These things happen!
When the rain falls, there’s no shortage of places to go, and the main thing you need to ask yourself is “rain in the city, or rain on the Wild Atlantic Way?”
If you’ve chosen the latter… Great choice!
*️⃣ Safety first: Know the emergency numbers. Even if your phone doesn’t appear to have a mobile phone signal, the emergency numbers 112 and 999 still work should you need them! Exercise caution for your own safety and to prevent the need for emergency services. Don’t go in the water. Do not under any circumstances attempt to go to the Secret Waterfall on days like this.
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The next thing you need to do is to EMBRACE IT. What makes Donegal’s west coast so “wild” is how nature has forged our rugged land and seascapes to create a wonderful playground for the outdoor enthusiast, or you can simply sit in your car and still make the most of it. Grab the opportunity and get yourself a cosy raincoat and layers to enjoy it in comfort. I also recommend that you bring some of your home comforts to sit in the car on these blustery days (for example, cosy jumpers or hoodies and fluffy socks).
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Having grown up here, I know that the best waves are to be seen on the windiest, wettest of days and you could listen to them crashing off the shore for ages. For this reason, I love Muckross Head (which is equally as spectacular on clear sunny days). As invigorating as it is to get up close and personal with the waves, take the social distancing we’ve become accustomed to and view the sea from a safe distance. You can sit in your car to watch, but please do be careful if you decide to walk, and don’t walk on the rocks or near the cliff edge as it can be extremely slippy and windy. It is slippy on a dry day too so be careful.
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When you’re in Muckross, why not stop off at the new Memory Lane Teahouse. Another Mother and Daughter duo, Geraldine and Laura, opened their Teahouse in Summer 2020, sit at the open turf fire with hot chocolate and delicious treats.
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The cliffs in Glencolmcille and Malinbeg’s Silver Strand (pictured) can be absolutely magical on a stormy day. If you’re into photography or art, you’ll appreciate them! (Surfing is not advised in these places anyway, particularly during a storm as there are simply too many rocks). While in Glen, we recommend checking out:
- Glen Folk Village – Kids who have stayed before have enjoyed this!
- The Glencolmcille Woollen Mill
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An Port deserted village is beautiful for sunset, but its intimate setting becomes more incredulous under a low fog. My photography skills and tech are severely lacking, so please excuse, and use your imagination:
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Visit the Áislann Centre in the village to learn about times gone by in the area, the Áislann Library, Studio Donegal Woollen Mills, Wild Atlantic Crafts in Killybegs or the many boutiques and craft shops in Donegal Town.
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Try some horse-riding or pony trekking at Deane’s Farm and Equestrian. With years of experience in providing equestrian lessons, you’re sure to have a really great day out!
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A trip to Donegal Town and Lough Eske. There are many boutiques and cute little craft shops in Donegal Town where you’ll be sure to pick up a cute souvenir or gift from your Donegal Trip. Lough Eske is another place that really shines when the sun isn’t and offers picturesque scenery.
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There’s wonderfully cosy cafes, restaurants and gastro bars in the area, which are ideal on a wintry day for some seafood chowder, soups, warm salads or more substantial meals. We have a separate blog post on sweet treats on the go. This is our link on places to eat.
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If you really aren’t feeling like going out, you can hunker down on the sofa and have a bit of a duvet day. We provide WiFi and complimentary Netflix, as well as having 100+ Irish and International TV channels to keep you entertained (although we can’t fully guarantee the service in the event of extreme weather). Usually, you’ll have full mobile signal to stay connected.
