Discover Dunlewey

 Just a 10 minute drive from An Chúirt Hotel, Dunlewey is a perfect destination for a scenic day trip or a peaceful escape into nature. Set in the heart of County Donegal’s Gaeltacht, Dunlewey is a place of striking natural beauty, rich heritage and deep tranquillity. Nestled beside the calm waters of Dunlewey Lough and overlooked by the iconic Mount Errigal, the village offers an authentic Donegal experience surrounded by some of Ireland’s most dramatic landscapes.

Dunlewey lies at the entrance to the Poisoned Glen, a broad mountain valley shaped by ancient glaciers and steeped in folklore. The scenery here is both powerful and peaceful, with sweeping views of rugged peaks, open moorland and mirrored reflections on the lake that change with the light and seasons. The village is deeply connected to Irish language and tradition, with a strong sense of local culture and storytelling. Visitors can explore traditional crafts, local history and music at the Dunlewey Visitor Centre, enjoy gentle lake cruises, or simply relax and take in the scenery from the lakeshore.

One of Dunlewey’s most recognisable landmarks is the old stone church overlooking the lake, a beautifully atmospheric ruin that has become a favourite subject for photographers and artists from around the world. For those who love the outdoors, Dunlewey is an ideal base. Walks and hikes around Mount Errigal and the Poisoned Glen offer unforgettable views, while the wider Donegal landscape provides endless opportunities for exploration, from quiet country roads to wild Atlantic coastline.

Dunlewey is a place to slow down, reconnect with nature and experience the timeless beauty of Donegal, making it a perfect setting for a relaxing and memorable stay.