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5 Days In Ireland From Donegal (‘Slow-Trip’ For Those Using A Car + Low Fitness)

5 Days In Ireland From Donegal (‘Slow-Trip’ For Those Using A Car + Low Fitness)

Planning a 5-day Ireland itinerary can be a pain in the backside… So, we’ve done all of the hard work for you!

We’ve spent 25+ years travelling around Ireland and the itinerary below leans on that experience and the many mistakes we made along the way!

In a nutshell, this 5-day itinerary:

  • Starts and ends in Donegal
  • Has been meticulously planned
  • Has an hour-by-hour itinerary for each day to save you time/hassle
  • Follows logical routes that take you to hidden gems, tourist favourites and great pubs and restaurants

Who this itinerary will suit

An overview of this itinerary

Now, before you scroll down, take 10 seconds to look at the graphic above – each of our road trip itineraries have been tailored to specific needs.

This road trip is specifically for those of you:

  • Starting in/near Donegal
  • Using your car/a rental
  • Looking to explore at a slow pace
  • With a low level of fitness (i.e. it avoids long walks and hikes)
  • Remember, we have hundreds of different itineraries here if this one doesn’t suit you

An overview of this itinerary

map holder image

The map above gives you a very high-level overview of where this route will take you.

It uses several bases (e.g. Belfast for 2 nights) and provides you with day-long road trips you can head off on, so you avoid having to change accommodation constantly.

Now, I’ll stop rambling on – here’s a day-by-day insight into each of the days below!

Day 1: Arrive in Donegal 

Donegal Airport

Photos via Google Maps and Shutterstock

It’s day one, so first of all, welcome to Ireland! Today you’ll land at Donegal airport, where you’ll pick up your rental car, ready for a 5-day adventure across Ireland. For today, we’re going to assume that your flight gets in around midday.

Once you’ve got the keys and loaded up your luggage, it’s time to hit the road. Our final destination for today is the delightful coastal town of Dunfanaghy, where you’ll be spending two nights. Here are a few ideas for accommodation.

Our Dunfanaghy accommodation recommendations

Stop 1: Lunch in Annagry 

Time & Tide Annagry

Photos via Time & Tide on FB

Dunfanaghy is a 40-minute drive from the airport on a road that cuts through the moody yet beautiful scenery of Ireland’s northwest. But you’re probably hungry after the journey, so let’s sort some lunch out first.

Time & Tide in Annagry is the perfect place to grab a bite after a long flight. It’s just a 6-minute drive from the airport and offers a selection of delicious baked goods, soups, and what many claim to be the best toasties in the land. They also brew up a superb cup of coffee, ideal if you’re in need of a little pick-me-up.

As for parking, there’s a spacious, free car park right next to the cafe.

Stop 2: Horn Head Drive 

Horn Head

Photos via Shutterstock

The mighty Horn Head in Donegal is a fine spot to soak up views and ocean air and it’s a superb place to get a first taste for the type of adventure that this trip promises!

Jutting out into the North Atlantic with some seriously epic views, Horn Head is home to sweeping panoramas, dramatic cliffs and even a WW2 lookout tower.

It’s about a 55-minute drive from Time & Tide, and there are a couple of parking spots. If you put “Horn Head Lookout Point” into Google Maps, it’ll take you to the main viewpoint, which is essentially the end of the road.

Hop out of the car and enjoy the views, but stay away from the edge, it’s a long way down and it can get very misty very fast up there!

As you drive back, keep an eye open for a left turning with a cattle grid. Follow this epic cliff-top road to the Wild Atlantic Way viewpoint for more incredible views.

Continue along the road as it loops around the headland before rejoining the main road into Dunfanaghy. The roads are extremely narrow, steep, and windy at times, so take it slow and enjoy the scenery.

Stop 3: Dunfanaghy

Dunfanaghy

Photos via Shutterstock

The charming village of Dunfanaghy is about a 20-minute drive from Horn Head and is home to breathtaking beaches and several excellent places to eat and drink.

Plus, it’s just a stone’s throw from many of Donegal’s top attractions, making it an ideal base for our first couple of days in Ireland.

