It was on St. Patrick’s Day of this year when we had our road trip to Errigal (Irish: An Earagail), is a 751-metre mountain near Gweedore in County Donegal, Ireland. It is the tallest peak of the Derryveagh Mountains and the tallest peak in County Donegal.
Well-known for the pinky glow from its quartzite peak during a setting sun, the majestic Errigal Mountain is also the southernmost of the mountain chain known as the ‘Seven Sisters‘ by locals which include Muckish, Crocknalaragagh, Aghla Beg, Ardloughnabrackbaddy, Aghla More, Mackoght and Errigal mountain.
As we approached Errigal – I was shattered by its dramatic beauty. Its colour and shape – I felt like I was inside the painting!
The surrounding views of Dunlewey make this scenic drive spectacular. If you want to hike it, the back side of the mountain has a hiking trail and parking lot. If your mountain hiking days are behind you, the drive nearby offers excellent scenery.
As you go along, you’d definitely pulled off the road at the most scenic coffee shop in the world. It has the best spot for picture taking and a cuppa, with overlooking Poisoned Glen and the mountain. Not to mention the eye-catching kites and a chat with the friendly owner.
The adventure continued as we drove down the hill – at the famous Poisoned Glen. Nestled at the foot of Errigal and overlooking the beautiful Poisoned Glen, the ruin of the “Old Church of Dunlewey” is perfectly positioned. The light sweeps down into the valley and reflects from Dunlewey Lake, providing dramatic skylines and backdrops enhancing the ruin from all angles.
This is a lovely small valley abutting a lake. The trip down is a narrow, winding road, so don’t be in a rush to get there. Indeed, the beauty is to be seen on the main road looking down at the church, the lake, forests and Mount Errigal is your backdrop!
I would highly recommend spending a few hours walking through the Poised Glen. Whether in walking or driving, the whole area is hypnotically atmospheric for those allowing the time and attention required for such delightfully folly. It was a wonderful holiday for us and it is worth visiting again. Truly a remarkable St. Patrick’s Day!
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