Dun na nGall or Donegal a Big Part of Magical Ireland
Geographically in the north – politically in the south- this is rugged country.
Wild coastlines, deserted beeches, looming mountains and expanses of bleak bog land make this one of the most magical places in this ‘Emerald Isle’.
Its beauty is startling. The beeches here are for the most part deserted – no sunbathers here! Although the climate is officially described as ‘temperate’ a good warm jumper and waterproof windcheaters are essential luggage items!
Donegal Town
Donegal town provides a good starting point for any traveller to these parts. It consists of a diamond shaped centre (appropriately called ‘The Diamond’) crammed full of hotels, shops, galleries and restaurants. Here you can buy anything from an original piece of artwork created by a local artist, to a piece of turf complete with burner. The evocative smell is what reminds exiles of home!
There are many comfortable hotels to choose from each providing entertainment to accompany your pint of creamy Guinness after a days touring.
When touring Donegal be sure to have a guide book and map – it is easy to get lost and some interesting historical sites are devoid of information!
The Irish Famine
Evidence of this tragic period in Irish History can be found about the countryside with abandoned shells of cottages dotted about. There are a few centres where you can discover the historical facts and consequences of this devastating event and the impact it had on the area from which it has never fully recovered.
The most comprehensive of this is the Doagh Visitor Centre.
After a good cup of Irish tea and a slice of soda bread you can take a tour of the many displays of life during the ‘Great