Donegal is one of the most scenic counties in Ireland, and there’s no shortage of beautiful spots for a family walk. From gentle forest trails and coastal paths to a proper mountain hike, there’s something here to suit every family, whatever age your kids are and however far you fancy walking.
Pack a picnic, bring a flask, and get set for a great family adventure with these picturesque walks in Donegal for families to enjoy.
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Stunning Family Walks in Donegal
Ards Forest Park
Image: Ards Forest Park © Tourism Ireland/Failte Ireland
Found on the sheltered western shore of Sheephaven Bay, Ards Forest Park offers a peaceful retreat for the whole family. This coastal park covers more than 480ha (1,200 acres), taking in a sandy beach, sand dunes, salt marshes, salt water lakes, rocky shorelines and woodland.
There are nine signposted trails to choose from, ranging from 1km to 13km, with a range of difficulty levels, so you can pick one to suit your family. Work up an appetite on the trails, then head back to the sand dunes to find a picnic spot and the playground.
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Bonny Glen Wood
Located around 11km northwest of Glenties, this Coillte-managed wood is a beautiful, peaceful spot for a walk or a picnic, with plenty of tables and benches scattered throughout.
The wood is home to a mix of trees, along with ivy, clover, heathers, furze, ferns and shamrocks underfoot, plus plenty of wildlife including red deer, hares, badgers and a variety of butterflies.
There are three lakes within the wood – Lough Namanlagh, Bonnyglen Lough and Killyayenna Lough – and two signposted walks: the shorter Namanlagh Lough Walk (around 1km) and the longer Bonny Glen Loop (approx 3km).
Ballykeeran Forest Trail
This trail starts 1km from the village of Kilmacrenan, along the N56 towards Letterkenny. The signposted loop trail is approx 1.5km long and takes in both scenic views and varied woodland.
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Burtonport Old Railway Walk
This 7km looped walk from Burtonport takes in a woodland of ash trees, spectacular views, country lanes, historic buildings and plenty of flora and fauna along the way.
Fort Dunree
Image: Fort Dunree © Failte Ireland
Fort Dunree is a coastal defence fortification on the west side of the Inishowen Peninsula, along the Wild Atlantic Way.
A series of signposted footpaths at Dunree Point offer amazing views out over the Atlantic Ocean – keep your eyes peeled, as you may even spot dolphins.
Rougey Walk
A circular walk taking in views of the Atlantic Ocean from Rougey and Bundoran. Start from Bundoran Tourist Office and follow the path along the promenade, passing Waterworld and Bundoran’s Blue Flag beach.
The walk continues around the headland, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and Bundoran’s championship golf course on the other. At the far end, follow the road back into town until you reach the junction with the main road, then take a right and follow the path back along Bundoran’s Main Street towards the Tourist Office.
Glenevin Waterfall, Clonmany
A relatively short walk at approx 2km return, this well-signposted route has gravel paths, picnic areas and a stunning waterfall at the end of it – a great one for younger legs.
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Moville
The most popular walk around the town is the Shore Path (Slí na Sláinte), which starts at The Green in Moville and extends as far as Greencastle. The path isn’t fully paved the whole way, but the section from the town centre to Lafferty’s Lane is suitable for pushchairs.
Ballymacool Park, Letterkenny
Ballymacool Park is a 20-acre public park on the outskirts of Letterkenny, with picnic and park benches located throughout. Paths are asphalt and water-bound, bordered by kerbing, and there’s a toilet block close to the children’s playground. Bring a ball along, too – kids can play basketball or football in the enclosed hard court area.
Drumboe
Set on the banks of the River Finn beside Stranorlar, this forest trail loops through woodland and back along the riverbank, with lovely views and a good variety of trees, shrubs and wildlife. Keep an eye out for bluebells and wild garlic if you’re walking in springtime.
The 2km walk has paths suitable for wheelchairs and buggies.
Errigal Mountain
Image: Errigal © Tourism Ireland
If your family fancies something more challenging, why not take on Errigal, the tallest peak of the Derryveagh Mountains?
As you climb, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Derryveagh Mountains and the Donegal countryside, along with views of the islands and the spectacular coastline. This one is best suited to older children and confident walkers.
Buncrana
This 2.5km path (one way) follows the shoreline of Lough Swilly between Buncrana and Stragill Strand – a pleasant, easily accessible walk with impressive sea views across the lough.
Woodquarter
Just 5km from Milford, this picturesque trail offers panoramic views over Mulroy Bay. There’s an incline on the path that may make it tricky for younger children, but the views from the top are well worth it. There are also picnic areas and a boat launch here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which of these Donegal walks are buggy-friendly?
A few routes on this list are well suited to pushchairs, including Drumboe (paths suitable for wheelchairs and buggies), the Ballymacool Park pathways in Letterkenny, and the town-centre section of the Moville Shore Path up to Lafferty’s Lane.
What’s a good option for younger children or a shorter walk?
Glenevin Waterfall in Clonmany is a short, well-signposted route with a lovely payoff at the end, making it a great choice for little legs. Ballykeeran Forest Trail near Kilmacrenan is another short, gentle loop.
Which walk is the most challenging?
Errigal Mountain is by far the most demanding walk on this list and is best suited to older children and families with some hiking experience.
Are there picnic spots along these walks?
Yes – several of these locations have picnic areas, including Ards Forest Park, Bonny Glen Wood, Woodquarter and Ballymacool Park.
Do any of these walks have coastal or sea views?
Quite a few do. Fort Dunree, Rougey Walk in Bundoran, Buncrana’s Lough Swilly path and Woodquarter overlooking Mulroy Bay all offer lovely water views.
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Have you got a favourite spot for a family walk in Donegal? Leave a comment below and let us know – we’d love to hear from you!
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