Once you arrive, check into your accommodation, freshen up, and feel free to explore the charming little village.

If time allows, it’s worth checking out the Workhouse, where you can step back in time and have a nosey around the craft shop, see the Famine Exhibition, kick back with a coffee in the cafe or head off on the Heritage Trail.

The Heritage Trail is accompanied by an audio guide that offers an insight into local points of interest.

Stop 4: Dinner, drinks and live music 

Oyster Bar

Photos via the Oyster Bar on FB

After exploring the village, it’s time to get some dinner and drinks in, and perhaps even a little live music to celebrate your first night in Ireland.

Our Dunfanaghy food recommendations

There are some fantastic places to grab dinner in Dunfanaghy. The Rusty Oven Pizzeria is always a winner. They cook up tasty pizzas in the wood-fired oven. It’s easy to find from Market Square – just follow your nose! In summer, the atmosphere in their sheltered undercover garden is sensational.

Cafe Arnou is another good shout, with excellent fish and chips, while Lizzie’s is the place to be for seafood. The chowder is heavenly.

Our Dunfanaghy pub recommendations

You’ll find some great pubs in Dunfanaghy too. If you’re looking for an authentic Irish pub experience, Patsy Dans is a fantastic choice, boasting a low ceiling, a real turf fire, and a homely atmosphere.

You can also order pizza from the Rusty Oven here. It echoes the beat of live music and trad sessions on most evenings, so bring your best singing voice. They serve a top-notch pint of Guinness too.

The Oyster Bar is also worth checking out. A place where Irish music, cold beer, and good food come together, this busy social hub is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. There’s also a pool table.

Molly’s Bar is another good option in the town. There’s a nice beer garden to the rear of this family-friendly pub on Main Street.

Day 2: Donegal Castles

Doe Castle

Photos via Shutterstock

Today we’re heading out into the gorgeous Donegal countryside to explore some of the incredible castles dotted throughout the county (there are heaps of castles in Donegal).

As well as castles, we have some natural wonders to enjoy. This should be a fairly leisurely day out in the countryside, with plenty of history to soak up.

Enjoy a hearty full Irish breakfast at your accommodation, or head into the village for something. Muck ‘n’ Muffins is a delightful coffee shop above a ground-floor pottery studio that offers a superb breakfast menu.

Stop 1: Glenveagh National Park & Castle

Glenveagh National Park

Photos via Shutterstock

Our first stop for the day is Glenveagh National Park, a gorgeous 16,000 hectares of parkland in County Donegal that takes in loughs, forests, rugged mountains, waterfalls, and a castle. It’s only a 25-minute drive from Dunfanaghy, and there’s a large car park at the entrance, complete with toilets and a visitor centre.

If you want to visit Glenveagh Castle, there’s a shuttle bus which runs regularly between the car park and the castle. You can also walk or cycle there, with an easy-going 3.5 km walk along the shores of Lough Veagh. This will typically take about 40 minutes and is well-signed. You can also rent a bike and cycle to the castle.

The fairytale castle is also a wonder to behold. It’s well worth strolling the grounds and gardens before taking a guided tour of the inside. The tour generally lasts about 45 minutes, but it’s worth planning 2 to 3 hours here to fully enjoy both the park and the castle.

Stop 2: Lunch at Glenveagh Tea Rooms

Glenveagh Tea Rooms

Photos via Synge & Byrne on FB

The castle also boasts a lovely little cafe, the ideal place for an early lunch or a late brunch. You’ll find a range of cafe classics, including sandwiches, wraps, sausage rolls, and quiche, as well as a huge variety of cakes. They also do a great cup of coffee.

Stop 3: Doe Castle

Doe Castle

Photos via Shutterstock

Once the stronghold of the MacSweeneys, the fairy-tale-like Doe Castle stands right on the edge of Sheephaven Bay. Overlooking the ocean, the 15th-century structure is an incredible historical landmark to visit while exploring northwest Donegal. As you drive towards the castle, you’ll see a large parking area at the end of the road, as well as a small coffee shop.

