glimpse into Ireland’s past, are not to be missed.
The people of Inishowen Peninsula embody the quintessential Irish warmth and friendliness. The towns, like Buncrana and Carndonagh, are brimming with traditional Irish pubs where you can enjoy live local music and a pint of Guinness.
Every step in Inishowen seems to offer a new and breathtaking vista, a tangible sense of history, and an encounter with friendly locals. It’s a place where the spirit of Ireland is alive and palpable, and where each day promises a new adventure.
Here are some of the main attractions you might want to check out:
The Inishowen 100
This is a stunning scenic loop of the Inishowen Peninsula that takes you to many of the area’s top attractions. The route is approximately 100 miles long and includes untouched beaches, quaint villages, and postcard-worthy mountain views.
Derry ~ Londonderry
Located just 10 minutes away, Derry is a vibrant, historic city. The city itself brims with numerous attractions. Enclosed by beautifully preserved 17th-century walls stretching over a mile in length, Derry offers a journey through time with its rich culture and history.
Wild Ireland
Only 8-minutes from our B&B is the enchanting world of Wild Ireland. With a variety of rescued animals, including brown bears, wolves, and lynx, it’s an unforgettable adventure for animal lovers.
Fort Dunree
This is a historic site just down the road from Buncrana. The museum is considered to have one of the best collections of coast artillery guns in the world. There are also underground bunkers that house a diverse range of artifacts.
White Sand Beaches
Some of the more popular things to do in Inishowen revolve around its stunning beaches. Some of the best ones to check out include Kinnagoe Bay, Five Finger Strand, Culdaff Beach, Buncrana Beach, Stroove Beach, Lisfannon Beach, Tullagh Strand, and Pollan Strand.
Malin Head
This is the most northerly tip of all of Ireland and is known for its breathtaking coastal scenery. At the very tip of the headland is Banbas Crown, home to the derelict Lloyds Signal Tower, built by the British sometime in 1805 to guard against a possible French invasion.
Glenevin Waterfall
It’s a stunning waterfall located in Clonmany, surrounded by beautiful greenery and peaceful walking trails.
Grianán of Aileach
This is an ancient hillfort that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The stone fort dates back to 1700 BC, making it one of the oldest structures in Ireland.
Mamore Gap
This is a steep, winding road that offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The road is part of the “Inishowen 100” and is known for its challenging twists and turns.