Donegal Bay facts for kids
Donegal Bay (called Bá Dhún na nGall in Irish) is a huge bay in the northwest of Ireland. Imagine a giant scoop out of the coastline! Three different counties touch its shores: Donegal to the north and west, and Leitrim and Sligo to the south. The bay opens up to the mighty Atlantic Ocean on its western side. The town of Donegal and the River Eske are right at the very end of the bay.
Donegal Bay is the biggest bay in all of Ireland. It's also home to some incredibly tall sea cliffs called Slieve League. These cliffs are the highest in Ulster (a province in Ireland) and the sixth-highest in all of Europe! They stand an amazing 1972 feet (601 meters) above the sea.
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Exploring Donegal Bay
Donegal Bay is famous for its beaches, which are some of the best places in Europe for surfing. This is because the bay faces directly west, catching the strong winds and waves from the Atlantic Ocean. The bay's funnel shape also helps, as it squeezes the ocean waves into a smaller area, making them even bigger and better for surfing!
Two popular spots for surfing are Rossnowlagh and Bundoran. Surfers from all over Europe know these beaches. They have great facilities and the water is very clean, making them perfect for a fun day out on the waves.
Towns Around the Bay
Many towns are located along the beautiful shores of Donegal Bay. Each one has its own unique charm and history.
- Ballyshannon
- Bundoran
- Coolmore
- Donegal
- Killybegs
- Mountcharles
- Mullaghmore
- Rossnowlagh
- Tullaghan
Rivers Flowing into the Bay
Several rivers flow into Donegal Bay, bringing fresh water from the land into the sea. These rivers are important for the local environment and wildlife.
- River Drowes (you can find this river between Bundoran and Tullaghan)
- River Erne (it flows into the bay at Ballyshannon)
- River Eske (this river meets the bay at Donegal Town)
Islands You Can Find
Donegal Bay also has a few small islands within its waters. These islands add to the bay's natural beauty and are often home to interesting wildlife.
- Isle of St Ernan
- Belle's Isle
- Rotten Island