The castle grounds are open all year round, and they’re free to enter. The guided tours only operate during the summer months, however. The tours take you through the inside rooms of the castle, including the tower and hall. It’s the best way to really get a nice idea of what it was like during its glory days as the stronghold of the MacSweeneys and during the more tumultuous 17th century. Guided tours are just €3 per person.

Stop 4: Marble Hill

Marble Hill

Photo left: Gareth Wray. Others courtesy Failte Ireland

Marble Hill in Donegal really is hard to beat. During the autumn and winter, it’s lovely and quiet, and you’ll often have the whole place to yourself. During the summer, the area comes alive with people flocking to what’s arguably one of the best beaches in Donegal.

It’s a 15-minute drive from Doe Castle, and you’ll find parking on Marble Hill Ct, the road that flanks the strand. There are plenty of spaces to be had on the sandy roadside by the beach. Lifeguards patrol during the summer months, and it’s a top spot for swimming and surfing. 

It’s also a great place for a nice gentle stroll with an ice cream from The Shack.

Stop 5: Back to Dunfanaghy for the night

The Rusty Oven

Photos via The Rusty Oven on FB

It’s an 8-minute drive back to Dunfanaghy from Marble Beach. After a fairly active day, you’ll probably want to head back to your accommodation to freshen up, before hitting the town for dinner and a few well-earned pints.

Stop 6: Dinner, drinks and live music

Oyster Bar

Photos via the Oyster Bar on FB

Once you’ve had a breather, head back to Dunfanaghy’s main street to enjoy a well-deserved dinner.

Our Dunfanaghy food recommendations

There are some fantastic places to grab dinner in Dunfanaghy. The Rusty Oven Pizzeria is always a winner. They cook up tasty pizzas in the wood-fired oven. It’s easy to find from Market Square – just follow your nose! In summer, the atmosphere in their sheltered undercover garden is sensational.

Cafe Arnou is another good shout, with excellent fish and chips, while Lizzie’s is the place to be for seafood. The chowder is heavenly.

Our Dunfanaghy pub recommendations

You’ll find some great pubs in Dunfanaghy too. If you’re looking for an authentic Irish pub experience, Patsy Dans is a fantastic choice, boasting a low ceiling, a real turf fire, and a homely atmosphere.

You can also order pizza from the Rusty Oven here. It echoes the beat of live music and trad sessions on most evenings, so bring your best singing voice. They serve a top-notch pint of Guinness too.

The Oyster Bar is also worth checking out. A place where Irish music, cold beer, and good food come together, this busy social hub is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. There’s also a pool table.

Molly’s Bar is another good option in the town. There’s a nice beer garden to the rear of this family-friendly pub on Main Street.

Day 3: The Donegal Coast 

Fanad Lighthouse

Photos via Shutterstock

Today we leave Dunfanaghy and head to Ardara, arguably one of the most charming towns in Donegal.

Before we get there, though, we’ll enjoy a nice drive along Donegal’s gorgeous coastline, exploring the sights and attractions of Rosguill and Fanad Peninsulas in north Donegal.

We’ll spend two nights in Ardara, so be sure to check out some of our top choices in terms of accommodation.

We’ve got a busy day ahead, so be sure to enjoy a hearty breakfast at your accommodation.

Our Ardara accommodation recommendations

  • Places in the town: Atlantic Lodge (on the main street – superb reviews) and Hillhead House (a gorgeous, cosy spot with great reviews)
  • Places outside of the town: Ashling House (top reviews and a 2-minute drive from town) and Woodhill House (superb reviews and a 3-minute drive from town)

Stop 1: Downings Beach

Downings Beach

Photos via Shutterstock

Our first stop is a 30-minute drive away to Downings Blue Flag Beach. This stunning horseshoe-shaped bay with golden sand marks the beginning of the Wild Atlantic Drive around the Rosguill Peninsula.

There’s an easily accessible car park just off the Downings’ main street, so feel free to take a wander along the soft sands and paddle in the sea, or perhaps enjoy a swim if you’re feeling brave!

Otherwise, it’s well worth pulling over for a bit and admiring the scenery before heading off to our next stop.

Stop 2: The Atlantic Drive

Atlantic Drive Downings

Photos via Shutterstock

From Downings, you’re going to follow a route known as the ‘Atlantic Drive’, which will take you right the way around the peninsula, past some outstanding scenery.

