Bealach na Gaeltachta, Dún na nGall facts for kids

Bealach na Gaeltachta, Dún na nGall (which means Gaeltacht Way, Donegal in Irish) is a fantastic network of four circular long-distance trails. These trails are located in the special Gaeltacht areas of County Donegal, Republic of Ireland. Gaeltacht areas are places where the Irish language is spoken every day.

All four trails are officially recognized as "National Waymarked Trails." This means they are well-marked paths for hikers, approved by the National Trails Office of the Irish Sports Council. They are looked after by Donegal County Council and Údaras na Gaeltachta, making sure they are safe and fun for everyone to use.

Explore Bealach na Gaeltachta: Donegal's Amazing Trails

The Bealach na Gaeltachta offers different paths for different levels of hikers. You can choose a trail that suits your experience, from easy walks to more challenging ones. Each trail lets you discover the unique beauty of Donegal, from stunning mountains to peaceful coastlines.

Slí an Earagail: The Errigal Way

Slí an Earagail (Errigal Way) is a 77 kilometres (48 miles) long trail. It starts and finishes in the village of Dunlewey. This trail is considered "easy" by the National Trails Office, making it great for many hikers. Along the way, you'll climb about 720 metres (2,360 feet) in total.

The Errigal Way takes you on a circular journey around the forests, countryside, and beautiful coastline near Errigal mountain. You'll pass through charming villages like Gweedore, Falcarragh, Derrybeg, and Bunbeg. This trail also connects to two shorter loop walks on Tory Island and Gola Island. There's even a 4.5 kilometres (2.8 miles) path that links it to Slí na Rosann.

Slí na Rosann: The Rosses Way

Slí na Rosann (Rosses Way) is 65 kilometres (40 miles) long. It begins and ends in Dungloe. This trail is rated as "moderate" by the National Trails Office, meaning it's a bit more challenging. The total climb on this path is about 770 metres (2,530 feet).

The Rosses Way lets you explore the many lakes and the rugged coastline of The Rosses area in Donegal. You'll visit settlements such as Burtonport, Annagry, Crolly, and Maghery. This trail also connects to a loop walk around the island of Arranmore. Plus, there's a 22 kilometres (14 miles) link trail from the townland of Crovehy to Slí na Finne, passing through Doochary.

Slí na Finne: Finn's Way

Slí na Finne (Finn's Way) is 51 kilometres (32 miles) long. It starts and finishes in Fintown. This trail is also rated as "moderate" by the National Trails Office. You'll experience a total climb of about 980 metres (3,220 feet) on this route.

Finn's Way takes you on a loop around the mountains surrounding Lough Finn and the River Finn. You'll get to see the villages of Cloghan and Commeen as you hike. It's a great way to experience the wild beauty of Donegal's inland areas.

Slí Cholmcille: Colmcille's Way

Slí Cholmcille (Colmcille's Way) is 65 kilometres (40 miles) long. It begins and ends in Ardara. This trail is also graded as "moderate" by the National Trails Office. It has the biggest total climb of all the trails, reaching about 1,600 metres (5,200 feet).

This route crosses the mountains and coastline of south-west Donegal. This area is famous for its connection to Saint Colmcille, a very important Irish saint, who gives his name to the trail. You'll pass through villages like Kilcar, Carrick, and Glencolmcille. There are plans for Slí Cholmcille to become part of the Irish section of the International Appalachian Trail (IAT). This is a huge trail that extends the famous Appalachian Trail from the USA, through Canada to Newfoundland. It connects lands that were once part of the ancient supercontinent Pangaea.