Donegal Coast & Castles
Day Tour Details
Tour Start
Derry
Tour End
Donegal
€480
7.5
Hours
Ireland’s Hidden Gem
Visitors that come to Ireland but that don’t experience the Northern Headlands and the Wild Atlantic Way guided by the inside knowledge of locals have largely missed out on the real jewel.
It is this that inspired Chieftain tours to create day tour options for visitors who want a mere taste of all that is to offer in the North West region. Embark and explore those secrets on the road less traveled by Private Luxury Car or Minibus chauffeured by a knowledgeable and experienced driver guide.
Each tour is designed to reveal the authentic beauty, history, and culture of Ireland’s North West, from rugged coastlines and hidden beaches to charming villages and historic landmarks. With the flexibility to tailor each journey to your interests, Chieftain Tours ensures you experience the region at your own pace, uncovering stories and sights that most visitors never see. Let us turn a day trip into a memorable adventure filled with discovery, local insight, and unforgettable scenery.
WHATS INCLUDED
- Attraction Entry Fees Included
- Air-Conditioned Vehicle
- Bottled Water
- Private transportation
- Tours commence at 9.15am and finish at 5pm
- This chauffeured private day tour is delivered by a Fáilte Ireland accredited driver guide.
- This day tour is flexible and tailored for clients on the day to stop, go and explore.
- Money Back Guarantee
BOOKING
TOUR VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS
TOUR ITINERARY
Enjoy a day tour of coastal and inland attractions incorporating those breathtaking views of the idyllic North West. Setting off in the morning by luxury minibus or car, your fully guided excursion will journey along Mulroy bay to the picturesque Fanad Lighthouse. A maritime marvel, this magnificent and current working lighthouse was an essential service to seafarers negotiating the wild and dangerous seas around the North West coast. We learn about the lights and aids to navigation past and present and we hear the stories of shipwrecked parrots and lost gold on the lighthouse tour.
Next we continue along the Wild Atlantic Way towards Doe Castle. Dating to the 1420’s, this castle nestled on the shores of Sheephaven Bay was the medieval home and bastion for the MacSweeney chiefs for over 200 years. Know as “gallowglass” these fearless warriors fought and were rewarded by one of Ireland’s last Gaelic chieftain – Red Hugh O Donnell.
Leaving Doe castle we travel through the vast boglands of mid Donegal as we descend on the sweeping glens of Glenveagh National Park and Castle. Situated in the heart of the Derryveagh mountains, you will learn and become immersed in the chequered history of this unspoiled Special Area of Conservation which is Ireland’s second largest national park
On the final leg of the tour we travel to Grianan an Aileach. Said to have been built by the Tuatha De Danann, this ancient stone ringfort dates its origins to 3000 BC. Located 250m above sea level, this spectacular hilltop site was visited by St Patrick who baptized the local chieftain Eoghan.
Places You Will Explore
Fanad Lighthouse stands on a dramatic headland overlooking the Atlantic, offering sweeping views of rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and distant coastal villages. Visitors can explore the historic tower, walk the surrounding coastal paths, and experience one of Ireland’s most iconic maritime landmarks in its natural, unspoiled setting.
Doe Castle rises beside the calm waters of Sheephaven Bay, its 15th-century tower house framed by mountains and forest. Guests can wander the castle grounds, learn about its storied clan history, and enjoy the peaceful coastal scenery that surrounds this well-preserved stronghold.
Glenveagh National Park offers a landscape of sweeping valleys, pristine lakes, and rugged mountains at the heart of Donegal. Visitors can explore its tranquil walking trails, admire the elegance of Glenveagh Castle, and experience the rich wildlife and untouched natural beauty that define this remarkable wilderness.
Grianan an Aileach, an ancient stone ringfort perched high above Lough Swilly and Lough Foyle, provides one of the most striking panoramic viewpoints in Donegal. Visitors can explore its impressive circular walls, learn about its significance in early Irish history, and take in the sweeping landscapes that stretch across counties and coastlines.


















REVIEWS
From all over the world, some fantastic reviews and testimonials from past customers
EXCELLENT Based on 58 reviews Posted on Ronald BrownTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Nicola was a great guide! She picked us up on time at the port and took us to Donnegal city where we toured the castle. Then it was on to views of the countryside and a small town where we saw weavers making beautiful blankets, scarves etc. After a quick sandwich we drove to the Sliabh Liag Cliffs which were gorgeous despite the rain. Nicola got us back to our ship in good time after a delightful day.Posted on Valerie VerdoneTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great tour company! We had a fabulous day with Kevin! Thank you Chieftan Tours for a great day in Donegal,Ireland!Posted on Katie LadnerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. An absolute must see! What a great show!Posted on Margaret CritzTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Joe from Chieftain Tours made my day in South Donegal unforgettable. He was funny, incredibly knowledgeable, and brought every stop to life with great stories—from castles and abbey ruins in Donegal Town to the cliffs of Slieve League (which we got to drive right up to—major bonus!). We also visited Silver Strand Beach and the Glencolmcille Folk Village, and Joe made every bit of history feel fresh, surprising, and honestly just fun. If you’re visiting Donegal, do yourself a favor and book with Chieftain Tours. Ask for Joe. You won’t regret it.Posted on Leonie GattiTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We booked the highlights of South Donegal with Joe from Chieftain Tours May 2025. We decided to have a day off driving ourselves and see the sights with a knowledgeable guide. Joe was amazing. We warmed to him immediately. His knowledge of not only Donegal but Ireland and its history made for a wonderful day. It was sad to say goodbye. We felt like we’d known Joe for years. Do not hesitate to book a tour with Joe. Our day was truly a memorable one.Posted on Katelyn LackeyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My husband and I had a wonderful day touring around the Donegal. We got to see some amazing sites and some off-the-beaten-path areas that we never would have seen on our own. Joe was very knowledgeable and gave us some good stories and history of the area. It was a day well spent!Posted on Cathy SimpsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We spent two weeks in Ireland without a car by piecing together buses, trains, guides/drivers and day tours. Our adventure started with Joe Greene touring us around Co. Donegal for two wonderful days of sharing the spectacular landscapes, seascapes and history. Easy and fun to be around, we learned so much and can highly recommend our new Irish friend. Thanks, Joe -- a definite highlight of our trip.Posted on Debbie DriverTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an incredible day traveling around Donegal with Joe! He provided such a great balance of sharing the history and the natural beauty of Donegal. He is clearly passionate about Donegal and his love for the place shined through during the tour. He also adapted the tour to include things we hoped to do and see. The day with Joe was one we won't forget! Kudos!!Posted on Tien ThompsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Joe was EXCELLENT. He was knowledge, flexible and FUNNY. He is also an excellent driver! We learned so much. You can tell Joe is very passionate about what he does. Highly recommend Joe and his company! We had a great time !Posted on Hayley ThompsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing tour and Joe was very kind and accommodating. He was knowledgeable and would recommend the tour to anyone!
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