Rathmullan on Lough Swilly
Accommodation in Rathmullan
Rathmullan is a coastal town on Lough Swilly in County Donegal. Here, activities on the water meet walking trails, winding country roads and historic culture. When looking for a holiday rental, it may therefore be important to consider whether you associate Rathmullan primarily with watersports, the beach, activities on land or history.
Watersports on Lough Swilly
The Rathmullan Sailing & Watersports School offers courses on Lough Swilly for children and adults. Check the season and booking details before your trip. The Rathmullan Sailing & Watersports Club offers kayaking, excursion trips and sailing; its seasonal operating period may change.
Rathmullan Charters offers deep-sea fishing as well as excursion trips and cruises, and operates two boats: Enterprise 1, a charter fishing boat, and Swilly Explorer, an Interceptor 42. As part of a Wild Atlantic Way tour, Rathmullan Charters offers whale- and dolphin-watching tours around Fanad Lighthouse.
On foot, by bike and at the beach
Rathmullan has walking trails where you can explore the town and its surroundings on foot. Guided walks with local resident and guide Deirdra Friel are also offered in Rathmullan; confirm availability before your trip. If you prefer to explore independently, another option is to cycle along the winding country roads around Rathmullan.
Rathmullan Beach is among the beaches in Donegal that are currently wheelchair accessible. Check the current beach facilities before visiting, as accessibility may change. There is a playground for children and families beside the beach. Swilly Sauna is a wood-fired beach sauna next to Rathmullan’s main beach car park and offers 50-minute sauna sessions. Check the current sessions before your trip.
History and local culture
Rathmullan Fort is used as a heritage centre and museum. Its historical interpretation focuses on the old Gaelic order and the Flight of the Earls. Rathmullan is also home to the life-size bronze sculpture Flight of the Earls. In County Donegal, two other castles offer further insight into regional history: Donegal Castle was the personal stronghold of Red Hugh O’Donnell, Lord of Tír Conaill; Doe Castle is a medieval stronghold of the MacSweeneys.
The Rathmullan Film Festival is a volunteer-run, non-profit and participatory festival in Rathmullan. It was founded in 2017 and launched in 2018. Depending on the edition, the programme includes screenings of local films, documentaries, Irish short films, new releases and old favourites; there are also food-and-film experiences and industry talks. As the programme and dates may change, check the latest information before travelling.
For the broader travel overview: County Donegal.
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