With its magnificent mountains, pristine lakes, waterfalls, glens, native oak woods, and a picturesque castle with all its original furnishings, Glenveagh National Park and Castle is one of the most magical places to visit in Donegal.
The castle, 24km north west of Letterkenny, was styled as a romantic highland retreat and completed in 1873. It hosted many famous guests over the years, including Marilyn Monroe and John Wayne. Explore the Castle Gardens, known as some of the best in Ireland. Enjoy the Gothic Orangery, the Italian Terrace and the Tuscan Garden and walk the Pleasure Gardens. Afterwards, relax over lunch or coffee and homemade cakes in the pretty tearooms or in the courtyard.
Watch out for red deer or see if you can spot the rare Golden Eagles which were reintroduced to Glenveagh. Wild camping is allowed in some remote areas of Glenveagh as long as you follow the Wild Camping Code.
- Explore Glenveagh's stunning park and gardens for free.
- Spend time at the fascinating interpretative centre and watch the audiovisual presentation.
- Join the 45 minute paid guided tour of the castle.
- Take a break at the pretty tearooms.
- Watch out for special events on bank holidays.
Walk from the visitor centre to the castle (3.5km) instead of using the shuttle bus and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Derryveagh Mountains and Lough Veagh.
If you intend to visit the castle go straight there to book your tour. You may have to wait for the next available one, but you can use the time to explore the grounds and gardens of the castle.
There are lots of walking trails for all levels in Glenveagh. Leave your car in the carpark and take the Trail Walker Bus to some of the best starting points.
