Donegal gets its name from the Vikings, who had a fort here in the 9th century. It basically means ’fort of the foreigner’. The town’s importance later developed due to it being the main seat of the O’Donnells, the family which controlled much of the county before the 17th century. Donegal is the main starting off point for the rest of the country, and it’s a very pleasant and popular little place. The triangular ‘Diamond’ is the centre of the town and it’s clogged with traffic in the summer months, however there are plenty of useful shops selling souvenirs and garments.

Places to visit in Donegal include its castle, situated on a rocky outcrop next to the River Eske. This castle is somewhat impressive and was originally home to Hugh Roe O’Donnell, who may have had it burnt down than see it fall into the hands of the English at the end of the 16th century. The Donegal festival also takes place for three days at the end of each June, featuring song, dance, crafts and story-telling. Outside Donegal there is magnificent Lough Derg, which comes alive with pilgrims every year between 1st June and 15th August, who spend three days on a island in the middle of the lake where St Patrick is believed to have stayed and fasted.

Donegal Airport is the main point of arrival and is well serviced by mainy airlines. Car hire pick up desks are found inside the terminal building