Failte Ireland - Ireland Buyers Guide 2018

DAY 6 WILD ATLANTICWAY – NORTHERN HEADLANDS There’s more to tweed than your grandfather’s hunting jacket – learn all about this icon of traditional Irish outerwear with a captivating tour of McNutt Donegal Woollen Mill . Founded in the early 1950’s, McNutt has a long history of weaving Donegal tweed – considered by many to be the quintessential Irish outdoors cloth. Still a working mill, today McNutt specialises in weaving beautiful blankets, cosy throws, and fabrics expertly crafted from pure wool as well as linen, cashmere, lamb’s wool and even alpaca. Inspired by the local landscapes of the harbour and the nearby hills, each piece is a work of art in itself. Experience the yarns, warping, weaving, colours and sounds in a real mill setting on this one-of-a-kind guided tour. Once your curiosity has been piqued, stroll across to the Mill Shop to avail of a 10% discount before relaxing in the coffee shop with a warming cup and a tempting, home-baked treat, all while taking in the atmospheric coastal setting. Allow 1 hour for this experience There’s history and heritage in spades on today’s itinerary, beginning with a visit to atmospheric Doe Castle and ending in some of Dunfanaghy’s most iconic structures, where the past will be brought to life through stories, artifacts and exhibitions. Nature lovers, too, will find plenty to love about today’s route, and surfers and ocean-lovers will have yet another opportunity to hit the waves for a memorable paddle in paradise. Perched on a secluded shoreline spot in beautiful Sheephaven Bay by the Atlantic Ocean, the 15th-century Doe Castle is an amazing place to visit any time of year. Surrounded by water on three sides, Doe Castle cuts a striking figure on theWild AtlanticWay coastline, and history buffs as well as adventure lovers will find it truly enchanting. Allow 1 hour for this experience Lunch in Café at Ards Forest Park Tucked away on the sheltered western shore of glorious Sheephaven Bay in County Donegal, Ards Forest Park is the place to treat yourself to total tranquillity. This coastal park is an expanse of more than 480ha (1200 acres), incorporating a salt-breezed sandy beach, an invigorating rocky shoreline and a fascinating diversity of habitats.Work up an appetite by tackling one of the many sign-posted trails in the picturesque park, and then head back to the sand dunes to find some utterly idyllic picnic spots! Allow 2 hours for this experience Dinner and Overnight in Dunfanaghy DAY 7 WILD ATLANTICWAY – NORTHERN HEADLANDS If getting out into the water is more your speed, book in advance to head out with the good folks at Narosa Life Surf School for a surf session on the Blue Flag beach at Marble Hill Strand . Allow 1.5 hours for this experience Or Go for a Gallop at Dunfanaghy Stables … Leave your cares behind as you canter to the sound of the roaring Atlantic in the seaside resort of Dunfanaghy. Explore the region’s varied terrain on horseback, trekking into the mountains, over sandy beaches and through areas where Irish is still the primary language. Afterwards, stop into a local eatery and enjoy a relaxing cup of tea, a specially made cocktail or a few scoops of ice cream. And don’t forget to chat with the locals, who will not doubt share ideas for your next thrilling holiday experience. Allow 1.5 hours for this experience Lunch in Dunfanaghy In Dunfanaghy (12.3km, 22 mins), take a step into the past at the DunfanaghyWorkhouse . Now a heritage centre, it was once home to many of Donegal’s poor during the Great Famine (1845 – 1849). Visit the ‘Wee Hannah’ exhibition, which tells the true story of former resident Hannah Herrity. Or why not check out The Gallery Dunfanaghy ; formerly the fever hospital for the workhouse, today it’s a charming, family-run space brimming with beautiful watercolour works. Allow 1 hour for this experience Overlooking the stunning scenery of Sheephaven Bay, stop off at Café Arnou for aWild AtlanticWay cocktail and a selection of sumptuous homebaked treats. Depart for Dublin 51 Sliabh Liag, Co. Donegal Mullaghmore, Co. Sligo