Burtonport offers three distinct starting points for planning your trip: the visible traces of the former railway, two walking loops, and the land- and water-based routes of the Ãrainn Mhór–Ailt an Chorráin Blueway. When looking for accommodation in Burtonport, you can first decide what matters most to you: would you mainly like to walk the Old Railway Walk, choose a loop with a clear return point, or plan activities on the Blueway? The Old Railway Walk is about 5.3 kilometres long; the round trip is about 10.6 kilometres. These approximate distances give you a concrete guide for planning your day.
The Old Railway Walk and its history
The former railway line connected Ailt an Chorráin (Burtonport) with Letterkenny from 1903 to 1940. Numerous railway remains are visible along the Old Railway Walk: stations, gatehouses, level crossings, piers, cuttings, embankments, a bridge and rusty gates. The route brings together a historic railway line and a wide variety of structures. Those interested in railway history will find more than a single attraction here: the visible remains range from stations and crossings to a bridge and embankments.
Two walking loops, different landmarks
The Kinballycrowie Loop starts at Burtonport harbour, follows the corridor of the former railway line and returns to the starting point via quiet country roads and paths. Its described landscape features include wide-open views, diverse flora and fauna, and an ash wood. The Crickamore Loop follows a scenic section of the Burtonport railway corridor and returns to St Columba’s Community Centre via quiet country roads. Diverse flora and fauna are also noted there; the colours and sounds along the route change regularly with the seasons. When choosing, you can take into account the different routes and return points as well as the scenery: the harbour and ash wood on the Kinballycrowie Loop, and the Community Centre and seasonal changes on the Crickamore Loop.
Blueway and ferry
The Ãrainn Mhór–Ailt an Chorráin Blueway includes land- and water-based routes in the area around Burtonport (Ailt an Chorráin) and Ãrainn Mhór. Activities there include walking, cycling and snorkelling. This means there are different ways to enjoy the Blueway: on foot, by bike or snorkelling. The Arranmore ferry departs from Burtonport. Check the timetable before travelling, as schedules may change.
Additional cultural and nature attractions in County Donegal
Within the wider destination of County Donegal, Donegal Castle offers another cultural and historical focus. The castle was the personal stronghold of Red Hugh O’Donnell, Lord of TÃr Conaill. Tours tell its story from the time of the Gaelic lords through the Plantation and its long period as a ruin to its recent restoration; illustrated treasure hunts are available for children. If you would like to plan a tour, check availability before travelling.
The nature attractions in County Donegal also offer a range of experiences. Glenveagh National Park and Castle brings together mountains, lakes, waterfalls, valleys, native oak woods and a castle with original interiors. Visitors may see red deer there and look out for reintroduced golden eagles. A Trail Walker Bus runs to some of the best starting points for walking trails; check in advance whether it is operating. At Malin Head, the northernmost point of Ireland, a circular route follows the coast to Banba’s Crown. Visitors can walk at the Sliabh Liag cliffs; a seasonal boat trip from nearby Teelin Harbour reaches the base of the sea cliffs. Check the seasonal operating dates for the boat trip before travelling.
Discover more destinations: An Charraig, Donegal, Clonmany, Fintragh, Kilcar, Dunlewey, Glenties, Carrowreagh
Return to the main travel guide: County Donegal.
