Holiday rentals in Dunfanaghy

The picturesque town of Dunfanaghy is nestled within Sheephaven Bay in County Donegal on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, just over an hour’s drive from the city of Derry/Londonderry across the border in Northern Ireland. Dunfanaghy is surrounded by windswept beaches like Killahoey Beach, which boasts soft sands, clear waters, and vast sand dunes to explore. A short drive to the west, Tramore Beach features two miles of rugged coastline, and to the east, Marble Hill Strand is popular for surfing.

Dunfanaghy overlooks the spectacular Horn Head peninsula, with its panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and headlands to the north. It is a Special Area of Conservation due to its quartzite cliffs, mud flats, and soft, rolling dunes. You’ll find large colonies of seabirds breeding on the cliffs here, including razorbills, guillemots, and cormorants.

The village centre offers a selection of eateries, galleries, and small gift shops, as well as old-fashioned pubs where you’ll hear traditional Irish music playing day and night. It is also home to the scenic Dunfanaghy Golf Club and its commanding views of the Atlantic coast.

In summer, you can expect warm days and plenty of daylight, which is perfect for enjoying time at the beach. From March to May and September to October, the weather is a little cooler, but you can still expect your share of sunny days. Dunfanaghy celebrates St Patrick’s Day in a big way in March, including a parade through the village with floats, jugglers, and St Patrick himself. Another popular event is the famous Dunfanaghy Jazz & Blues Festival in September, featuring some of Ireland’s top musicians in venues around the village. If you secure Dunfanaghy accommodations in winter, you’ll experience cold temperatures and rain, so come prepared with warm clothing and sturdy footwear to make the most of the scenery.

Horn Head Walk

Head just out of town and take the short 1.9-mile loop walk along the path, starting at the car park at Horn Head. You’ll pass towering cliffs and be treated to incredible 360-degree views of the Atlantic Ocean. Look out for McSwine’s Gun, a natural blowhole that shoots seawater into the air when the wind whips up. You’ll also come across a historic lookout tower that was built during the Napoleonic Wars to warn of possible French invasion.

Killahoey Beach

A short walk from the village, Killahoey boasts a short stretch of scenic, sandy shoreline and clear water that provides safe swimming conditions. In summer, the beach is patrolled by lifeguards, and the rolling sand dunes behind the beach are perfect for spotting birds, including corncrakes.

Glenveagh National Park

Twenty minutes south of Dunfanaghy is the tranquil wilderness of Glenveagh National Park. This nearly 42,000-acre park is home to rugged mountains, cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and a native oak forest that some say is enchanted. There are miles of trails to explore, from beginner to advanced skill levels, and a shuttle that will take you to the more popular trailheads. At the center of the park is the Glenveagh Castle, a 19th-century mansion surrounded by sculpted gardens.