The Atlantic Drive takes you around the Rosguill Peninsula, and you can kick it off from Downings. It follows an easy-to-follow route (see map in this guide) and takes in some breathtaking scenery.

The drive itself only takes around an hour, but allow more if you plan on stopping off along the way (you should!).

Stop 3: Lunch in Downings

The Galley

Photos via The Galley on FB

For lunch, head back to the seaside village of Downings, this time a 15-minute drive via Cloughbane. The Galley offers an extensive menu that includes pizzas, sandwiches, wraps, salads, toasties, burgers, and a range of tasty desserts. You’ll find a decent amount of parking next door. 

For seafood and fish and chips, head for Fisk Seafood Bar. The battered fish tacos are amazing, and they offer a bunch of small plates, so you can try a good variety. You’ll find convenient parking right across the road too.

Stop 4: Fanad Head Lighthouse

Fanad Lighthouse

Photos via Shutterstock

Enjoy a nice 30-minute drive while you digest your lunch before arriving at our next stop, Fanad Head Lighthouse. There’s something immensely special about this place. Especially when you visit during the off-season, as the chances are you’ll have the whole area to yourself. Perched on the edge of the dramatic coastline of northern Donegal, the working lighthouse dates back to 1817.

You’ll find plenty of parking right next to the lighthouse, and from there, you can get a fantastic view of the tower against a gorgeous backdrop. If you want to get closer, there are two tours to enjoy. The first is a self-guided tour of the grounds and the exhibitions, which costs €4 for an adult. The guided tour offers the same but also takes you up to the tower for some amazing views. It costs €10 per adult. 

Stop 5: Portsalon Beach

Portsalon Beach

Photos via Shutterstock

The mighty Portsalon Beach is a short but spectacular 20-minute drive from Fanad Head Lighthouse on the east side of the peninsula. There’s parking near the southern end of the beach, making it easy to stop and enjoy all the beach has to offer.

Also known as Ballymastocker Bay, Portsalon is a beautiful Blue Flag beach with long stretches of sand for rambling, clear water to swim in, plenty of waves for surfers, and sheltered coves for escaping the wind. The views from this beach are simply breathtaking, and it’s well worth taking a gentle stroll along the 1.5 km stretch of sand.

Stop 6: Ardara

Ardara

Photo left and top right: Martin Fleming. Bottom right: Gareth Wray

After an eventful day, it’s time to head to your final stop and the place you’ll be calling home for the next two nights, Ardara.

It’ll take about an hour and fifteen minutes to drive to Ardara from Portsalon Beach, cutting through the spectacular Donegal countryside.

The village is a wonderful alternative to the hustle and bustle of nearby Donegal Town and a couple of days here offers an insight into life in a quaint Irish village.

Once you arrive, check into your accommodation, freshen up, and see what all the fuss is about!

Stop 7: Dinner, drinks and live music

Doherty's Bar

Photos via Doherty’s Bar on FB

Ardara showcases life in ‘rural Ireland’ at its very best. The village is beautifully maintained, there are heaps of traditional pubs and countless restaurants where you’ll get a fine feed. Perfect as dinner time approaches!

Our Ardara food recommendations

Nancy’s has been a staple of Ardara for many years now, and its age is reflected in the lovely rustic interior that’s full of wood finishes and stone floors. Not only will you be set for a few creamy pints here, but they also do a fantastic food selection, including fresh oysters.

You’ll also get a warm welcome at Mickalene’s on Main Street. Winner of Ulster Gastro Pub of the Year 2019 at the Food Awards Ireland, their fare is hearty, well-sourced and tasty.

Our Ardara pub recommendations

There’s certainly no shortage of great pubs in Ardara. If you were to construct a pub crawl of Ardara, then Teague’s Bar at the top of Main Street would be a fine place to start. Its unfussy décor and friendly atmosphere mean you can sit back and enjoy your pint without too much bother.

Lying at the other end of my imaginary pub crawl is Doherty’s, where its bright pink and green exterior would be hard to miss, even after a few too many! There’s live music and a fine food selection here (including pizza) to keep the good times rolling.

