Best attractions and places to see around Inishkeeragh, a small island off the northwest coast of Donegal, Ireland, offers a blend of natural beauty and historical sites. The broader region around Inishkeeragh features diverse landscapes, from scenic loughs to coastal cliffs. Visitors can explore remnants of past settlements and significant historical landmarks. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural discovery.
Last updated: September 27, 2026
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Built in the 17th century, Castle Caldwell was part of the Ulster Plantation, a province of Ireland colonised by British settles throughout King James I era. The castle had a number of inhabitants after that and fell into ruin towards the 1800s. Although access to the castle is now forbidden due to its dangerous state of repair, the surrounding park and forest can be explored freely. Keep your eyes peeled for the ruined chapel and overgrown graveyard.
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This fortified house is on Tully Point and built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641 when it was attacked by John Maguire and burned on Christmas Eve with all its inhabitants massacred. After that it was not lived in again. There is a visitors centre in a restored farmhouse that has an interesting exhibition telling a number of stories relating to the castle. To visit the castle be sure to step off the bike as it is on foot only!
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Covering an area of 9 acres (3.7 ha), Carrick Lough is a small lake compared to some of its impressive neighbours such as Lough Erne. Set amongst green countryside, the lake, although small, is still a lovely place to visit. With a thriving population of pike, perch, bream, and roach, the lake is popular with anglers. It's also home to diverse flora and fauna. The lakeshore makes for a wonderful picnic on a bike trip!
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Built in the 17th century by Francis Blennerhasett of Norfolk, Castle Caldwell was once part of Ulster Plantation, a province of Ireland colonised by British settlers during the reign of King James I. The castle had various inhabitants over the centuries until it fell into ruin towards the end of the 1800s. Today, Castle Caldwell lies within Castle Caldwell Forest Park, a nature reserve on the banks of Lower Lough Erne. Although access to the castle is forbidden due to its ruinous state, you can visit the surrounding park for free. Look out for the ruined chapel and overgrown graveyard too.
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This fortified house and bawn are set on Tully Point and were built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641 when it was attacked and burned on Christmas Eve by Rory Maguire and the inhabitants massacred. It was not lived in again. A visitor’s centre, located in a restored farmhouse, houses an exhibition telling local stories relating to the castle. (https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/tully-castle-p675521)
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Breathtaking views of Lough Earne.
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The two pre-Christian, probably Iron Age stone figures, some 70cm high, stand amongst modern graves in the small, isolated Caldragh graveyard. Both were originally Janus-faced (face on front and back). The simpler figure is more heavily damaged. It is likely to be a Celtic cernunnos-like god of vegetation and fertility.
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For breathtaking panoramic views, visit the View of Lough Erne from Cliffs of Magho. From here, you can see Lough Erne, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Blue Stack mountains. Picnic benches and an information board are available at the viewpoint.
The region is rich in history. You can visit the Castle Caldwell Ruins, a 17th-century castle within a forest park where you can also find a ruined chapel and overgrown graveyard. Another significant site is Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house with a visitor's center detailing its history, including its attack and burning in 1641.
Yes, the Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery are a unique pre-Christian site. These two Iron Age stone figures, about 70cm high, are located in a small, isolated graveyard. They were originally Janus-faced, with a face on both the front and back, and one is believed to represent a Celtic god of vegetation and fertility.
The area around Inishkeeragh offers various outdoor activities. You can find several easy hiking trails, including loops around the Cliffs of Magho and Tully Castle Ruins. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes like the Kingfisher Cycle Trail, and mountain biking trails such as the Scarplands Cycle Trail.
Many attractions are suitable for families. The View of Lough Erne from Cliffs of Magho offers picnic facilities, and Carrick Lough is a picturesque spot for a picnic amidst nature. The visitor's center at Tully Castle Ruins provides engaging local stories, making history accessible for all ages.
Yes, Carrick Lough is an excellent spot for both. This picturesque lake, covering 9 acres, is popular with anglers due to its thriving population of pike, perch, bream, and roach. Its lakeshore also provides an ideal setting for a picnic, surrounded by diverse flora and fauna.
Inishkeeragh Island, also known as "Sheep Island," is a small island off the Donegal coast. It offers opportunities for walking, birdwatching, sea angling, and fishing. You can still see remnants of ruined houses from its past inhabitants who were relocated in the 1950s, giving it a unique historical context.
As a small island off the northwest coast of Donegal, Inishkeeragh Island is typically accessed by boat. While the guide does not specify public transport options to the island itself, local boat services may be available from the mainland.
Absolutely. You can find several easy hikes in the vicinity. Examples include the Rossergole Point Walk, the Cliffs of Magho loop, and a loop around Tully Castle Ruins, all offering manageable distances and gentle terrain.
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning views from places like the Cliffs of Magho, the historical depth of sites like the Janus Stones and Castle Caldwell Ruins, and the tranquil natural beauty of spots like Carrick Lough. The blend of history, nature, and outdoor activities makes the region appealing.
While specific dog-friendly policies vary by site, many natural outdoor areas and trails around Inishkeeragh, such as Castle Caldwell Forest Park and the walking routes, are generally suitable for dogs, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. Always check local signage for specific restrictions.
The best time to visit is generally during the warmer, drier months from late spring to early autumn (May to September). This period offers more pleasant weather for exploring outdoor attractions, hiking, cycling, and enjoying the scenic viewpoints and lakes. However, the natural beauty and historical sites can be appreciated year-round.


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