Welcome to North West

The magnificent North West is a Region waiting to be explored. With its breathtaking scenery, rich traditions and elegant ruins, the Region offers endless opportunities to immerse you in nature, culture and history.

Donegal

Wild and remote Malin Head on the Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal marks the most northerly point of the entire island of Ireland. It sets the tone for the spirit of the county – independent, untamed and exciting, three quarters of its border formed by the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can experience this for themselves walking the towering cliffs of Sliabh Liag (Slieve League). Spectacular Glenveagh National Park & Castle is a true national treasure. The extensive 16,000 hectare park contains the largest herd of red deer in the country and the majestic Golden Eagle was reintroduced to Ireland in Glenveagh in 2001.

Donegal town itself is dominated by the 17th century Donegal Castle. Hand-woven Donegal Tweed is a unique cloth woven by hand on traditional wooden looms. Today, Magee’s Hand Weaving in Donegal town is the largest stockist of Donegal Tweed in the world.

No visit to Donegal is complete without a trip on Ireland’s largest waterbus. This spacious, fully equipped vessel offers daily 75 to 80 minute tours of Donegal Bay with its many islands and abundant wildlife. 

Leitrim

Carrick-on-Shannon, the county town of Leitrim is the cruising capital of the river Shannon and the town boasts a beautiful modern marina. Carrick’s marinas are well worth a visit, particularly during the peak summer season where a large flotilla of cabin cruisers and river craft of all sizes are active on the river. As the Shannon makes its way south through the county it passes through the lovely villages of Drumsna, Dromod and Rooskey which also have wonderful riverside bars and restaurants.

Sligo

Historically the county is quite significant, especially Carrowmore which is the largest megalithic cemetery in Ireland and one of the most important in Europe dating back to nearly 5,000 BC. Lissadell House has a romantic history, associated with both Yeats and the republican Countess Markieviecz. The house and estate are now in private ownership.

W.B. Yeats and his brother the artist Jack B. Yeats are strongly associated with Sligo. W.B. Yeats grave at Drumcliffe is a popular attraction. The Yeats Trail brings you on a unique experience through landscape, literature, history and culture. Consider this a “must do” on your visit!