Burnfoot – Rainforest and Scalp Mountain

When planning a trip to Burnfoot, nature and activities offer practical guidance. Wild Ireland is located in an ancient Celtic rainforest; the hiking route in the hills of Scalp Mountain was selected for panoramic views across the peninsula. If you’re looking for a hotel in Burnfoot, these different highlights can help you identify your own travel interests.

Wild Ireland and the woodland landscape

Wolves, bears, lynx and wild boar live in the ancient woodland at Wild Ireland. The attractions also include a fairy trail through the rainforest. The trail adds its own theme to the woodland and wildlife experience.

Scalp Mountain: panoramic views and hiking

Both the landscape and the hiking route are a focus at Scalp Mountain. The hidden vegetation is home to wildlife, as well as rare flora and fauna, thanks to the area's geology. The route in the hills was selected to offer panoramic views across the peninsula. The Walking Festival programme scheduled a 6 km hike to Scalp Mountain in Burnfoot for Friday, 16 September 2022, with an estimated duration of 4 to 5 hours. These details refer to the programme at that time.

The Slablands, karting and nearby attractions

The road from Burt to Burnfoot passes through an area locally known as the Slablands. This unusually flat area was reclaimed from Lough Swilly in the late 19th century. The hillside route at Scalp Mountain and the flat landscape of the Slablands offer different perspectives on the area. Inch Wildfowl Reserve is a nearby attraction from Burnfoot.

Halfway Karting is an outdoor karting track in Burnfoot that offers visitors a racing experience. Operator information may change, so check the latest details before making plans. Alongside nature and hiking, this gives you a choice of different travel interests, including a motorsport activity and a nearby attraction.

More to explore in County Donegal

Beyond the local focus, County Donegal offers its own regional cultural context. Donegal Castle was the personal stronghold of Red Hugh O’Donnell, Lord of Tír Conaill. Tours present the castle’s history from the time of the Gaelic lords through the Plantation and its long period as a ruin to its recent restoration; check availability in advance. Illustrated treasure hunts are available for children at Donegal Castle. Doe Castle is a medieval stronghold of the MacSweeneys in County Donegal. Grianán of Aileach is a state-owned National Monument there, cared for by the Office of Public Works. At Newmills Corn and Flax Mills in County Donegal, the oldest surviving building is 400 years old; visitors can see one of Ireland’s largest waterwheels in operation.

The landscapes and coastlines of County Donegal also have their own distinctive appeal. Glenveagh National Park and Castle combines mountains, lakes, waterfalls, valleys and native oak woodlands with a castle featuring original interiors. Visitors can see red deer there and look out for reintroduced golden eagles. Malin Head is the northernmost point of Ireland; a circular route follows the coast to Banba’s Crown. Visitors can hike along the cliffs of Sliabh Liag on the southwest coast of County Donegal. A boat trip from nearby Teelin Harbour reaches the base of the cliffs. The service is seasonal, so check details of the trip in advance.

Discover more destinations: Fintragh, Dunlewey, Carrickart, Ramelton, Drumfree, Manorcunningham, Killygordon, Killybegs.

For the broader travel overview: County Donegal.