Main Attractions
Donegal's historical and natural attractions, the North West Trail is truly blessed with representations of Irish culture and life all along the route. The visitor will be able to trace the activities of people throughout the history of the island from those better known to celebrations of the lesser known. Interesting early Irish people such as the Celtic kings who held sway from the court at the Hill of Tara in county Meath. Still further back and the very first settlers in Ireland and their way of life, can be seen at the Ulster History Park in Omagh.
Ireland's natural beauty at its best can be seen at Glenveagh National Park, where 16000 hectares of mountains, lakes and glens offer all that has become synonymous with the Irish landscape.
With only a fraction of what awaits the visitor along the North West Trail, in terms of its attractions, use the search menus below to reveal the full extent of each areas' attractions.
Ireland's natural beauty at its best can be seen at Glenveagh National Park, where 16000 hectares of mountains, lakes and glens offer all that has become synonymous with the Irish landscape.
With only a fraction of what awaits the visitor along the North West Trail, in terms of its attractions, use the search menus below to reveal the full extent of each areas' attractions.
on the North West Trail
Assaroe abbey was founded by Flaherty O'Muldory, Lord of Cenel Conaill for the Cistercians in 1184. A small community of monks came from Boyle and selected the present site from the extensive lands granted by O'Muldory. This abbey soon became famous as a seat of learning.
within 5km of the North West Trail
The Four Masters are commemorated in Donegal town by a 25ft monument of local stone. This monument celebrates the names of the Four Masters who began work on the Annals of the Kingdom of Ireland in the early 1600’s.
within 5km of the North West Trail
The Franciscan Friary at Rossnowlagh is a place of hospitality and welcome for all who seek peace and reconciliation and welcomes people to prayer.
within 5km of the North West Trail
Glencar Waterfall is situated 11km west of Manorhamilton and served as an inspiration to native Sligo poet Willam Butler Yeats.
within 2km of the North West Trail
Lissadell House and Gardens are located 7km north of Sligo Town.The House and Gardens are situated on the Atlantic coast, and are surrounded by over 400 acres of land, including formal gardens, and wild woodland.
within 10km of the North West Trail
High above Sligo Town stands the hill of Knocknarea which commands a broad view of the environs and can be seen from very far away, thus the grave site was constructed as a reminder of Queen Maeve's greatness.
On the North West Trail
The golden sands of Rossnowlagh are often referred to as 'The Heavenly Cove' and are regarded by many as the most scenic and dramatic beach in the whole of the North West.
on the North West Trail
Built by Maurice Fitzgerald for the Dominicans in 1252, Sligo Abbey survives from medieval days.
within 1km of the NW Trail
Drumcliffe churchyard, nestled under Benbulben mountain is the final resting place of Irish poet W.B.Yeats.
This project is supported by the EU INTERREG IIIA Programme for Ireland/Northern Ireland