Walk · Co. Donegal
Errigal, the 751-metre high point of County Donegal, rises above Gweedore as the southernmost of the Seven Sisters. The route ascends from the Poisoned Glen, offering a full-day experience with sweeping views of the Derryveagh country.
Errigal, County Donegal — photo by simonizq8
Errigal stands at 751 metres. It is the highest peak in County Donegal and the tallest in the Derryveagh Mountains. Locals call the chain the Seven Sisters. Errigal is the southernmost and highest of the group. The other six are Muckish, Crocknalaragagh, Aghla Beg, Ardloughnabrackbaddy, Aghla More and Mackoght. The rest of the range is measured against Errigal. It is the proper day out in this country.
The standard route begins in the Poisoned Glen on the north side. You climb through the foothills and up the face to the top. The ascent is as good as the view. The ground is open. Weather on the summit often differs sharply from conditions in the village below. In a storm, the face is closed country. The mountain itself decides the difference between a good day and a bad one. Allow a full day for the round trip. Include time on the top.
From the top, the Derryveagh country opens out. You see the Seven Sisters to the north. The Derryveagh range stretches to the west. The Poisoned Glen and Dunlewey Lough sit at the foot of the mountain. This view is the reward. It is why people come to Donegal to climb Errigal. Gweedore, Dunlewy and Falcarragh serve as bases. These Gaeltacht villages make the day work.
Allow a full day. This covers the climb, time on top, and the descent. Start early. Check the forecast before setting out. On this mountain, the weather is the whole story.
Where to stay
Stay in Gweedore and the mountain is a full day, not an expedition.
See current availability for your dates. Availability and prices come from the accommodation provider, not from us.
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