Unique things to do in Donegal | Great Visitor Experiences

Looking for something different to do while exploring Donegal? Here are 5 unique things to do there.

Rugged countryside, inspiring beauty, and jaw-dropping landscapes attract thousands of people to County Donegal every year. With something for everyone to do in this magnificent county, there are plenty of unique things to do in Donegal.

Whether you are looking for something exhilarating or something a little more informative, there is a unique experience for you.

Here are 5 unique things to do in Donegal.

Embark on a train journey through a private estate

Oakfield Park is a privately owned estate that can be explored by hopping on a 4.5km railway. This heritage railway is home to three different trains each with its own unique qualities. Children and adults will delight by taking a ride on the Earl of Oakfield, which is very similar to Thomas the Tank Engine.

This 15-minute train journey happens at regular intervals each day. As you ride your way through the impressive and extensive gardens, you can expect to see the tranquil lake, a castle folly and willow tunnels.

The Earl of Oakfield train, Oakfield Park, Donegal

The Earl of Oakfield train delights young and old on its journey through this impressive estate

Visit Fanad Lighthouse

Voted as one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world, Fanad Lighthouse is a unique experience when exploring Donegal. Explore this working lighthouse and learn all about the rich history of this magnificent place.

A local and knowledgeable guide will lead you up to the top of the lighthouse, where you will be treated to incredible views across the Atlantic Ocean. If you don’t want to go on a guided tour, you can still marvel at this scenic lighthouse on the rugged Donegal coastline.

Fanad Lighthouse has been a working lighthouse since 1817 and continues working to this day

Visit Tory Island

As the most remote of Ireland’s inhabited islands, Tory Island is a truly unique thing to do in Donegal. Many of Tory Island’s ancient traditions still survive to this day in the form of music, song, dance and stories. The most unique of these traditions is that they appoint an island king or Rí Thoraí.

Accessible by an approximately 45-minute ferry journey, this island is a beautiful paradise. The island is home to an abundance of rare birdlife and wildflower species due to its remote location. There are also lots of historical sites worth exploring while on the island.

Race your way around an inflatable obstacle course

For those with an adventurous heart or those with children should make a beeline for Inish Adventures. Home to an array of land and water-based activities, this is a great place to let off some steam.

The most unique of which is their inflatable obstacle course located on Lough Foyle. Run, jump and climb your way around this exhilarating assault course before diving into the refreshing waters below. This is a guaranteed fun day out!

Standing an impressive 601m tall, the Sliabh Liag Cliffs are truly a natural wonder of the world.

See magnificent sea cliffs from a different perspective

Experience the wildness of the Wild Atlantic Way with an experience unlike any other. While most visitors to Donegal visit these cliffs, not many are aware that you can experience them from the water. Hop aboard the Pirate Queen and become mesmerised by the height and beauty of the Sliabh Liag Cliffs.

Keep your eyes peeled for marine life such as dolphins, tuna, porpoises and basking sharks as you undergo this breathtaking journey. The experienced staff at Atlantic Coastal Cruises will point out interesting points of interest, including magnificent caves and lighthouses. Truly a unique thing to do in Donegal.