Mount Errigal

Photo by Rebekah Adams
Photo by Cathal O'Reilly


The tallest of the Seven Sisters in County Donegal, Mount Errigal is part of the larger Derryveagh Mountain Range and is considered to be one of the most iconic mountains in Ireland. Situated in the remote north-west of Ireland, Mount Errigal lies in the country’s most sparsely populated region, making this an exquisite place to escape.

With a name that wouldn’t look out of place in The Lord of the Rings, the mountain itself is as equally as magical. Visit at sunset and you will see that Mount Errigal glows a mysterious iridescent pink as the sun descends behind the horizon. The cause of this beautiful phenomenon is the light reflecting off Mount Errigal’s high levels of quartzite.

Although Mount Errigal is over 2,400 feet high, to climb it requires no special equipment. Nevertheless, as it has numerous scree fields and the weather can be unpredictable, it is advised to wear clothing suitable for a rough hike.

Once you reach the peak of this gem in the Derryveagh Range, you will be treated to the most unbelievable panoramic views of the County Donegal landscape below. Complete with mirror-like lakes and the smaller mountains of the Seven Sisters rising up from the nearby countryside, this humbling view will undoubtedly put life into perspective.

Accessible via the R251 road and with a car park conveniently located near the bottom, Mount Errigal is an absolute must for keen hikers coming to County Donegal.

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Things to do near Mount Errigal

Discover the stunning beauty of Mount Errigal with a range of activities including fishing, golf, and ferry rides. For outdoor enthusiasts, the area offers some of the best hikes, with guides available for both novice and experienced hillwalkers. Don’t miss the chance to explore Derry City through organised tours, and consider embarking on an adventure with Awaken Adventure to fully appreciate the breathtaking scenery and rich history of County Donegal.

Shopping

In Mount Errigal, you can visit local shops for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, Hannah McGuinness is located 11.2km away, offering a delightful selection of Irish crafts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Donegal.

Recreation

At Letterkenny Leisure Centre, enjoy wellness and relaxation with a range of fitness classes and a rejuvenating swimming pool. Narin & Portnoo Golf Club offers scenic outdoor golfing, perfect for both enthusiasts and beginners. For family fun, head to Sandfield Pitch and Putt Course for an exciting mini-golf adventure.

Adventure

Experience thrilling water sports at Gartan Outdoor Adventure Centre, located 5.0km from Mount Errigal, where you can enjoy kayaking and canoeing amidst stunning scenery. Alternatively, try Selkie Sailing, just 3.7km away, for exhilarating sailing adventures on beautiful waters, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Mount Errigal with a visit to Amazonas Outdoor - Indoor Airsoft Firing Range, 9.9km away, perfect for family fun. For culture and romance, enjoy a performance at the Balor Arts Centre or Amharclann Ghaoth Dobhair, both offering unique entertainment just a short drive away.

Find the best attractions near Mount Errigal

Mount Errigal in County Donegal offers a splendid array of attractions, including serene lakes, stunning beaches, and the breathtaking Errigal Mountain itself. Perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and picturesque scenery, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the national park and surrounding areas. Whether you fancy a leisurely stroll by the beach or a challenging hike up the mountain, there’s something for every traveller to enjoy.

  • Glenveagh National Park: Just 2.5km from Mount Errigal, this stunning national park offers a blend of adventure and breathtaking scenery. Explore its vast landscapes filled with lush forests, glistening lakes, and fascinating wildlife, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.
  • Glenveagh Castle: Located 3.7km away, this enchanting castle exudes culture and romance. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, it showcases Victorian architecture and offers a glimpse into Ireland's rich history, making it a delightful spot for leisurely strolls.
  • Muckish Mountain: A mere 4.3km from your base, Muckish Mountain beckons adventurers with its rugged terrain and stunning vistas. Ideal for hiking enthusiasts, it promises exhilarating outdoor experiences and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Best time to go to Mount Errigal

The best time to visit Mount Errigal is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
February41.0°F (5.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowAverage
March42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.4°F (8.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May50.5°F (10.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June55.4°F (13.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
July57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighSlightly High
August56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighSlightly High
September54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
October50.0°F (10.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November44.8°F (7.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December41.7°F (5.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mount Errigal

To save money on your visit to Mount Errigal, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January to February or November when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and aim for a Tuesday stay as it’s the cheapest day. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals and combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Explore free outdoor activities around Mount Errigal to enhance your experience without impacting your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Mount Errigal are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Mount Errigal is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Mount Errigal is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Mount Errigal is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To uncover the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation at Mount Errigal with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.