The Corner House is definitely one of the best places to catch live music and regular trad sessions in Ardara. Settled right at the apex of the town centre, the Corner House Bar is also steeped in the history of the village.

Day 4: Donegal cliffs and coast

Slieve League

Photos via Shutterstock

Donegal’s west coast is wild and rugged, offering up some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. Today, we’ll be enjoying a drive that takes in some of the most gorgeous landscapes in the area.

Nature lovers, this day is for you! Start your day well with a hearty breakfast, either at your accommodation or at one of the cafes in town.

The all-day breakfast at Charlie’s West End Café is not to be missed, plus they do a veggie version too. Corby Cafe is also highly recommended, with quality coffee, tasty Eggs Benedict, and of course, a sumptuous full Irish.

Stop 1: Glengesh Pass

Glengesh Pass

Photos via Shutterstock

Roads like the one at Glengesh Pass in Donegal make Ireland an absolute joy to explore.

Glengesh (which means ‘Glen of the Swans’) is a high mountain pass that cuts through the Glengesh and Mulmosog mountains and links the towns of Ardara and Glencolumbkille.

Over the course of your spin, you’ll encounter quiet open countryside, plenty of green fields, narrow roads and sheep… lots and lots of sheep!

Take it easy on the bends, visibility can be poor, and the roads are narrow, so there’s no need to rush.

The epic Glengesh Viewing Point has space for around seven cars and is just 12 minutes from Ardara. Park up here and soak up the epic views through the valley before driving on to our next stop.

Stop 2: Assaranca Waterfall

Assaranca Waterfall

Photos via Shutterstock

Our next stop is the lovely Assaranca Waterfall. Now, we’re going to double back here, to save doing the same later on. Plus, we’re sure you won’t mind driving back up the Glengesh Pass! It’ll take about 20 minutes to reach the falls. 

The mighty Assaranca Waterfall is a spectacular sight that’s right next to the road and is quite possibly one of the most impressive waterfalls in Donegal. You can, quite literally, park up right next to them and soak up the sights and sounds of Assaranca from a few feet away. 

It’s natural attractions like this that make Ireland an absolute joy to explore – there’s no fancy visitor centre and no fuss – just nature at its finest!

Stop 3: Maghera Beach and Caves

Maghera Beach

Photos via Shutterstock

Maghera Beach, another stunning natural sight, is just around the corner, just a 2-minute drive away. There’s a car park here that’s run by a local fella who charges a very reasonable €3 per car. It’s well worth the cost, as he also single-handedly maintains the pathways to the beach and caves.

It’s a bit of a walk into the beach from the car park, but as you stroll, you’ll be treated to stunning views, and your breath will catch when the beach itself comes into sight. Perfect white sand, deep blue water, and dunes for shelter if the wind is strong entice tourists from all over the world to visit this hidden gem.

The caves are only accessible at low tide, so be sure to check the tide times in advance if you want to visit them. With more than 20 caves, 8 arches, and 5 tunnels, there’s a lot to see here. According to legend, locals sheltered in the caves from Cromwell or the Vikings, depending on who you talk to.

Stop 4: Glencolumbkille for Lunch

Glencolumbcille

Photos via Shutterstock

As lunchtime draws near, enjoy a 28-minute drive through more gorgeous scenery to Glencolumbkille. Once you reach the pretty little town, head for either An Cistin or Cafe Blasta.

Both have their own spacious car parks, so there’s no need to worry about that. The seafood chowder at Cafe Blasta is superb and one of the best things ever on a cold, drizzly day.

At An Cistin, you’ll find an extensive menu that takes in dishes from around the world.

Stop 5: Malin Beg (Sliver Strand)

Malin Beg

Photos via Shutterstock

Once you’ve had a good feed, it’s back on the road to visit another beautiful beach. But before you get there, take time to enjoy the epic scenery along the 14-minute coast drive from Glencolumbkille to Malin Beg AKA Silver Strand.

Slightly off the beaten track, this is a remarkably peaceful beach to visit. The horseshoe-shaped bay is enclosed by cliffs that tower all around, offering a sense of tranquillity and utter beauty.

