Inishowen Peninsula is the biggest peninsula in the whole of Ireland, and can be found in the northeast of County Donegal. It is surrounded by vast oceans and sea loughs, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north, and Lough Foyle to the east and Lough Swilly to the west. It is a stunningly beautiful location with lots to offer with a rich culture and heritage, challenging sports and family fun activities.
The area is remote, rugged, unspoilt and isolated but this only serves to make it a peaceful and exceptional place to visit, allowing visitors to escape from lifes everyday hustle and bustle. The Atlantic views extend for miles and miles, and there are endless sandy white beaches offering hours of enjoyment.
The peninsula is home to Ireland’s most northerly point, Malin Head, a wild sea ravaged coast with stunning seascapes. Lagg sand dunes are also found here and are some of the tallest in Europe. The interior of the peninsula comprises of low mountains that are almost all covered in bogland. There is a lot of birdlife here, the craggy cliffs are popular nesting grounds for many species of bird. There are more than two hundred species of native and migrant birds found here.
An import and historic ringfort, the Grianan of Aileach which was the royal seat of the King of Ailech stands at the entrance to the peninsula. Situated 800 feet above sea level, the site is thought to date back 4,000 years and the current fort structure to the 5th century. Many notable and important historic figures are said to have been guests here including St Patrick and the Princes of Aileach. There are many other ancient sites, historic monument and ruined castles to be found in the area.
A common sight in this area are picture perfect traditional thatched cottages with their white washed walls, many having stood for hundreds of years and passed down through generations, others turned into quaint holiday homes.
There is an Inishowen drive that is signposted and covers one hundred miles, of stunning natural landscapes and superb coastline, it is the longest signposted scenic drive. Roads lined with a tapering line of grass take visitors through valleys, as they twist and turn their way into bustling fishing valleys and colourful towns. The area is rich in traditional arts and crafts, take time to explore the goods available. Great food and lively entertainment abounds in this region.
There are lots of opportunities to get involved in exhilarating outdoor pursuits like kayaking, mountaineering or surfing.
Inishowen Peninsula offers a diverse and exciting experience, with no shortage of things to see and do as well as the warmest welcome.