Inishowen 100 Drive – Wild Atlantic Way Scenic Route in Donegal

The Inishowen 100 Drive is one of Ireland’s most scenic coastal routes and forms a key part of the Wild Atlantic Way in Donegal. The route takes its name from its approximate distance in miles and offers a complete loop around the Inishowen Peninsula, starting near Newtowncunningham.

Originally developed as a self-guided touring route, the Inishowen 100 was designed for visitors exploring by car, bicycle, or on foot, allowing access to scenic and historical locations that are often missed on larger tour routes.

Unlike the main Wild Atlantic Way driving route, which must accommodate large coaches, the Inishowen 100 follows smaller roads. This allows visitors to experience a more authentic, slow-travel journey through Inishowen’s landscapes, villages, and heritage sites.

Newtowncunningham – Gateway to Inishowen

Newtowncunningham is a rural agricultural area surrounded by fertile farmland. A key landmark is the Church of All Saints, uniquely designed in the shape of a boat, symbolising St Peter’s Barque.

Inside the church, visitors can view notable artworks, including a painting by Thomas Ryan, former President of the Royal Hibernian Academy, commemorating early land grants in the area.

Burt – Ancient Heritage and Iconic Landmarks

Burt is home to some of Inishowen’s most important historical sites.

• Burt Castle – a 16th-century stronghold of the O’Doherty clan
• Grianán of Aileach – an ancient ring fort over 3,000 years old with panoramic views
• St Aengus’ Church – designed in 1967, inspired by Grianán of Aileach

This area combines ancient history, architecture, and spectacular views over Lough Swilly.

Inch Island – Wildlife and Scenic Beauty

Inch Island is connected to the mainland by a causeway and is one of the best birdwatching locations in Donegal.

The surrounding wetlands are internationally important for Whooper Swans, with thousands wintering in the area. The island also contains historical remains linked to Sir Cahir O’Doherty.

Fahan – Early Christian Heritage

Fahan is one of Inishowen’s most important early Christian sites and is home to:

• St Mura’s Monastic Site (7th century)
• Ancient carved stones and historic graveyards
• The grave of Agnes Jones, nurse and colleague of Florence Nightingale
• Mass grave of the HMS Laurentic tragedy (1917) nearby

Fahan also has cultural links to hymn writer Cecil Frances Alexander, author of “All Things Bright and Beautiful”.

Buncrana – The Heart of Inishowen

Buncrana is the largest town in Inishowen, located on the shores of Lough Swilly – the “Lake of Shadows.”

Key highlights include:

• O’Doherty’s Keep and Buncrana Castle
• Swan Park and the Crana River walk
• Wolfe Tone memorial site
• Historic coastal walks and waterfront promenade

Today, Buncrana is a lively town with shops, restaurants, and scenic walking routes.

Dunree & Desertegney – Military History and Coastal Views

Fort Dunree is a former coastal defence fort overlooking Lough Swilly. It now features a military museum, walking trails, and panoramic viewpoints.

Nearby Desertegney is an early monastic site associated with St Columba, surrounded by dramatic scenery and views towards the Urris Mountains and Mamore Gap.

Mamore Gap & Urris – One of Ireland’s Most Scenic Drives

Mamore Gap is one of the most spectacular mountain passes in Ireland, reaching over 800ft.

Highlights include:

• Panoramic views over Inishowen
• Access to walking trails such as Urris Lakes Loop
• Historic cottages and dramatic mountain scenery

On clear days, Tory Island and the Atlantic Ocean can be seen.

Clonmany – Mountains, Waterfalls & Festivals

Clonmany is surrounded by some of Inishowen’s highest mountains, including:

• Sliabh Sneacht (Inishowen’s highest peak)
• Glenevin Waterfall walking trail
• Binion and Tullagh Strand beaches

It is also home to the famous Clonmany Festival, one of Ireland’s longest-running community festivals.

Ballyliffin – Beaches and Golf

Ballyliffin is known for its golden sandy beaches, especially Pollan Strand.

Highlights:

• Ballyliffin Golf Club (Old Links & Glashedy Links)
• Carrickabraghy Castle
• Coastal walking and surfing beaches

Carndonagh – Ancient Crosses and Market Town

Carndonagh is a historic market town known for:

• The 7th-century St Patrick’s Cross
• Sacred Heart Church with impressive stonework
• Traditional town square and heritage architecture

Malin & Malin Head – Ireland’s Northern Edge

Malin is a traditional village with a historic stone bridge and award-winning village green.

Nearby Malin Head is Ireland’s most northerly point and features:

• Banba’s Crown viewpoint
• WWII lookout posts
• Sea arches, cliffs, and coastal walks

Coastal Villages – Culdaff, Glengad & Greencastle

These coastal villages offer fishing heritage, beaches, and maritime history:

• Culdaff – Blue Flag beach and coastal walks
• Glengad – traditional fishing village
• Greencastle – fishing port, ferry link, Maritime Museum & Planetarium

Kinnagoe Bay – Hidden Coastal Gem

Kinnagoe Bay is a sheltered cove surrounded by cliffs and rich history, including the wreck of the Spanish Armada ship La Trinidad Valencera (1588) nearby.

Inishowen 100 Drive – A Journey Through Ireland’s Heritage

The Inishowen 100 Drive offers one of the most complete scenic touring routes in Ireland. It combines:

• Coastal scenery
• Ancient heritage sites
• Traditional villages
• Wildlife and beaches
• Panoramic mountain views

It is best enjoyed slowly, allowing time to explore hidden stops along the way.