With crystal clear waters, it is a good beach for capable swimmers but bear in mind that there isn’t a lifeguard service here.

Warning: There’s 174 steps you’ll need to go down and up if you want to get to the sand, which won’t suit those of you with limited mobility

Stop 6: Sliabh Liag Cliffs

Slieve League

Photos via Shutterstock

Sliabh Liag, or the Slieve League Cliffs, are the highest sea cliffs on mainland Ireland, towering a little over 600 metres above the sea. Three times higher than the cliffs of Moher, they boast spectacular scenery. It’ll take about half an hour to drive from Sliver Strand, and you have a couple of options in terms of parking.

Having said that, we strongly recommend you stick ‘Sliabh Liag Cliff Experience’ into Google Maps and park at the visitor centre there. From here, you can take a shuttle bus to the viewpoint for around €6. If you’re up for it, the steep walk up to the cliffs should take about 45 minutes each way. 

Alternatively, you can drive to the upper car park, and from there, it’s just a fifteen-minute stroll to Bunglass Point, one of the best viewpoints for the mighty cliffs. However, this car park tends to be closed during the summer for all but coaches and those with mobility issues. Also, with a narrow road, often full of hikers, we don’t recommend it.

Following the Sliabh Liag walk, you’ll come across a WWII Eire coastal sign and enjoy breathtaking scenery at every turn. It’s also possible to organise a Slieve League Boat Tour, which is another fantastic way to see the cliffs.

Stop 7: Back to Ardara

Ardara

Photo left and top right: Martin Fleming. Bottom right: Gareth Wray

After enjoying the epic Sliabh Liag Cliffs, jump back in the car and enjoy the 35-minute drive back to Ardara.

Once more, you’ll be passing through spectacular landscapes, and for good measure, why not drive back up the Glengesh Pass one last time? Drop by your accommodation, freshen up, and then hit the town once more.

Stop 8: Dinner, drinks and live music 

Doherty's Bar

Photos via Doherty’s Bar on FB

You’ll be leaving Ardara tomorrow, so make sure to visit any of the places you missed last night!

Our Ardara food recommendations

Nancy’s has been a staple of Ardara for many years now, and its age is reflected in the lovely rustic interior that’s full of wood finishes and stone floors. Not only will you be set for a few creamy pints here, but they also do a fantastic food selection, including fresh oysters.

You’ll also get a warm welcome at Mickalene’s on Main Street. Winner of Ulster Gastro Pub of the Year 2019 at the Food Awards Ireland, their fare is hearty, well-sourced and tasty.

Our Ardara pub recommendations

There’s certainly no shortage of great pubs in Ardara. If you were to construct a pub crawl of Ardara, then Teague’s Bar at the top of Main Street would be a fine place to start. Its unfussy décor and friendly atmosphere mean you can sit back and enjoy your pint without too much bother.

Lying at the other end of my imaginary pub crawl is Doherty’s, where its bright pink and green exterior would be hard to miss, even after a few too many! There’s live music and a fine food selection here (including pizza) to keep the good times rolling.

The Corner House is definitely one of the best places to catch live music and regular trad sessions in Ardara. Settled right at the apex of the town centre, the Corner House Bar is also steeped in the history of the village.

Day 5: Back to Donegal Airport

Donegal Airport

Photos via Google Maps and Shutterstock

Today is your final day in Ireland, and while we don’t have any more attractions to check out, you do have a nice drive up ahead!

We recommend booking a late flight home if possible, so you don’t have to rush. 

It’s your last breakfast in Ireland, so go large! 

Once you’re ready to hit the road, the drive to Donegal Airport should take about 40 minutes. Give yourself plenty of time to get there and drop your car off, all while enjoying the gorgeous countryside on the way there.

We hope you’ve enjoyed Ireland and go home with fond memories and new friendships! May the road rise to meet you.

And that’s a wrap on this road trip

slea head loop

Photos via Shutterstock

We hope you found the above road trip guide useful. If you have any questions, ask in the comments below and we’ll do our best to help.

Or, if you’d like to browse our other Irish Road Trip itineraries, visit our Road Trip Hub – cheers!

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