Burtonport: Railway Heritage, Walking Trails and Blueway

Burtonport offers three concrete themes to help with travel planning: the history of a former railway, trails along its route, and the Árainn Mhór–Ailt an Chorráin Blueway. There is also the Arranmore ferry, which departs from Burtonport. When looking for a hotel, you can consider whether walking, cycling, snorkelling or railway heritage will be the focus of your stay. The different route descriptions and distances provide concrete points of reference.

Old Railway Walk and trails through Burtonport

The Old Railway Walk is about 5.3 km long; the return trip is approximately 10.6 km. This makes it possible to factor the distance into your day’s plans. Trail conditions can change; check the route before setting out.

From 1903 to 1940, the former railway connected Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport) with Letterkenny. Numerous remains can be seen along the Old Railway Walk: stations, gatehouses, level crossings, piers, cuttings, embankments, a bridge and rusty gates. The walk therefore combines a hike with glimpses of the visible remains of the former railway corridor.

The Kinballycrowie Loop starts at Burtonport harbour, follows the former railway corridor and returns to the starting point via quiet country roads and paths. Its described landscape features include wide views, diverse flora and fauna, and an ash forest. The Crickamore Loop follows a scenic section of the Burtonport railway corridor and returns to St Columba’s Community Centre via quiet country roads. Diverse flora and fauna are also distinctive there; the colours and sounds along the trail change regularly with the seasons.

Blueway and Arranmore ferry

The Árainn Mhór–Ailt an Chorráin Blueway includes land- and water-based trails in the area of Burtonport (Ailt an Chorráin) and Árainn Mhór. Activities listed include walking, cycling and snorkelling. Alongside the loops described above, this offers further opportunities focused on land and water routes. If you’re planning your trip around a particular activity, the Blueway offers a different focus from the trails along the former railway corridor.

The Arranmore ferry departs from Burtonport. Timetables can change, so check the latest times before planning your trip.

County Donegal: more culture and landscape themes

The wider destination of County Donegal includes other distinct themes. Donegal Castle was the personal stronghold of Red Hugh O’Donnell, Lord of Tír Conaill. Tours cover 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. Illustrated treasure hunts are available for children. Check tour availability before your trip.

Newmills Corn and Flax Mills also combines history with a specific technical detail: the oldest surviving building is 400 years old, and visitors can see one of Ireland’s largest waterwheels in operation. At Donegal Castle, by contrast, the history of the seat of power is the main focus. These different themes give visitors interested in culture a range of subjects to choose from.

Those exploring the landscape and wildlife of County Donegal will find mountains, lakes, waterfalls, valleys, native oak woodlands and a castle with original interiors at Glenveagh National Park and Castle. Visitors can see red deer there and look out for reintroduced golden eagles. Here, the natural surroundings and castle are part of the same landscape.

On the coast lies Malin Head, Ireland’s northernmost point. A loop trail follows the coast to Banba’s Crown; Malin Head is also known for its dramatic scenery and beautiful beaches. Another coastal attraction is Fanad Lighthouse, between Lough Swilly and Mulroy Bay: the guided tour lasts 45 minutes, and the “The Storm, The Sea, The Saldanha” virtual reality experience is also offered there. Check the experience’s availability before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Termon, Stranorlar, Fort Stewart, Baylet, Glenties, Ballybofey, Ramelton, Ballintra.

Back to the wider travel overview: County Donegal.