Carrickart: Walks, Horse Riding and Spa

Carrickart offers several distinct activities to help you plan your trip: the 1.1 km Boardwalk Walk to Trá Mór beach, horse rides and trekking, and the thermal suite at Spá Na Mara. There is also a Scenic Driving Route and Doe Castle nearby. The options range from a precisely described walk to guided time in the saddle and spa facilities; the details below will help you distinguish between these highlights.

Boardwalk Walk to Trá Mór beach

The Boardwalk Walk is 1.1 km long and runs through the dunes and scrubland of the Donegal landscape to Trá Mór beach. It is therefore a short walking route with a named destination; unlike a drive along Scenic Driving Route 5, the focus here is on getting there on foot. Access is via the main road from Carrigart through the Donegal Boardwalk Resort and Spa; parking is available on site. Check the access information before your visit.

Horse rides and Scenic Driving Route

The Carrigart Horse Riding Centre offers horse rides and trekking for the whole family. An experienced guide accompanies riders. The scenery on the rides varies between sandy beaches, rugged, misty mountains, and long, quiet trails. This makes for a clear distinction when choosing between a walk and a riding activity: the Boardwalk Walk has a stated distance of 1.1 km, while riders are accompanied by a guide and the changing scenery is part of the experience. Check the availability and operating arrangements for the riding activities before you travel.

Scenic Driving Route 5 covers the Carrigart, Downings, Resapenna, and Rosguill section. It complements the individual local activities with a named route section: rather than a single destination or guided activity, the route includes four places. Route details may be updated, so check the current route before setting off.

Thermal suite and views at Spá Na Mara

Spá Na Mara’s thermal suite features several specifically named facilities: a vitality pool, outdoor whirlpools, a plunge pool, a steam room, a Himalayan salt sauna, heated loungers, and a relaxation room. There are also luxurious treatments. The thermal suite combines water, heat, and relaxation areas, setting it apart from the walking, horse riding, and Scenic Driving Route options. Guests enjoy uninterrupted views across Sheephaven Bay. The availability of individual treatments may change, so check before your trip.

Doe Castle nearby

The grounds of Doe Castle are near Carrickart and are open daily throughout the year. Tours of the keep are available by prior arrangement only; tour arrangements may change. When planning your visit, it is therefore important to distinguish between visiting the grounds and taking a tour of the keep. Make arrangements in advance if you plan to take the tour.

Discover more destinations: Ardara, Letterkenny, Culdaff, Kincasslagh, Donegal, Speenoge, Doocharry, Teelin.

For the broader travel overview: County Donegal.